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Best Maternity Workout Clothes of 2025

Updated
Ditch the hot, scratchy, uncomfortable gear that bunches and rides up in all the wrong places.

Staying active during pregnancy is amazing for both you and your baby, but you need the right gear to make it happen safely.

Squeezing into pre-pregnancy leggings or wearing standard gym clothes often leads to pinching, chafing, and dangerous overheating.

We are here to keep you fit, healthy, and comfortable.

We analyzed dozens of products and sifted through thousands of reviews from fellow moms. Our goal was to find the best maternity workout clothes and shoes to keep you moving comfortably from the first trimester through postpartum.

Our Top Picks

We independently research, assess and evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Best Workout Shoes: Skechers Sneakers
  • Smooth woven mesh fabric
  • Flexible outsole
  • Air cooled memory foam insole
Best Workout Pants: Mumberry Pants
  • Soft material
  • Comfortable fit
  • Great body support
Best Workout Leggings: Beyond Yoga Leggings
  • Fold-over waistband
  • Luxurious look and feel
  • Cropped cuffs
Best Workout Shorts: My Belly Mama Shorts
  • Soft and breathable knit cotton
  • Versatile
  • Stretchy belly panel
Best Workout Yoga Pants: Three Seasons Yoga Pants
  • Solid knit yoga pants
  • Wide foldover waistband
  • Flared leg
Best Workout Capris: Foucome Capri Leggings
  • 3D cutting
  • Supports belly without excess pressure
  • Fabric isn't see-through
Best Workout Underwear: Kindred Panties
  • Ultra soft fabric
  • Non-itchy and stretchy
  • Full rear coverage
Best Workout Top: Movemama Maternity Workout Top
  • Perfect for body movements during pregnancy
  • For everyday use
  • Flattering strap design
Best Workout Bra: Fittin Racerback Bra
  • High support
  • Seamless
  • Moisture wicking
Best Workout Belt: Baby Belly Band
  • Lightweight, breathable material
  • Perfect for sensitive skin
  • Personalized fitting consultation

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize support: Look for built-in belly bands to relieve back pressure and lift weight off your pelvis.
  • Check the fabric: Moisture-wicking synthetics keep you cool and dry better than heavy cottons.
  • Think long-term: Many tops and bras double as nursing gear for the postpartum stage.
  • Don’t forget feet: Slip-on shoes with arch support are essential when your feet swell and you can’t reach your laces.

How to Choose Maternity Workout Clothes

Keep these specific factors in mind to ensure safety and comfort:

Stick to Maternity Designs

With the possible exception of sports bras, you should choose clothes specifically designed for athletic use during pregnancy. While oversized tees or pre-pregnancy yoga pants might fit temporarily, they lack the specific engineering required to support your changing center of gravity.

Find the Right Fit

You want clothes (especially pants) fitted close to the body. Baggy leisure pants pose a tripping hazard, which is significantly more dangerous when your balance is already off. This applies to footwear, too; look for stable, supportive shoes rather than loose slides.

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Check Seam Placement

Your skin stretches and becomes hypersensitive during pregnancy. Seams that never bothered you before might suddenly feel like sandpaper. Look for seamless construction or flat-lock seams to prevent chafing and irritation on your bump and thighs.

Choose Breathable Fabrics

Unless you are sticking to low-intensity yoga, you should prioritize synthetic performance fabrics. They wick sweat away to keep you dry and cool. Proper temperature regulation is vital for keeping your blood circulating and preventing overheating, which can be dangerous for the baby.

Prioritize Support

Look for gear that actively supports your belly, breasts, and back. Stretchy nighttime camis are not a substitute for a high-impact sports bra. Likewise, thin leggings won’t cut it for a step class; you need a fully functioning belly panel that lifts and compresses.

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Product Reviews

We found gear that moves with you, supports the bump, and helps you feel confident while you sweat.

Best Maternity Workout Pants

The safest way to work out while pregnant is with form-fitting gear. You want pants that move easily as you bend and stretch but aren’t loose enough to trip you up.

Mumberry Activewear Yoga Pants

Perfect All-Rounder

These aren’t just stretchy pants; they are a support system. The belly band features a built-in design that provides actual medical-grade support, compression, and upward lift. It functions like a lightweight belly band integrated into your yoga pants to relieve back pressure and help posture. Plus, the back pocket is large enough to secure your phone.


Ingrid & Isabel Active Capri Maternity Pants

Sleek Silhouette

These capris use a synthetic construction to wick sweat and keep you from overheating. The real standout feature is the “Crossover Panel” which provides sturdy support for your lower back and belly. However, it features a clever cutout in the back to reduce fabric bulk, keeping you cooler during intense sessions.


C9 Champion Under-the-Belly Cardio Pant

Best for Cardio

Polyester construction ensures these don’t retain moisture, while the fit offers room to move without becoming a tripping hazard. If you hate the feeling of fabric stretching over your bump, these are ideal. They sit comfortably under the belly to minimize friction and heat retention.


