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32 Best Plus-Size Workout Clothes, According to Experts and Reviewers

Size-inclusive activewear that's cute, cheap and comfortable — what more can you ask for?

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best plus size workout clothes
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The average American woman's dress size is between 14 and 16, which technically means "plus size" is our nation's norm. Even so, it can still be tricky to shop for cute, comfortable and flattering plus-size workout clothes that you'll want to wear over and over again.

Luckily, some of the top-performing clothing items in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textile Lab's rigorous activewear tests come in a wide range of sizes, including workout apparel from Nike, Girlfriend Collective and Superfit Hero. To find the best activewear worth your money from quality brands we know and love, our clothing experts regularly evaluate yoga pants, sports bras and leggings, looking at factors like moisture management, washability, opaqueness, and stretch recovery. To put together this list of the best plus-size workout clothes, our product review pros also looked beyond the clothing we've personally tested in our Labs, spending hours combing through the online reviews of popular activewear items from top-searched brands like Old Navy and Fabletics, as well as vetting offerings from lesser-known brands for readers who prefer to shop small and/or support BIPOC clothing businesses.

Below you'll find the best size-inclusive activewear you can buy, from cheap-but-comfortable gear to the highest quality moisture-wicking fabrics. On this list, you'll find leggings that start at 1X and run up to 6X, sports bras that range from D through KK cup sizes and stretchy joggers with adjustable features to help you find your perfect fit.

1

Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Pocket Legging

High-Rise Pocket Legging
Credit: girlfriend collective

Pros

  • Plus sizes available: 1X-6X
  • Made from recycled material and can be recycled after wear

Cons

    These leggings are popular for their sustainable material (the fabric on each pair is made up of about 25 water bottles) and super inclusive sizing that goes up to 6X. Plus, the leggings come with two inseam length options, accommodating taller folks.

    2

    Epic MMA Gear Flowy Racerback Tank Top

    Flowy Racerback Tank Top
    Now 10% Off
    Credit: amazon

    Pros

    • Plus sizes available: 1X-4X

    Cons

      Over 24,000 Amazon reviewers gave these racerback tanks a positive rating. They say they're the perfect fit and cover your stomach without being too long. The tanks come in a set of three and keep you cooler in the heat.

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      3

      Superfit Hero Superhold Pocket Leggings

      Superhold Pocket Leggings
      Credit: superhold

      Pros

      • Plus sizes available: XL-7X

      Cons

        These full length leggings are available in a range of colors including two-toned burgundy and pink, black, green and cobalt. Made with the brand's signature SUPERHOLD fabric, they're supportive, thick, soft and have full-size pockets. "I like the fact that they are a dense knit that holds everything in; it gives me freedom to move without uncomfortable jiggling," says one of our GH testers.

        4

        knix Catalyst Sports Bra

        Catalyst Sports Bra
        Now 12% Off
        Credit: knix

        Pros

        • Sizes available: 1-8+

        Cons

          Intense and high-impact workouts can lead to a lot of breast movement, but this bra was specifically designed to help combat the bounce. Note that the sizing works a little differently from other brands, but the bra supports up to a G cup (just check the brand's sizing chart to get the best size).

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          5

          Athleta Elation 7/8 Tight

          Elation 7/8 Tight
          Credit: athleta

          Pros

          • Plus sizes available: 1X-3X
          • Textiles Lab favorite

          Cons

            Our Lab experts personally love these leggings and named them the best overall pair in our plus-size leggings roundup. They're smooth, durable against pilling, and can be worn for a variety of fitness activities. The only flaw: The brand needs a larger color range for plus sizes.  

            6

            Under Armour Tech Tank Top

            Tech Tank Top
            Credit: under armour

            Pros

            • Plus sizes available: 1X-3X
            • Non-restricting material

            Cons

              Amazon reviewers say this tank has a "loose fit," though it doesn't give you a baggy appearance. It's made of 100% polyester, and according to the brand, features a lightweight stretch, anti-odor technology and moisture-wicking properties.

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              7

              Universal Standard Whipped Weave Outfit

              Whipped Weave Outfit

              Pros

              • Plus sizes available: XL-4X

              Cons

                Whether working out or lounging, this comfy drawstring hoodie and matching tapered pants are perfect for multiple occasions. Universal Standard offers a variety of styles from denim to workwear, with all items ranging from sizes 00 - 40. "After checking out Universal Standard's size chart, I was impressed that every item I ordered fit absolutely perfectly," notes one reviewer. "The bottoms hug my curves in all the right places without feeling constricting."

                8

                Lukafit Squat-proof Biker Shorts

                Squat-proof Biker Shorts
                Credit: lukafit

                Pros

                • Plus sizes available: 1X-3X

                Cons

                  Another brand that makes fashionable and printed workout gear is LukaFit, a smaller business that's known for their unique designs. According to the brand, these biker shorts were made to hug your curves in all the right places and come with a hidden back pocket for extra storage. Pair with the brand's matching sports bra for a cute matching sweatsuit set.

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                  9

                  Old Navy Powersoft Performance Bodysuit for Women

                  Powersoft Performance Bodysuit for Women
                  Credit: Old Navu

                  Pros

                  • Plus sizes available: XL-4X

                  Cons

                    This performance bodysuit from Old Navy is a simple yet bold piece that can be worn day or night. "The versatility in this jump suit is great, it can be worn to workout, paired with heels or with an oversized sweatshirt," says a reviewer. The back features a deep scoop neck back, and is tag free for additional comfort while working out.

