The 17 Best Pieces of Super Comfy Gear for Low-Impact Workouts

For a long time, my relationship to exercise was all about doing hardcore, high-intensity, high-impact workouts as a way to prove to myself (and others) that my plus-size body could keep up. Then, I discovered the TikTok “soft girl era” trend, where the exercise focus is on low-impact workouts that feel good for your body (read more about my transformation to soft girl era workouts here.)

I shifted from HIIT and powerlifting to gentler pursuits like yoga, aqua aerobics, and Pilates, and my fitness journey evolved beyond routines to embrace peace and self-care. The clothes and gear for these low-impact workouts were different, too, and  getting the right goods helped streamlined each activity.

If you’re interested in joining me in prioritizing feeling good and entering your low-impact era, these are the top 17 items I adore—tried and tested on my size 20 body—that have helped me make the switch.

The best low-impact workout gear, at a glance

• Universal Standard Next-To-Naked Bodyshort, $108
• Land’s End Soft Cup Tugless Sporty One Piece Swimsuit, $83
• Nike Zenvy Women’s Gentle-Support High-Waisted 8″ Biker Shorts, $60
• Tala FormTech Open Back Racer Tank, $52
• Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging, $97
• Superfit Hero Zip Front Sports Bra, $75
• Juno Active Stretch Naturals Full Fit V-Neck Bra Top, $55
• Old Navy PowerSoft Square-Neck Athletic Dress, $55
• Girlfriend Collective Bianca One Shoulder Bra, $52
• Pointe Studio Happy Full Foot Grip Sock, $16
• Keen Newport H2 Sandals, $130
• LeIsfIt Water Shoes Quick-Dry Aqua Socks, $10
• Sipsey Wilder Olive Green Splash Proof Fanny Pack, $34
• Girlfriend Collective Please Recycle Backpack, $41
• Nike Dri-FIT Fly Unstructured Swoosh Cap, $28
• YETI Rambler 18 Oz Water Bottle with Color-Matched Straw Cap, $30
• Kinfield All Star Anti-Chafe Balm, $18

Shop the best low-impact workout gear for your ‘soft girl era’

Clothing

Universal Standard Next-To-Naked Bodyshort — $108.00

If you spot me in a Pilates class, chances are I’m sporting this body short unitard. Its soft, flexible fabric moves seamlessly with my body through every exercise. Paired with grippy socks, it not only feels comfortable but also accentuates the roundness of my hips beautifully. The adjustable double straps provide excellent support, eliminating the need for an extra sports bra. Also it’s made from sweat-wicking, antimicrobial fabric—ideal for feet-in-straps and transitioning to a post-Pilates matcha outing, making it the perfect chic one-piece.

Available sizes: 00–40

Pros:

• Truly inclusive sizing
• Machine-washable
• Super-soft
• Wicking
• Anti-microbial

Cons:

• Only comes in 3 colors

Land's End Chlorine Resistant Soft Cup Tugless Sporty One Piece Swimsuit — $83.00

Water aerobics is an excellent low-impact workout that enhances your range of motion while keeping you cool, especially during the summer heat. Given the buoyancy in water, these classes incorporate squats and jumping movements, so it’s essential to have everything securely in place before starting. This swimsuit features a classic athletic design with a simple scoop neck and lower-cut leg openings. Its standout attribute is the spandex fabric, which provides superior resistance to chlorine, sunscreen, UV rays, and sweat. This material ensures the suit remains “tugless”—no more adjusting after every movement. You can confidently perform flutter kicks, jumping jacks, and squat jumps without worrying about your suit or stressing your joints!

Available sizes: 2–26W

Pros:

• Multiple sizes in regular, petite, long, and plus
• UPF 50
• Sewn-in cups
• Fabric resists breaking down through sun, sweat, salt, and chlorine
• Often on sale

Cons:

• Plus sizes only have a couple of colors
• Not recommended to machine wash

Nike Zenvy Women's Gentle-Support High-Waisted 8" Biker Shorts — $60.00

I confess, I own these shorts in multiple colors—they’re my ultimate go-to for low-impact activities. The fabric is lightweight and incredibly soft, perfect for every bend and stretch. Plus, they come with a convenient drop-in pocket at the center back that’s surprisingly spacious. I can fit my phone, ID, keys, and even a lip balm in there! It’s like they were designed for those of us who like to carry all our essentials with us.

