Workout Clothes for Older Women

This post was updated in September 2021

What’s the best workout clothes for over 50?

From neon tights, spandex, and leg warmers to the growing popularity of athlesiure wear, exercise apparel has always been a style staple all on its own. When it comes to workout clothes for older women, the right choices you make can be super important. Studies have shown that what you wear can significantly impact your outlook and behavior, and this definitely translates to staying fit and active.

Wearing the right clothes is almost as essential as the lunges and stretches that accompany your routine, and it’s through proper workout wear that you’ll manage to look and feel good while doing so. If you’re going to get out there, you might as well defeat your challenges with the best sportswear!

Recently I received an email from a reader who took great exception to some of the workout clothing styles I shared in this post.

Here is what she said:

“I discovered your blog during my endless and thus far unsuccessful search for useful workout wear. Specifically bottoms. You only listed two kinds of tights. We aging athletes want well fitted LOOSE bottoms in long, Capri and shorts (no not crotch length, more like 9” inseams). There are several excellent high performance fabrics available, mostly in menswear, that are lightweight, wicking, have some stretch, and can be made into well made bottoms for women. I’ve been to every store that carries women’s athletic wear, it is all the same. So I am headed to the boy’s department.

What to consider in choosing workout clothing:

• Comfort. This is probably the most important consideration of all. The truth is if you aren’t comfortable, you won’t want to work out, it’s as simple as that. Make sure that the workout clothes you choose are loose enough, have enough stretch, are breathable, and easy to take off (yes, that’s a thing).
• Style. Style matters. Why? Because you want to look good and feel good, and they go hand in hand. The entire fitness clothing industry has come along way, making it much easier to find the perfect style of exercise clothes for older women.
• Price. All of the components of your workout come in varying price ranges. From the top of the line luxury Lululemon crushed velvet high rise tights, to affordable and attractive Cucuchy comfy workout tops, there are workout clothes for every budget.

Here are some of our favorite choices of workout clothes for women over 50:

1. The Right Fitting Sports Bra

The first item you’ll want to invest in is a well-fitting sports bra. Sports bras are a key part of workout clothes not only give you the physical support that’s much needed in the bust area, but wearing one also decreases the risk of back pain that might arise. Strong support and flexibility is what you should look for, as well as wide and comfortable straps, smooth seams, and durable fabric. A sports bra will also help protect the delicate breast tissues from being overstretched while performing heavy movements, which can minimize damage. There are even sports bras that zip up in the front and are easier to put on, which is a great alternative for those who struggle with arthritis.

2. Workout Tops

Workout tops come in many different forms and can be worn depending on your mood or what you want to achieve. If you’re a little self-conscious about your arms, then a loose-fitting long-sleeved top is your best bet to help you finish out your routine while you build up your confidence. These are also good options now that the weather has begun to turn. You can also consider buying a double-layered top that is more flattering on most body types and smooths out any bumps formed by your sports bra. Select tops made with quick-drying technology that will prevent the growth of microbes.

Gotta take care of the girls! Some exercise tops come with pads already stitched into the bust area, eliminating the need for a sports bra and promoting more free-flowing actions! Take a little time to research the best workout tops for a large bust.

3. Leggings

Can older women wear leggings?

It’s a common misconception that women over the age of 50 can’t – or shouldn’t – wear leggings or shorts, and one that should definitely not stop you from snagging a nice pair of active bottoms. So yes, leggings for older women are most definitely appropriate.

Go for a flattering pair that will add a pop of color to your outfit. Wear leggings that have high, elastic waists, which are guaranteed to stay in place. For added comfort, you can also select seamless ones.

Leggings should be moisture-proof and flexible, making it easy for you to stretch out your muscles properly. If you aren’t comfortable with leggings, there’s no harm in exercising in looser drawstring pants that provide ample breathing room. Search for brands that are lightweight and airy, with a straight-leg cut for a more flattering touch. The soft, stretchy material of these kinds of bottoms complete with the wide waistbands is a must for both style and comfort. Leggings or yoga pants for older women can be comfortable and stylish!

4. Workout Shoes

The right shoes may be the most important part of activewear for women over 50!

How well your shoes fit will dictate the overall health of your feet. And when it comes to being active, it’s imperative that you select the right kind of footwear. Investing in a decent pair of trainers is the key to protecting and supporting your joints.

If you’re going to be doing strength training, it’s best to check for shoes that have thick soles that won’t let you feel the full impact on your knees and other joints, thus sparing your back. Many of the big name sports brands carry different models of shoes designed for specific exercise programs, so you’ll have a lot of options to choose from based on what you decide to do.

If you struggle with issues such as bunions and corns, there are shoes available that have wider toe box areas to accommodate and diminish the risk of these problems. Trainers should also be made out of mesh materials so that the toes can breathe and you avoid the possibility of athlete’s foot and the like. And don’t forget to match your shoes with an adequate pair of protective socks. The most effective kinds will have extra cushioning in the heel and toe area to absorb impact and reduce friction to prevent blisters from forming.

Workout Clothes For Seniors

At the end of the day, workout clothes for over 50 are very much just an extension of who you are, and you know best what works for your body. There are workout clothes for older ladies that will align with your individual goals and needs. Be sure to take into consideration the notions of agility and flexibility as well. And even though you may only be exercising from the comfort of your own home, don’t let that stop you from looking your best so that you can feel your best all year round.