December 10, 2024

Cool Rabbits

Healthcare Enthusiast

The 2024 Good Housekeeping Best Fitness Awards

The 2024 Good Housekeeping Best Fitness Awards

Staying consistent with an exercise routine isn’t easy. Whether you’re juggling a busy work schedule or you find the gym too intimidating, many barriers can keep you from getting into your fitness groove. But moving your body is essential to feeling your best, and finding the right exercise equipment and tools can help keep you motivated, accountable and inspired to stick to your workout regime.

That’s why our team of health, fitness and wellness experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute is dedicated to providing you with science-backed information and top-tested recommendations to empower a healthy and active lifestyle.

Our on-staff certified fitness professionals, registered dietitians, engineers, chemists, fiber scientists, product analysts and more spent six months evaluating the latest fitness products and accessories for Good Housekeeping’s 2024 Best Fitness Awards. With our unique backgrounds, we’re able to combine expertise from different domains to comprehensively evaluate all types of fitness products and equipment.

We tested the items in our Labs, gym and fitness center, and we sent them to over 400 consumer testers nationwide to use in their personal fitness routines. We assessed items based on ease of use, comfort, quality, durability, innovation and more. Our judges determined the top fitness products by selecting options that encourage and support an active lifestyle. Consumer testers weighed in too to make sure our picks worked just as well in real life as they did in our Labs.

Amazing Apps and Studios | Fab Fitness Tech and Accessories | Genius Recovery Must-Haves | Epic Equipment |A+ Fitness Fuel | Exceptional Shoes | All-Star Apparel

Meet The Experts

fitness awards

How We Tested

fitness awards

Amazing Apps and Studios

apps and studios

Getty Images

Best For Wellness

Alo Moves App

Led by a team of world-class instructors, this on-demand fitness, yoga and mindfulness platform from Alo Moves offers thousands of classes and tons of new content each month. Modalities have expanded to include Pilates, barre, strength, boxing, and more.

LAB RESULTS: At-home testers applauded how knowledgable and motivating the instructors were for them. They also couldn’t get enough of the beautiful scenic locations where the workouts are filmed. One GH fitness pro described the barre classes as “exceptional” and appreciated the brand’s comprehensive, holistic approach to wellness.

Best For On-Demand Classes

Apple Fitness+ App

Choose from over 4,000 workouts and meditations led by a diverse and inclusive group of trainers on the Apple Fitness+ platform – all you need is an iPhone to subscribe and get started.

LAB RESULTS: Both consumer testers and GH experts were excited that you could easily save workout playlists to Apple Music. The Time to Walk Series, an audio-based walking experience on the app with celebrity guests, was among the most noteworthy: “I listened while I took my dog for a walk, and I enjoyed that the actors being interviewed were also on walks,” a tester said.

Best For Diet & Exercise

Centr App

Founded by Chris Hemsworth, Centr is a personalizable wellness platform that includes customized meal plans, workout routines, guided meditations and expert sleep advice.

LAB RESULTS: Our experts gave the app top marks for being incredibly comprehensive, with trainers who knew how to keep the workouts interesting and challenging while targeting different parts of the body. “I liked that this service also included meal plans. It made it easier to consider healthy eating as part of maintaining physical health,” one person commented.

Best For Women

Jazzercise On Demand

Founded in 1969, Jazzercise was a revolutionary dance cardio and group fitness brand that changed the way people (especially women) approached exercise. The modernized content on Jazzercise On Demand still honors its core principles but offers a fresh approach to fitness for every age and life stage.

LAB RESULTS: Both our experts and testers were impressed with how effective the classes were. “The exercises were engaging, not boring at all,” a tester said. “The classes mixed things up and encouraged me to wake up early for my workouts.”

Best For Athletes

Strava App

Track your runs, rides, hikes and more on this popular app designed to make fitness tracking social. With more than 100 million members, Strava allows you to build a support network of fellow athletes.

LAB RESULTS: Our experts note how well-designed and intuitive to use the app was. “Love that the maps hide the start and end of your run,” noted one tester who is an avid runner. “I post my runs to a Facebook group, and it’s nice that I can share the map without worrying about people knowing my home’s location.”

