HEY, GUYS: GEAR UP AND LOOK GOOD
It’s time to ditch the sweat-stained mesh shorts and ripped T-shirts. These days, fitness brands offer plenty of high-quality apparel for men to wear to the gym. USA TODAY’s Carly Mallenbaum highlights eight pieces of workout gear that, while not cheap, w
SHORTS ... WITH A LINER
A sweat-wicking (Lululemon) or compression (2XU) liner gives the boys extra support while allowing for full range of motion in breezy, chafe-free shorts. Extra zippers and pockets are a plus.
ANTI-STINK SHIRT
Several activewear brands make tops meant to inhibit odor. Lululemon’s version also is quick-drying and not too tight.
BREATHABLE PANTS
Not every guy wants to wear workout tights, but regular sweatpants, as the name suggests, aren’t so good at minimizing leg sweat. The compromise? A quick-dry pant that functions as a lightweight windbreaker, but without all of the swish sounds.
PULLOVER POISED FOR POST-WORKOUT
Perfect for warming up and cooling down, a pullover is an important extra layer for an athlete. Tracksmith’s soft longsleeve gets extra points for its classy collar and snaps that look great after the workout as well.
PADDED SOCKS
For runners, especially, saggy socks can interfere with a good workout. Socks that are tight on the ankle and arch but cushioned on the heel and ball of the foot stay up while also preventing blisters and limiting bad smell.
THE UTILITY JACKET
You can do better than a simple sweatshirt. How about something warm, lightweight, flexible and soft, with a hood and plenty of secure pockets and zippers? You won’t regret the upgrade.