7 Best Workout Clothes for Big Guys

Your workout clothes are a critical piece of your gym equipment. Just like you wouldn’t use a flimsy barbell, you shouldn’t settle for gear that doesn’t support you. For too long, the options for bigger guys have been limited to baggy, unflattering clothes made from cheap materials that wear out quickly. Investing in quality pieces built for your body is one of the best things you can do for your fitness routine. This guide will walk you through how to identify durable, comfortable, and well-fitting workout clothes for big guys, so you can stop replacing worn-out gear and start building a collection that makes you feel ready to take on any challenge.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Fabrics That Work for You, Not Against You: Your comfort comes down to the material. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or bamboo blends to stay dry, and look for a bit of spandex to ensure your clothes move with you through every exercise.
• Focus on Fit Features Made for a Bigger Build: A good fit goes beyond the size tag. Seek out clothes with smart details like extra length to prevent ride-up, reinforced seams for durability, and more room in the shoulders and thighs for unrestricted movement.
• Confirm Your Size with Measurements and Reviews: Since sizing isn't consistent across brands, always check your own measurements against the company's size chart. Cross-reference with customer reviews to see how the clothes fit on real guys with similar builds.

What to Look for in Workout Clothes for Big Guys

Finding workout clothes that fit well and feel good can completely change your relationship with the gym. When your gear isn’t riding up, pinching, or soaking with sweat, you can focus on what matters: your workout. But knowing what to look for is half the battle. The right combination of fabric, stretch, fit, and durability is key to finding clothes that support you through every lift, run, and stretch. Before you add anything to your cart, here are the four main things to consider.

Fabric That Keeps You Dry and Comfortable

Nothing kills a workout vibe faster than a heavy, sweat-soaked shirt. That’s why fabric choice is so important. The best gym clothes for big guys are made with moisture-wicking materials that pull sweat away from your skin, helping to regulate your body temperature and keep you dry. Look for polyester blends or performance cottons designed for activity. While 100% cotton is soft, it holds onto moisture. A cotton-poly blend, however, can give you that soft feel while still wicking away sweat effectively. This helps prevent chafing and keeps you feeling fresh from your warm-up to your cool-down.

Stretch That Moves With You

Your workout clothes should move with you, not hold you back. Whether you’re squatting, lunging, or reaching, you need a full range of motion. Look for clothes made with lightweight, stretchy materials that won’t restrict you. Fabrics blended with a bit of spandex or elastane offer the flexibility you need to perform any exercise without feeling constricted. Heavy, stiff materials can cause you to overheat and make your workout less effective. The goal is to find gear that feels like a second skin, allowing you to move freely and confidently.

A Fit That's Just Right

For bigger guys, fit is everything. A shirt that’s wide enough might be too short, and pants that fit your thighs might be too loose at the waist. It’s a common frustration. The ideal fit isn’t about being baggy or tight; it’s about finding a silhouette that complements your frame. Look for brands that design specifically for big and tall bodies, offering features like added length in the torso so your shirt stays put. A good fit means you’re not constantly adjusting your clothes, allowing you to stay focused and comfortable throughout your entire workout.

Gear That's Built to Last

Workout clothes go through a lot—intense movement, friction, and frequent washing. You need gear that can handle it all without falling apart after a few sessions. Durability comes down to quality construction. Check for features like reinforced seams and strong, resilient fabrics that won’t stretch out or fade easily. Materials like bamboo blends are known for being both breathable and long-lasting. Investing in well-made pieces might cost a bit more upfront, but you’ll save money in the long run when you’re not constantly replacing worn-out clothes.

7 of the Best Brands for Big & Tall Workout Clothes

Finding workout clothes that fit well when you're a bigger guy shouldn't feel like a workout itself. The right gear can make all the difference in your comfort and confidence, whether you're hitting the gym or just going for a walk. Too often, "big & tall" options are just wider and shorter, with no thought given to proportions or performance. Thankfully, some brands are finally getting it right. They’re designing clothes with your build in mind, using fabrics that stretch and breathe, and adding details like extra length where you need it most. Here are seven of the best brands making quality workout clothes for big and tall guys.

Strongsize: Premium Basics Designed for Your Build

At Strongsize, we focus on one thing: creating premium basics that are tailored specifically for your build. We design our clothes from the ground up for big and tall guys, ensuring a comfortable fit that doesn’t compromise on style or performance. Forget shirts that are too short or too tight in the chest. Our performance tees are made with extra length to prevent ride-up and feature high-quality, stretchable fabrics that move with you. We believe you shouldn't have to choose between durability and comfort, which is why we build our gear to last, wash after wash. It’s the workout wear you deserve, designed to make you feel good and perform your best.