Best For Variety

Peloton App

You don’t need any of the brand’s equipment to access the Peloton App, which offers thousands of workouts including strength, outdoor running, Pilates, yoga, boot camp and more with some of the best fitness instructors in the industry.

LAB RESULTS: Testers loved the range of classes offered and how easy it was to filter for a workout that would meet their needs and mood. “I liked the variety of workouts and having the ability to target arms, core or legs depending on the day,” one person commented.

Best For Virtual Reality

Supernatural Virtual Reality App

Supernatural Virtual Reality App

Harness the power of virtual reality with this in-home fitness app that sweeps you off to some of the most beautiful locations in the world. Supernatural pairs top-notch workouts with expert coaching and music on the platform.

LAB RESULTS: “I enjoyed all the classes, but the meditations really stood out,” one tester said. “I normally have difficulty concentrating, so I found the headset, immersion and prompts especially relaxing.”

Best For Prenatal Workouts

The Movement Club

Created by professional dancer Lindsay Arnold, The Movement Club was founded on the principle that movement is for everyone. The app offers Pilates, HIIT, strength, dance and yoga workouts, all 30 minutes or less, it launched its Pregnancy Program this year.

LAB RESULTS: Our fitness experts appreciated how well-rounded the pregnancy workouts were, including delivery prep exercises and a focus on pelvic floor health. “I really enjoyed that the pregnancy workouts were broken up by trimester and week,” one expecting mother said.

Best Pilates Inspired Studio

Solidcore

Get a high-intensity but low-impact workout in 50 minutes at Solidcore, a boutique fitness studio that utilizes a Pilates-inspired reformer. The classes offer upbeat, energizing music with experienced coaches that engage slow and controlled movements.

LAB RESULTS: We were thoroughly impressed by how effective and challenging the classes were. Testers appreciated the clean facilities and that the instructors were very knowledgable. “I liked the atmosphere created — dim lighting, great mirrors to view yourself — and how involved the instructors are.”

Best Dance Fitness Studio

Anna Kaiser Studios

Created for women by women, Anna Kaiser Studios features immersive dance cardio classes in an interval style format for all levels of fitness. Founded by celebrity fitness trainer Anna Kaiser, studios are located in New York City, Connecticut and the Hamptons.

LAB RESULTS: Testers loved how welcoming the environment was for people of all fitness levels. The amenities were luxe and pristine too. “The workouts were really fun and upbeat, and I felt that I always got a good workout afterward.”

Fab Fitness Tech and Accessories

tech and accessories

Getty Images

Holistic Health Tracker

Gen 3 Horizon Ring

This discreet smart ring from ŌURA is now available in six stunning shades and has tiny built-in sensors to track personalized health metrics including heart rate, temperature, activity and sleep.

LAB RESULTS: Our tech pros found the Öura app intuitive to use. One judge noted that the device had transformed her sleep habits and helped her to get to bed earlier. “I like how thorough the data is on the app; it helped me understand my body and on days where I didn’t get enough steps pushed me to do a nighttime walk,” another tester said.

Wellness Wearable

Fitness Tracker

Comfortable and versatile, this unique wearable from Whoop was initially intended for elite athletes but has now gone mainstream. Upgraded sensors allow you to monitor blood oxygen levels, temperature, heart rate metrics and more. You don’t even have to wear the device on your wrist — it discreetly fits in custom WHOOP body clothing too.

LAB RESULTS: “I’m glad the device didn’t have an interface or make any noises or vibrations,” a tester commented. “I’m not always looking down analyzing numbers, and I’m able to go about my day.”

Body Composition Suit

ZOZOSUIT

Start by ordering the unique 3D body scan suit from Zozofit — no tape measure or special scale needed. It pairs with an app that uses your phone’s camera to capture markers on the suit to take your body’s measurements.

LAB RESULTS: One of our fitness experts who had recently had a DEXA scan just prior to using Zozofit said that the results were practically the same. “I liked how accurate the measurements were — it is an excellent tool for people trying to lose body fat and track their progress,” another tester said.

Superior Sports Shades

Supernova Sunglasses

Specifically designed to keep up with running, cycling and other outdoor activities, these high-performance sports sunglasses from Koo are available in 13 fun colors. The shades are thoughtfully made with a wraparound style for panoramic visibility.

