Comfortable jogger pants
Ideal for both light workouts and relaxed post-exercise recovery, these pants offer a blend of comfort and casual athletic style for anyone.
Style, Jewelry & Accessories
Activewear
8 kinds worth knowing, 7 picks, and what to check before you buy.
People who get activewear as a gift are usually already moving: they run before work, go to the gym a few times a week, or just live in soft pants on weekends. What gets worn is plain, comfortable and the right size. What sits in a drawer is anything too loud, too tight or picked for a sport they don't do. Comfortable jogger pants are the safest bet because nearly everyone wears them, workout clothes or not. A good sports bra is the most useful gift but also the hardest to get right, so it suits someone whose size and style you already know. Think about where they actually exercise, then buy a better version of what they already reach for.
Kind 1 of 8
Joggers they'll wear everywhere
Joggers have a relaxed fit through the leg and taper to a cuffed ankle. They work for warm-ups, travel, errands and lazy Sundays. That's why they suit almost anyone on your list, from a teen to a partner who never sets foot in a gym. Before you buy, check the fabric. Brushed fleece feels cozy for winter, and lighter knits breathe better during a workout. Look for a waistband with a drawstring, zip pockets if they run or walk, and an inseam that matches their height. When you aren't sure of size, go with the size they usually wear rather than sizing down.
Kind 2 of 8
Tops that stay dry mid-workout
Workout tops cover tees, tanks and long sleeves made from fabric that pulls sweat away from the skin and dries quickly. They suit anyone who runs, lifts, cycles or takes classes. They're also an easy gift because the fit is more forgiving than pants or bras. Check the fabric label first: polyester blends dry fast, and merino handles smell well over several wears. Think about their sport. Runners like a closer fit that doesn't flap, and lifters often prefer room through the shoulders. Flat seams help on long sessions.
Moisture-wicking athletic top
This essential top keeps the wearer dry and comfortable during exercise by drawing sweat away from the skin, suitable for any active individual.
Kind 3 of 8
Choosing a sports bra that fits
A sports bra is a garment people replace often and care a lot about, so a good one gets used. It's best as a gift for a partner, close friend or teen whose size and preferences you already know. Match the support level to the activity. Low support works for yoga and walking, and medium to high support is better for gym classes and running. Check whether it has adjustable straps, a back closure or a pull-over design, and removable pads. If you're unsure, a gift receipt matters more here than almost anywhere else.
Supportive sports bra
A well-fitting sports bra provides essential support and comfort for individuals engaging in various physical activities, from low to high impact.
Kind 4 of 8
Running bras for high-impact miles
A running bra is a sports bra built for the most bounce, usually with firmer fabric, wider straps and a snugger band. It suits someone training for races or running several times a week. Before buying, find out the size they wear in their current running bra, since sizing varies a lot between styles. Adjustable straps and a hook back make it easier to get a secure fit. Soft, bonded seams reduce rubbing on long runs. For darker winter mornings, a small reflective detail is a nice touch.
Kind 5 of 8
Shorts for runs and gym days
Activewear shorts range from light, split-hem running shorts to longer training shorts and snug bike-style shorts. Runners usually want a built-in liner, a short inseam and a small pocket for a key or gel. Gym-goers tend to like a longer inseam with more room for squats. Check the inseam length against what they already wear, since that's the detail people are pickiest about. In Canada and the northern US, shorts make more sense for someone who trains indoors or runs on a treadmill through winter.
Performance running shorts
Designed for freedom of movement and breathability, these shorts are perfect for runners and those who prefer lightweight activewear during warmer conditions.
Kind 6 of 8
Layers for before and after
Beyond the basic tee, activewear tops include quarter-zips, light jackets and athletic hoodies that go on for the walk to the gym or a cold outdoor run. These suit people who exercise outside in winter or like a clean layer to pull on afterwards. Look for a fitted but not tight cut that works over a base layer. Thumbholes and a zip neck help with warmth, and a hood should stay put in wind. Pick a neutral colour so it goes with the rest of their gear.
Athletic hoodie or jacket
A versatile layer for pre-workout warm-ups, outdoor activities, or cool-down periods, offering warmth and comfort for active individuals.
Kind 7 of 8
A clean white training top
A white workout top looks crisp and goes with everything, which is why some people specifically want one. It suits someone who takes studio classes, plays tennis or likes a tidy look at the gym. Before you buy, hold the fabric up to the light, because thin white knits can be see-through, especially once damp. A tighter weave or a slightly heavier fabric avoids that. Check the care label too, since tops that can be washed warm keep their colour longer.
Kind 8 of 8
Compression socks after long efforts
Compression socks are snug knee-high socks that some runners, cyclists and people who stand all day like to wear after a hard session or on long trips. They suit someone who already talks about recovery routines or travels often. Sizing usually goes by calf measurement and shoe size together, so check both before you buy. Look for a soft cuff that won't dig in, a cushioned foot and a colour they'd actually wear. If they've never tried them, a single pair is plenty.
Compression socks for recovery
These specialized socks are designed to support muscles and promote circulation, beneficial for athletes during and after strenuous activity.
How to choose activewear as a gift
- Check the tags on activewear they already wear for size, inseam and fabric, then buy a close match rather than guessing.
- Match the gift to their actual activity, because running, lifting, yoga and winter walking each call for different fits and fabrics.
- Stick to black, navy, grey or another colour they already wear. Neutral activewear gets worn far more often than bold prints.
- Include a gift receipt with anything fitted, especially bras, shorts and compression socks, where fit is personal.
- For someone who exercises outdoors in a Canadian winter, a warm layer or a moisture-wicking base top is usually more useful than shorts.
Usually safe to skip
- Skip very bright or slogan-heavy pieces unless you know their style, because people tend to reach for plain gear they can mix and match.
- Skip sports bras or compression wear in guessed sizes, since a wrong fit makes them unusable and awkward to exchange.
- Skip full matching sets for someone who is just starting out. A single versatile piece gets more wear before the habit sticks.
Questions people ask about activewear
- What activewear makes a good gift for someone who doesn't work out much?
- Comfortable jogger pants or a soft athletic hoodie are the safest choices. Both work for lounging, travel and errands, so they get worn whether or not the person exercises. Pick a neutral colour and their usual size.
- How do I find someone's size for a sports bra without asking?
- Look at the tag on a bra they already wear for workouts, since everyday bra sizes don't always carry over. If you can't check, choose a style with adjustable straps and a hook back, and include a gift receipt so they can swap sizes easily.
- Is activewear a good gift for a teen?
- Usually, yes. Teens wear joggers, hoodies and workout tops to school, practice and home. Fit and style matter a lot at that age, so choose simple pieces in colours they already wear and include a gift receipt.
Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.
Everything else
All activewear picks
Showing 1–7 of 7
Performance headband or beanie
This athletic headwear helps manage sweat and hair during workouts or provides warmth during outdoor activities, suitable for any active individual.