Champion: Classic Comfort in Extended Sizes

A true classic in the athletic world, Champion has been a reliable go-to for decades, and for good reason. They offer timeless styles that are both comfortable and functional, with a solid range of extended sizes that cater to big and tall athletes. If you’re looking for no-fuss, durable basics like hoodies, joggers, and classic cotton tees that hold up, Champion is a great place to start. Their Big & Tall collection delivers on the brand’s promise of quality without being overly flashy. It’s the kind of gear you can count on for a solid workout or just for lounging on the weekend.

Nike: Performance Tech for Big & Tall Athletes

When performance is your top priority, Nike is hard to beat. They’re known for innovation, and thankfully, they extend that to their big & tall line. Nike's workout gear incorporates advanced performance technology, like their famous Dri-FIT fabric that wicks sweat away to keep you cool and dry. This makes it ideal for big and tall athletes who need clothing that supports an active lifestyle. You can find their most popular performance styles in sizes that actually fit, so you don't have to sacrifice tech for size. Check out their men's Big & Tall section for everything from running shorts to compression gear designed for a larger frame.

Lululemon: High-End Gear in More Sizes

Once known for its more limited size range, Lululemon has made significant strides in offering its high-end gear to more people. The brand is famous for its incredibly soft, high-quality, moisture-wicking fabrics that provide amazing comfort and support. While it’s definitely a premium price point, many guys find the investment worth it for the feel and durability. Now with a wider range of sizes available in their most popular lines, bigger guys can experience the gear that has such a loyal following. If you're looking to treat yourself to some top-tier workout clothes, their extended size collection is worth exploring for its exceptional comfort.

Under Armour: Athletic Wear for Every Body

Under Armour built its brand on performance, and their commitment to inclusivity is clear in their extensive range of athletic wear. They design gear for every body type, ensuring that big guys can find the right fit without sacrificing performance. Whether you need HeatGear to stay cool during an intense summer workout or ColdGear for those early morning runs, they have you covered. Their sizing is often generous and designed with an athletic build in mind, offering more room in the shoulders and chest. You can find great deals on their high-performance gear in the Men's Big & Tall Outlet.

One Bone: A Focus on Fit Up to 7XL

As a brand that specializes in the big and tall market, One Bone really understands the assignment. They focus on creating stylish, modern clothes that fit properly, with sizing that goes up to 7XL. Their approach is all about creating pieces from scratch for a bigger frame, not just sizing up a standard pattern. This results in a much better fit through the shoulders, chest, and torso. One Bone provides stylish workout clothes that focus on comfort and breathability, making them a fantastic option for guys who want to look as good as they feel. Their collections are perfect for anyone tired of the boxy, unflattering fits found elsewhere.

KFKF: Fun Graphics and a Great Fit

If you like your workout gear to have a bit of personality, look no further than Kinda Fit Kinda Fat (KFKF). This brand has built a massive community around its fun, relatable, and often hilarious gym-themed graphics. But it’s not just about the cool designs; KFKF offers a unique selection of graphic tees and workout clothes that are designed to fit a variety of body types, with sizes going up to 6XL. Their shirts are known for being soft, comfortable, and having a great fit that gives you room to move. It’s the perfect brand for guys who don’t take themselves too seriously but are serious about finding gym clothes that fit well.

Key Styles That Offer Comfort and Coverage

Finding workout clothes that fit is one thing, but building a wardrobe of pieces that actually perform is another. The right styles can make the difference between a workout where you feel confident and one where you’re constantly distracted by your clothes. You need gear that offers full coverage without restricting your movement, stays in place, and keeps you comfortable from your first rep to your last. When your shirt rides up during an overhead press or your shorts feel tight in the thighs during a squat, it pulls your focus away from what matters: your workout. The goal is to find clothes that feel like a second skin, so you can forget you're even wearing them.

Think of these key styles as the foundation of your activewear. They’re the essentials that solve the most common frustrations big and tall guys face at the gym. From a t-shirt that doesn’t turn into a wet towel mid-session to shorts that won’t ride up during squats, each piece plays a specific role. Investing in these core items means you’ll have a reliable rotation of gear that’s ready for any workout you throw at it, helping you focus on your fitness goals, not your fit issues. We'll cover the must-have pieces that provide the comfort and coverage you need to move with total freedom, so you can spend less time adjusting and more time training.

