Men's Gym Clothes: What to Wear for Every Workout
For most gym sessions, men need three basics: training shorts, a tee or tank, and joggers for colder days or the trip to and from the gym. Polyester and polyester-spandex blends feel light and dry relatively fast, while cotton feels soft and casual, so many people train in synthetic blends and keep cotton for warm-ups, rest days and everyday wear.
What should men wear to the gym?
Keep it simple: a pair of training shorts or joggers, a T-shirt or tank, socks and the right shoes for your session. Clothes should let you squat, lunge, press overhead and stretch without pulling or riding up, and nothing should be so loose that it catches on equipment.
Our men's range covers the basics, with more than 200 T-shirts and tanks, more than 100 training shorts and more than 60 joggers, plus a few matching sports sets.
How long should training shorts be?
Short length is mainly about personal preference and the type of training. The inseam, which is the length from the crotch seam to the hem, is the easiest way to compare styles when it is listed.
- Short (above mid-thigh): lots of leg freedom, popular for running and sprint work.
- Mid-length (around mid-thigh): an all-rounder for lifting, classes and general training.
- Longer (above the knee): more coverage and a relaxed look, good for casual wear and basketball-style sessions.
Should you choose shorts with a liner?
Some training shorts have a built-in liner, either a brief-style lining or a fitted inner short, while others are a single layer. A liner means you can wear the shorts without extra layers underneath, and an inner short gives coverage when you squat or stretch. Single-layer shorts are simpler and let you choose what to wear underneath. Check the product description to see whether a style has a liner.
Polyester blend or cotton: which fabric is better for the gym?
Both have a place. The main difference is how they feel and how they behave when you sweat.
| Fabric | Feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester | Light and smooth, keeps its shape | Running tees, training shorts, hot sessions |
| Polyester + spandex | Light with added stretch | Fitted tees, shorts and sets for lifting and classes |
| Cotton and cotton blends | Soft, casual, a little heavier | Joggers, warm-ups, rest days and everyday wear |
| Fleece or brushed blends | Soft inside and warmer | Cold-weather joggers and travel to and from the gym |
Fitted or relaxed: which cut should you pick?
Fitted styles sit close to the body. They stay out of the way during floor work and under a barbell, and they layer neatly under a hoodie. Relaxed and loose styles have more room through the chest, arms and legs, which many people find more comfortable for everyday wear and lighter sessions.
Tanks give the most freedom through the shoulders and arms, which is why they are popular for upper-body days and hot weather. Tees are the everyday default. For joggers, a tapered leg with cuffed ankles keeps fabric away from your feet, while a straight or wider leg looks more casual. The product name and photos show each cut.
What should you wear for different workouts?
Match your outfit to what you will be doing, and think about the temperature of your gym or route.
- Weight training: mid-length shorts or fitted joggers and a tee or tank that will not ride up when you lift overhead.
- Running: shorter shorts and a light polyester tee; add a long-sleeve layer in cold weather.
- HIIT and classes: fitted or stretch shorts and a tee or tank that stays put when you jump and move fast.
- Stretching, mobility and yoga: joggers or longer shorts with stretch, and a fitted tee that does not fall over your face when you bend forward.
- Rest days and travel: cotton or fleece joggers with a relaxed tee or hoodie.
How do you find your size?
Men's sizes are listed on each product page. Many styles run from S to XL or larger. If you are unsure, compare a tee or pair of shorts you already like, and contact us if you need specific garment measurements. If you prefer a roomier fit, choose the larger size.
Questions and answers
Is cotton or polyester better for working out?
Polyester and polyester blends feel lighter and dry relatively fast, so many people prefer them for sweaty sessions. Cotton feels soft and casual and suits warm-ups, rest days and everyday wear.
What length gym shorts should I wear?
Choose shorter shorts for running and leg freedom, mid-length for an all-round option, and longer shorts for more coverage and a casual look.
Should gym clothes be tight or loose?
It is personal preference. Fitted clothes stay out of the way during exercise, while relaxed clothes give more room and comfort. Avoid anything so loose that it catches on equipment.
Can I wear joggers to the gym?
Yes. Joggers with a tapered leg and cuffed ankles are a good choice for lifting, cold days and travelling to and from the gym.
How do I find my size in men's gym clothes?
Sizes are listed on each product page. Compare with clothes you already own, and contact us if you need specific garment measurements.
Shop: Menswear · Find your fit in our size guide · Terms explained in the glossary