LAB RESULTS: Testers raved about how lightweight and comfortable yet durable the sunglasses were. They kept up on the most grueling runs and rides too. “They fit incredibly securely to my face, and provided sunlight protection for all ranges of eye movement,” one tester noted, adding that the lens clarity was exceptional.

Innovative Resistance Band

P.band

Functional fitness brand Pvolve makes these unique resistance bands that have a glove-like design to ensure that the work is done by your arms instead of your grip. They are lightweight and portable but well-made.

LAB RESULTS: Testers loved that the bands stayed in place during complex movements, with one saying that the glove design allowed her to use the bands longer than standard ones. Our fitness pros appreciate that this model eases misplaced tension to maximize results.

Durable Hydration Reservoir

1.5 Liter Hydraulics LT Reservoir

Osprey 1.5 Liter Hydraulics LT Reservoir
Credit: Osprey

Stay hydrated on long excursions and active adventures with this refreshed reservoir series from Osprey. Its reservoirs have been thoughtfully redesigned, with improvements that allow for one-handed filling, better water flow, less bulkiness and a flattened profile.

LAB RESULTS: “I was immediately impressed with the quality of the reservoir, the straw and, more important, the seal,” one avid hiker told us. “I like the reservoir I currently own, but everything about the Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir is so great that I would choose to use it 10 out of 10 times.”

MVP Yoga Mat

Premium 2-Color Yoga Mats (6mm)

Gaiam Premium 2-Color Yoga Mats (6mm)

Gaiam’s popular mat stands out for its exceptional value and impressive performance. It has substantial cushioning yet is lightweight, making it ideal for anyone with joint pain as well as people who take their mats on the go. Plus, each mat is reversible, so you get two designs in one.

LAB RESULTS: “This mat offers a good amount of cushioning and support,” said one tester. “It felt great for my knees.” Users also liked its grippy surface for holding yoga poses and stretches, and they found the lightweight material to be a game changer for carrying the mat to classes.

Well-Rounded Racket Bag

Melbourne Tennis Backpack / Tote

Doubletake Melbourne Tennis Backpack / Tote

A gym bag that’s designed especially for tennis and pickleball, Doubletake’s carrier converts from a backpack to a tote so you can wear it in whatever way feels most comfortable. It has excellent compartments for organizing, with pockets to hold a phone, sunglasses, bottles and more.

LAB RESULTS: Testers loved its versatility, saying it was great for carrying rackets and was just as useful as a regular gym bag. They also were amazed by how spacious it was while keeping them organized. One reviewer told us, “I can fit everything in it, and I don’t have loose items at the bottom of my bag.”

Handy Running Belt

The SPIbelt

Ideal for runners who can’t be weighed down by pockets, this belt bag is spacious enough to hold a cell phone and essentials yet minimal enough not to disrupt your stride. It’s adjustable to fit waist sizes 25″ through 47″ and comes in a wide range of colors and prints.

LAB RESULTS: Wearing it for both running and walking, testers couldn’t believe how much fit inside the small pouch. One marathon runner said, “I really love how convenient and secure this belt is. It surprisingly fits a lot in its stretchy compartment. It is extremely lightweight, which is perfect for my runs!”

Genius Recovery Must-Haves

genius recovery must haves

Getty Images

Complete Recovery Set

Massage Roller Set

Sportneer Massage Roller Set

Designed for easing muscle tightness and for fascial relaxation, this massage roller set from Sportneer includes a dual-texture foam roller, a foot roller and two types of massage balls, all in a handy carrying bag to keep everything together.

LAB RESULTS: Our fitness pros appreciated that the set was affordable and included tools of different sizes to cover all muscle groups, big and small. “The foot roller was an extra bonus, one the whole family enjoys using after a day of sports,” said one tester.

At-Home Sauna Blanket

Infrared Sauna Blanket

HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

Those who don’t have the space or budget for an at-home sauna will appreciate this more portable device from HigherDose. The sauna blanket’s temperature goes up to 158°F and it is designed to support muscle recovery.

LAB RESULTS: “I absolutely loved this product. It was super-easy to assemble, and my legs felt noticeably better after using it when they were sore from a workout,” one reviewer told us. Another person noted that the blanket was simple to fold up and store and that the material was easy to clean.