Performance T-Shirts

A good performance t-shirt is non-negotiable. Unlike a standard cotton tee that gets heavy and clings when you sweat, a performance shirt is designed to keep you comfortable. Look for shirts made from moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or special cotton-poly blends. These materials pull sweat away from your skin and help it evaporate quickly, which helps regulate your body temperature and keeps you feeling dry. This means you can push through your workout without feeling weighed down by a drenched shirt. The right performance tee is lightweight, breathable, and soft, making it a true workhorse in your gym bag.

Athletic Pants and Joggers

For leg days, warm-ups, or cooler weather, a great pair of athletic pants or joggers is essential. The key here is to find a pair made from lightweight, breathable technical fabrics that allow for a full range of motion. Avoid heavy, bulky materials like traditional sweatpants, which can trap heat and feel restrictive. A modern jogger with a tapered fit is a great option because it stays out of your way during exercises like deadlifts or box jumps. You want pants that move with you, whether you’re stretching, squatting, or running, providing comfort without causing you to overheat.

Shorts That Stay in Place

There’s nothing more annoying than having to constantly pull up your shorts or tug the legs down mid-workout. The best workout shorts for big guys are made from durable synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and spandex. The addition of spandex is crucial, as it provides the stretch needed for deep squats and lunges while helping the shorts keep their shape. Pay close attention to the waistband—it should be wide and secure enough to stay put without digging in. A quality pair of shorts will give you the freedom to move confidently, knowing everything will stay exactly where it’s supposed to.

Supportive Base Layers

What you wear underneath your gym clothes is just as important as the clothes themselves. A supportive base layer, like compression shorts or performance boxer briefs, can seriously improve your comfort. They help reduce chafing, a common issue during repetitive movements, and provide crucial support. Fabrics like bamboo blends are an excellent choice for base layers because they are incredibly soft, breathable, and have natural anti-odor properties. Think of a good base layer as the foundation of your workout gear—it’s the first step to ensuring you stay comfortable and supported from start to finish.

Versatile Athleisure Wear

The best workout clothes are the ones you actually want to wear, and that often means they look good outside the gym, too. Athleisure wear that can transition from your workout to the rest of your day offers both style and convenience. A clean, well-fitting performance tee, a pair of modern joggers, or a sharp quarter-zip can take you from a morning gym session to running errands without needing a full outfit change. Investing in these versatile pieces means you get more use out of your gear and can always feel put-together, whether you’re hitting a new personal record or just grabbing coffee.

The Best Fabrics for Your Workout

The material of your workout clothes can make or break your session. The wrong fabric traps heat and moisture, leaving you feeling sticky, heavy, and overheated just a few minutes in. For bigger guys, this can be a major source of discomfort, leading to chafing and irritation that cuts your workout short. The right fabric, on the other hand, works with your body, not against it. It wicks away sweat, allows your skin to breathe, and provides the stretch you need to move without restriction.

Think of performance fabrics as a key piece of your gym equipment. They are engineered to help you stay cool, dry, and comfortable, so you can focus on your form and your goals instead of how your shirt feels. Understanding the difference between materials like polyester, cotton, and bamboo will help you build a workout wardrobe that supports every squat, press, and stride. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, you’re more likely to push harder and stay consistent. Let’s look at the best fabric options to keep you feeling your best.

Polyester Blends to Manage Sweat

If you sweat a lot during your workouts, polyester is your best friend. Unlike cotton, which absorbs moisture and becomes heavy, polyester is a synthetic fiber that is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. Instead of soaking up your sweat, it pulls moisture away from your skin and pushes it to the surface of the fabric where it can evaporate quickly. This process, known as moisture-wicking, is essential for regulating body temperature and keeping you dry. High-quality moisture-wicking fabrics are a non-negotiable for intense workouts, helping you stay comfortable and avoid that swampy, weighed-down feeling.

Cotton Blends for a Softer Feel

We all love the soft, familiar feel of a classic cotton t-shirt, but 100% cotton is a poor choice for the gym because it holds onto sweat. That’s where cotton-polyester blends come in. These hybrid fabrics give you the best of both worlds: the softness and comfort of cotton combined with the sweat-wicking, durable properties of polyester. A good cotton-polyester blend feels great against the skin while still offering the performance you need to get through a tough workout. It’s the perfect middle ground for guys who want functional gear that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.

Bamboo for Breathability

Bamboo fabric has become a popular choice for athletic wear, and for good reason. It’s incredibly soft, lightweight, and one of the most breathable fabrics available. Bamboo fibers are naturally porous, which allows for excellent ventilation and helps keep you cool. Like polyester, bamboo is also great at wicking moisture away from the body. As an added bonus, it’s a more sustainable resource and has natural properties that help resist odor buildup. If you’re looking for a premium fabric that feels amazing and performs exceptionally well, bamboo is an excellent option.

