I'm a Fitness Editor and These Are My Favorite Workout Sets to Wear to Viral Classes

Outfit: Hayabusa Crossback Sports Bra ($55). Hayabusa Quick Gel Hand Wraps ($25). Hayabusa T360 Boxing Gloves ($189). New Balance Sleek Pocket High Rise Legging 25" ($90). Forme Ankle Guard Sock ($35). Nike Free Metcon 6 Workout Shoes ($125).

When it comes to gear testing, Rumble Boxing stands out as an optimal class because gloves and wraps are involved. I was lucky enough to chat with the instructor of my very first class, Stephanie Raphael, who suggested Hayabusa as a client favorite. "For Rumble Boxing in Jersey City [my chosen location], clients love gear that lets them move freely and feel confident. A go-to outfit is high-waisted leggings or biker shorts paired with a sports bra or crop top — bonus points for bold prints, bright colors, or empowering slogans. Sometimes, members will layer with a light zip-up/hoodie, but it's usually ditched once the warm-up kicks in," she says. 10 minutes in, it's easy to see why — the 10-round, 45-minute class starts with a cardio-focused warm-up and stretching before a segment that's evenly divided between two styles of training: boxing drills and resistance work with weights. Needless to say, I was sweating almost instantly.

While I took Raphael's tip down to the sneakers — in fact, she suggested the Nike Metcons I showed up wearing, and even selected her go-to type of legging: soft and high-waisted with pockets — I also chose to test out a Hayabusa sports bra, which is fitted close to the body and has a crossback design for maximum support. It's breathable, with a waffle mesh panel at the neckline for ventilation, and made with sweat-wicking materials. It was probably my favorite item out of the set, teamed with the gel wraps that provided knuckle protection and were ultra flexible and soft and T360 gloves in the 10-ounce weight, which have a triple-splint design to stabilize the wrist with every punch.

Because the workout involves six punches and plenty of dynamic movement, I also wore my Forme ankle guard socks to keep my feet properly positioned. "One of the biggest concerns is wearing running shoes with too much cushion," Raphael says, explaining, "They're built for forward motion, not lateral movement, and can mess with balance during footwork." So, while you may think it most important to invest in the upper-body gear (which you can rent at Rumble, BTW), it's crucial to wear something that makes you feel strong and confident from head to toe. Now, I can personally recommend Hayabusa as a great option for starters.

Outfit: Lululemon Wunder Train Strappy Race Bra ($58). AARMY version ($80). Lululemon Align Waist-Length Racerback Tank ($58). AARMY version ($75). Lululemon Wunder Under SmoothCover High-Rise Tight 25" ($98). AARMY version ($115). Nike Free Metcon 6 Workout Shoes ($125).

AARMY is a class with two different training modes — bootcamp and cycle — based in NYC. I tried a full body bootcamp, which is a total conditioning program that involves both strength and agility moves in a high-energy setting. Essentially, you feel like you're part of a military crew being pushed to give your all, and the class starts by grabbing equipment you'll need to get the job done (loop bands, weights, jump ropes, or medicine balls). Fittingly, AARMY has collaborated with Lululemon on a full uniform offering, which instructors tell me most clients adhere to. "Athletes love to wear full-length leggings, supportive sports bras, and crew socks. A lot of us usually wear black and white or neutrals," instructor Danielle Carafos says, confirming that most of the pieces in the line fit like a glove.

As a Lululemon devotee, I wasn't surprised to find that I loved the smooth feel of the Wunder Under tights as soon as I slipped them on (and I obviously just felt cooler being branded with the AARMY logo). I usually don't work out in a tank, but I loved the layered feel of this look and appreciated the tight fit since there was no shortage of jumping movements throughout class. In that regard, the bottom hem of the tank stayed flat the whole time, rather than riding up as I shifted my body. The sweat-wicking properties of Lululemon's apparel also shouldn't be overlooked; I didn't expect to sweat quite as much as I did, but I left the studio feeling relatively dry.

Instructor Akin Akman notes that "typically it's better to have a cross training or tennis shoe with ankle and arch support for HIIT training," so I wore my trusty Nike Free Metcon 6 shoes to follow suit and keep the color palette neutral. These are some of my favorite shoes for cross training, and they definitely didn't disappoint at AARMY.

