The Chic, Affordable Workout Wear I’m Wearing on Repeat
Image by: Uniqlo
From chilly winter workouts to casual off-duty looks, discover why we think Uniqlo's Sport Utility Wear is some of the best activewear on the high street.
Like many of us, I rang in the new year with big intentions around fitness. I imagined myself hitting the ground running - quite literally - clocking treadmill sessions before work, rediscovering muscles I’d clearly ignored for most of December, and soundtracking it all with a freshly updated Spotify playlist heavy on ’90s pop. Reality, of course, has been a little slower. I’m not going quite as often as the version of me on 1 January confidently declared but I am consistent. And honestly? That feels like a win.
One thing that’s made a tangible difference is my outfit. It sounds shallow, but hear me out. My top tip for actually committing to a workout is putting your activewear on the second you get dressed in the morning- even if you don’t plan to exercise until the evening. Getting dressed really is half the battle, and once you’re already in leggings and a supportive top, skipping the session suddenly feels far less likely. It also helps tremendously when you've got brands like Uniqlo offering chic, minimalist sporting staples at cracking prices.
So often, "proper” activewear comes with a hefty price tag without the quality to match, while high-street options can feel stylish yet underpowered. Uniqlo hits the sweet spot. The brand’s Sport Utility Wear is designed to support being active and healthy every day, blending clean, minimal aesthetics with genuine performance credentials you can rely on. Think Extra Stretch fabrics offer 360-degree movement and comfort that works just as well for a lunchtime Pilates class as it does for the rest of your day. UV Protection pieces ideal for outdoor walks or runs. Dry-EX technology, worn by professional athletes, to absorb and diffuse sweat to keep you comfortable when things heat up.
So if you’re stepping into the new year on a health kick and crave an affordable activewear outfit to help you on your path to righteousness, scroll on to discover my favourite picks from the Uniqlo active collection below.
Ultra Stretch Active Full-zip Jacket
Uniqlo
£29.90
Thinking now might be the time to finally give couch to 5k a go? This high neck, ultra stretchy jacket is the perfect layer for outdoor running - it's light, unrestrictive but will still take the edge off.
Uniqlo - Ultra Stretch Active Leggings (line, Longer) - Navy - XXL
Uniqlo
£24.90
There's nothing that will get me on the mat faster than a fresh pair of leggings. This bold yet wearable stripe pair offer instant cool comfort. The fabric provides moderate support and remains fully opaque even while doing your deepest squat.
Uniqlo - Airism Soft Leggings - Purple - XXL
Uniqlo
£19.90
These pretty lilac leggings boast Uniqlo's patented Airism technology to keep you cool even when you're breaking a sweat.
Ultra Stretch Active Joggers
Uniqlo
£24.90
Perfect for sports, casual, or office wear, these stretchy, comfy joggers are a must purchase. You'll happily start and end any working day in them.
Ultra Stretch AIRism UV Protection Full-Zip Hoodie
Uniqlo
£24.90
Coming soon, sign up to shop this minty fresh UV protectant hoodie first. It has spring Park Run written all over it.
Ultra Stretch Active Flare Leggings
Uniqlo
£24.90
Flared from a higher position for a flattering fit below the knees, these are absolutely perfect for yoga or pilates - and look seriously cool layered with an oversized knit straight after.
Sweat Full-zip Hoodie
Uniqlo
£34.90
Perfect for giving you an extra layer of warmth during a chilly workout, or layered under a coat in cold weather when you've finished your sesh. This easy everyday hoodie does it all in style - especially when paired with the matching roomy wide sweat trousers.
Uniqlo - Airism Soft Flare Leggings - Dark Green
Uniqlo
£9.90
Updated to be seamless for an extra comfortable wear, these are the perfect trouser for a low intensity workout with yoga.
Active Wireless Bra
Uniqlo
£19.90
This pink medium supportive sports bra with those little brown shorts? I'm bookmarking this look for when the weather warms up.
Sweat Straight Trousers
Uniqlo
£29.90
Look, we can't be working out every second - and whether you're on your way to the studio, heading home after, or didn't ever make it off the sofa, these wide leg sweats are the perfect loungewear option.
Sweden Athlete Collection Knit Active Trainers
Uniqlo
£59.90
It's in the name - these clever trainers were created in creative collaboration with real life athletes. That means they've been tested for stretch, comfort, stability, even lateral sway while walking. An absolute bargain for under £60.