Back Therapy Device

Venom 2 Back

Designed with three levels of heat paired with distinct vibration patterns, this advanced heat and massage wrap from Hyperice aims to relieve back tension and soreness.

LAB RESULTS: The dual heat and vibration therapy impressed our fitness pros, who found the wrap easy to put on and take off and the controls intuitive to use. “I am six months post-op after back surgery. This has been so great to ease the tightness from all the physical therapy I’ve been doing — I love this,” a tester said.

Premium Massage Mat

Stretching Massager Mat

BALOOM Stretching Massager Mat

A compact alternative to a massage chair, Baloom’s at-home massage mat features 22 air chambers and built-in heating pads to help release muscle tension. Take advantage of preprogrammed sessions or customize the experience with a handheld remote.

LAB RESULTS: “This is even better than a regular massage; it’s like at least four to six hands on you at a time sometimes,” one tester said. “The heating function relaxed my muscles so much.” Testers and our staffers also found the mat easy to fold for storage.

Mini Massage Gun

TheraGun Mini 2.0 Handheld Electric Massage Gun

Therabody TheraGun Mini 2.0 Handheld Electric Massage Gun

Compact and lightweight at only one pound, this mini massage gun from Therabody is small but mighty. The device has three speeds and three head attachments, is TSA-approved and connects with the Therabody app for guided recovery routines via Bluetooth.

LAB RESULTS: Both our experts and testers agreed that even though the device was small, it was very strong and worked well. “I thought the massage was surprisingly effective, and it definitely helped relax some sore areas,” one athlete told us.

Deep Tissue Relief

Wheel XR Knot Kneader

Chirp Wheel XR Knot Kneader

Mimic a deep-tissue massage to relieve neck and back soreness with this specialized recovery wheel from Chirp. It features a groove down the middle to hug and protect the spine while the bumps on the side dig deep to stretch and massage lateral muscles.

LAB RESULTS: “I felt a sense of pressure relief after rolling on the Chirp wheel! I noticed less tension in my neck while sitting at my desk, and I was able to get a nice stretch in my back,” a person commented.

Self-Cleaning Cold Plunge

Cold Plunge Tub

Those who are serious about cold-water exposure will appreciate this dedicated cold water bath from Plunge that can cool all the way to 39°F. Without your having to add ice or refill the tub, it will stay at your desired temperature thanks to a water-circulating feature.

LAB RESULTS: The device has a special filter to clean the water between uses, keeping the water clean for up to six months before you have to change it. We had athletes test the plunge for six months, with many noting enhanced muscle recovery between sessions.

Heated Massager

Heated Mini Massager

Gravity Heated Mini Massager

Gravity levels up the massage gun experience by introducing four interchangeable applicators, including a heated one to relieve muscle tension and soreness.

LAB RESULTS: The ergonomic handle performed well in our tests, allowing for a sturdy grip and the ability to maneuver it easily in hard-to-reach spots. “I particularly liked the heating function when my muscles hurt after a workout, since it hit the target area and pinpointed exactly where the heat should go,” a tester commented.

Epic Equipment

epic equipement

Getty Images

Complete Home Gym

Gym Monster

An all-in-one smart home gym, Speediance combines strength training and cardio workouts into a single, highly versatile piece of equipment. The pulley system enables a full range of strength training exercises, while specific accessories turn the machine into a rower or ski erg. Lifelong memberships are free if the product is purchased in 2023.

LAB RESULTS: We were impressed with just how comprehensive and high-quality the system was, providing a total-body workout and resistance up to 200 lbs. “Speediance is a top-notch piece of exercise equipment that takes up only a little bit of space in any room. Incredible workout classes. Great for beginners or experts,” said one tester.

Smart Strength Set

Core Pro

Turn your smartphone into a home gym with the Tempo Core Pro. Place your iPhone in the Core dock, which uses its 3D camera sensors to provide tips on positioning, form and appropriate weights to help you get stronger.

LAB RESULTS: Strength training can be intimidating, but our fitness pros appreciate that the Core Pro utilizes AI to provide guidance on form and weights so you can build confidence in your lifts at home. “The range of classes is excellent. I am fairly novice, but I was able to find short tutorial classes that guided me,” a tester said. “The instructors were extremely clear and made me feel comfortable with new movements.”

