Okay, let us agree, in today’s world of fashion and style, the terms athleisure and activewear are often used interchangeably. Whether you are hitting the gym or hanging out with friends, understanding the difference will help you make informed choices when it comes to the “what, why and how” of dressing up.
Here is a straightforward guide to help you navigate the athleisure v/s activewear debate!
What is Activewear?
As the name conveys, activewear is clothing designed for gym, exercising and sports. Think performance and functionality, think activewear! The primary purpose of activewear is to provide comfort and support to the body while engaging in physical activities.
1. Fabric: Activewear is made from high-performance fabrics that are lightweight, breathable, and stretchy, allowing for ease of movement. While synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are seen as an elite choice, sustainable alternatives like TENCEL™ Lyocell, bamboo cotton and recycled polyester are also gaining popularity. Special properties like anti-microbial, anti-wrinkle, moisture-wicking and anti-odor are common fabric characteristics that make high-performance apparel stand out.
2. Design: Activewear is functional and practical in terms of design. It includes sports bras, shorts, leggings for women, and tank tops for women, designed specifically to enhance athletic performance. Depending on the activity, there are several types of fits available to choose from.
What is Athleisure?
Athleisure is a blend of two words, 'athletic' and 'leisure'. As the name suggests, athleisure is a fashion trend that combines athletic and leisurewear. It is a style of clothing that is designed to be worn both for workout and casual wear. Athleisure clothing is comfortable, functional, and trendy, making it perfect for a variety of activities.
Sitting at the dynamic intersection of sports and fashion, athleisure has become the new daily staple, one is into working out or not.
1. Fabric: Athleisure clothing is typically made from more relaxed and comfortable materials like cotton, jersey, and spandex. These fabrics are soft and breathable, making them suitable for everyday wear.
2. Design: Athleisure often features trendier designs and colors, making it suitable for everyday wear. It incorporates elements of both athletic and casual wear, such as joggers for men and joggers for women. Crop tops, sweatshirts, and sneakers are also popular picks.
Both athleisure and activewear have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the rise of athleisure culture and the increased focus on fitness and wellness. The growing demand for comfortable, functional, and stylish clothing has led to the popularity of both athleisure and activewear.
While both trends have their own benefits and purpose, they have one thing in common – the emphasis on comfort and functionality. So, whether you're heading to the gym or running errands, it's all about finding the right balance between fashion and function that suits your personal style.