Outfit: Gymshark Apex Seamless Strappy Sports Bra ($54). Gymshark Apex Seamless Shorts ($56). Gymshark Graphic T-Reps Crew 3Pk ($14, originally $18). Nike Free Metcon 6 Workout Shoes ($125).

It had been a second since I'd taken a full-body circuit class, but I was immediately excited to get going when I scoped out the Les Mills Ceremony scene at New York Sports Club. The 45-minute class is scientifically designed for strength and cardio conditioning, and features multiple rounds of a strategically-crafted set of moves performed at one minute on, 20 seconds off. Les Mills trainer and presenter Khiran Huston says she sees a lot of people wearing Gymshark in her classes. She recommends a matching workout set with non-restrictive bottoms that allow for multidirectional movement, a supportive sports bra, and shoes great for jumping and moderate lifting.

"I'd avoid a weightlifting shoe that is too restrictive, as the workout has typically 50 percent cardio exercises," she says. Having already taken a strength class in my Nike Free Metcon 6, I knew just how great of a foundation they make for, but was beyond excited to dress them up with my new Gymshark "Tricep-atops" socks. Aside from being adorable, these are actually very thin, lightweight, and flexible, making them great for all the exercises I completed, from air biking to using the SkiErg (it was my first time!).

When I unpackaged my selected Gymshark apparel, I immediately loved the color, but the bottoms looked short, and judging by Huston's descriptive recommendation — "short enough not to be annoying when doing burpees and lifting but not too short that it's annoying for burpees and lifts" — I was a bit nervous. However, as soon as I slipped them on, I was blown away by the stretch. Not only does Gymshark's Apex seamless fabric expand and mold to your curves thanks to the contouring panels, it also holds you in and offers support. The breathable knit structure is designed to keep you cool, which is an added bonus. The double-layered jacquard sports bra, meanwhile, is eye-catching and sleek, and the adjustable straps allow for a non-distracting fit.

By the end of the class, I was sweating enough to confirm I prefer shorts over leggings for this type of workout, and Gymshark's fabric — from the stretch to the compression — is a top-tier choice.

Outfit: 437 The Studio Tank ($85). 437 The Studio Legging ($90). 437 The Contour Headband 2 Pack ($25). R.A.D One V2 ($150).

SotoMethod founder Hilary Hoffman launched the buzzy new workout SotoMethod (SOTO stands for "Sixty On, Ten On") to introduce a class that harnesses predictability in order to generate efficiency. What that means is that the model works to deliver physical and mental strength, even when you're strapped for time. These classes are 50 minutes and divided into time blocks — you fire up each muscle group with a 60-second isometric hold, then sustain the burn in the targeted area with a series of 10 dynamic movements that follow. When you move on from each set, you allow the previously-targeted muscle group to recover while the next one ignites.

Because the exercises in class run the gamut, with a combination of HIIT, cardio, and Pilates sculpting involved, I had to ask Hoffman for exact apparel recommendations, especially since (and if you've been to a class, you know this), most of the room is typically dressed in all-black. "The vibe is elevated essentials — pieces that hold up through class but still feel pulled together enough to transition seamlessly into the rest of your day," she says, naming Set Active, Nike, Lululemon, 437, Vuori, and Alo as studio favorites.

I had yet to try 437, but loved how chic and NYC-sophisticated this set felt for a class where there seems to be a standardized "uniform." The white contrast piping adds undeniable polish, and the material is moisture-wicking — a product of the brand's 437 cloud™ technology that's sustainably-crafted using recycled polyester. While I was a bit nervous I'd feel like my chest was popping out of the straight-across neckline during dynamic movements, I experienced zero slippage throughout class and really loved how the co-ords flattered my curves. The headband, which is contoured at the back for a comfortable fit, kept my hair in place during moments of jumping, too.

Sneakers are required in class, and Hoffman recommended a pair that absorb shock but are also stabilized for load-baring movements. These well-rounded R.A.D gym shoes did just that — and they completed the monochrome aesthetic just right.

Outfit: Golden Butter Essential Waist T-Shirt ($45). Golden Butter Foldover Bootcut 32" Legging ($88). Bombas Women's Gripper Ankle Socks ($15).