AI Exercise Bike

Bike

Developed with leading exercise researchers, the CAROL AI-powered exercise bike uses an adaptive algorithm that calculates and adjusts the rider’s resistance level to push them to their max. The bike is known for offering REHIT (reduced exertion high-intensity interval training) to provide cardiovascular benefits in minutes.

LAB RESULTS: The dual-sided pedals accommodate both sneakers or cycling shoes, and we like that the flywheel is in the rear of the bike to avoid the “sweat zone.” Cashdollar says that what sets this bike apart from others is the AI-controlled resistance: “I don’t turn any knobs or press any buttons to increase or decrease resistance. The resistance is instantaneous and super smooth.”

Versatile Strength Trainer

Tonal

Think personal trainer and smart home fitness machine in one. Tonal mounts to your wall and features a large screen and accompanying adjustable resistance arms to support hundreds of exercise movements ranging from squats and lunges to bicep curls and lat pulldowns.

LAB RESULTS: We like that a full-body strength assessment automatically sets the optimal weight for every move and adaptive digital weight adjusts up to 200 lbs in real time for the most personalized and effective workout. The coaches are exceptional, and some are even pro athletes. “It’s the smartest electronic device I’ve ever used. The mid-set weight adjustments are fantastic,” one tester said.

Compact Stand Up Paddle

Itiwit Adult Inflatable Stand Up Paddle

Decathlon Itiwit Adult Inflatable Stand Up Paddle

Just by looking at it, you’d never know that this premium Decathlon stand-up paddleboard could support two adults and was incredibly compact. It deflates into a 30-liter backpack and is easy to take with you in the trunk of a car or store in a small apartment.

LAB RESULTS: We found the board easy to inflate with the provided pump and were surprised by how sturdy and premium the board felt while also being foldable for storage. It was fun to be able to have two people on it, especially for those who wanted to go out on the water with a family member.

Revolutionary Rower

Row

The latest addition to Peloton’s equipment lineup, the Peloton Row is a sleek, high-end rowing machine that offers form feedback in real-time. The 24″ HD Swivel Screen is able to pivot, so you can move seamlessly from rowing to floor-based exercises for a cardio and strength workout.

LAB RESULTS: We liked the detailed breakdown of metrics and form after each class to help optimize rowing technique. Plus, the rower can be stored vertically when not in use. Delivery was clean, fast and efficient. “I really like how the machine is practically silent, so I don’t disturb others in the house if I want to get in a late-night workout,” one tester said.

Innovative E-SUP

Drive Neo

Not only does the Drive Neo from SipaBoards self-inflate and fit into a backpack when not in use, but it’s the first e-SUP (think e-bike, but for SUP). With just the push of a button, the board activates a motor for assistance as a safety mechanism or simply a tool to help you cover more ground.

LAB RESULTS: Our fitness pros love that with the motor of the e-SUP on you can go nearly three times the distance you would without the motor running and still get a great workout. Too often people find themselves in situations with changing winds or strong currents, and the motor can also help you get safely back to shore in such circumstances.

Premium Pickleball Paddle

Graphite Pickleball Paddle

F2 Sports Graphite Pickleball Paddle

With its beautiful designs and premium materials, this mid-weight paddle from F2 Sports is durable and well-made. It features a sanded graphite face to improve spin, and the paddle is approved by the USA Pickleball Association for tournament play.

LAB RESULTS: The cushioned comfort grip did well in our tests, and our trainers appreciate that the polymer core is strong yet flexible. “The grip, construction and overall performance were fantastic. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend or give others this set,” one avid pickleball player told us.

Terrific Treadmill

7.4 AT Studio Series Smart Treadmill

Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT Studio Series Smart Treadmill

Built for powerful performance, the 7.4 AT Treadmill from Horizon Fitness has a supportive 22″-wide running deck and dial controls for seamless speed and incline changes. It’s also foldable to save space when it’s not in use.

LAB RESULTS: Since the speed goes up to 12 mph and the incline goes up to 15%, both novice and competitive runners were able to take advantage of the machine and get a great workout regardless of fitness level. “I love the built-in area above the screen for placing your phone, iPad or book,” one tester said, adding that the machine felt sturdy and secure and wasn’t loud.

