After several weeks of wildly irresponsible alcohol consumption, festive food and more time than usual draped across the sofa, chances are you’re feeling the urge to exercise. And you’re not alone. A US survey showed that, of the top four New Year resolutions, three were to do with getting in shape. If you want another juicy stat, how about the fact that only one percent of people surveyed in 2023 managed to stick to their resolutions for the full year?

But don’t be disheartened. If you’re determined to shed some pounds, there are a number of things you can do to improve your chances, starting with investing in some sports kit that inspires you to be active. Keep reading for some pointers on what to wear and the best brands to shop for cycling, running, gyming and more.

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Sports kit for cyclists

Nice cycling kit makes you go faster. Sure, there’s no science whatsoever behind this claim, but pop on some fresh bib shorts and an eye-catch jersey that cinches your gut in and tell us you don’t feel speedier than usual.

Having decent kit can also encourage you to spend longer on the bike. Bib shorts and tights, for example, have padding that takes some of the pressure off your sit bones when riding, allowing you to spend longer periods of time in the saddle. And more miles mean greater gains. Winter-specific kit will help with this too, so invest in a windproof cycling jacket, a thermal base layer, gloves and overshoes or winter cycling shoes to get the most out of the season.

Most cycling brands will make all of the above, but not all of them do it in a particularly stylish manner. If you’re the type of person who takes pleasure in the way things look, you should consider buying from brands that place equal emphasis on performance and aesthetics. Within cycling, a few of our favourites are Pas Normal Studios, MAAP, and Rapha.

Sports kit for runners

Running is one of the easiest sports to get into – all you need is a decent pair of trainers, a stretch of pavement, and a bit of willpower. But as anyone who’s attempted a jog in baggy cotton sweatpants and a five-year-old hoodie will tell you, the right kit makes a world of difference. Start with lightweight, breathable running shoes. Brands like On and Hoka have mastered the art of blending performance with style, while Satisfy and Tracksmith deliver cutting-edge tech with their own distinctive athletic aesthetics.

Winter running comes with its own set of challenges, so invest in moisture-wicking tops, thermal tights, reflective running gear and waterproof running jackets to keep you visible during those dark January evenings. If you’re into tech, a Garmin watch or wireless headphones can help you track your progress or keep your mind occupied with a good playlist.

Sports kit for hikers

If your idea of fitness involves fresh air and rugged trails, hiking gear should be at the top of your list. A sturdy pair of boots is non-negotiable – Salomon, Arc'teryx, and The North Face are reliable go-tos for comfortable, weather-resistant footwear. Combine them with insulated jackets, such as Patagonia’s Nano Puff, and moisture-wicking base layers to stay warm and dry, even when the elements aren’t on your side.

Accessories like a multi-functional backpack or a high-performance water bottle can add utility while nodding to gorpcore’s functional-yet-fashionable ethos. And if you’re braving unpredictable weather, consider a lightweight, packable rain jacket to stash in your bag for peace of mind.

Sports kit for gym goers

The gym is one place where looking good and feeling good go hand in hand. Fitted gym shorts and a technical T-shirt will ensure you’re comfortable and unrestricted during your workout, while a pair of versatile trainers can transition seamlessly from treadmill to weights. Brands like Lululemon and Nike offer pieces that combine form and function, and New Balance continues to impress with its range of durable yet stylish footwear.

Don’t overlook the accessories. A sleek gym bag will keep your essentials organised, and a reusable water bottle ensures you stay hydrated in style. If you’re keen on layering, a performance hoodie or zip-up jacket can double as post-workout outerwear.

For everyone else

Not everyone’s fitness journey revolves around treadmills and dumbbells, and your kit should reflect that. For swimmers, invest in streamlined trunks and goggles from Speedo or Arena. Yoga or pilates enthusiasts can look to Lululemon for versatile, stretch-friendly pieces that look as good as they perform.

If you’re into multiple activities, seek out multi-use items like trainers that handle everything from squash courts to casual runs or a tracksuit that works as loungewear between sessions. Emerging brands and collaborations often offer fresh takes on sportswear – keep an eye out for interesting new pieces to round out your kit.

Styling tips for sport and beyond

The best sports kit isn’t just functional; it’s versatile. Look for pieces that transition seamlessly from workout to casual wear, like a zip-up hoodie that pairs equally well with gym shorts or chinos. Colour coordination can elevate your look – stick to neutral tones for a timeless appeal or inject some personality with bold accents.

Capsule kits can also work wonders for activewear, allowing you to mix and match key pieces without sacrificing style or performance. Whether it’s a technical T-shirt that doubles as a base layer or trainers that look good enough for brunch, investing in versatile items means you’ll always be ready to move.

Conclusion

While January resolutions are notoriously shortlived, the right sportswear can help turn fleeting ambition into a lasting habit. By investing in quality kit, you’ll not only perform better but also look good doing it – and if that’s not motivation to keep moving, we don’t know what is.

Next up: The cycling kit brands you need to know.

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