It had been a minute since I pulled off a headstand, but when given the chance to check out the heated yoga class at Equinox Hudson Yards (where I was staying for an overnight on behalf of SoFi), I jumped right back into my vinyasa flow. I immediately thought of the popular Dayflower Blue colorway in stock at Aritzia for my apparel choice, as the shade feels both sophisticated and trend-driven — qualities I imagine most Equinox members strive for.

To say that I was overly impressed by the performance of this matching set, which just so happened to coordinate perfectly with my favorite Bombas grip socks, is no understatement. Butter-soft is the only way to describe the material, composed of 80 percent nylon and 20 percent elastane, and it's surprisingly sweat-wicking. Of course, being in a heated room is the ultimate way to test this fabric, and while I emerged after the one-hour session with strands of wet, messy hair pressed to my forehead, there was not one damp spot on my clothing.

I re-created some of the moves we did in class once back in my state-of-the-art, wellness-stocked room, just to further prove how beautifully these pieces hold up. If you're concerned about length of the pants (I was too, given my 5'1" frame), don't be — the foldover fabric of the waistband allows you to adjust the inseam as needed for whatever type of class you're doing and shoes you're wearing or not wearing. Of course, I wouldn't recommend going for a jog in pants like these, but there's no denying their versatility from yoga studio to brunch.

Outfit: Vuori AllTheForm Bra ($64). Vuori AllTheForm Legging - Short ($98). MoveActive Classic Low Rise Grip Socks ($19).

I've been a Solidcore member for nearly a year now and have plenty of tips and tricks for beginners. But one thing I notice about classgoers every time I walk into the Hoboken studio is that the workout set game is strong. I decided to connect with some of the coaches ahead of this Fit Check to get their two cents, and the hype about California-inspired, sustainable activewear brand Vuori rung loud and clear.

Pro Coach Jasmin Abuhouran notes that the label's All The Feels collection feels deliciously smooth, with an optimal inseam length for her height, while the performance tops come in a soft knit that looks cute whether she's coaching or taking a class herself. Coach Val Villareal agrees: "I love wearing [Vuori clothes] because they're snug, breathable, and cute! It's really important to me to wear something that is comfortable and moves with me so that I can focus more on the workout and my range of motion," she says.

Aside from the fact that the bright violet set I chose perfectly complemented the blue lights in the studio, it also matched one of my favorite pairs of Pilates grip socks from MoveActive (while the exact style is sold out, I'd also recommend the Bombas Merino Wool Blend Roll-Top Gripper House Sock 3-Pack ($90) if you like the purple colorway).

I found the moisture-wicking properties of Vuori's BlissBlend Form™ fabric to be on-point for the workout, with very subtle sweat markings post-session, but it's really the level of compression and V-shape waistband of the leggings that made me fall in love with this set — and the square-neck shape of the bra is ridiculously flattering. Even my instructor G — who led me in a Power30 class that targeted my inner thighs, biceps, and triceps — exclaimed, "I've been seeing that tag in every class," while nodding toward the gray Vuori square stitched onto my left leg. If that doesn't confirm Vuori's prominence in Solidcore culture, what else will?

Outfit: Adidas Aeroimpact Luxe Training Light-Support Bra ($50). Adidas Optime 3-Stripes 1/4 Short Leggings ($45). Adidas Dropset 3 Strength Training Shoes ($130).

A one-hour strength class at Tone House is certainly not for the faint of heart — you'll be pushing a sled with sand bags, barbell lifting, getting in your pull-ups, and racking up your reps at the accessory station, too. It was my first time trying anything close to a collegiate or professional weight room training, and that's exactly what this regimen is meant to emulate.

I have to say, I didn't expect to get as sweaty or feel as exhausted as I did, and for that reason I'm glad I was in shorts, as recommended by Tone House Head Coach Brittany Watts. This Adidas pair has four-way stretch, which is key for squatting and lunging in a class like this, and the Climacool fabric wicks away water buildup and dries quickly. Likewise, I appreciated the lightweight feel of this sports bra — it's tight without restricting movement, and the racerback design provided me with all the more support to keep my posture in check throughout class.

