Athletic Apparel for Men: Elevate Your Workout Style in 2025

Our experience shows the Rhone Reign Short Sleeve is a do‑it‑all training tee that feels soft yet holds up to sweaty circuits and long runs. It wicks and breathes well, the UPF 50+ protection is clutch for outdoor sessions, and the GoldFusion treatment helps keep odors at bay between washes. Some users report inconsistent sizing and armpit fading or color bleed over time—wash cold and avoid harsh detergents. If you want performance with everyday comfort, it’s a strong pick.

During our review, Nike’s Dri‑FIT ADV Short‑Sleeve Top impressed with targeted mesh zones that turbo‑charge ventilation in high‑sweat areas. The fabric wicks quickly and has a light, gently compressive feel, but the slim, body‑hugging cut may feel restrictive—size up if you like more room. At $85, it’s a premium pick, though the use of at least 50% recycled polyester softens the impact. For scorching gym sessions or humid runs, we found its cooling performance worth the splurge.

Under Armour's Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve is a budget-friendly training tee that punches above its price with quick-drying, sweat-wicking performance and airy breathability. Our experience shows it excels in warm weather and everyday workouts, and many colorways use recycled polyester for a lighter footprint. Fit can be inconsistent between colors, with some sleeves running tight while the midsection feels loose, so consider sizing accordingly. At $19.99 from Academy, it's an easy pickup for your weekly rotation.

The Nike Dri-FIT Legend T-Shirt blends a soft jersey feel with excellent sweat-wicking and breathable performance for daily training. We found the 100% recycled polyester construction keeps weight down and dries quickly, though the fabric is thin and can be slightly see-through in bright light. The fit also runs on the snug side with limited stretch, so consider sizing up if you prefer more room. It's a versatile, eco-minded staple at $35 via Instacart's retailers.

Ten Thousand's Interval Unlined Short is a go-to for strength and conditioning, offering breathable, moisture-wicking fabric and 4-way stretch with leg gussets for effortless range of motion. We found the unlined design ideal if you prefer your own compression underneath. That said, during our review we saw reports of waistband stitching failing and inconsistent durability across runs, so gentle washing and a quality check on arrival are wise. With no added insulation or recycled materials, it's built strictly for performance.

We found the Nike Stride 2‑in‑1 Running Shorts to be a reliable daily trainer: a breezy outer shell plus a supportive, light‑compression liner that helps prevent chafing. Dri‑FIT fabric wicks well and breathes during hot miles, and the recycled polyester content is a welcome touch. The trade‑offs are shallow pockets and a liner that can feel tight or roll on thicker thighs; they also run slightly small. Consider sizing up and using a running belt for larger phones.

These adidas Printed Running Shorts are designed for speed sessions and hot-weather miles, pairing lightweight, breathable fabric with moisture-wicking performance. The inner brief adds coverage and support, and the recycled polyester build reduces plastic waste—something we love to see. We found sizing runs small and insulation is non-existent, so plan to size up and layer over tights in the cold. At $28 from adidas, they're an easy add for race day or summer training rotation.

We found the lululemon Pace Breaker Linerless Short 7 to be featherlight and quick‑drying thanks to Swift fabric, with an ultra‑soft waistband that stays comfortable through long sessions. The deep, low‑bounce zip side pocket securely stashes a phone—a rarity at this price—and the fabric includes recycled materials. Note the newer cut can feel baggier, and there’s no built‑in compression liner if you prefer extra support, so pair with your favorite briefs. For gym work and runs in warm weather, they shine without weighing you down.

2XU's Core Compression Tights bring moderate, graduated support that, in our testing of compression gear, helps legs feel fresher on runs and lifts. The quick-drying, breathable fabric wicks well, and a drawstring waistband keeps the fit locked in once you're moving. They can be tricky to get on, may feel constricting until you warm up, and sizing varies across body types—so consult the size chart carefully. Made with recycled materials and zero added insulation, they transition easily from the gym to outdoor layering.

During our review, the 2XU Compression Calf Guard provided steady, graduated support that took the sting out of hard efforts and sped up post‑run recovery. The quick‑drying PWX fabric wicks and breathes well, and the low‑profile design slips under socks or a wetsuit without bulk. Sizing can run small and the overall feel is moderate—some may find it milder than expected—so check the chart carefully. Graphics may show wear over time, but the recycled materials and versatile fit make them a solid training staple.

