My Favorite Activewear & Gear for Every Workout (From Hiking to Spin)
- Madeline Elyse
- Jan 30
- 4 min read
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, love, and genuinely recommend.
Staying active is a huge part of my life — but I’ll be honest, I get bored easily with the gym. Between a busy mom schedule and limited class times, traditional gym life just doesn’t always work for me. I love variety, flexibility, and workouts that fit into real life.
On any given week, you’ll find me hiking, mountain biking, playing pickleball, running, walking, doing yoga, and my absolute favorite - spin. I loved spin so much that when my gym only offered classes three days a week, I bought my own bike for home. Now I’ve completely ditched the gym (but that’s a story for another post).
This article breaks down my favorite activewear, shoes, and gear for each activity I do, from walking and running to hiking and spin, all items I personally use and love.
My Everyday Fitness Watch
We are deep in the era of tracking everything — steps, heart rate, workouts, sleep… all of it. I use the Garmin Lily, and it’s perfect for my lifestyle.
I love that it:
Tracks all of my activities accurately
Is simple and easy to use
Doesn’t overwhelm me with tech features
Has a small, round face that actually looks cute on my wrist
You’ll see it featured in several photos. Also featured: my sweet dog, Shelbie, who never leaves my side.
1. Running & Walking Essentials
When it comes to walking or running, good shoes are non-negotiable. I’ve worn Brooks Ghost running shoes for years, and they have never failed me. I highly recommend them if you have knee issues — or honestly, for anyone who wants a comfortable, reliable walking or running shoe.
Another must-have? A great sports bra. Nothing ruins a workout faster than a bad one. Thin straps give me neck pain, so I stick with sports bras that have thick straps and serious support.
Outfit-wise, comfort is everything. We all have different body types and preferences, but for me:
A high-neck tank feels the most secure
Shorts with extra coverage underneath are a must — especially if you have long legs
Want to Level Up Your Walk?
A weighted vest will absolutely take your walks (or runs) to the next level. You can even wear it around the house while doing everyday tasks. I love that the weight is adjustable — because I always start heavier than I should.
Weighted vests are a huge fitness trend right now, and I genuinely think they’re here to stay because they actually work.
2. Pickleball (or Tennis) Favorites
I’ll admit it — I’m partial to pickleball. It’s fun, social, and way less intimidating than most team sports.
For outfits, I love:
Flowy shorts that feel like a tennis skirt (with pockets!)
A classic tennis skort
A tennis dress for an easy, one-and-done outfit (Linked below)
Each style has its perks, and all are timeless for pickleball or tennis.
If you haven’t tried pickleball yet — DO IT. It’s beginner-friendly, fun, and truly anyone can play. I’ve linked my favorite pickleball beginner set, and it comes in so many cute patterns. Consider this your sign to join the pickleball craze.
3. Yoga Must-Haves
Yoga is where comfort really matters. I love the look and feel of cropped yoga pants — enough coverage to stay warm, but short enough to keep things breathable.
Since my yoga studio stays pretty cool (you will not find me in hot yoga), I usually wear:
A light yoga jacket until I’m warmed up
My go-to high-neck yoga top with a built-in bra
The high neck is key — I can go upside down without worrying about anything showing.
I’ve also linked my favorite yoga mat below. It comes in tons of colors, but the pink/purple combo is obviously my favorite 💗💜
4. Spin Class Style (My Favorite Workout)
Spin is a totally different vibe. While I layer up for yoga, I try to stay as cool as possible during spin.
My spin essentials:
Cropped tops for airflow
Bike shorts — absolutely non-negotiable
I once tried to wear regular shorts to spin class and… never again. Trust me.
I personally don’t buy padded spin shorts. Your body adjusts to the saddle soreness after a couple of weeks, and now I don’t even notice it.
I no longer attend in-person spin classes, and while I miss the community, the freedom of spinning whenever it fits my schedule is unbeatable. I’ve linked the bike I use at home. Bonus, it is currently under $150 (as of 1/30/26 - prices are subject to change). I follow spin workouts on YouTube using my phone or tablet.
5. Hiking Gear I Swear By
Hiking is all about layering smart. I usually wear:
Hiking shorts
A tank top
A warm jacket
If it’s cold, I’ll even layer leggings under my shorts. You warm up quickly once you get moving.
For shorter hikes, I love a small crossbody bag for keys and a snack, and I’ll just carry my water bottle.
Footwear matters most when hiking. I’m loyal to Merrell hiking boots — the ankle support is unmatched. I also swear by Darn Tough socks because of their quality and lifetime guarantee.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, love, and genuinely recommend.
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