Activewear for any budget

Who doesn’t love activewear? It motivates you to work out, it’s damn comfortable and there are so many brands, colours and designs, it can pretty much replace your entire weekend wardrobe if you so desire. Since we know having so many options can be overwhelming, we’ve made your job easy by picking out some of the best pieces out there for any budget.
SPLURGE: Stylerunner Body Science Hart Tights - Grey Viper
($120, www.stylerunner.com)
These tights have so much more pizzazz than regular black ones, but they’ll still go with any colour top on your ‘gym gear’ shelf.
SAVE: Betty Basics Betty Legging - Black
($29.95, www.surfstitch.com)
If you’re just after a pair of standard black tights, Betty Basics have you covered. They also come in a three-quarter version for $16.95.
SPLURGE: Nimble Active - Maggie Top Mono
($59, nimbleactivewear.com)
This singlet has a great pattern and it’s very flattering - so it won’t cling to your wobbly bits while you’re burning off your big weekend.
Save: ONE active by Michelle Bridges Twofer Crop Tank
($29, bigw.com.au)
Did you know Michelle Bridges had her own activewear range? It’s full of affordable goodies like this singlet, which comes in lilac, black and mint.
SPLURGE: We Are Handsome The Chameleon Active Crop Top
($88, www.wearehandsome.com)
This floral print crop is so pretty, you’ll be keen to work out just so people can see you in it. (Post-sweat sesh Instagram snap optional.)
Save: Champion Absolute Workout II Sports Bra
($30, www.onsport.com.au)
If you’re just after something to wear underneath your workout clothes, this black number will do the job.
SPLURGE: Running Bare All Weather Spray Jacket
($119, www.runningbare.com.au)
Nix ‘it’s raining’ excuses with the help of this jacket. The colours alone are enough to motivate you on a rainy day, plus you’ll be dry and warm underneath. Monochrome lovers, don’t worry: it also comes in black.
SAVE: Cotton On Body Run Anorak
($39.95, cottonon.com/AU)
This anorak is an absolute bargain. The pattern makes it look quite luxe, but it’s really just black and white, meaning it’s super versatile.
SPLURGE: Lorna Jane Lineback Long Sleeve Excel Top
($85.99, www.lornajane.com.au)
This top is ideal for the cooler months, especially if you don’t like wearing a jacket when working out. It’s a slim fit without being overly clingy and it even has holes in the sleeves to put your thumbs through so your hands don’t freeze!
SAVE: H&M Long-Sleeved Sports Top
($29.95, www.hm.com/au)
Love the idea of thumb holes? This H&M beauty also ticks that box. And if pink’s not your colour, it comes in grey and black, too.
SPLURGE: 2XU GHST S/S TOP
($90, www.2xu.com.au)
Made from 2XU’s lightest material, this top is designed to help you perform better and feel freer while exercising. Who knows, you might even run a PB - all you have to do is pick a colour!
SAVE: Target Active T-Shirt
($12, www.target.com.au)
At just $12, this top is not only comfortable, but a total steal. For a looser fit, go one size up.
SPLURGE: The Upside Run Short Polka Dot
($129, www.theupsidesport.com)
These are ideal for the girl who wants to stay away from the skin-tight designs, but still don something stylish.
SAVE: Bonds Active Running Shorts
($34.95, www.bonds.com.au)
These shorts are also loose-fitting and come in a block colour for those who prefer to keep it simple.
Do you like wearing activewear? Have you tried any of the brands mentioned above?
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104 Member Comments
Some amazing pieces here! I love buying new activewear- almost more than "normal" clothes!
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I pretty much live in active wear. Cotton On have some really great basics. I really like Lorna Jane for their inspirational fun girly wear. You really don't need to spend a heap to get great sportswear.
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Great article. I love the splurge vs save options.
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Lorna Jane gear is so expensive it seems like a rip off. I usually buy active wear from factory outlets for a lot cheaper.
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Some of the more affordable stuff here is cuter than the more pricier stuff. :)
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Active wear is a problem for larger ladies. I'm glad that Kmart and Big W have somethings. The only more expensive brand I saw in Myer was a huge let down in terms of fabric and style. I squeeze into my older, more forgiving tights and chuck on an old tshirt with an appropriately sized sports bra.
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My wardrobe pretty much consits if only activewear these days! But I wish the bargains were less than $20 :( my unemployed teenager life doesn't allow for any splurges!
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Some great options. I only wear activewear when I exercise but I like Michelle Bridges gear, it's good value for money and is good quality.
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Love articles like one!
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I prefer to spend less on gym clothes
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I'm a splurge girl, all without darkening the door of a gym. I do love the outdoors and walking or swimming.
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I love the cheaper options!
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That running bare jacket is gorgeous!
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Love the active wear prefer the budget price.
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Surprisingly, Kmart has a pretty good range of active wear, and it's really cheap.
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I don't really do active wear. I don't feel comfortable in it.
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If I looked like that wearing active wear I'd def splurge ;)
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I bought a few items from Lorna Jane a couple of years ago and they wear so well. Sometimes paying the extra price point is more economical. I do find the fit of Lorna Jane a little small though.
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I love the look of the Bonds Active Running Shorts (the save option too!) - they look lightweight, breathable and stylish
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I just cannot understand why activewear has to be so expensive?
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Oh, I love it! That splurge running jacket is so lovely! I want it!
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Oh loving the inclusion of active wear, good to know.
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What I think is a ridiculous splurge is anything from lorna jane :/
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I do own a bit of activewear. I just find it comfy and convenient to to wear. I have a couple pairs of Lonsdale shorts that I wear to death - they are good quality but I wear them so much that I think I'm actually wearing them out and need some new ones!
I like Running Bare a lot too - their tights are really good and they have some pretty colours and designs in their stuff. I have a Betty Basics T-shirt which I find to be a good cut and shape on me.
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I love that floral crop top and that polka dot shorts, they are so pretty!
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