Words: Anna Galbraith
Photography: Josh Skinner
Mustering up the willpower to make good use of that heinously expensive gym you signed up for on a New Year’s Day whim, can prove a challenge for even the best-intentioned gentleman.
Yet, with all the parties, weddings and holidays that filled our summers now winding down for the next season, we’re guessing there’s a chance that your body — and metabolism — are in need of a little TLC.
And, if you’re struggling to find the motivation to hit the treadmill this Autumn, then allow us to make it a little easier for you, with our round-up of the best gym gear on the market to keep you looking fresh even whilst you’re working up a sweat.
From the trainers that will take you the extra mile, to the earphones that will provide you with an epic soundtrack, here’s what your ultimate gym bag ought to look like this season…
Don't sell yourself short(s) with the wrong pair of trousers
Overcoat £1,990/$2,700 and Jumper £295/$395 both by Dunhill dunhill.com; Shorts by Derek Rose, £70/$90 derek-rose.com; Trainers by Versace, £495/$615 versace.com
Jogging trousers by Les Basics, £95/$119 lesbasics.net; Trainers by Versace, £495/$615 versace.com
How to dress below the waist might be the hardest part of gym outfit etiquette, because different pieces will serve different purposes. Invest in a quality pair of training shorts, for a weights or high-intensity work-out, or a looser fitting and light-weight pair for a long-distance run.
Few things are more likely to get a gym-goer feeling irritated (other than hopelessly tangled headphones), than a pocket way too small for purpose on the back of their pair of shorts. We like these Reigning Champ Training Shorts, available through Mr. Porter, which feature a bigger zip pocket that won’t let your phone or locker keys fly out.
For that post-work-out cool down, a pair of tapered jersey sweatpants will keep you feeling comfortable and prevent you flashing too much thigh in the gym’s cafe.
Set your sights on a great pair of sneakers
Jogging trousers by Les Basics, £95/$119 lesbasics.net; Trainers by Versace, £495/$615 versace.com
By far the most crucial gym outfit choice to get right, and one which can prove more difficult that it may seem — with expert podiatrists estimating that 65% of the UK’s recreational sportsmen and women are wearing the wrong shoes for their chosen sport.
These trainers are all lightweight and breathable, and will keep you looking stylish as you pound the motorised pavement. Here is our selection of the best running trainers on the market right now, but be warned that if you’re more of an aerobics man, these probably aren’t for you…
Don't sweat(er) the small stuff with the right workout jacket
Cashmere Hoodie by Derek Rose, £499/$775
derek-rose.com; T-shirt by Sandro, £69/$85
sandro-paris.com
T-Shirt by Farah, £35/$45 farah.co.uk; Hoodie by Orlebar Brown, £145/$225 orlebarbrown.com; Jogging trousers by Norse Projects, £215/$135
norseprojects.com
Across the wider fashion world, people are waking up the power of good layering, and when it comes to your sportswear, it is a crucial consideration in order to keep you feeling your best.
The right jacket or outer layer in the gym will help you to regulate your body temperature before, during and after a workout — and you can enhance your performance with these workout jackets, and a sweatshirt for your cool-down routine.
Get your sports wardrobe game down to a T
Shorts by Polo Ralph Lauren, £85/$99; Towel by Ralph Lauren Home, £45/$45 ralphlauren.co.uk; T-shirt by Z Zegna, £180/$270 zegna.co.uk; Watch
by Seiko, £549/$680 seiko.co.uk
Shorts by Derek Rose, £110/$190 derek-rose.com; Jumper by Dunhill, £295/$395 dunhill.com; T-shirt
by Aeance, £135/$160 matchesfashion.com
If you’re stuck in the habit of wearing an old T-shirt whilst you exercise, it’s time for a serious wardrobe update. Cotton might be great for a relaxed weekend brunch date, but it absorbs sweat and will leave you feeling damp and heavy as you work out.
Instead, opt for light, breathable fabrics which will draw moisture away from the body, and keep you feeling dry and comfortable.
Switch workout gears with the best in gym accessories
So, now that you’re fully kitted out to look and feel great on the cross-trainer, it’s time to consider the other key components to a successful work-out.
This TUMI gym bag will cater for all your workout essentials and more, with a separate compartment to store your dirty clothes, a dedicated waterproof shoe pocket, and front elastic straps for holding extras, such as a jacket, a yoga mat, or a newspaper.
Hydration is key, and this Bahamas Gold Marble bottle will keep you reaching for regular water stops — whilst these Beoplay headphones are ready to provide you with whichever soundtrack will keep you motivate.
Looking to invest in a home gym? These are the pieces you should be investing in…
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