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The average American woman's dress size is between 14 and 16, which technically means "plus size" is our nation's norm. Even so, it can still be tricky to shop for cute, comfortable and flattering plus-size workout clothes that you'll want to wear over and over again.
Luckily, some of the top-performing clothing items in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textile Lab's rigorous activewear tests come in a wide range of sizes, including workout apparel from Nike, Girlfriend Collective and Superfit Hero. To find the best activewear worth your money from quality brands we know and love, our clothing experts regularly evaluate yoga pants, sports bras and leggings, looking at factors like moisture management, washability, opaqueness, and stretch recovery. To put together this list of the best plus-size workout clothes, our product review pros also looked beyond the clothing we've personally tested in our Labs, spending hours combing through the online reviews of popular activewear items from top-searched brands like Old Navy and Fabletics, as well as vetting offerings from lesser-known brands for readers who prefer to shop small and/or support BIPOC clothing businesses.
Below you'll find the best size-inclusive activewear you can buy, from cheap-but-comfortable gear to the highest quality moisture-wicking fabrics. On this list, you'll find leggings that start at 1X and run up to 6X, sports bras that range from D through KK cup sizes and stretchy joggers with adjustable features to help you find your perfect fit.
Pros
- Plus sizes available: 1X-6X
- Made from recycled material and can be recycled after wear
Cons
These leggings are popular for their sustainable material (the fabric on each pair is made up of about 25 water bottles) and super inclusive sizing that goes up to 6X. Plus, the leggings come with two inseam length options, accommodating taller folks.
Pros
- Plus sizes available: 1X-4X
Cons
Over 24,000 Amazon reviewers gave these racerback tanks a positive rating. They say they're the perfect fit and cover your stomach without being too long. The tanks come in a set of three and keep you cooler in the heat.
Pros
- Plus sizes available: XL-7X
Cons
These full length leggings are available in a range of colors including two-toned burgundy and pink, black, green and cobalt. Made with the brand's signature SUPERHOLD fabric, they're supportive, thick, soft and have full-size pockets. "I like the fact that they are a dense knit that holds everything in; it gives me freedom to move without uncomfortable jiggling," says one of our GH testers.
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Pros
- Sizes available: 1-8+
Cons
Intense and high-impact workouts can lead to a lot of breast movement, but this bra was specifically designed to help combat the bounce. Note that the sizing works a little differently from other brands, but the bra supports up to a G cup (just check the brand's sizing chart to get the best size).
Pros
- Plus sizes available: 1X-3X
- Textiles Lab favorite
Cons
Our Lab experts personally love these leggings andnamed them the best overall pair in ourplus-size leggings roundup. They're smooth, durable against pilling, and can be worn for a variety of fitness activities. The only flaw: The brandneeds a larger color range for plus sizes.
Pros
- Plus sizes available: 1X-3X
- Non-restricting material
Cons
Amazon reviewers say this tank has a "loose fit," though it doesn't give you a baggy appearance. It's made of 100% polyester, and according to the brand, features a lightweight stretch, anti-odor technology and moisture-wicking properties.
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Pros
- Plus sizes available: XL-4X
Cons
Whether working out or lounging, this comfy drawstring hoodie and matching tapered pants are perfect for multiple occasions. Universal Standard offers a variety of styles from denim to workwear, with all items ranging from sizes 00 - 40. "After checking out Universal Standard's size chart, I was impressed that every item I ordered fit absolutely perfectly," notes one reviewer. "The bottoms hug my curves in all the right places without feeling constricting."
Pros
- Plus sizes available: 1X-3X
Cons
Another brand that makes fashionable and printed workout gear is LukaFit, a smaller business that's known for their unique designs. According to the brand, these biker shorts were made to hug your curves in all the right places and come with a hidden back pocket for extra storage. Pair with the brand's matching sports bra for a cute matching sweatsuit set.
