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Gen Z Is Ditching Millennials' Favorite Workout Wear—Here's What They're Buying Instead

From stylish sweatpants to cozy crews

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The Gen Z oversized workout wear trend.
Getty Images/thecelebrityfinder/Bauer-Griffin/Contributor/Alo Yoga/lululemon/aritzia

We've been clocking fashion debates between millennials and Gen Z for years. In 2024, there was a "war" on no-show socks. Two years prior, skinny jeans were the main topic of contention (psst: they're now back in style). The latest fashion feud, however, has expanded to workout wear. Whereas millennials swear by the tight-on-tight look, consisting of waist-accentuating leggings and body-skimming jackets, Gen Z is embracing the oversized look, characterized by baggy sweatpants and cozy hoodies.

As a shopping editor who stays up to date with the latest fashion trends, I must admit, I totally saw this coming. From the blokette core look to sweatpant jeans and boat shoes, it's clear to me that fashion is headed in a stylish yet laid-back direction. The trendsetters of the world—which, sorry, not sorry, include a lot of Gen Zers—are no longer prioritizing image over comfort. Therefore, it makes perfect sense that this same philosophy is now being extended to workout clothes. So, I hope you're ready to jump on the bandwagon and ditch your leggings for some sweatpants, because Gen Z is seriously onto something with this activewear trend. Take Gen Z fashion icon Hailey Bieber's go-to look for casual outings, for example. It's cute, cozy and sporty—and can effortlessly take her from a gym session to a coffee date. Translation? It's the epitome of this generational trend.

Gen Z Oversized Workout Wear Trend IMAGE
Getty Images/thecelebrityfinder/Bauer-Griffin/Contributor

How to Nail Gen Z's Oversized Workout Wear Trend

Whether you're Gen Z or a millennial (and beyond), you can get on-trend by swapping tight workout clothes (such as leggings, hourglass jackets and fitted T-shirts) for oversized options (like sweatpantszip-up hoodies and baggy tees). Don't already own some? No worries. All your favorite brands (from Vuori and lululemon to Alo Yoga and Aritzia) have tons of the styles up for grabs. In fact, they may have the best picks on the market, which is why I took the liberty of rounding some up, so you can get Gen Z's oversized workout look before your next gym sesh. Pick up one (or all eight) of the workout-ready pieces below, and you'll be looking cool and feeling comfy à la Hailey—for less than $140.

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These wide-leg pants are perfect for lounging and running errands. I think Bieber would be a fan, especially since they have a mid rise and drawcord elastic waist for a slouchy, but stylish, fit. Not only do they also have front slash pockets to throw your phone and wallet into, they are also made of moisture-wicking and machine-washable recycled materials, so working up a sweat in them won't be an issue. But here's the real reason they have a 4.5-star rating: "These pants feel like a breeze. Great to throw on, wear low at waist or high with the drawstring—[you] have options. Lightweight enough as the weather gets warmer." Dare I say these might be some of the best pants ever?

Say bye-bye to body-skimming workout jackets and hello to oversized zip-up hoodies, like this one from Aritzia. While its ultra-roomy and breathable silhouette is reason enough to buy it for the spring and summer, you should know that the premium midweight fleece is addictively cozy, so don't be surprised if it becomes one of your favorite travel pieces. As one reviewer says, it has the "perfect oversized fit. Love that it crops up in the back only to still give you an actual shape from behind view...I’m a size small, and it’s the perfect amount of oversize." Oh, and by the way, this style comes in a wide range of colors, so take your pick!

This lululemon top is trending, and I don't have to wonder why. It has a cool layered look that brings a T-shirt and long-sleeve top together. It also features the brand's Tennis Club logo on the front, as well as neat and sleek wording on the sleeves, so no one will mistake this top for anything other than a lululemon product. Not to mention, the recycled polyester piece is sweat-wicking, quick-drying and UV-protective with UPF 40 protection, making it ideal for days out in the sun. That said, you'd better hurry up and buy it before it's gone, because as one buyer pointed out, this tenniscore style sold out at lightning speed last year!

For those who don't totally want to give up showing off their booty gains, meet these lululemon flared pants. While they're fitted in all the right places (from your waist to your bum), the legs flare out from the knee down, so cut a trendy (and flattering) figure. They're also made of the brand's buttery-soft and weightless Nulu fabric, a blend of nylon and Lycra elastane that's known for holding its stretch and shape over time. As if they could get any better than that, these pants also have a back drop-in waistband pocket that can fit your card and keys on the go.

A cult favorite for its "cloud-like" and cozy cotton blend, this pretty Alo pullover is practically a status symbol amongst athleisure aficionados. But according to one reviewer, it's still thin and light enough to slip into on warmer days, so if you make the investment now, you're sure to get plenty of wear out of it through the rest of the season (and year). More importantly, buyers are obsessed with the oversized fit, which is perfect for lounging, traveling and post-Pilates brunch. Want to complete the look? Secure the matching sweatpants for the ultimate laid-back chic moment. And did I mention that this powder pink is trending for spring? It's a win-win!

If sweatpants aren't your jam, try these trendy trousers from Alo that supply some serious Sporty Spice vibes. Per the brand, "this is the cool-girl silhouette your closet is missing," and I couldn't agree more, especially since they feature a boxer-style elastic waistband, which allows you to wear them high or low on the hips. However, that's not the only reason why these pants deserve a spot in your wardrobe. Between the front pleats, loose, straight-leg fit and side pockets, this soft and swishy style is also perfectly functional for working out in.

Trust me, you won't regret ditching your fitted workout tops for this flowy cotton tee, which you're likely to get a ton of wear out of, even beyond the gym. But I'll let one buyer tell it: "This tee is a great one to throw on to go to the gym, shopping or could be dressed up a bit with jeans and jewelry." Just so you know, several reviewers have mentioned that they sized down because of the baggy fit, so keep that in mind. Then again, you can try out different sizes and colors, since it's totally worth stocking up in multiples at this price.

When in Venice on the move, these classic basketball-style shorts won't let you down! Just hear me out: Everything from their pull-on design and their sheer mesh fabric to their vented hem and stylish striping on the sides makes them very Gen Z-coded (but don't get it twisted—even Gen X icon Carrie Bradshaw was a fan). Trade in your old biker shorts in favor of these bad boys and you'll be feeling like a courtside queen—no actual ball required. 



Destinee Scott Editor Bio Pic

Associate Sales and Deals Editor

  • Stays on top of the best sales and deals across the internet
  • Over 3 years of experience in commerce (covering tentpole sales, like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Way Day)
  • Studied Journalism at St. John's University

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