Synthetics to Help You Stay Cool

The term "synthetics" covers a range of man-made materials designed for performance. Beyond polyester, you’ll often see nylon and spandex (also known as Lycra or elastane) in workout clothes. Nylon is known for its impressive durability and abrasion resistance, while spandex provides incredible stretch and shape retention, allowing the fabric to move with you without losing its form. Most high-performance men's workout clothes use a strategic blend of these materials to create a garment that is tough, flexible, and great at managing moisture. These fabrics are engineered to keep you cool and comfortable, no matter how hard you push yourself.

Smart Features to Look For

The difference between good and great workout gear often comes down to the details. Beyond the right fabric and a comfortable fit, certain design features can completely change how your clothes perform and feel. These aren't just bells and whistles; they're thoughtful additions that solve common problems for bigger guys, like shirts that ride up or seams that give out way too soon. When you're shopping, it pays to look past the main description and check for these smart features.

Think of it as building a toolkit for your workout wardrobe. You need pieces that are specifically engineered for your body and your activity level. Things like extra length, stronger seams, and better ventilation aren't just nice to have—they're essential for staying comfortable, confident, and focused on your workout instead of your clothes. Paying attention to these details ensures you’re getting gear that’s not just sized up, but truly designed for a bigger frame.

Extra Length for Full Coverage

One of the biggest frustrations for tall guys is the constant battle with shirts riding up. Whether you’re reaching overhead for a pull-up or bending down for a deadlift, the last thing you want is to feel exposed. That’s why you should always choose options that provide extra length for full coverage. A longer hem provides peace of mind, so you can move freely without constantly tugging your shirt back into place. This small detail makes a huge impact on your comfort and confidence in the gym, letting you focus on your form instead of your fit.

Reinforced Seams for Durability

Your workout clothes go through a lot of stress, from deep squats to explosive movements. Standard stitching just won’t cut it. Look for gear made with reinforced seams, which are designed to withstand intense activity without popping or fraying. This feature is a key indicator of quality and durability, ensuring your clothes last longer and hold up through your toughest workouts. It’s the kind of detail that proves the clothing was built for performance, not just looks. When you invest in gear with strong construction, you're investing in pieces that will be with you for the long haul.

Mesh Panels for Ventilation

Staying cool is key to a good workout, and while breathable fabrics are a great start, targeted ventilation takes it to the next level. Keep an eye out for clothes that incorporate mesh panels in high-heat areas like the back, underarms, or along the sides. These panels act like vents, allowing air to circulate freely and helping sweat evaporate faster. This is especially beneficial during intense sessions, as it keeps you from overheating and feeling weighed down by damp fabric. It's a simple feature that makes a massive difference in your overall comfort.

More Room in the Shoulders and Thighs

A proper fit for a bigger guy isn’t just about width; it’s about proportion. A common issue is clothing that’s tight across the shoulders, chest, or thighs, which restricts your movement. The best workout clothes are designed with more room in the shoulders and thighs to accommodate a larger frame. This ensures you have a full range of motion for lifts, stretches, and dynamic exercises without feeling like your clothes are fighting against you. When your gear moves with you, not against you, you can perform at your best without any distractions.

How to Find the Best Deals

Building a solid workout wardrobe doesn't have to drain your wallet. Quality gear is an investment, but with a few smart strategies, you can find great clothes that fit well without paying full price. It’s all about knowing where to look and when to buy. Here are a few tried-and-true tips for scoring the best deals on activewear that’s actually made for your build.

Shop Directly from Brands

One of the best ways to save is by going straight to the source. Brands often run their own seasonal sales and promotional events with discounts you won't find anywhere else. Plus, when you shop directly from a brand, you usually get access to their full range of sizes, which isn't always the case with third-party retailers. Many companies, like Old Navy, have dedicated big & tall sections with frequent markdowns on everything from performance tees to joggers. Signing up for a brand’s email list is also a great move—it’s an easy way to get a heads-up on upcoming sales and maybe even a welcome discount.

Check Specialty Retailers for Sales

Don’t forget to check out retailers that specialize in big and tall clothing. Stores like DXL are built for guys like us, so they consistently stock performance gear from a variety of top brands. Because they carry so many different labels, it’s a great place to compare options and catch a good sale. Department stores can also be a goldmine. For example, the big & tall activewear section at JCPenney often features brands like Champion and PUMA at a solid discount. Keep an eye on their weekly ads and holiday sales to maximize your savings.

