Whether you’re training for the next running marathon or you're already a pro at Netflix marathons, you need bottom wear for both activities. Take it from me. I've been working out two hours every day for the last 600 days (counting!), at home. No, really. I have. But if for you, daily exercise means chasing your kids around the apartment block, walking your dog, strolling from the dining room to the bedroom, or a yoga session on the terrace, why look sloppy and sweaty when you can look stylish and sassy? I will leave it to you to pick your top or sports bra, but here’s my pick of gym wear for women (joggers and shorts) that are functional, look good, and are affordable. I've even tried them, so you don't need to. Shop away!
Yoga Or Gym Wear For Women: 10 Shorts, Joggers, Tights Under INR 2000
Straight Capris From Infinia
For light jogging or walking, these Infinia’s capris tights are ideal. Available in six colours including a lovely pink and a mint green, they don’t slip off your waist as you pick up speed! But more importantly, they are made from a fairly thick fabric which ensure that not only do they keep your legs snug and non-jiggly, but they are thick enough to make sure there are no panty lines. We don't really recommend them for hardcore workouts or over complex yoga!
Casual Joggers From Togs & Terre
These ones are perfect hybrid joggers—wear them to the park with a T-shirt or with a crop top to lunch. They’re light and flexible so there’s no hindrance even when you’re properly running. Get them in green, blue, purple or black. Or just get all! They also have pockets, which means no need to have the silly arm band on you. Just put your phone in the pocket, with that loose change for post run chai at the park!
Contrast Pink Shorts From Agil Athletica
Now if you’re a serious runner, or serious about looking like a runner, these are for you! These shorts come with a contrast waistband and side hem for that added edge, but with the comfort of a drawstring. Don’t we know how tough it can be when the elastic wears off a bit, and the shorts keep slipping! No more though. What I really like is that these come in different contrast colours and not just black. Think pink-white-grey, green-white-grey and even a black-grey-cream. Sitting just below the waist, and about 8 inches above the knee, you might get some looks from random people in the park, but I think these have enough coverage to make you feel comfortable.
Relaxed Joggers From KICA
I’ve been a fan of KICA for a while now. Not only do they get comfort on-point, they don’t compromise on style at all. Like these joggers. Chic, soft and functional, they have drawstrings, pockets (yes!) and they can easily be worn outside of the gym or running track too. They are also a bit rain-resistant (from when I tried them) winning them brownie points!
Track Pants From ISU
These ones are what you need for everyday workouts—be it a Zumba session or a jog on the treadmill. Fuss-free and functional, they’re even good to lounge about at home in. Made from polyester, this pair is also opaque, whichever colour you buy. So go ahead, and get the light colours too if you like.
Pocket-Friendly Leggings From Bliss Club
This one caught my eye on Instagram, and with four pockets, I had to try it out! That too when they said it's super high waist. Comfort and convenience...what! So, I got their bestselling product, The Ultimate Leggings. While I highly recommend them for yoga, walking, light exercise and even weight lifting, I might not pick these as the first options for running or anything that involves a fair bit of jumping. While it is super snug, once you bounce around in them, they lose a bit of the snugness. The pockets are handy too, but with keys and a phone it was already pulling at the tights. What I loved is that the waistband doesn't dig into the skin, and the material is extra soft. Sizes go from XS to XXXXL in colours like black, mauve, green, rust and more. Currently, they're priced at INR 1,999.
PS: If you're wondering where Nike is...well, not here on this list. I love the brand's apparel and shoes, but their lower-end stuff like basic tees for INR 500, or tracks for INR 600 are just not quite as is just not up to the mark, I feel!
Lounge Shorts From The Short Store
Yoga, aerobics, hiking, running or seriously lounging on the sofa, these shorts from The Short Store are perfect for plenty of things. Soft, comfortable and with pockets, they are really versatile. Stock up for all you (pretend) activities. It’s athleisure attire after all!
Run Dry Shorts From Decathlon
Easily the go-to for all things sporty and loungewear these days, Decathlon has really nailed it on design, comfort and price. I am a huge fan of their running gear and these shorts are my top favourite. So much so that I have three of the same kind! By Kalenji, these are super light, comfortable and can be fastened with the drawstring. They are a bit short, but not too short to make you feel awkward. Besides, the fabric doesn't ride up at all. It's a quick-dry one so if you're a sweaty mess (as you should be!) post running or working out, then count on these shorts to not make you look it! I also love that there's a neat little zip on the back at the waist. They say it is for your phone, but really it's just for a little MP3 player or maybe car keys and money at most.
Logo Tights From Puma
Simple and straightforward, I got these ones for dance days and a bit of yoga. While they are also fine for light jogging, I found they tend to slip a bit for heavy sports and running. But they are really snug and sit tight on the hips and through to the ankles. Despite that, the BCI cotton they're made of ensure they're soft and comfy. At INR 1,499 at full price, they are definitely worth it.
High Rise Tights From Clovia
Clovia is one of my go-to brands for intimate wear, so it's no wonder I own a piece from its classic range of gym wear. These nude-coloured tights go well with the aesthetic of my workout looks. The high-rise design is apt to pair them with a sports and get working on my glutes. The tights even come with pockets to safely store your light essentials while working out in a packed gym. Also, while jogging, the phone fits well to stay hands-free.