The Best Men’s Workout Gear of 2021
What you need for pushing hard and feeling good afterward
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Patagonia Capilene Cool Merino Shirt ($59)
This wool-polyester top is cooler on the skin than its all-synthetic counterpart, and it wicks so well that our tester stayed dry on even the longest, hottest runs and bike rides. Unlike some merino shirts, it didn’t lose its shape or color after multiple washes.
Protekt Primer Workout Supplements ($40)
Our bodies felt less battered after cardio sessions when we drank water infused with these watermelon-flavored tablets during workouts. They contain vitamin C and BCAAs, which help delay muscle fatigue.
Saucony Ride 14 Running Shoes ($130)
At 9.9 ounces, with a 32-millimeter heel stack and an eight-millimeter heel-toe drop, the Ride 14 provided firm cushioning that was kind to our knees during big training weeks on the pavement.
Lululemon More Miles Active Backpack ($128)
Lululemon’s sleek 17-liter bag holds more than it looks like it can. Outer mesh pouches swallow socks and shoes, and a big top-loading interior pocket fits a change of clothes and everyday essentials. An internal water-bladder pocket comes in handy for hikes.
Ten Thousand Interval Shorts ($58 and up)
A four-way-stretch poly-spandex outer fabric makes the Interval shorts ideal for weight lifting and leg-intensive sessions. We love the five-inch inseam with the optional liner, which never bunched, snagged, or chafed during our sweatiest HIIT rounds.
Aloha Plant-Based Protein Drink ($15 for four)
Out of all the protein-rich food products we tried, this was the only one that made us go back for more. Aloha’s plant-based powder has none of the bitter, medicinal taste sometimes found in recovery shakes. The coconut flavor has 18 grams of protein per serving to help you refuel after grueling workouts.
CamelBak Tritan Renew Eddy+ Water Bottle ($15)
In a world dominated by stainless-steel vessels, the Tritan Renew line is refreshingly simple. It’s lightweight, made from 50 percent recycled plastic, and has a flip-up straw for easy sipping between sets.
Saxx Hot Shot Boxer Briefs ($38)
These exercise undies were the most breathable in our test. We credit its panels of extremely wicking polyester-elastane mesh along the backside and inner thighs.