Look for Bulk Discounts

When you find a workout shirt or pair of shorts you love, it makes sense to stock up. Some retailers offer bulk discounts or multi-buy deals, like "3 for $50," which can lower the cost per item. This is perfect for essentials you’ll wear all the time. Another pro tip is to always check the clearance rack, both in-store and online. You can often find last season’s styles or overstocked items for a fraction of the original price. Places like DICK’S Sporting Goods have extensive clearance sections where you can score some serious deals if you’re willing to do a little digging.

Find Free Shipping and Coupon Codes

Before you ever click "buy," do a quick search for coupon codes. A few seconds of searching can often save you 10–20% or score you free shipping, which really adds up. Browser extensions can automatically find and apply codes for you at checkout, making it almost effortless. Signing up for newsletters is another great way to get exclusive discounts sent directly to your inbox. And don't underestimate the power of community—forums like Reddit’s r/bigmenfashionadvice can be a great place to find tips from other guys on recent sales and hidden deals.

How to Nail the Perfect Fit

Finding workout clothes that fit well shouldn't feel like a workout itself. When your gear fits properly, you can focus on your reps instead of constantly adjusting a shirt that’s too short or shorts that are too tight. The right fit gives you the confidence and freedom to move without restriction. It all comes down to a few simple steps: knowing your numbers, understanding brand differences, and learning from other guys who’ve been there. By paying attention to these details, you can build a gym wardrobe that feels like it was made for you.

Start with Your Measurements

Before you even think about adding something to your cart, grab a soft measuring tape. Guessing your size based on what you wore last year is a recipe for a frustrating return. To find the best gym clothes for big guys, you need to start with accurate measurements. Focus on three key areas: your chest (measure around the fullest part), your waist (measure where you naturally bend), and your hips. For shirts, also consider the length you need to prevent it from riding up. Write these numbers down and keep them handy when you shop. This simple step is the foundation for finding clothes that truly fit your frame.

Know That Sizing Varies by Brand

One of the biggest headaches of shopping for clothes is that a 3XL in one brand fits completely differently than a 3XL in another. This isn't your imagination—sizing is not standardized across the industry. That’s why you can’t rely on the letter on the tag alone. Always, always check the brand’s specific size chart before you buy. Compare your measurements to their chart to see which size they recommend for your build. This is especially important when trying a new brand. Taking a minute to check the sizing guide can save you the hassle of a return and ensure you get a comfortable fit on the first try.

Read Customer Reviews for Real-World Advice

Size charts are a great starting point, but customer reviews are where you get the real story. They offer honest feedback from guys who have already bought and tested the gear. Look for reviews from customers who mention their height, weight, and the size they purchased. This gives you a real-world comparison for how an item might fit you. Pay attention to comments about length, stretch, and whether the item is true to size. Reading customer reviews can provide valuable insights into how a shirt holds up after a few washes or if a pair of shorts rides up during squats—details a product description will never tell you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

My old cotton t-shirts are comfortable, so why can't I just wear those to the gym? While a classic cotton tee feels great for lounging, it's not your friend during a workout. 100% cotton acts like a sponge, soaking up sweat and becoming heavy, clingy, and slow to dry. This can lead to chafing and make you feel overheated. A much better choice is a performance fabric or a cotton-polyester blend, which gives you that soft feel you love but also wicks moisture away to keep you dry and comfortable.

Should my workout clothes be tight or loose? The ideal fit is somewhere in the middle—think "fitted," not tight or baggy. Your clothes should follow the shape of your body without constricting your movement. You want a full range of motion for squats, presses, and stretches without fabric getting in your way or feeling restrictive. If you're constantly adjusting your clothes or feel them pulling, the fit isn't right.

Are expensive brands really worth the extra money? It often comes down to an investment in better fabric and construction. Premium brands tend to use higher-quality technical materials that feel softer, manage sweat more effectively, and hold their shape after many washes. However, you can absolutely find excellent, durable workout clothes at more affordable prices. The most important thing is to focus on the features that matter to you, like a moisture-wicking fabric and a fit that makes you feel confident.

Besides extra length, what else stops a shirt from riding up? Extra length is definitely the most important factor, but a proper fit through the chest and shoulders also plays a huge role. When a shirt fits well across your upper body, it's less likely to shift and pull upward as you move. Look for shirts designed with a bigger frame in mind, as they often have better proportions that help everything stay in place.

How can I tell if a brand is truly designed for big and tall guys? Look beyond the marketing claims and check the details. A true big and tall brand will offer a comprehensive size chart that includes measurements for chest, waist, and shirt length. They'll also feature customer photos or models with larger body types, so you can see how the clothes actually fit. Finally, read the product descriptions for keywords like "reinforced seams," "extra room in the thighs," or "designed not to ride up," which show they understand and are solving for common fit issues.