A+ Fitness Fuel

a fitness fuel

Getty Images

Epic Electrolyte Powder

Hydrate Electrolyte Powder

Gnarly Nutrition Hydrate Electrolyte Powder

Available in three refreshing flavors, this electrolyte powder from Gnarly includes a balance of all the major electrolytes to fuel your workouts and outdoor excursions. It is low in sugar and includes a dose of B vitamins for energy support.

LAB RESULTS: We found that it mixed well in our tests, and we enjoyed the tanginess of the Orange Pineapple flavor. Our registered dietitian points out that the mix is NSF Content Certified, meaning it has gone through extensive testing to ensure that what is on the label is actually in the powder.

Phenomenal Protein Powder

Whey Protein Isolate

Momentous Whey Protein Isolate

This high-quality grass-fed whey isolate from Momentous features all nine essential amino acids and is naturally rich in branched-chain amino acids. It is free from artificial flavors and colors and sweetened with organic stevia leaf extract.

LAB RESULTS: Not only did the powder blend well into protein shakes and smoothies, but also we used the unflavored version in baked goods for a protein boost and they turned out great. Plus, this powder boasts multiple third-party certifications for purity and safety, including NSF Certified Sport and Informed Sport Certified.

Protein and Electrolyte Boost

Recover Protein + Electrolytes

NeoTEIN Recover Protein + Electrolytes

Protein powder meets electrolyte powder with this two-in-one solution comprised of collagen and electrolytes. Each packet from NeoTEIN provides a solid 10 g of protein and 140 mg of sodium, all with no carbs or sugars.

LAB RESULTS: Our registered dietitians appreciate that this packet includes not just collagen but also the correct ratio of tryptophan to make it a complete protein source. And it’s Informed Sport Certified, which means it has been tested for purity and meets strict quality standards.

Amazing Aminos

Amino Complex

A comprehensive blend of essential amino acids that is high in branched-chain amino acids, this formula from Thorne has been clinically shown to help build lean muscle mass and strength. It’s free from added binders, fillers and artificial sweeteners too.

LAB RESULTS: The complex is NSF Certified for Sport, meaning it has passed purity tests and is free from heavy metals and contaminants. We like that it has a minimal ingredient list, and we found it to have a slightly sweet taste. The colors and flavors are naturally derived.

Insulated Shaker Bottle

26oz Stainless Steel Shaker Bottle

Ice Shaker 26oz Stainless Steel Shaker Bottle

Instead of a loose blender ball, this shaker bottle from Ice Shaker uses a twist-off agitator located at the top. Made from stainless steel with double-wall vacuum insulation, the design minimizes odors and also keeps drinks cold.

LAB RESULTS: Testers noted that the bottle mixed all types of workout shakes well and liked that it had a tapered bottom so it would fit into a cupholder. Ice cubes barely melted in the shaker when we left them in liquid for 30 hours at room temperature.

Versatile Collagen Powder

Collagen Peptides Powder

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder

Made from high-quality grass-fed and pasture-raised bovine sources, this unflavored collagen peptide powder from Vital Proteins is incredibly versatile. Mix it into your favorite hot or cold beverages, smoothies or recipes.

LAB RESULTS: We loved how seamlessly the powder could be incorporated into beverages and even baked goods without altering taste or texture. Our registered dietitians like that it provides a dose of vitamin C and is NSF Certified for Sport.

Helpful Hydrator

20oz Wide Mouth Sport Cap Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Hydro Flask 20oz Wide Mouth Sport Cap Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Stay hydrated with this well-designed water bottle from Hydro Flask. It combines a stainless steel body with a workout-friendly cap for one-handed drinking without the need to squeeze the bottle.

LAB RESULTS: Our fitness pros appreciated the unique ergonomic bottle shape that ensured an easy grip during workouts and outdoor sports. “Kept water cold all day. Loved the sleek style,” one tester said. “The wide mouth made it easier to fill and add ice,” another commented. Testers said it kept liquids cold for up to 24 hours.

Exceptional Shoes

exceptional shoes

Getty Images

Speed Racers

Mach X Sneaker

Hoka is well-known for its next-level cushioning, but this style also utilizes a propulsive plate, meaning it helps push you forward with each step. The sole is not quite as high as on other Hoka pairs, allowing the runner to keep their feet closer to the ground to get a firmer, more responsive push-off. Great for everyday running and racing, the shoes have upper material that is both lightweight and breathable.

