The 17 Best Pieces of Low-Impact Workout Gear for Your Soft Girl Era

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.