Let’s face it: sweating away all those calories in the gym isn’t necessarily the prettiest sight (especially on the treadmill). But that doesn’t mean our gym clothes can’t help distract fellow gym-goers from staring at our facial expressions.
In fact, workout gear is increasingly becoming more stylish, so much so that a gym outfit can easily be turned into an everyday casual look with more mileage than just the treadmill. What’s more is that you can dress like a pro-athlete all while supporting local brands.
Here are a few proudly South African activewear brands that you can add to your gym armoury.
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1. Maxed
Mr Price Sport’s athletic brand Maxed is a must-have for any gym-goer and fitness fanatic who wants quality activewear that won’t shatter a budget. Maxed have a wide range of sports-related gear and can be found in any Mr Price Sports store nationwide. Opt for their Dri-Sport gear that’s constructed with quick-drying Dri-Sport material to ensure you stay cool, dry and comfy while training.
2. K-Way
K-Way is a classic South African brand, but they’re good for more than just puffer jackets. Their activewear pieces are top quality, durable and designed to weather the great South African outdoors.
3. Dark Performance Apparel
Dark Performance Apparel creates minimalistic activewear designed for high-intensity training. How do you know it’s the real deal? The clothing brand was co-founded by Alan Foulis, a South African competitive CrossFitter.
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4. DRANGED Urban Athleisure
DRANGED is an urban athleisure brand that stocks both lifestyle and performance apparel. They use simple yet striking designs that will make any gym-goer look twice—and not at your facial expression mid rep.
5. Maxed Elite
Maxed Elite is Mr Price Sport’s answer to any serious sweater’s prayers. Premium and technical apparel that’s insanely comfortable and doesn’t break the bank? We’re sold.
6. Balega Socks
These performance socks from local brand Balega are made for physical activity, so they’re ideal for your daily sweat sesh before or after work.
7. Monsta Gymwear
Monsta Gymwear provides workout gear that just screams confidence. They also have a range of supplements and gym equipment—everything a growing beast needs.
8. TS
Totalsports has released their own brand of high-quality affordable activewear for every day South Africans who want to get fit and look good doing it without breaking the bank. Best part: there are Totalsports shops all around SA so you won’t struggle finding a Totalsports and stocking up your gym drawer.
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9. LFT FIT™ Gym Wear
Launched in early 2020, the CEO and co-founder thought Saffers needed more options for functional and stylish gym wear made from the best quality fabrics. So if you’re someone who is serious about lifting weights, this is the brand for you.
10. Nutritech Urban
Nutritech Urban provides authentic hand crafted strength equipment and supplies which have been endorsed by some of our favourite athletes such as cover guys Johry Batt, Enoch Mseleni and Trevor Lagerwey (creator of MH SpeedShred training programme).
11. Van H
The popularity of cycling is showing no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re looking to dip your toes in the sport or you’re a seasoned saddle soldier, you’re likely looking for the right apparel for your next ride. Van H is a Pretoria-based company that creates high-quality, comfortable cycle-ready layers. It’s time to tap into true pedal power.
Have a favourite South African activewear brand we didn’t mention? Send us a DM on Instagram and let us know!