Marshalls and TJ Maxx

Marshalls and TJ Maxx are always my first stop for work out gear, because they offer brand name apparel at super cheap prices. Of course, you might not find everything you want, and you might need to hit more than one store; but oftentimes you can find designer brands at really discount prices.

They also have a great selection of athletic socks and tons of sneakers as well. Plus, they’re all over Boston, so if one doesn’t have what you want, just try another!

Sneakers are essential for pulling together your work out ensemble. I’ve tried many shoes in many brands and have found that Saucony’s are just the most comfortable sneakers for my feet.

You can purchase them at any shoe store, including DSW, but first you should check out their outlet store. Yes! There’s a Saucony outlet in Inman Square in Cambridge with lots of good sneakers at amazing prices.

I know, I know, but I am a big fan of pink sneakers. 

City Sports is Boston to me. It was founded by two Bostonians who weren’t impressed with the selection of sports apparel and equipment in the Boston-area.

City Sports has pretty much everything and every brand. From North Face to Nike and Under Armour to Danskin, it’s tough to leave this store empty-handed. Plus, they have tons of Red Sox and Boston gear.

American Apparel

So American Apparel has gotten some bad press in the recent years. And as much as I don’t want to like them, I just can’t help it. I was introduced to them when I worked for a sports apparel store at my college; whenever I was designing a piece of clothing, I always chose something from American Apparel. It was pricier than other brands, but so comfortable. And the women’s clothing actually fits like women’s clothing should.

Now I like to wander through the store and pick up some super well-made basics. Love their tees, shorts, and leggings!

Marathon Sports is another one of those Boston stores for the serious athlete. This store especially caters to the runners out there, but really offers apparel for any athlete. The super helpful and smart staff will help you determine exactly what kind of sneaker is best for you. Just walking into this store will probably help you run a little bit faster.

How can you not love Niketown? I could wander around this place all day. Located right on Newbury St., the Boston store just seems to have room after room of Nike apparel. And the sneakers, oh my god. There are so many options…or you can just design your own!

Sometimes I look at myself before I go to the gym and realize that every single item of clothing I’m wearing is Nike. Thank you, Niketown.

Work Out With Victoria's Secret

You probably associate Victoria’s Secret with bras and underwear. But if this is all you think of when you think of Victoria’s Secret, you’re missing out. They have some fabulous gym clothes that are comfortable and flattering and might even help motivate you to go to the gym.

Victoria’s Secret offers a selection of work out clothes in their store, but for the entire collection, check out their website.

lululemon yoga apparel is also a bit pricey, but so worth it if comfort is your goal. Their clothing isn’t made from cotton so it’s all totally breathable, which allows you to be completely in the zone while practicing yoga.

Or you can just wear the pants, shirts, and jackets while lounging around your house. They’re very good for that too.

North Face

North Face gear is for the extreme work out. Whether you’re skiing, climbing mountains, or hiking, North Face can keep you protected against all the elements.

Of course, if you’re like me, you wear North Face for some the more harmless methods of exercising. They have super comfortable and cute fleeces, windbreakers, t-shirts, sneakers, and so much more. I’m a huge fan of all things North Face.

Another store with all the athletic gear you can imagine. Olympia Sports isn’t my favorite athletic store, but I am a big fan of their huge stock of Red Sox apparel. They also have more equipment than many other stores in Boston, like baseball gloves, footballs, field hockey and lacrosse sticks, and tons more.