LAB RESULTS: Amazing each of our testers in aspects like cushioning, support, fit, traction and appearance, this shoe was praised for its versatility. Users said they found these comfortable for walking, running, hiking, weight training and regular all-day wear. They also found the shoes easy to put on and lace, and one added, “I loved that they felt bouncy and springy, and they cushioned when I walked and ran.”

Smooth Stride

ALTRAFWD Experience

Altra ALTRAFWD Experience

Unlike some sneakers that are all about maximizing performance, Altra’s prioritizes your natural foot position. With a low 4mm heel drop, this new style offers a good balance between keeping your running gait natural and propelling you forward. It also stands out for its rocker shape (designed for a quick toe-off on each stride), spacious toe box and lightweight cushioning.

LAB RESULTS: The wide fit was the main highlight for our textile analysts and at-home reviewers. “The toe box was different than on any other shoe I have ever worn,” noted one tester. “It was wide and felt like it mimicked the shape of my foot.” Users also noted that these were more sturdy and lightweight than other styles.

Agile Hikers

Rush Mid 2 GTX

Combining the mobility of a running shoe with the stability of a hiking boot, Scarpa’s mid-height pair has torsion-control in the heel with a lightweight, breathable and waterproof fabric on top. It also offers good cushioning and is designed for use on a wide variety of trails.

LAB RESULTS: Testers unanimously gave it perfect scores for support, traction and appearance. They also raved about how light the shoes felt without sacrificing performance. “I really liked that they were lightweight,” one tester told us. “Most hiking boots I’ve had are very heavy and make hiking harder.” Another described them as having “the feel and weight of a running shoe with the support of a hiking boot.”

Cushioning Recovery

OOmg Sport Low Shoe

Oofos OOmg Sport Low Shoe

Offering a post-workout recovery for your feet in a wear-anywhere style, this low-profile shoe from Oofos has a special footbed that’s designed to absorb impact and reduce stress on your feet and joints. The upper fabric is stretchy for easy slide-on, and the entire shoe is machine-washable.

LAB RESULTS: Our reviewers loved how these shoes were unbelievably comfortable, flexible and lightweight while still looking like “normal shoes.” One told us they provided “substantial cushioning for my feet after strenuous exercise,” while another said, “I loved the arch support they provided and how they enforced the natural positioning of my feet. They were also attractive and easy to maintain.”

All-Star Apparel

apparel

Getty Images

Supportive Sports Bra

Kinetic Adjustable Sports Bra

ThirdLove Kinetic Adjustable Sports Bra

Designed to stay in place without sacrificing comfort, this ThirdLove bra is wireless, padded and adjustable both in the straps and in the back closure. You can also convert the straps to go over your shoulder or make it an X-back for more range of motion. It comes in an inclusive size range, 32–44 in the band and A–H in the cups.

LAB RESULTS: It ran true to size in fit tests, and users agreed that it was ideal for high-impact exercise. They gave it perfect ratings for feeling supportive and staying in place, and they said it wicked away sweat well. One said, “I loved how comfortable it felt while I was working out. I really loved how much coverage it had. I was skeptical because I usually use an underwire, but this bra did the trick for sure.”

Barely-There Underwear

Women's Air Thong

Tommy John Women’s Air Thong

With a mesh-like performance fabric that’s soft, breathable and lightweight, Tommy John’s thong lies flat against your body to stay in place and look invisible under clothing. It uses a cotton gusset (just like traditional underwear), and though it’s great for exercise, it’s also useful for everyday wear.

LAB RESULTS: No need for special care — this washed well in Lab tests without shrinkage or signs of wear. Even better, our testers were surprised by how much they enjoyed wearing it during workouts. One said, “The fabric was perfect for wearing under yoga pants,” while another told us, “I liked that the fabric was really lightweight.”

Upgraded Socks

All-Purpose Performance Ankle Socks

Bombas All-Purpose Performance Ankle Socks

Designed for a wide range of exercise, Bomba’s socks incorporate innovative features like zoned cushioning, ventilation for airflow and built-in arch support. They feel slightly compressive, like a hug for your feet, and have a contoured shape to fit around the right and left sides.

