Afraid Your Gym Gear Looks Cheap? 10 Ways to Tell

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Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

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Image via Page Stylezs
Image via Page Stylezs

No. 10 - Outdated Gear

Why it looks cheap: Is it ‘80s day at the gym or something?
Rock this instead: Take a page from these celebrities.

Zubaz pants? Fluorescent tank tops and leggings? These styles died out for a reason, and wearing them will make you look like you haven’t been in a gym in decades.

Image via Gym Heroes
Image via Gym Heroes

Image via Nike Blog
Image via Nike Blog

No. 9 - The Wrong Shoes

Why it looks cheap: The retros you wore to the bar last night aren’t equipped for training.
Rock this instead: Opt for comfort with one of these.

We get it. We’re just as excited as you are that the Nike Air Command Force is back in its original form. Just try to contain your excitement on leg day and rock something more appropriate.

Image via Fabric and Art
Image via Fabric and Art

No. 8 - All Cotton Everything

Why it looks cheap: Cotton workout gear is so passé.
Rock this instead: Under Armour UA Tech Short Sleeve Shirt

Cotton is one of the most comfortable materials for everyday wear, but there are far better options for the gym. Unless you’re looking to add some nasty sweat stains to your gear, seek out moisture-wicking tech fabrics instead.

Image via Pinterest
Image via Pinterest

No. 7 - Slogan Tees

Why it looks cheap: Actions speak louder than words, bro.
Rock this instead: Nike Dri-Fit Touch Solid

How did these even manage to last as long as they did? These corny tees are perfect for dudes whose egos are bigger than their muscles, and they also look like they came straight off of a clearance rack.

Image via Finish Line
Image via Finish Line

Image via Imgur
Image via Imgur

No. 6 - Knock-off Gear

Why it looks cheap: We’re not familiar with Peebok or adisad.
Rock this instead: Champion Double-Dry Training Tee

What, you thought replica gear was limited to retro Jordans and high-end streetwear? Even athletic gear has its share of knock-offs, and you’d be much better off copping something from a time tested brand like Champion than dealing with low quality fakes.

Image via Denim Therapy
Image via Denim Therapy

No. 5 - Gear That Doesn’t Fit

Why it looks cheap: C’mon son, it looks like you could fit another you into those pants.
Rock this instead: adidas Tiro 13 Training Pants

Whether you’re looking to lose weight or put on muscle mass, it’s a given that your body weight is going to change while working out. Make sure to adjust your wardrobe too, because nothing looks sloppier than gear that is three sizes too big.

Image via NY Times
Image via NY Times

No. 4 - Jeans

Why it looks cheap: Those were all you had to wear today?
Rock this instead: lululemon Assert Pant

Whatever you do, just don’t rock denim in the gym. Everyone will think you’re going to keep wearing them when you leave, and unfortunately, they’d probably be right.

Image via Wordpress
Image via Wordpress

No. 3 - Worn Out Clothes

Why it looks cheap: Distressed clothing might be trendy in the streets, but not in the gym.
Rock this instead: Nike Pro Combat Hyperaware Hypercell Long Sleeve Shirt

You know your favorite tee shirt? The one with the holes in the back and the decade-old pit stains? Yikes, don’t wear that to the gym.

Image via Trashness
Image via Trashness

No. 2 - Beat Up Shoes

Why it looks cheap: Your shoes like they’ve been through several wars, not workouts.
Rock this instead: adidas RG3 Energy Boost

Wearing your beater sneakers in the gym is bad for everyone involved. At this point, the cushioning and traction have probably worn down to the point they’re ineffective, so you’re at risk for injury. Secondly, tracking mud, dirt, and ungodly smells into the training room is never a good look.

Image via Crossfit East Decatur
Image via Crossfit East Decatur

No. 1 - Going Shirtless

Why it looks cheap: Forget something on your way here?
Rock this instead: Reebok CrossFit CNTRL II

No matter how chiseled you are, there’s never a need to go shirtless in the gym. You might have the best body in the gym, but that doesn’t mean everyone else wants to see it.

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