Best Maternity Workout Tops

Temperature regulation is key. While cotton is fine for light stretching, opt for synthetic fabrics if you plan on sweating. A looser fit is generally more comfortable here, so look for breezy cuts that accommodate growth.

Movemama Maternity Workout Top

Supportive and Stylish

This tank is a powerhouse for yoga or gym sessions. It features a built-in shelf bra with removable inserts, giving you that extra layer of stability over your regular sports bra. The strappy back adds style and airflow.

The design works for every trimester and transitions seamlessly into postpartum life. The fabric is durable and opaque, so you don’t have to worry about transparency at the gym.


LWJ 1982 Seamless Maternity Shirt

Soft, Stretchy and Simple

This Lycra and Spandex blend is incredibly soft, designed to cradle your bump without digging in. It offers excellent moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry. For moms who prefer a bit more coverage than a standard tank, the sleeves and longer cut provide modesty without sacrificing performance.


Womens Workout Buddy Tank Top

Most Adorable Slogan

Since this is made of cotton, it is better suited for low-impact activities or walking. We love the “Workout Buddy” lettering over the bump, which makes for great photos. It is a fun addition to your wardrobe for light gym days or just lounging around the house.


Best Maternity Workout Bras

Pregnancy increases breast weight and sensitivity. You need a bra that locks everything in place to prevent ligament pain. Skip the flimsy sleep bras and invest in high-impact support.

Fittin Racerback Sports Bra

Boobs' Best Friend

While not exclusively a maternity item, this racerback offers the intense support pregnant breasts need. It uses Climacool technology to manage heat and includes removable pads for shape and modesty. The high-stretch elastic band accommodates rib cage expansion, which is common in the second and third trimesters.


AKAMC Removable Padded Sports Bras

Great for Smaller Busts

Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric keeps sweat at bay, while the strappy criss-cross back looks great under open-back tanks. These are designed with comfort in mind, offering moderate support that works well for yoga, pilates, or daily wear.


Stelle Wirefree Maternity Bra

Wonderful Wire-Free

This is a true multitasker. It offers the support of a sports bra with the functionality of built-in nursing clips. The wire-free design prevents clogged ducts and discomfort during workouts. It’s an excellent investment that will serve you well through the end of pregnancy and into your breastfeeding journey.


Best Maternity Workout Leggings

For workouts, you need performance leggings, not thin cotton loungewear. Look for synthetic fabrics that pass the “squat test” (stay opaque when you bend) and provide compression to help circulation.

Beyond Yoga Maternity Capri Leggings

High-Performance Fabric

These polyester/spandex capris hit the sweet spot between breathability and coverage. The material is thick enough to cover your behind during squats but thin enough to vent heat. The full belly band ensures they won’t roll down mid-lunge, providing a secure fit.


Cloya Active Maternity Capri Pant

Easy Comfort

Constructed with four-way stretch fabric, these comfortably hug your belly without feeling restrictive. You can wear the belly band up for full coverage or fold it down for support under the bump. Flat-lock stitching is a major bonus here, minimizing the risk of chafing on sensitive skin.


Ingrid & Isabel Workout Capri

Something a Little Different

The straightforward design focuses on utility. A supportive crossover panel offers full coverage and stays hoisted while you squat or stretch. The nylon construction resists moisture and odors, making these a durable choice for regular gym-goers.


Best Maternity Workout Shorts

Pregnancy turns your body into a heater, so shorts are often the most comfortable option. Choose pairs that provide inner-thigh coverage to prevent chafing (chub rub) while allowing maximum airflow.

My Belly Mama Cotton Shorts

Short and Sweet

These form-fitting shorts hug curves without restricting movement. They are short enough to keep you cool in high temperatures but fitted enough to stay in place. Since they are cotton, they are best for light workouts or summer walks rather than heavy cardio.


Foucome Women's Maternity Yoga Short

Pretty but Practical

Made from a nylon and spandex blend, these shorts accommodate significant growth without losing their shape. The side pockets are a huge convenience for holding keys or a phone. They offer a great balance of breathability and coverage at a budget-friendly price point.


Motherhood Under-Belly Maternity Shorts

Low and Out of the Way

The under-belly waistband prevents that “wrapped up” feeling, helping you stay cooler. The straight-leg design offers a relaxed fit that doesn’t hug the thighs like spandex. These are perfect for the mom who wants workout gear that feels more like comfy loungewear.


Best Maternity Workout Capris

Capris offer a great middle ground. They provide modesty for gym equipment usage but leave the lower leg exposed to help regulate your body temperature.

Foucome Capri Leggings

Cropped to Keep You Cool

These reduce fabric bulk to prevent overheating while actively supporting your lower back. The 3D panel engineering cradles the belly rather than just stretching over it, which helps keep the pants from sliding down during movement.


Ingrid & Isabel Active Capri Maternity Pant

Affordable Quality

Synthetic construction ensures these are breathable and quick-drying. The material is thick enough to ensure opacity, so your bum stays fully covered. The versatile belly panel offers essential back support and can be worn folded down post-pregnancy.