"Because our Strength classes revolve around one primary lift, I'm always looking for a set that combines functionality with comfort and can support my range of motion whether that's in a squat, deadlift, or bench press. Bonus points if it looks good and stylish," Watts says.

Finally, the Adidas Dropset 3 is a great shoe for strength training because of the dual-density midsole that keeps feet flat and stable while on the ground. "A flat sole is crucial as it ensures an even distribution of weight, allowing you to maintain proper form and balance during exercises like squats and deadlifts," Watts explains, continuing, "Stability in a shoe prevents excessive foot movement, reducing the risk of injury and ensuring efficient power transfer from the ground up. Good lifting shoes often offer a snug fit with a solid grip, enhancing your overall control and enhancing lifting performance."

I will say, I experienced some slippage while I was pushing the sled, so I'd advise against using these for dynamic cardio workouts, like running.

Outfit: Athleta Vital Bra ($45). Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise Legging ($109). Athleta Forever Fleece Crop Full Zip ($89). Athleta Everyday Crew Sock ($25). Reebok Nano X5 Training Shoes ($150).

Aside from the fact that Housework by Sydney Miller is pretty much drenched in pink accents all around the studio — making Athleta's new Punch colorway the perfect fabric for complementing the atmosphere — this set was perfectly flexible for high-energy choreographed cardio and sculpting work. It's butter-soft with a compression level that's described on the website as "a gentle hug," and while I didn't work out in the hoodie, it was perfectly warm with a fleece interior that made for a real comfort after a hard session.

Housework is all about moving to the beat of the music, but it's also mentally stimulating since you're trying to remember the routine while keeping good form. I'd say this Athleta set made the attempt feel as easy as possible thanks to the brand's signature second-skin Powervita fabric, and you have to wear sneakers for the class, so my Reebok training shoes proved to be the best bet and most complementary to the color palette.

Outfit: Nike Alate Medium Support Longline Padded Sports Bra ($60). Nike Zenvy Gentle-Support High-Waisted Full-Length Leggings ($100). Nike Free Metcon 6 Workout Shoes ($125). Nike 24.7 ImpossiblySoft Dri-FIT Oversized Crew-Neck Top ($90).

According to Jennifer Aniston's trainer and VP of Training at Pvolve Dani Coleman, most clients wear leggings and supportive tops that allow them to feel strong, along with a pair of sneakers that support the mobility exercises and strength movements done on the mat in class. I can confidently say that these Nike pieces did all that for me and more. There's something about the smooth, butter-soft feeling of Nike's InfinaSoft fabric that complemented the nature of the Pvolve movements so perfectly — it was like I was swimming through class. It helped, too, that I went with an elevated, neutral colorway for my set (called mink brown), as the studio and equipment follow suit with clean lines and a modern feel, from the shape of the baskets clients pick up on their way into class to the sleek design of the mat itself.

While the bra top and leggings made me feel "lengthened" and matched my flow with perfect harmony, the Nike Free Metcon 6 had to be the highlight of my outfit. Even my instructor was wearing them, and Coleman confirms that they're an undeniable favorite among Pvolve devotees: "They're lightweight, supportive, and keep me grounded for long days when I'm teaching in the Pvolve West Hollywood studio," she says. "I've been training in them for years and they work perfectly for the various formats we offer." I also happened to spend the rest of the day in them, walking around Soho and grabbing brunch with a friend, and they felt way more chic than your average sneaker — particularly in the all-black with black ankle socks to visually elongate my legs.

Read more in my review of the best Nike gear for a Pvolve workout.

Outfit: Barry's Optic White Legend Tank ($58). Barry's Black High Neck Bra ($68). Barry's Sprinter Socks ($12). Alo Yoga Alosoft High-Waist 7/8 Highlight Leggings ($98). On White Cloudboom Echo 3 Sneakers ($290).

In my opinion, the most standout aspect of Barry's apparel is the aesthetic tie to its famous classes, which have been around since 1998. Along with the recognizable logo imprinted onto the waistband of leggings or the racerback of a sports bra, the taglines across the breathable tees offer a wink to bootcamp devotees. "You look f***ing amazing," "If only sarcasm burned calories," and "Sorry I can't I'm at Barry's," are just a few of the phrases that provide that "something extra" touch, exciting fans to wear the gear beyond the studio to showcase their brand love. If you do take Barry's classes often, then you know that the instructors are down-to-earth, high-energy, and enthusiastically motivational, which aligns perfectly with these kitschy slogans.