Available sizes: 00–4X

Pros:

• Several size options
• Soft, squat-proof fabric ideal for yoga
• Functional pockets
• Machine washable

Cons:

• Plus sizes don’t come in many colors

Tala FormTech Open Back Racer Tank — $52.00

When I indulge in my perfect weekend routine—early morning walk to Pilates, grabbing a matcha latte, getting my nails done in classic red, and spending the afternoon reading in the park—I need a top that can keep up with me. This one does it all. It looks fabulous, feels amazing, and never rides up thanks to its racerback design and cropped length. I’ve even worn it out to dinner, creating a minimal, chic silhouette perfect for when that bowl of pasta arrives.

Available sizes: 2XS–4XL

Pros:

• Sweat-wicking
• Inclusive sizing
• Classic styling
• Made with recycled polyester

Cons:

• Only a few colors
• Returns are not free

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging — $97.00

If I could, I’d wear these leggings everywhere—to work, dinner parties, the movies . . . okay, I’ve definitely worn them to the movies. The Beyond Yoga Spacedye staple leggings are a revelation. With zero inside seams and a supportive compression structure, they’re a dream to move in. Plus, they’re moisture-wicking to keep you dry, no matter how intense your feet-in-straps Pilates move (or your popcorn consumption) gets.

Available sizes: XXS–4X

Pros:

• Inclusive sizing
• Tons of colors
• Buttery soft
• Wear-tested

Cons:

• Pricey, but seasonal colors often go on sale

Superfit Hero Zip Front Sports Bra — $75.00

Even if I’m taking a stretch class, I still need the support of a sturdy sports bra. As much as I love a bralette, my chest won’t think twice before popping out during cat-cow pose. This sports bra strikes the perfect balance—stretchy enough for easy movement during low-impact workouts, yet compressive enough to keep everything securely in place. The adjustable straps and easy zipper front closure ensure you get the support you need without any surprises.

Available sizes: L–7X

Pros:

• Specifically made for larger bodies
• Neutrals and patterns to choose from
• Zip-front with adjustable straps

Cons:

• Longline design may not be comfortable for everyone
• Not available in smaller sizes

Juno Active Stretch Naturals Full Fit V-Neck Bra Top  — $55.00

I love a sports bra that feels like it’s barely there, especially when you’re stretching, bending, and adjusting poses. This one stands out because it doesn’t weigh you down or restrict your movement. Crafted with soft cotton and a touch of spandex, this double-lined bra top features a no-chafe, 1-inch elastic band that keeps everything securely in place.

Available sizes: XL–6X

Pros:

• Medium support
• No-chafe band
• Super soft fabric

Cons:

• Limited colors
• Not available in smaller sizes
• Cotton fabric makes it best for no-sweat workouts

Old Navy PowerSoft Square-Neck Athletic Dress — $55.00

This is my go-to dress for long walks to meet friends, paired perfectly with my trusty sneakers. Lightly compressive with a soft, smooth material and built-in shorts, it’s the ultimate soft girl summer dress. The flattering square neck beautifully showcases your neckline, especially with a sleek, slicked-back bun. It’s a versatile piece that’s ready to throw on and head out in style.

Available sizes: XS–4X

Pros:

• Built-in shorts
• Great price point, often on sale
• Sweat-wicking
• Light compression

Cons:

• Few colors
• Sizes sell out quickly

Girlfriend Collective Bianca One Shoulder Bra — $52.00

Another Girlfriend Collective pick, I spotted someone rocking this outfit in my Pilates class and had to know where they got it. This low-impact shoulder bra, with its supportive band, looks as elegant in a low lunge as it does when you treat yourself to a post-workout matcha. Paired with matching shorts and sneakers, it’s the ultimate look-good-feel-good power move.

Available sizes: XXS–6XL

Pros:

• Tons of colors
• Inclusive sizing
• Smoothing + sculpting

Cons:

• Double-lined fabric can get warm

Pointe Studio Happy Full Foot Grip Sock — $16.00

In my former hardcore workout life, I constantly struggled with arch pain during workouts, often having to pause to stretch mid-class. Pilates, especially balancing on the foot bar, exacerbated my concerns for my poor feet. Then, I stumbled upon these fantastic grippy socks—cute, with compression arch support and no-slip grip. The smiley face on the top is a nice pick-me-up touch to a classic grippy.

Available sizes: S/M and M/L

Pros:

• Excellent grip
• Nice arch support

Cons:

• Pricey, but most grip socks are
• Sizes only go up to a women’s 10

Shoes

Keen Newport H2 Sandal — $130.00

Even in a low-impact lifestyle, sweating, overheating, or slipping on a rock during a nature walk can still happen. That’s why I’m obsessed with these hybrid sandals. They’ve got the classic KEEN Toe Bumper to protect you from sharp objects in water and cutouts to keep your feet cool when the sun is relentless. Plus, with eco-friendly anti-odor technology, they fend off stinky feet without pesticides.