                    10

                    ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings

                    Live In High Waist Leggings
                    Credit: nordstrom

                    Pros

                    • Plus sizes available: 1X-3X

                    Cons

                      The high-waist, flattering cut and stretchy, yet opaque material makes these leggings popular among online reviewers. "These leggings help hold everything in place and never roll down even when working out," says one reviewer.

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                      11

                      Melt Fit Active Bed Rock Sports Bra

                      Bed Rock Sports Bra

                      Pros

                      • Sizes available: XL-3X

                      Cons

                        Besides the fun cheetah prints, what makes this sports bra unique is the wide band underneath for extra support. "The fabric feels so good against my skin, and it's a good hold as well," says one reviewer. The brand recommends you order based on your fitted T-shirt size.

                        12

                        Panache Women's Underwired Sports Bra

                        Women's Underwired Sports Bra
                        Credit: amazon

                        Pros

                        • Sizes available: 28A-40KK

                        Cons

                          Consumer testers with large busts especially loved this sports bra because of it's breathable material and support. It features solid compression too, which makes it a perfect choice for workouts that include running or jumping.

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                          13

                          JUST MY SIZE Hoodie with Lace-up Collar,

                          Hoodie with Lace-up Collar,
                          Credit: just my size

                          Pros

                          • Plus sizes available: 16-32

                          Cons

                            Just My Size is a Hanes plus-size brand that makes extended sizes of underwear, legwear, and clothing, like this French terry fabric lightweight hoodie. We love that the hoodie features a flatter V-placket and can be matched with the coordinating terry joggers.

                            14

                            Glamorise Women's Plus Size Wonderwire Sports Bra

                            Women's Plus Size Wonderwire Sports Bra

                            Pros

                            • Sizes available: 32D-44H

                            Cons

                              Thousands of Amazon reviewers gave this sports bra a high rating because they loved the quality and support it gives during workouts. "The bra cuts down on bounce dramatically," says one reviewer, "it holds me up on the elliptical and sprinting and everything else."

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                              15
                              Best Plus-Size Yoga Pants

                              Pennintons Essential Basic Yoga Pant - ActiveZone

                              Essential Basic Yoga Pant - ActiveZone

                              Pros

                              • Plus sizes available: 1X-6X

                              Cons

                                Online reviewers say these yoga pants are comfortable, stylish, and "feel just right." The solid pants are slightly flared and feature a semi-fitted ankle. They're best used for low-intensity workouts.

                                16

                                JUST MY SIZE Women's Plus Size Active Woven Run Short

                                Women's Plus Size Active Woven Run Short
                                Now 41% Off
                                Credit: just my size

                                Pros

                                • Plus sizes available: 1X-5X

                                Cons

                                  Reviewers say that while the polyester fabric isn't stretchy on these shorts, they're a little baggy, making it easier to move. Plus, the adjustable drawstring waist helps you achieve a custom fit. They also come in grey, purple, blue, and pink.

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                                  17

                                  Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Tight 25"

                                  Invigorate High-Rise Tight 25"
                                  Credit: lululemon

                                  Pros

                                  • Plus sizes available: 16-20

                                  Cons

                                    Our Textile and Wellness Lab experts have found that Lululemon has performed exceptionally well across the board, in terms of quality and withstanding various workouts. These specific leggings are made from Everlux, which our experts say is ideal for high-intensity workouts like HIIT, CrossFit or spinning.

                                    RELATED: The Best Lululemon Leggings for Every Activity

                                    18

                                    IN'VOLAND Lightweight Full Zip Running Jacket

                                    Lightweight Full Zip Running Jacket
                                    Credit: amazon

                                    Pros

                                    • Plus sizes available: 16-24

                                    Cons

                                      Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, this versatile jacket is a solid choice for running, yoga, cycling and more. It comes with thumb holes, a full zip up front, and a hood to keep you warm while outdoors. Note that reviewers suggest ordering one or two sizes up.

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                                      19

                                      Cooper Cooper Jogger Pant

                                      Cooper Jogger Pant
                                      Credit: universal standard

                                      Pros

                                      • Plus sizes available: 1X-4X

                                      Cons

                                        One reviewer describes these joggers as a "cross between a legging and a jogger" because they've got a slimming fit. The brand says they're made from a sweat-wicking fabric and feel next-to naked. They come in an impressive range of petite sizes to 4X.

                                        20

                                        Champion Women's Plus Size Jersey Shorts

                                        Women's Plus Size Jersey Shorts
                                        Now 20% Off
                                        Credit: champion

                                        Pros

                                        • Plus sizes available: 1X-4X

                                        Cons

                                          You can count on Champion for basic pieces that won't let you down. These shorts are affordable, and according to reviewers, pretty roomy, so they're perfect for running. The cotton shorts come with two side pockets.

                                          Headshot of Shanon Maglente
                                          Shanon Maglente
                                          Contributing Editor

                                          Shanon is a writer and editor who specializes in best-of product roundups and deals. She has over six years of experience, including almost three years as a Good Housekeeping product and reviews editor, covering the best sales and products across home, appliances, health, beauty, parenting and more.

                                          Headshot of Raena Loper
                                          Raena Loper
                                          Contributing Writer and Analyst

                                          Raena Loper (she/her) is a fashion journalist and product analyst based in New Jersey whose work has appeared in Forbes, Good Housekeeping and O, The Oprah Magazine. Raena is a graduate from Montclair State University where she earned a degree in fashion studies as well as gender, sexuality and women's studies. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, cooking BBQ and spending time with family. 

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