Best Maternity Workout Yoga Pants

If you are actually working out in yoga pants, material matters. Ensure they are moisture-wicking and durable. Avoid cheap cotton blends that become sheer the moment you enter a downward dog.

Three Seasons Maternity Yoga Pants

Loose and Lovely for Lounging

The slight flare at the leg opening allows for free movement without the “tight” feeling of leggings. You can adjust the belly band up or down for comfort. These are machine washable and great for light exercise or prenatal classes.


Lamaze Maternity Yoga Pants

Ultimate Relaxed Fit

A hint of spandex provides necessary stretch without constriction. The relaxed leg cut is forgiving and comfortable, while the mid-belly panel strikes a balance between support and temperature control. These are ideal for restorative yoga.


Best Maternity Workout Belts

Sometimes pants aren’t enough. If you have pelvic girdle pain or severe back aches, a dedicated workout belt can provide the heavy-duty lift you need to stay active safely.

Cabea Baby Belly Band Sport Maternity Belt

Wear it with What You Have

Designed by a female health professional, this belt targets the support you need for exercise. It is latex-free and antimicrobial, preventing odors even after a sweaty session. The sizing range goes up to XXL, offering a much better fit than generic “one-size” belts.


Azmed Breathable Abdominal Binder

This binder reduces spinal pressure, helping to ease back pain during movement. By gently lifting the belly, it relieves pelvic and hip discomfort, allowing you to walk or exercise for longer periods without pain.


Best Maternity Workout Underwear

You need stay-put elastic that won’t roll down. While cotton is great for hygiene, synthetic blends are better for heavy sweat. Avoid standard polyester, which can trap bacteria and odors.

Kindred Bravely Pregnancy Panties

Under the Bump, Full at the Back

The under-the-bump crossover design prevents overheating around your midsection. The full-coverage back ensures they stay put without wedgies during workouts. Made primarily of rayon, they wick moisture effectively to keep you dry.


Kuci Bamboo Fiber Maternity Underwear

Smart Eco Option

Bamboo is a powerhouse fabric; it is naturally moisture-wicking and antimicrobial, reducing the risk of odor or infection. These briefs fit over the belly, staying secure during activity while providing a gentle layer of support.


Best Maternity Workout Shoes

Your feet may spread and swell, and your arches are under extra pressure. You need a supportive maternity shoe with “give.” Slip-ons are a lifesaver in the third trimester when tying laces becomes an Olympic event.

Skechers Sport Empire Sneaker

Slip-on Simplicity

The bungee lace design means you never have to bend over to tie them. They slip on easily but stay secure while you move. The fabric upper accommodates swelling, while air-cooled memory foam prevents your feet from overheating and provides shock absorption for your joints.


Skechers Sport Women's Fashion Sneaker

Wardrobe Workhorse

These offer memory foam insoles for crucial arch support and shock absorption. The mesh fabric exterior is breathable and easy to clean. They provide the look of a sporty sneaker with the convenience of a slip-on, making them perfect for gym days or grocery runs.

Maternity Workout Clothes FAQs

Do You Need Maternity Workout Clothes?

While not strictly mandatory, maternity workout clothes provide essential comfort and safety. They are engineered to support a shifting center of gravity and accommodate a growing belly without restricting blood flow. Regular clothes often become too tight, causing chafing or overheating.

How Many Hours a Week Should a Pregnant Woman Workout?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. This breaks down to about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Always clear your exercise plan with your doctor first.

Can I Wear Workout Leggings While Pregnant?

Yes, absolutely. If your regular leggings still fit comfortably under your bump, wear them. However, once they start rolling down, digging in, or becoming sheer due to stretching, switch to maternity leggings for better coverage and support.

What Can You Not Do at the Gym When Pregnant?

Avoid exercises that require lying flat on your back after the first trimester, as this restricts blood flow to the baby. Also, skip high-impact sports with fall risks (like box jumps) and heavy lifting that strains the lower back. Listen to your body and stop if you feel pain or dizziness.

What Lululemon Is Best When Pregnant?

Many moms swear by Lululemon’s Align leggings. Their high-rise waist and Nulu fabric are incredibly buttery and stretchy, accommodating a bump comfortably even though they aren’t technically “maternity” wear.

Should I Buy My Pre-Pregnancy Size in Maternity Clothes?

Generally, yes. Maternity brands design their sizing to match your pre-pregnancy size while adding extra room in the belly and bust. If you wore a Medium before, order a Medium in maternity activewear. If you have gained more weight than expected, check the brand’s specific size chart.


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Headshot of Jennifer Schlette, MSN, RN

Reviewed by

Jennifer Schlette, MSN, RN

Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN, is a pediatric intensive care nurse at Children's Hospital of New York for the past 14 years. Jennifer also has extensive experience teaching Maternity and Obstetric Nursing, as well as Pediatrics Nursing.