We Found the Best Under-$40 Activewear on Amazon

A pair of leggings, a workout t-shirt, a pair of joggers.

KCM

For both women and men.

You know the feeling: You wake up early and peel yourself out of bed, hellbent on heading to the gym or hitting the pavement for an early morning walk. But as you start to sift through your designated workout clothes, you can’t help but feel uninspired by frayed joggers and sweat-stained sports bras. Let’s face it: No matter what your 2024 fitness goals are, nothing takes the fun out of exercise like a sweatsuit that you’ve been using since the Clinton administration. 

Well, you know what they say — new year, new gym clothes (gym visit, optional); there’s no better time to start fresh with the latest workout clothes that make you feel excited to commit to a fitness routine. We’re talking squat-proof leggings, killer pickleball outfits, and lightweight options that will work for joint-friendly practices, like basic stretching. And hey, we won’t tell on you if you pull out some of these picks to run errands or relax at Sunday brunch. Part of the fun of contemporary workout clothes is that they’re not only performance-driven but chic and flattering enough to be used for leisure time, too. And who doesn’t love clothing that knows how to multitask?

Best Activewear on Amazon

CRZ YOGA Butterluxe High-Waisted Lounge Legging

Amazon

Your yoga class just got a lot more comfortable (and stylish). So many reviewers claim these $25 pants perform like designer pairs that cost over $100: “Everyone said these are a dupe and I believe them, they are so so soft, stretchy, and comfy, and totally squat proof,” one reviewer wrote. And if you’re the type to like one thing and buy it in bulk, this pair comes in 31 colors.

$28 at Amazon

CRZ YOGA Butterluxe U Back Sports Bra

Amazon

If you love the aforementioned leggings, you might as well buy the whole set with this matching bra! It has a built-in padded shelf that keeps the girls supported with every step, but made of a silkier athletic fabric that feels like butter (hence the name).

$32 at Amazon

Amazon Essentials Tech Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Amazon

Buyers say this breathable, sweat-wicking workout tee is comfortable enough for all-day wear, keeps you cool during exercise, and can withstand a weekly spin in the washing machine without fraying. 

$9 at Amazon

Womens Exercise Dress

Amazon

Got pickleball practice? This exercise dress is a silky, moisture-wicking pick. Plus, it has pockets for your balls, keys, phone, or lipstick (pickleball is a social activity, ok!?). It also boasts built-in shorts and a bra for added coverage. We wouldn’t fault you for throwing this on for just about everything. 

$37 at Amazon

Men’s 1/4 Zip Fleece Pullover

Amazon

Need a fleece but hate the bulky, constricted feeling of a traditional option? Try this lightweight pullover that is made of a stretchier material but will still keep you warm and insulated without overheating. As one happy buyer says, “The material is smooth and not binding or itchy. I like the way it looks and feels. I will buy more; I highly recommend it.”

$29 at Amazon

90 Degree By Reflex Running Jacket

Amazon

This breathable, zippered jacket is the perfect layer for a cooler-weather workout that requires extra insulation that doesn’t constrict. Plus, the two front pockets come in handy when you need to carry your phone or keys, which is almost always. Oh, and this pick doubles as a loungewear option if you’re more in the mood to get your steps in at the mall than on the treadmill. 

$40 at Amazon

BALEAF Freeleaf Workout Tank

Amazon

Sometimes, getting ready for a workout is harder than the workout. Digging through drawers to find the extra bra, top, and bottoms you need can be exercise in and of itself. Kill two birds with one stone with a top that has a built-in bra, like this one. This sculpting tank will mold and support you, without feeling restrictive.

$36 at Amazon

The Gym People Half Zip Fleece Pullover

Amazon

Depending on your local climate, that winter morning power walk may require layering. If you’re fond of a half-zip pullover for frosty strolls, Amazon has you covered. This fleece features thumb holes to keep your sleeves in place during movement, and buyers say that this piece looks shockingly similar to a much pricier lululemon pullover.

$39 at Amazon

Real Essentials 5-Pack Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Amazon

If you’re being several times a week, you’ll need more than one workout top to see you through. This five-pack of dry-fit shirts features breathable, lightweight, and sweat- and moisture-wicking tees. Buyers even say they hold up to frequent washing. Plus, they’ll pass as plain solid tees to pair with jeans, which will elate anyone who’s a sucker for basics or building their capsule wardrobe.

$34+ at Amazon

Under Armour HeatGear Leggings

Amazon

Amazon carries a ton of trusted brands, like Under Armour, that are known for athlete-focused gear. These high-waisted leggings have been lauded for their four-way stretch, which ensures comfort while allowing for optimal movement. Buyers say this pair isn’t see-through (because we’ve all been burned by transparent leggings before). You can choose between sizes x-small to 3x, with short and tall options, too. And they come in fun, energetic colors that’ll brighten up the saddest of gyms. (But they also come in basic black.)

$20+ at Amazon

Athletic Shorts 5-Pack

Amazon

Investing in a five-pack of shorts is probably the easiest way to ensure that your laundry schedule doesn’t interrupt your workout flow (though purchasing just one pair is an option, too, if you want to test the waters). One reviewer says it all: “Five stars, not just for the price but for everything else including quality, lightness, comfort, and awesome fit.” They also come in sets of two, three, or seven pairs. 

$16+ at Amazon

RBX Fleece Pullover Sweatshirt

Amazon

Do you find regular pullovers to be too boxy? Try this sleek mock neck sweater that also features an adjustable zip neck. Not only is the asymmetric neckline a stylish design, but buyers claim that it’s convenient for breastfeeding, too. 

$39+ at Amazon

Athletic Workout Dress

Amazon

For those who prefer a flattering square neckline, this workout dress has what you need — and it features adjustable straps. Thanks to the compressive, built-in bra and shorts, you’ll look and feel great. We’d even wear this outside of the workout studio, and we bet we’d get compliments. 

$45+ at Amazon

Sunzel Flare Leggings

Amazon

Gen Z just discovered flared leggings, but for many of us, yoga pants aren’t a trend but a classic workout staple. They’re easier to slip on and off than traditional leggings, which notoriously bunch up around the ankle, and create a more dynamic silhouette. (Remember curves?) One buyer is especially enthusiastic about the supportive fit: “The high-rise waistband is a game-changer, offering excellent support and ensuring that the leggings stay in place throughout the day.”

$29+ at Amazon

Ice Silk Workout Tank Top

Amazon

Can you ever have enough workout tops? This pick is roomy without being baggy, and we love that it’s breathable and quick-drying. Take it from this reviewer, who’s really invested: “I’m ordering my third one of these tops today! They have the style, feel, color selection, and washability of a much more expensive item. I avoid most sleeveless workout tops because they tend to have large armholes, but this fits me well without being too tight.”

$16 at Amazon

Cushioned Compression Ankle Socks

Amazon

Though we fuss over our workout clothes and shoes, we often neglect a very necessary part of the equation: socks. You can throw out your hole-ridden old pairs when you stock up on these compression ankle socks. They’re cushioned in all the right places, and you’ll notice a positive improvement with every step.

$14.39+ at Amazon

Amazon Essentials Men’s Performance Stretch Knit Training Pant

Amazon

Whether you’re going for a run or grocery shopping, owning a good pair of joggers is a must. We love this Amazon Essentials option because of its heavyweight fabrication, cut in a fitted style that tapers at the ankles.

$12+ at Amazon