LAB RESULTS: Comfort was by far the best aspect for our testers, who praised the socks for being cushioning while feeling lightweight and breathable. “They’re relatively thicker than my other performance socks,” noted a tester, “but not so thick as to create a tight fit in my normal athletic shoes.” They also highlighted the subtle arch support and appreciated the attention to detail.

Blister Blockers

Maxus Zero Tab

These socks from Swiftwick offer good cushioning and compression without feeling too thick. They also stand out for their heel tab and seamless toe box that help prevent friction and blisters. Intended for activities like running and high-impact workouts, the fabric is moisture-wicking to keep feet dry.

LAB RESULTS: Testers said they fit well and felt comfortable. “I liked the fact that they weren’t as thick as my other athletic socks yet still offered a contoured compression fit and moisture-wicking capabilities,” said one. Another told us, “I really liked the ankle tab and how dry the socks kept my feet, especially running in the hot summer weather.”

Flexible Leggings

Kinetic Performance Pocket Legging

ThirdLove Kinetic Performance Pocket Legging

Checking off all the boxes for a top-notch pair of leggings, ThirdLove’s style has a high stay-put waistband that doesn’t dig in, spacious pockets to hold essentials, flat seams to prevent chafing and lightly compressive fabric for support. Choose all black or a neutral color block in sizes XS through 3X.

LAB RESULTS: Our testers loved wearing these leggings for low-impact workouts that require lots of movement, like yoga and Pilates. One said the fabric “moved like a second skin” and noted that the waistband “was flattering and felt great.” They also loved the softness of the material and said the style looked amazing on their legs.

Firm Support Tights

Compression Run Tights 4.0

CEP Compression Run Tights 4.0

Compression tights are lauded for improving circulation and stabilizing muscles to help prevent injury. This pair from CEP is designed specifically for running and provides firm compression around the legs. It also has smart features like abrasion-resistant material around the ankles, ventilation behind the knees and a flat-cord drawstring around the waist.

LAB RESULTS: Despite the firm feel, users found them breathable and comfortable. They appreciated how well they stayed in place during running, with one noting, “I felt that they were secure and wouldn’t move around on my body.” Another added, “They were very comfortable and provided a lot of support.”

Temperature-Regulating Jacket

Intraknit Active Full Zip Jacket

Smartwool Intraknit Active Full Zip Jacket

With a unique fabric blend that contains smooth, temperature-regulating merino wool and soft, breathable Tencel lyocell, Smartwool’s jacket is designed for movement. It has stretchy panels and a wind-resistant material in the front and mesh ventilation to prevent overheating. It also has closely fits the body, so you can be sure it won’t get in your way.

LAB RESULTS: Our analysts were thoroughly impressed by the quality of its materials. Fit testers noted that it was a great option to wear while walking and hiking and told us it felt comfortable. They also loved how they could move freely while staying covered outdoors.

Lightweight Layer

UV Protection Pocketable Parka

Uniqlo UV Protection Pocketable Parka

Offering protection from the sun and the rain, this Uniqlo jacket has both a UPF 40 rating and a waterproof finish. It has an oversize fit that’s designed to let it be layered over a variety of garments, and it offers an incredible value compared with other workout-friendly jackets.

LAB RESULTS: Testers especially liked wearing it while walking or hiking and highlighted its versatile aesthetic. They also appreciated its UV protection and loved how lightweight and compact it was when folded, with one telling us, “Sometimes I bring it with me as a backup jacket for when the weather is inconsistent.”

Headshot of Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N., NASM-CPT

Stefani (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, where she handles all nutrition-related content, testing and evaluation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from NYU. She is also Good Housekeeping’s on-staff fitness and exercise expert. Stefani is dedicated to providing readers with evidence-based content to encourage informed food choices and healthy living. She is an avid CrossFitter and a passionate home cook who loves spending time with her big fit Greek family.

Headshot of Lexie Sachs

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she researches, tests and reports on fabric-based products ranging from sheets, mattresses and towels to bras, fitness apparel and other clothing. She also evaluates luggage, rain gear, disposable paper goods and baby products. Lexie has more than 15 years of experience in the textiles industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Prior to joining GH in 2013, she worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.