Feb 07, 2025

How to choose the perfect athletic apparel for your body type

Finding the right athletic apparel isn’t just about style—it’s about comfort, performance, and confidence. When your workout clothes fit well, you move better, feel better, and stay focused on your workout instead of adjusting your outfit. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best pieces for your unique body type?

This guide will help you find the perfect athletic wear based on your body shape, so you can work out in style and comfort.

1. Understanding different body types

Before diving into specific clothing recommendations, it helps to know the common body types:

Hourglass – Balanced bust and hips with a defined waist.
Pear-shaped – Wider hips than shoulders.
Apple-shaped – Fuller midsection with narrower hips.
Rectangle (Athletic build) – Similar width in shoulders, waist, and hips.
Inverted triangle – Broad shoulders with narrower hips.

Each body type has unique strengths, and the right athletic wear can enhance your natural shape while providing comfort and functionality.

2. Best athletic apparel for an hourglass body shape

Characteristics: Well-defined waist, evenly balanced bust and hips.

What works best:

Supportive sports bras – Opt for medium to high-impact bras with adjustable straps for proper support.
Fitted tops – Highlight your waist with form-fitting tank tops or cropped tops.
High-waisted leggings – These emphasize your waist while providing full coverage.
Slim-fit joggers or shorts – Enhance curves without looking boxy.

Avoid:

Oversized, shapeless clothing that hides your waistline.
Low-rise leggings that can shift during workouts.

Best styles: Matching sets, fitted tanks with leggings, zip-up hoodies with high-waisted joggers.

3. Best athletic apparel for a pear-shaped body

Characteristics: Wider hips, smaller upper body.

What works best:

Bold or patterned tops – Draw attention upwards with bright colors, prints, or cutout details.
Supportive sports bras – Choose a padded or push-up sports bra to balance proportions.
Dark-colored leggings or shorts – Stick to solid, dark colors on the bottom to create a streamlined look.
Flared or bootcut leggings – These balance out wider hips.

Avoid:

Tight-fitting tops that make the upper body appear even smaller.
Baggy joggers that add unnecessary bulk to the lower body.

Best styles: Color-blocked outfits, wide-leg joggers, A-line tennis skirts with fitted tops.

4. Best athletic apparel for an apple-shaped body

Characteristics: Fuller midsection with narrower hips and slim legs.

What works best:

V-neck or scoop-neck tops – These elongate the upper body and create a slimming effect.
Flowy or ruched tops – Loose, draped tops camouflage the midsection while staying breathable.
High-rise leggings with tummy control – Look for compression leggings that provide core support.
Fitted joggers or tapered sweatpants – Accentuate your slim legs with streamlined bottoms.

Avoid:

Tight-fitting tops that emphasize the midsection.
Low-waisted leggings that can roll down during movement.

Best styles: Flowy tanks with high-waisted leggings, zip-up jackets with fitted joggers.

5. Best athletic apparel for a rectangle (athletic) body shape

Characteristics: Similar width in shoulders, waist, and hips.

What works best:

Padded sports bras or racerback tops – Add shape and definition to the upper body.
High-waisted leggings with contouring seams – Create the illusion of curves with side panel details.
Layered outfits – Hoodies, cropped sweatshirts, and jackets add dimension.
Biker shorts or joggers with cinched waistbands – Define the waistline while staying comfortable.

Avoid:

Boxy, shapeless clothing that makes the body look straight.
Low-rise leggings that don't enhance curves.

Best styles: Cropped hoodies with high-waisted leggings, racerback tanks with contour-seamed shorts.

6. Best athletic apparel for an inverted triangle body shape

Characteristics: Broad shoulders with narrower hips.

What works best:

Scoop neck or V-neck tops – Softens broad shoulders and creates balance.
Flowy tops or loose-fitting t-shirts – Avoid tight-fitting tops that emphasize shoulder width.
Patterned or bright leggings – Add volume to the lower half with bold prints or flared bottoms.
Wide-leg joggers or flared yoga pants – Balance the upper body.

Avoid:

Shoulder pads or structured jackets that make the upper body look broader.
Sleeveless tops that draw attention to the shoulders.

Best styles: Flowy tanks with flared leggings, loose-fitted tops with high-rise joggers.

7. Choosing the right fabric and fit for your body type

No matter your body shape, the right fabric and fit can make a huge difference in comfort and performance.

Moisture-wicking fabrics – Keep sweat away and stay dry.
Stretchy materials – Allow free movement without feeling restricted.
Compression fabrics – Provide muscle support and improve circulation.
Seamless designs – Prevent chafing and irritation during workouts.

8. Finding confidence in your athletic wear

At the end of the day, the most important thing is feeling good in what you wear. Confidence comes from choosing pieces that fit well, provide support, and allow you to move freely.

Pick fabrics that feel good on your skin.
Choose styles that highlight your strengths.
Prioritize comfort over trends—but don’t be afraid to mix both!

With the right athletic apparel, you’ll not only enhance your workouts but also feel empowered every time you put on your gear.

Final thoughts

Finding the perfect athletic apparel for your body type is all about balance, support, and comfort. Whether you’re curvy, athletic, or somewhere in between, the right fit can boost performance, confidence, and motivation.

Looking for high-quality athletic wear tailored for every body type? SPX Apparel offers stylish, functional, and comfortable pieces to help you feel your best—whether you’re hitting the gym or running errands. Check out our latest collection today!