The Nike Pro Dri-FIT Fitness Tights excel as a breathable, sweat-wicking base for high-intensity sessions. The snug, body-hugging fit stays put during movement, and the side pocket is just right for a key or card; our experience shows the thin fabric feels fantastic indoors but too light solo in cold weather. Some users report the waistband losing elasticity over time and the tight cut can feel restrictive. For chillier days, layer under shorts or joggers to keep the performance rolling at $37 from Nike.

adidas Tiro 24 Training Pants are clutch for practice and travel, with moisture-wicking AEROREADY and a tapered fit that still moves easily. Ankle zips make on/off simple over shoes, and the 100% recycled polyester build is a sustainability win. During our review, we noted they're not compression gear—so don't expect recovery support—and some colorways look a bit darker in person. With light insulation and real breathability, they're a versatile $50 pickup from Macy's for year-round training.

Our experience shows the Alo Conquer React Performance Pants balance gym‑ready mobility with street‑smart style. The sueded Conquer fabric is soft, breathable, and lightly compressive, moving easily through squats and sprints, while zippered front pockets keep your phone secure. The tapered, true‑to‑size fit looks sharp, but they’re only lightly insulated and some users report durability or warranty issues after short wear—gentle washing and line drying are wise, and they’re not made with recycled materials. If you value comfort and versatility, these hit the mark.

Nike's Therma-FIT Fleece Joggers deliver cozy, moderate warmth thanks to a brushed interior and a secure, adjustable fit with ribbed cuffs and a drawcord. In our testing of fleece joggers, polyester like this runs warm, isn't very breathable, and isn't moisture-wicking, so these shine for cold commutes or light training—not max-effort intervals. We found the pocket setup minimal and the lining can shed fuzz for a few washes. The bonus: at least 50% recycled polyester, and a fair $56.97 direct from Nike.

During our review, the Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger delivered buttery‑soft comfort with four‑way stretch that moves effortlessly from light workouts to travel days. Multiple zip pockets keep your phone and keys secure, and the fabric wicks and breathes well with a touch of light warmth, though it’s not made with recycled materials. Some buyers report stitching coming undone and the inseam running short for taller users (6'2”–6'3”), so consider sizing for length. If you want lounge‑level feel with gym credibility, these are an easy reach.

The Nike Tech Fleece Windrunner is that easy-to-layer hoodie you'll wear from warmup to weekend. Smooth-on-both-sides fleece offers light insulation without bulk, and the relaxed fit slides over gym gear effortlessly; in our testing with Tech Fleece, breathability is solid but it's not designed to wick sweat. We did see reports of zipper failures and occasional stains or defects, so inspect on arrival. Made with recycled materials, it's a stylish, cozy layer at $111.99 from DICK'S.

We found the adidas Z.N.E Full Zip to be a cozy, moderate‑warmth layer for warming up or commuting to the gym. The three‑layer double knit traps heat nicely, the classic, true‑to‑size cut is easy to wear, and the cotton/poly blend washes well. It’s not moisture‑wicking performance gear, so it can feel heavy during intense sessions, and taller users may find the sleeves a bit short. At $110, it’s a premium hoodie best suited to athleisure and light activity.

Smartwool's Classic Thermal Merino Crew is the base layer we reach for when temps dip. The soft, high-quality merino sits comfortably next to skin, wicking moisture and breathing well while delivering midweight warmth for skiing, hiking, or chilly runs. During our review of user feedback, we noted occasional durability issues like holes and a fit that can run small or loose depending on body shape—so consider gentle care and trying two sizes. At $115 from DICK'S, it's a premium pick without recycled materials but standout comfort.

In our testing, Patagonia’s Capilene Cool Daily Shirt excelled on sweltering days—lightweight, fast‑drying, and impressively breathable when the humidity spikes. The recycled polyester options are a win for sustainability, and the soft feel works for trail runs, gym sessions, or travel. Some users notice odor buildup after repeated wear, so prompt washing or an anti‑odor rinse helps, and the thin fabric offers limited sun protection. At $36, it’s a versatile, no‑bulk staple for hot‑weather training.