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Whether it was one of your new year’s resolutions or you just want to keep fit and warm this winter, new gym kit never hurts when it comes to fitness motivation. And while we’re all very familiar with Lululemon, Arc’teryx and TNA — undeniably our most famous homegrown athletic labels — there are other brands worth checking out, too. Rebecca Tay discovers five activewear pieces to run, skip, hop and layer up in this January.

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HOT CHOCOLATE TIME

Don’t let cold weather stop you from working out: Don these fleece joggers instead and consider yourself armed against sub-zero temperatures. With a comfortable elastic waist, two slash pockets and a size run that spans XS to 3X, they blend warmth with versatility and, most importantly, will keep you toasty during your morning outdoor jog.

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Joe Fresh, joefresh.com | $39 ($22.94)

ALL IN ONE

Athleta, the activewear brand owned by Gap, opened its first Canadian stores in 2021 and has been growing steadily since — and it’s easy to see why, with functional, super-stylish pieces like this “Salutation 7/8 Bodysuit,” so named for its just-above-the-ankle length. Made from a buttery soft 75-per-cent nylon/25-per-cent lycra blend, it’s formfitting enough for yoga or any studio practice, yet also has side stash pockets big enough for a phone, so you can literally just get dressed and go.

Athleta, athlete.gapcanada.ca | $149 ($118.99)

BEST BRA

A sports bra that doesn’t scream sports bra isn’t as hard to find these days as it was 10 years ago, but it’s still great to discover a style that’s a little more versatile outside the gym. Case in point: this “Step Up” style by Montreal-based Lolë. Its boatneck is a refreshing change compared to all the plunging V-neck bras out there, while its longline shape and the elegant double straps at the back mean it could almost even pass as a crop top if you teamed the black version with a full midi skirt or pair of high-rise jeans.

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Lolë, lolelife.com | $75

IT’S IN THE BAG

If all you need to regain your gym-going motivation is a new, sporty bag that fits all your bits and bobs, then this puffy, quilted “Be Confident, Be You” style by Vancouver’s Vitae Apparel is just the thing for you. Made from super lightweight nylon, it fits running shoes, a water bottle, plus a couple changes of clothes — as well as a laptop if you’re heading straight to work after your workout — all without screaming “I’m a gym bag!” to anyone who will listen.

Vitae Apparel, vitaeapparel.com | $59.99

TWIST AND SHOUT

Elegant, comfortable, and versatile: file this long-sleeve top under ideal for both gym and everyday. Made from a fluid jersey mix of Tencel modal cellulose fibres and recycled polyester, it has odour-eliminating, bacteria growth-inhibiting properties but also a cropped, fitted, on-trend design. Team with the matching leggings for the studio or a slim-line skirt and heels for a work-appropriate look.

Simons, simons.ca | $39 ($19.99)

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