9
Old Navy Powersoft Performance Bodysuit for Women
9
Old Navy Powersoft Performance Bodysuit for Women
Pros
- Plus sizes available: XL-4X
Cons
This performance bodysuit from Old Navy is a simple yet bold piece that can be worn day or night. "The versatility in this jump suit is great, it can be worn to workout, paired with heels or with an oversized sweatshirt," says a reviewer. The back features a deep scoop neck back, and is tag free for additional comfort while working out.
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Pros
- Sizes available: XL-3X
Cons
Besides the fun cheetah prints, what makes this sports bra unique is the wide band underneath for extra support. "The fabric feels so good against my skin, and it's a good hold as well," says one reviewer. The brand recommends you order based on your fitted T-shirt size.
Pros
- Sizes available: 28A-40KK
Cons
Consumer testers with large busts especially loved this sports bra because of it's breathable material and support. It features solid compression too, which makes it a perfect choice for workouts that include running or jumping.
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Pros
- Plus sizes available: 16-32
Cons
Just My Size is a Hanes plus-size brand that makes extended sizes of underwear, legwear, and clothing, like this French terry fabric lightweight hoodie. We love that the hoodie features a flatter V-placket and can be matched with the coordinating terry joggers.
14
Glamorise Women's Plus Size Wonderwire Sports Bra
14
Glamorise Women's Plus Size Wonderwire Sports Bra
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Pros
- Sizes available: 32D-44H
Cons
Thousands of Amazon reviewers gave this sports bra a high rating because they loved the quality and support it gives during workouts. "The bra cuts down on bounce dramatically," says one reviewer, "it holds me up on the elliptical and sprinting and everything else."
15
Best Plus-Size Yoga Pants
Pennintons Essential Basic Yoga Pant - ActiveZone
15
Best Plus-Size Yoga Pants
Pennintons Essential Basic Yoga Pant - ActiveZone
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Pros
- Plus sizes available: 1X-6X
Cons
Online reviewers say these yoga pants are comfortable, stylish, and "feel just right." The solid pants are slightly flared and feature a semi-fitted ankle. They're best used for low-intensity workouts.
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Pros
- Plus sizes available: 1X-5X
Cons
Reviewers say that while the polyester fabric isn't stretchy on these shorts, they're a little baggy, making it easier to move. Plus, the adjustable drawstring waist helps you achieve a custom fit. They also come in grey, purple, blue, and pink.
Pros
- Plus sizes available: 16-20
Cons
Our Textile and Wellness Lab experts have found that Lululemon has performed exceptionally well across the board, in terms of quality and withstanding various workouts. These specific leggings are made from Everlux, which our experts say is ideal for high-intensity workouts like HIIT, CrossFit or spinning.
RELATED: The Best Lululemon Leggings for Every Activity
Pros
- Plus sizes available: 16-24
Cons
Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, this versatile jacket is a solid choice for running, yoga, cycling and more. It comes with thumb holes, a full zip up front, and a hood to keep you warm while outdoors. Note that reviewers suggest ordering one or two sizes up.
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Pros
- Plus sizes available: 1X-4X
Cons
One reviewer describes these joggers as a "cross between a legging and a jogger" because they've got a slimming fit. The brand says they're made from a sweat-wicking fabric and feel next-to naked. They come in an impressive range of petite sizes to 4X.
Shanon Maglente
Contributing Editor
Shanon is a writer and editor who specializes in best-of product roundups and deals. She has over six years of experience, including almost three years as a Good Housekeeping product and reviews editor, covering the best sales and products across home, appliances, health, beauty, parenting and more.
Raena Loper
Freelance Writer
Raena Loper (she/her) is a fashion journalist and product analyst based in New Jersey whose work has appeared in Forbes, Good Housekeeping and O, The Oprah Magazine. Raena is a graduate from Montclair State University where she earned a degree in fashion studies as well as gender, sexuality and women's studies. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, cooking BBQ and spending time with family.