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TAKE 5:

GYM LEGGINGS
AND SHORTS

with Selfridges Stylist Sanchia Poorman

Welcome to our regular round-up of the five key pieces to shop now, chosen by those in the know. This time, we called on our Stylist Sanchia Poorman to pick out the best gym leggings and shorts.

Gyms have now reopened, but whether you sprinted down to the spin studio on 25 July, are perfectly happy with your at-home set-up, or you’re just a fan of the cycling shorts trend, you’ll want to look (and feel) the part, right? Sanchia, who creates top-to-toe looks for selfridges.com, is all about simple style with an extra splash of something, “whether it’s a sporty influence (I love trainers) or a striking bold colour – this could be anything from sunglasses to a T-shirt.” We asked her to talk us through the hardest-working leggings and shorts.

Let’s start the count…

P.E NATION

Side Runner high-rise stretch-jersey leggings

Best for: a high-shine, high-performance look 

“This season’s On Track 2020 collection is all about movement. I’ve picked these skin-tight sleek-look leggings, which are made from 70% recycled polyester. The material acts as a second skin, which is great for high-intensity activities. The light, fresh and contemporary metallic tones complement each other well and would make you feel great during any workout. I would definitely style these with a fitted top and Flyknit trainers for the gym or a nylon shell jacket if I’m working out outdoors (or just popping to the shops).”

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KORAL

Lustrous high-rise stretch-jersey leggings

Best for: testing your flexibility

“These Lustrous leggings have a thick waistband and the lightweight Infinity fabric fits perfectly to any shape. They come in great, bold colours, and the brand has designed a matching sports bra, but, if you’re not into matching pieces, there are great options from the brand to mix and match, too. I would wear these for activities like Pilates or yoga because they’re ultra-flexible, so you can move freely. That said, I think they would be a good option for any form of workout.”

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PUMA x FIRST MILE

Eclipse 3/4 stretch-jersey leggings

Best for: a minimal multitasker

“Everyone is familiar with Puma – it’s a classic, and it caters to various sports activities. First Mile is a network that works with communities in Haiti, Honduras and Taiwan, collecting plastic bottles that are recycled and turned into fabric. Part of their collaboration, these leggings are high waisted, which makes them comfortable and flattering. I like the minimal-but-cool colour-blocking detail, and there’s also a functional back pocket that’s perfect to fit your keys and bank card while you’re running or working through a HIIT class… everything you need, basically.”

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GIRLFRIEND COLLECTIVE

High-rise stretch-recycled polyester shorts

Best for: Earth-conscious all-rounders

“Girlfriend Collective is a brand everyone should know about. It turns old water bottles into clothes – in fact, everything is carefully considered, from the packaging (which is 100% recycled) to the manufacturing, dyeing process, working practices and much more. I’ve selected these cycling shorts because they’re so versatile: for a spin class, I’d wear them with a loose-fit T-shirt and running trainers. Or, to run my errands, I’d just throw on an oversized sweater, white sport socks, chunky trainers and a cross-body bag. Easy.”

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MICHI

Instinct animal-print high-rise stretch-jersey bike shorts

Best for: embracing your wild side

“If you’re not scared of a little animal print, these statement cycling shorts are perfect. They make your gym outfit a little more exciting, and there’s a matching sports bra if you love a co-ord situation. For me, they’re a two-in-one pair: you can wear them out with a crop top, oversized shirt and chunky trainers, or you can dress them up with a fitted blazer and heels. I also love that the brand champions female empowerment, as many of their styles are produced in a female-owned factory.”

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Hit the ground running

Style it out with these trainers – you’ll never skip leg day again

Now you’re warmed up, take a jog over to the rest of our activewear

Shop now