But beyond that, the apparel is actually functional. The high-neck bra I wore in class is moisture-wicking and double-layered — it wasn't even fully soaked through after a high-intensity 50-minute class. It was also extremely supportive yet comfortable, with no underwire digging into my ribcage or adjustable straps loosening as I lifted dumbbells above my shoulders. The sprinter socks are thick but breathable, with the built-in lip at the ankle doing its job to prevent blisters as I ran intervals on the treadmill.

Read more in my review of Barry's activewear.

Outfit: Set Active Airluxe Breathe Scoop Bra ($54). Set Active Airluxe Breathe Mid-Rise Leggings ($74).

From an aesthetic POV, I have to say I'm obsessed with the silhouette of the Breathe Scoop Bra. It's sophisticated and sporty, and the simplicity of the "SET" logo across the brand's entire apparel category is just so recognizably sleek to me. Since working these exact co-ords into my rotation in both Spades (navy) and Onyx (black), I find that I'm constantly reaching for them when I'm going to be working out in a public setting (aka a boutique fitness studio). I particularly love that this set isn't flashy, but understated. While the design of the bra is so distinctive, what sets these leggings apart from the others in my workout drawer is the compression. These are stretchy but tight and smoothing, and the mid-rise fit hits me at the perfect point on my waist so that I'm comfortable enough to move freely without feeling restricted.

I was delightfully surprised by how dry these separates stayed during my Fuze House workout. Since I was in a heated atmosphere, I felt like my body was drenched in sweat, but after I exited the studio, I noticed that there were still dry surface areas on both my bra and leggings. Typically, I find that my workout set is soaked through after a heated experience, but the Airluxe fabric holds true to its claims. What's more, I do suffer from Raynaud's disease, particularly during the colder months, so I usually have to remove my wet clothes to avoid the dreaded symptoms immediately after a workout. But I spent at least a full hour in this set on the commute home (on a 40-degree day) and didn't experience any issues with blood flow. In other words, the Airluxe fabric dries quickly.

Read more in my review of Set Active's Airluxe collection.

Outfit: Reebok Lux Contour Crop Top ($30, originally $45). Reebok Lux Mini Bike Shorts 5" ($13, originally $40). Reebok Nano X5 Training Shoes ($150).

The sleek fit of the Lux Contour Crop Top is undeniable. There's a supportive contour panel built into the bust, and the fabric is constructed with RBK-DRY, which has sweat-wicking properties that truly did keep me dry throughout my Legacy Fit Miami CrossFit workout. Typically, my sports bra is soaked after an intense workout, but I actually ended up wearing the same one the next day for a short run (yes, even before a wash — sue me!) because it was completely dry when I woke up.

The bike shorts have a high-rise fit and a five-inch inseam, and they're constructed with odor-eliminating MOTIONFRESH technology, which is perhaps why my clothes didn't smell at all after I wrapped up at the gym. They also have a side pocket, which is an essential for me in all my workout bottoms so that I can move easily while keeping my phone immediately reachable. Another highlight? This set is made with at least 30 percent recycled or repurposed materials.

Reebok released the Nano X5 for the 15th anniversary of the supportive training shoe it's become known for. The goal was to achieve the most comfortable and stable fit ever with a breathable Flexweave knit upper, dual-density midsole, and firmer foam heel. I especially appreciate the plush collar, which is non-distracting and keeps the foot planted without a rough edge that causes blisters at the ankles. The Metasplit outsole is crafted to enhance movement, which is great for running and jumping.

Read more in my review of Reebok's Nano X5 Training Shoes and Lux apparel collection.

Sarah Wasilak (she/her) is the associate director of PS Shopping. With plenty of experience in the fashion industry and over 10 years as an editor at the brand, she enjoys writing across the lifestyle, health, and fitness categories. She is the host of the "Dinner For Shoes" podcast and has bylines at InStyle, Elle, Refinery29, Who What Wear, Elite Daily, Byrdie, and The Quality Edit.