Absolutely, it is feasible to look fashionable while exercising—here are 5 activewear trends set to take over gyms in 2026.
Call me predictable, but I completely believe that the new year is the ideal moment to refresh my goals—particularly my fitness ones. My gym even reached out via email at the end of last year to ask why I hadn’t visited in so long (yes, really), making it a great opportunity to try to get back into it. I prefer to keep my goals manageable, so I'll aim to return a couple of times each week. However, I know the real motivator for me to attend classes or engage in home workouts is the excitement of new activewear. I enjoy putting on a fresh outfit, which is why I’m searching for a few new items to revitalize my collection. To achieve this, I examined the runway trends for spring/summer 2026 (retro trainers are making a comeback) and consulted a few industry experts to gather their insights on what will be popular this year. It appears that primary colors are essential (red for clothing, green for footwear), layered Y2K tops are becoming a staple in reformer pilates classes globally, and it’s time to embrace shorts in matching sets. Additionally, with sustainability in mind, many people are looking to maximize their purchases by choosing athleisure that’s both practical and stylish—transitioning seamlessly from a run to the office with a simple change of a jacket or shoes. Ready to update your activewear? Here are the crucial trends set to dominate in 2026.
5 Activewear Trends to Watch for 2026:
1. Pops of Red
Style Notes: With primary colors trending for SS26, it’s no surprise that vibrant shades are appearing in activewear as well. Kristina Falke, FALKE's International PR Director, notes, “a clear trend is color. Alongside timeless favorites like black and white, bold colors are essential, with red and blue tones particularly popular in activewear this year.” As someone who appreciates a surprising red touch in any outfit, I’m all for vibrant colors in new gym wear, sweatshirts, or even subtle hints with fun socks or caps just like Jessica.
Shop Red Activewear:
- FALKE Women Training Sports Bra: The thick straps provide great support.
- FALKE Women Training Tights: I love the higher waistband on these.
- Sporty & Rich California Printed Cotton-Jersey Sweatshirt: A versatile piece for pilates and running errands.
- Adanola Ultimate Wrap Over Legging - Classic Red: I have these in navy, and they are among my all-time favorite leggings.
These running socks are available in 14 additional colors.
2. Layered Tops
Style Notes: Yasmina Cherquaoui (@iamyasminac), a yoga teacher who conducts classes worldwide, has noticed many participants opting for layers, even in hotter climates: "Layering different tops, whether it's a vest, baby tee, or wrap tops, has been increasingly popular lately." She explains, “as you move, your body can feel different, so it’s nice to have layers to adjust as you warm up. Plus, I love the look of contrasting colors, which gives activewear a playful new vibe.”
Shop Tops for Layering:
- Nikeskims Matte Double Strap Scoop Tank | Dark Sepia | Xxs: All about that double strap.
- Bo+Tee Soft Active Layered Cropped Tank Top in Strawberry Red: This red layered top hits two trends at once.
- Alo Yoga Alosoft Better Together Bra: Naturally, I want the matching layered leggings.
- Free People Tempo Ruched Long Sleeve: Add a strap top or crossover style over it.
- Sports Twist Top With Drymove™ - Light Grey Marl: Layer this one over a different color bra top.
3. Shorts Sets
Style Notes: Just last year, I traded my favorite high-waisted gym leggings for shorts, and I’m a believer. This is the ideal workout look for warmer weather, so expect to see matching shorts and tops that can also be mixed and matched for endless styling options.
Shop Shorts Sets:
- These come in three different lengths.
- Free People World Tour Set: I’d wear this set even during holidays in summer.
- Nike Training Nike One Training Dri-Fit Fitted Long Sleeve Top: Second-skin tops are always a smart choice for running.
- Nike Training One Training Dri-Fit High Waisted 3 Inch 2 in 1 Shorts: I always appreciate the fit of Nike shorts.
4. Everyday Activewear
Style Notes: Kristina Falke from FALKE also mentioned that people want to get more use out of their purchases rather than just buying activewear for specific sports. It’s about blending sport with daily life: "An active lifestyle is increasingly significant, blurring the lines between exercise and everyday activities. Pieces that merge both aspects are hence very much on trend." For instance, leggings that can be worn alongside a jacket for running errands or T-shirts that double as
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Absolutely, it is feasible to look fashionable while exercising—here are 5 activewear trends set to take over gyms in 2026.
Whether it's the newest sneaker hues, versatile separates, or tops designed for layering, these activewear trends are essential additions to your athleisure collection for 2026.