What Is Activewear?

The terms “activewear,” “sportswear,” and “casual wear” are often used interchangeably. However, there are some key differences between them. To answer, “What is activewear?” you must first understand its intended purpose, the fabrics that make it work, and what sets it apart from other types of clothing. 

What Is Considered Activewear?

Activewear refers to a specific style of clothing that is designed for performance, but that also works well outside of sports. For example, a stylish skirt that handles the demands of a tennis match and then transitions seamlessly to a stop at the local coffee shop is activewear. 

What Fabrics Are Used in Activewear?

Designers can choose high-tech synthetics or all-natural fabrics, such as cotton, bamboo, or merino wool, in activewear. The key is that whatever fabrics are chosen must help to support comfort and performance during demanding physical activities. This usually means having a combination of the following characteristics:

• Breathability: The fabric should allow air to flow through to help keep you cool during physical activity. 
• Elasticity: Activewear needs to stretch and move with you for comfort and freedom of movement. 
• Moisture-wicking: Moving moisture away from your skin is essential to maintain comfort during workouts.

Polyamide fabrics such as nylon fit this description. Companies like inPhorm use them to ensure elasticity and moisture-wicking properties in their activewear. They are ideal for swimsuits, leggings, and some compression garments.

What Is the Difference Between Activewear and Sportswear?

What makes activewear different from sportswear? Activewear is a type of clothing that is very versatile. It can go seamlessly from the gym or sports court to daily activities. You might put on a fashionable activewear dress to run errands before hitting the pickleball court. Or, you could play a round of golf and then meet a friend for lunch without worrying about getting changed. Yes, the fabrics are breathable and wicking, but they are also stylish and comfortable — fashion innovation at its finest.

With sportswear, the focus never leaves the gym. These clothes are all about performance with minimal attention to style. Think loose-fitting workout tanks and gym shorts or sports uniforms. You are more likely to change into your sportswear in the locker room rather than wear it to run errands before hitting the gym.   

What Is the Difference Between Casual and Activewear?

Activewear works in many casual situations, but it’s not the same as casual wear. Casual clothing is designed for everyday comfort—without added performance elements—think jeans, cargo shorts, or sandals. Activewear, however, combines style with performance-focused features, such as breathability and moisture-wicking. 

Activewear Apparel Is Versatile

To truly understand what activewear is, you need to experience it firsthand. Explore the inPhorm activewear collection for high-quality, comfortable, flexible, and sustainably sourced athletic styles—ideal for pickleball, tennis, golf, and more.