Modest Activewear Outfits: What to Wear to the Gym, on Walks and for Exercise Class

Staying active and staying modest can feel like a puzzle. Most workout clothes are made to be short, tight and sleeveless, which is the opposite of what a lot of us want.

The good news is that there are more modest options than ever, and a few smart pieces make it easy. Here's how I put together workout outfits that keep me covered, comfortable and free to move.

Start with the bottom half

The skirt or bottom is the piece that matters most, because it has to move with you.

• Sport skirts. A swim or sport skirt in a quick-dry fabric is light, doesn't cling when you sweat and moves well for walks, classes and the gym. Midi and maxi lengths are both easy to find now.
• Leggings under a skirt. Full-length leggings under a knit or sport skirt keep you covered when you bend, stretch or climb. Pick a thicker, squat-proof fabric.
• Skirts with built-in leggings. Some skirts come with attached shorts or leggings, so nothing shifts or rides up.
• A-line and flared cuts. A slightly flared skirt gives your legs room to move. Very straight or pencil cuts can feel tight on a fast walk.
• Knit jersey skirts. For gentle activity like walking or stretching, a soft jersey maxi works fine and doubles as everyday wear. More on knits in how to style a knit skirt.

Tops that cover and breathe

• Long-sleeve performance tees. Look for moisture-wicking fabric with a crew or high neck. They dry quickly and don't get heavy.
• Thumbhole tops. Sleeves with thumbholes stay down when you lift or reach.
• Longer hems. A top that falls to the hip or below stays tucked in place and doesn't ride up when you move.
• Loose, relaxed fits. A slightly roomy top feels more modest than a compression shirt and is still easy to move in.
• A layer underneath. A fitted long-sleeve shell under a looser top keeps arms and neckline covered. See layering slips and shells.

Layers for cold-weather workouts

Walking and running outside in the winter is lovely if you're dressed for it.

• Zip-up fleece or quarter-zip. Easy to take off once you warm up.
• Lightweight puffer vest or jacket. Keeps your core warm without bulk. More in how to style a puffer coat.
• Thermal leggings. Fleece-lined leggings under your skirt make a huge difference on cold mornings.
• Warm socks. Wool-blend socks keep feet dry and warm.
• Gloves and an ear band. Small pieces, big comfort.

Shoes

• Running shoes. Cushioned, supportive sneakers for runs, fast walks and the treadmill.
• Cross-training shoes. Flatter and more stable for classes, weights and anything with side-to-side movement.
• Walking sneakers. Light, comfortable and fine with a long sport skirt for everyday walks.
• Waterproof sneakers or trail shoes. Great for wet or snowy winter paths.

Head coverings for exercise

If you cover your hair, workout time needs a covering that stays put.

• Sport headbands and wide bands. Stretchy, grippy bands under a snood or scarf keep everything from slipping. See how to style a headband with a snood.
• Jersey snoods and pre-tied scarves. Soft, breathable and quick to put on.
• Cotton or moisture-wicking caps. Light and easy for a sweaty class.
• Simple colors. Black, grey, navy and blush go with most workout outfits. More color ideas in how to match a headscarf to your outfit.

Outfit ideas

1. Morning walk. Black sport maxi skirt, leggings underneath, a long-sleeve grey performance tee, a zip-up fleece and walking sneakers.

2. Gym session. Navy midi sport skirt with built-in leggings, a loose long-sleeve top with thumbholes, cross-training shoes and a black sport snood.

3. Cold-weather run. Thermal leggings under a quick-dry running skirt, a fitted long-sleeve base layer, a light puffer vest, gloves and running shoes.

4. Yoga or stretching class. Soft jersey maxi skirt over leggings, a relaxed long top that falls below the hip and a wide stretchy headband.

5. Pilates or barre. Full-length leggings under a flared knit skirt, a fitted long-sleeve shell with a looser tee on top and grippy socks.

6. Weekend hike. Durable A-line sport skirt over leggings, a long-sleeve top, a fleece, a light waterproof jacket and trail shoes.

Tips for staying comfortable

• Choose quick-dry fabrics. Cotton holds sweat and gets heavy. Performance fabrics stay light.
• Test your outfit before class. Bend, squat and reach at home to check that everything stays in place.
• Pick a skirt length you can move in. Midi is easier for fast movement. Maxi is great for walking and gentle classes.
• Dress in layers outside. You'll warm up after a few minutes, so start a little cool.
• Keep a spare head covering in your bag. Handy for a sweaty workout followed by errands.

Quick questions

Can I work out in a skirt?

Yes. Sport skirts in quick-dry fabric, worn over leggings, are made for running, the gym and classes.

What should I wear under a sport skirt?

Full-length or capri leggings, or built-in shorts. Leggings add coverage and warmth.

What's the best modest outfit for a winter walk?

A sport maxi over thermal leggings, a long-sleeve base layer, a fleece or puffer vest, warm socks and waterproof sneakers.

Modest activewear is really about a few good basics: a skirt that moves, leggings underneath, a long-sleeve top that breathes and shoes that fit the activity. Put those together and you can walk, run or stretch comfortably and feel like yourself.

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