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Over the last few years, there’s no denying that we’ve all spent an inordinate amount of time in activewear. With lockdowns the world over and daily walks as our only form of outings, runners, leggings and sports tops quickly became the uniform of choice throughout the pandemic.
And while we have all now emerged from our collective hibernation and borders have reopened once more, our focus on activewear remains just as prominent. From high-performance trainers to supportive sports bras and figure-flattering leggings, all our time in activewear has only worked to further solidify the importance of investing in these versatile items.
Thankfully, there are several Australian-owned activewear brands around that are creating chic yet practical sportswear to ensure you look and feel your best, no matter what sport you choose to partake in. From the globally renowned P.E Nation to the newly launched Aje Athletica, Aussie labels are certainly leading the way when it comes to stylish sportswear. Not to mention, a number of homegrown brands are also championing the use of sustainable practices and recycled fabrics (here’s looking at you Nagnata and Nimble Activewear).
So, keep scrolling for five Australian-owned activewear brands that will help you reach your PB this season. After all, training to your full potential is all about having the correct equipment, right?
The Iconic
P.E Nation
Founded by Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning, P.E Nation is the brand Aussies swear by for functional yet fashionable activewear. Often made using planet-friendly products like recycled polyester, it’s workout wear you can feel good about. These Backswing Shorts ($76) are a particular favourite.
The Iconic
P.E Nation
While sportswear can so often be muted in tone, P.E Nation is known for its bright use of colour. You’ll definitely stand out on your next run in these Phoenix Leggings($139).
Bondi Active
Bondi Active
Between The Flags is an establishment along Campbell Parade in Bondi, and Bondi Active is an offshoot of it. The brand was designed with the active locals of Bondi in mind, creating mix and match pieces they can wear for coastal walks, soft-sand sprints and pre-coffee chin-ups at the outdoor gym.
Bondi Active
Bondi Active
Bondi Active makes activewear, including singlets, bike shorts and zip jackets, and, recently, launched a run-to-swim collection called ‘The Bergs’. It’s essentially waterproof activewear, so you can wear it for both workouts and swims.
Aje
Aje Athletica
Launched just last month, beloved Aussie label Aje has made its foray into activewear with Aje Athletica. The line brings Aje’s stylish sensibility to the world of working out, with a gym and streetwear focus. Activewear is available in trending shades, like these high-rise leggings ($82) in dusty rose.
Aje
Aje Athletica
Aje’s signature logo tee has had a sports-inspired makeover. The brand known for its embellished tops has just introduced one you can wear to exercise in. Introducing the workout-worthy oversize contract t-shirt ($145).
Nagnata
Nagnata
A favourite amongst some of the most fashionable women on Instagram, Nagnata was founded by sisters Laura May and Hannah Gibbs, and offers a sustainable approach to sportswear. The label uses a circular knitting technique that ensures zero offcut waste. Ingenious! This printed colour-block sports bra ($239) will certainly put you in a cheery mood pre-workout.
The Iconic
Nimble Activewear
Nimble Activewear is another brand putting sustainability at the forefront. The label creates its products using MoveLite fabric, which is made from post-consumer plastic. Can you believe this Up The Tempo sports bra ($67) has been created thanks to the use of recycled plastic bottles?
The Iconic
Nimble Activewear
With over 1 million bottles recycled (and counting) Nimble doesn’t just make it’s sports bras in the stuff. These Stash & Dash 7/8 Leggings ($109) have also been created in the recycled fabric.
The Iconic
The Upside
Instantly recognisable thanks to its semi-circle logo, The Upside was founded by Jodhi Meares in 2015 to provide a cool, fashion-forward option in the activewear space. In the years since, the brand has become a staple at yoga studios all over the country, with logo-emblazoned tees like this ($90) as a part of the brand’s signature range.
The Iconic
The Upside
Meares noted wanting to offer a cool activewear option when founding her label, and it’s for this reason that The Upside uses fun prints and unexpected shades when creating its collections. This Sabal Ballet Bra ($70) is just one such example.
Provided
dk active
dk active uses fabrics that are made from ethical and organic materials, with a transparent supply chain, eco-friendly processes and packaging. They’re committed to respecting animals and most importantly, their designs for every body shape and current point in your life journey. These New Heights Tights ($109.95) are super comfy, and effortlessly cool.
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dk active
dk active‘s crops, like this Clyde Crop ($69.95), all have high support, with a compression fit that adds additional support and is great for any boob size. There’s also an option to remove the padding for a customised fit, and feels lightweight yet technical
Removable padding for — perfect for all workouts and active movements.
