How Many Workout Clothes Do You Actually Need? (2024)

Most people wear workout clothes to exercise. Some even wear gym clothes around the house or while running errands or shopping (they’re cute and comfortable, I understand!).

But it can be difficult to figure out just how many sets of workout clothes you need. You don’t want to wear sweaty clothes and put yourself at risk of yeast infections. But you also don’t want to run out of closet space with too many workout clothes.

The question is how many workout clothes are enough? One thing to keep in mind is how frequently you exercise. The other thing is the types of physical activity you participate in. Weather also plays a role. Last but not least, your personal preference.

Continue reading to get a sense of how many workout clothes you need. This will help you keep your wardrobe organized, yet let you have enough stuff to workout several times a week without wearing clothes soaked in sweat.

How Many Workout Clothes Do I Need?

If you go to the gym regularly or participate in sports activities every week, you should have a change of clothes for every workout.

For instance, if you hit the gym three times a week, play tennis on the weekend, and go to yoga a couple of times a week, you will need at least seven sets of workout clothes (one for each workout plus an extra).

Different types of workouts such as weight training, dancing, kayaking, biking, and running all require different types of workout clothes. And your location also matters-- if you’re exercising outdoors in the cold, you need a sports jacket. In hot climates, you can forgo it.

In the following paragraphs, I’ll describe in more detail the different elements of workout apparel and how many of each you need.

Sports Shoes or Sneakers

For someone who plays tennis or golf once a week, one pair of sports shoes is enough. On the other hand, if you go to the gym almost every day, it’s worth investing in at least two pairs of sports shoes.

It makes more sense to buy one pair of high-quality sports shoes than several pairs of low-quality ones. Your running shoes are more than a fashion statement after all. They protect your feet and prevent injuries.

Running sneakers should have good cushioning and lateral support and be flexible and lightweight.

You might need an additional pair of sports shoes for specific physical activities, such as treadmill, floor exercises, cycling, hiking, weightlifting, HIIT, or agility training.

Sports Bras

How many sports bras do you need? It depends on how often you work out.

If you go to the gym five times a week, buy five sports bras.

Just like you wouldn’t wear the same clothes again without putting them in the wash, you shouldn’t wear a sweat-soaked sports bra-- you could end up with uncomfortable skin irritation or infection from bacteria.

And don’t make the mistake of wearing a regular bra during your workout routine!

Sports bras are an essential element of workout outfits for women. A sports bra provides proper support and prevents breasts from sagging. Many women wear a sports bra like a top, in which case they might need an extra pair or two.

Check out the KFT sports bras here.

Athletic Wear Tops

Overall, five tops should be enough if you are a regular gym-goer, assuming you do laundry a couple of times a week. If you wear your workout tops as regular shirts, then you might need to purchase more.

A workout top is a key element of your workout gear. Before you invest in many sets of workout clothes, figure out what types of tops you need.

Some people prefer long sleeve shirts, others short sleeves or sleeveless. It is a good idea to have a mix of workout tops in your wardrobe for every weather condition and type of activity.

The next thing to consider is the fabrics. Some folks find synthetic tops like Spandex best as they are light and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Others prefer cotton because it can absorb moisture.

Here are some of my favorite KFT topsto wear when I'm working out.

Gym Bottoms

On average, most people do well with three to five pairs of workout leggings, shorts, or a combination of the two.

More than how many sets of workout clothes you have, it’s important to have comfortable, high-quality gym clothes in your closet that are suited to your workout routine.

When you’re putting together a gym outfit, you need to figure out the type of bottoms you’re going to wear. Some people wear leggings and others wear shorts. There are also special bottoms like yoga pants or pilates pants made of material that can be stretched. Those who are into weight lifting might want workout bottoms that provide support.

Athletic Socks

How many pairs of socks do you need? I’d say around seven pairs, although if you do laundry a couple of times a week, you can get by with 5 pairs.

An essential part of gym clothing is your socks. I recommend cotton socks that wick moisture and keep your feet dry. The best sports socks cover the ankles and provide a cushion against sneakers.

The Takeaway

There is no single right answer to how many sets of workout clothes you need, but I hope these guidelines help you decide how many should you have in your closet.

Most people do well with three to five pairs of tops, bottoms, and sports bras plus five to seven pairs of socks and a couple of pairs of sneakers. You might need more or less depending on your workout routine and laundry schedule.

The important thing is to not overrun your wardrobe with gym wear. Rather, choose fewer items of high-quality sportswear that enhance your performance, are comfortable, and look good.

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