Available sizes: Women’s 6–11

Pros:

• Hybrid of sandal and shoe for summer and water comfort
• Tons of colors
• Adjustable fit

Cons:

• Pricey, but often on sale

LeIsfIt Water Shoes Quick-Dry Aqua Socks — $10.00

Perfect for aqua aerobics or a beach stroll, these ultra-lightweight water shoes are a game-changer for all your aquatic adventures. On my low-impact journey, I’ve been hiking nature trails and exploring streams and rock crossings, and these shoes’ anti-slip texture keeps my clumsy self steady. I love that I can fold them up and toss them in my fanny pack, ready for any surprise streams. They slip on easily without laces and dry quickly thanks to their fine mesh structure—ideal for spontaneous water escapades!.

Available sizes: Women’s 6–16

Pros:

• Inexpensive
• Easy to pack
• Quick dry
• Tons of colors

Cons:

• Not the most durable

Accessories

Sipsey Wilder Olive Green Splash Proof Fanny Pack — $34.00

I’m the type of person to carry everything I might need on a hike in nature: my portable charger, sunscreen, snacks, first aid supplies. And it all needs to stay dry while I traverse the elements. This fanny pack is perfect for all soft girl era workouts, from outdoor walks to kayaking, paddle boarding, camping, hiking, waterparks, or any adventure where I might get caught in the rain. What I really love about it is the adjustable strap, which ranges from 20″ to 45″, with an optional 12″ extender, making it versatile for a wide range of people. The olive green color coordinates perfectly with all my outfits (coordination is key for me!), but the entire product line is designed to be both stylish and practical.

Available sizes: OS, plus an extender

Pros:

• Option for a 12-inch extender for more inclusive sizing
• Water-resistant fabric and construction
• Side webbing

Cons:

• No space for water bottles
• Only a few colors/patterns

Girlfriend Collective Please Recycle Backpack — $41.00

Can you tell I have a favorite workout gear brand? This water-resistant backpack from Girlfriend Collective not only sports a sleek, minimal design and padded straps for comfort, but also scores eco-friendly points by being made from recycled plastic bottles. And, the most important backpack benefit, it carries everything I need when hitting a trail.

Available sizes: OS

Pros:

• Water-resistant
• Made from recycled materials

Cons:

• Not super adjustable
• Pricey when not on sale

Nike Dri-FIT Fly Unstructured Swoosh Cap — $28.00

Hot girl walks can be brutal when the sun is blazing. I’ve had my fair share of forehead burns because I got too engrossed in my podcast and forgot to reapply SPF. Enter this low-panel hat, my new hero. It keeps my face from melting and has low sides and a minimal design that adds a touch of personality while seamlessly fitting into your hot girl walk ensemble. Plus, it’s made from recycled plastic bottles—so you can stay cool and eco-friendly.

Available sizes: S/M, M/L, and L/XL

Pros:

• Several sizes
• Stretchy and wicking
• Soft and unstructured

Cons:

• Hand wash only

YETI Rambler 18 Oz Water Bottle with Color-Matched Straw Cap — $32.00

Just because you’re into low-impact workouts doesn’t mean your water bottle shouldn’t be as tough as nails—and as cute as a fresh manicure to boot. This insulated bottle keeps your cold drinks icy for hours, thanks to its double-wall construction. Plus, the wide straw insert makes hydration a breeze, especially during those intense hot yoga sessions where you’re praying for mercy. And fear not the leaks—this bottle is as leak-resistant as it gets, ensuring your tote stays dry even when your workout clothes are soaked. With a rainbow of colors to choose from, and options for custom designs and monograms, you can hydrate in style and personalize it to match your vibe.

Pros:

• Strong and stylish
• Leak-resistant
• Dishwasher-safe
• Tons of colors

Cons:

• Pricey

Kinfield All Star Anti-Chafe Balm — $16.00

Nothing disrupts a soft girl era faster than chafing. Imagine this: You’re on your hot girl walk, dressed in your matching set and headphones, and suddenly, the burn from your inner thighs ruins your day. NO MORE. This anti-chafe dream contains skin-nourishing ingredients like plum oil and apricot kernel oil to naturally repair and soothe irritated, damaged skin. Keep it in your bag for all skin-rubbing issues. Plus, it smells fantastic.

Pros:

• Vegan
• Plant-based oils
• Travel size

Cons:

• Fragrance may be off-putting to some (but I love it)