Even though most of the British summer has been spent under lockdown, things are starting to open up, with people largely able to enjoy their outdoor pursuits again. To mark this occasion, you might need new outfits (especially if you’ve gone up a size during lockdown, as Britons apparently spent an additional £19m on biscuits in the past few months).
To help, we’ve picked out some of the best sportswear looks from some of the biggest brands to consider as you get ready to hit the road/gym/great outdoors again.
On (running)
Sportswear is a huge business and knowing where to start can be daunting. However, using the same sporting technology relied upon by athletes such as tennis superstar Roger Federer can’t be a bad avenue of enquiry. Swiss-based On makes trainers and apparel for men and women who want to get more out of their running and exercise. Specifically, their footwear is designed to ensure stability, security and support.
Why not consider: Cloud X trainer, £130
Rapha Cycling (cycling)
Whether you’re cycling to keep fit at the weekend or pedalling around the City during the week, it’s important to have the right clothing (and image). With that in mind, meet Rapha Cycling, one of the most highly regarded names in cycling wear. A favourite among amateurs and professionals alike, each piece in Rapha’s full range of training and competitive wear is crafted with performance and comfort in mind.
Why not consider: Pro Team Training Jersey, £85.00
British Vintage Boxing (boxing)
If you’re someone who enjoys spending their lunchtimes on the heavy bag, you’ll probably enjoy wearing British Vintage Boxing during these rounds. This boutique brand offers a range of fitness and leisurewear, all styled around the golden years of boxing (featuring the names of Ali and Cooper). Each piece harks back to classic 1960s style, offering something different from the contemporary fashion others wear in the gym.
Why not consider: Queensbury 1963 crewneck sweatshirt, £70
Schoffel (shooting)
A stalwart of the shooting world, Schöffel Country uses pioneering technical fabrics to produce superb clothing that is lightweight, stylish, comfortable and specifically designed with the discerning country customer in mind. The company’s designers appreciate how much effort and expense goes into maintaining a shooting habit, so each piece is designed to encapsulate both luxury and functionality (while staying rigorous enough to withstand the elements).
Why not consider: Schöffel Country All Seasons Shooting Vest, £159.95
Helly Hansen (sailing)
There are few brands as involved in their sport as Helly Hansen is in the world of sailing, worn by many of the top teams racing around the world’s oceans. As well as offering everything you’d need on board, from underclothing to life jackets, Helly Hansen even has casual wear for less strenuous time spent in the marina. It’s an obvious choice ahead of your next voyage.
Why not consider: HP Foil Pro Jacket, £380
Le Chameau (hiking)
When hiking, rambling or even just enjoying the great outdoors with an extended walk, it’s important to protect your feet as no-one wants to be forsaking comfort when they’re miles away from home. Le Chameau is regarded as the Rolls Royce of outdoor footwear and each boot and wellington is designed to give the wearer a feeling of comfort that doesn’t compromise its ruggedness.
Why not consider: Chameau-Lite LCX Low 7” Boot, £249
PlayBrave (tennis)
Mindset is extremely important to PlayBrave, a sportswear brand that wants to support people as they exercise towards their goals (from simple self-improvement right up to winning championships). Therefore, this tennis brand (which also caters to other sports, including golf) is geared towards people who want to stay on the court in all weathers, with a full range of practical yet comfy tennis wear for both men and women.
Why not consider: Miles Jacket, £148
HUUB (triathlons)
This wetsuit brand recognises that triathletes require specialist clothing to match a unique and gruelling event. Therefore, HUUB really focuses on the science behind what makes a good triathlon wetsuit, including the study of hydrodynamics and swim stroke analysis (while still accommodating for comfort). As a result, HUUB wetsuits have become a favourite of many famous triathletes including Rio 2016 medallists Jonathan and Alistair Brownlee.
Why not consider: HUUB Albacore Triathlon Wetsuit, £454.99 *not pictured
Belles of London (yoga)
This isn’t your typical sportswear brand and its yoga wear sits alongside several collections of skirts, jackets and dresses. However, this boutique’s yoga wear can’t be ignored and its in-house designers have created an extensive range with comfort in mind for the style-conscious yoga enthusiast. Belles of London also caters for bespoke fittings on some of its products and champions ethical production, using recycled fabric where possible.
Why not consider: Valentina Capri Leggings, £110
KJUS (golf)
Founded by Olympic ski champions, KJUS is an increasingly popular brand for outside apparel. And even though golf isn’t as exhausting (or dangerous) as skiing, anyone who loves their 18 holes will appreciate the attention to detail in KJUS’ range for the course. Championing freedom of movement with comfort, KJUS applies a new level of technology to an area of sportswear that has traditionally been driven only by aesthetics.
Why not consider: Badus Midlayer Jacket, £169
