Let’s start with this: if you go to the gym and exercise, then good for you. Good for you for exercising and trying to improve yourself. Regardless of your gym exercise of choice [running, rowing, lifting, using the good girl/bad girl machine (please don’t…), etc.], it’s great to work on your physical health. Still, exercise does not justify the return of the clothing worn in Hammertime.
What NOT to Wear: Sunglasses
Let’s ignore the jeans for a moment. We’ll get to that later. Can someone please explain the reason for the shades? While there are a few legitimate reasons for wearing sunglasses in the gym, most of the time the sunglasses are just a signal of a much larger character flaw: being a douche.
Wear THIS Instead: NO Sunglasses.
Unless the muscle heavens open to you mid bench press and you are blinded by THE Broseiden lighting up the gym with protein lightning bolts, there is probably no reason for you to bring out the Oakleys. Regular glasses are okay, of course. Still, those might get in the way with all of the jumping and jiving around. You could always go with athletic eyeglasses.
What NOT to Wear: Jeans
Let’s ignore, for a moment, the fact that this fellow looks like he is preparing to scale Mt. Doom with the boys from the Shire. There is never a reason to workout in denim. Well, maybe if you are training for this or preparing for your upcoming role as the next Brawny man.
Wear THIS Instead: Nike KO Poly Fleece Men’s Training Pants
These are actually designed for exercise. Simple and comfortable, these are great when you feel like switching up your shorts routine.
$55
Available at: Nike and Dick’s Sporting Goods
What NOT to Wear: Stringer Tank Tops
Because no one wants to see your nipples. No one.
Wear THIS Instead: More Modest Tank Top
Lets you show off the guns and avoid having a Superbowl accident. This tank has a nice material blend that wicks away sweat. The abundant colorways don’t hurt, either.
$30
Available at: Dick’s Sporting Goods
What NOT to Wear: Polo Shirts
Where is the brave soul willing to tell LaRon Landry that wearing a polo in the gym is only acceptable for 70 year old gentleman. Leave the buttons at home. Extra points for the semi-popped collar.
Wear THIS Instead: adidas Clima Ultimate Short Sleeve Tee
Good fit, simple design, ample color choices. Poly blend wicks away sweat well.
$22
Available at: adidas and Sports Authority
What NOT to Wear: Five-Toed Shoes
What kind of socks can you wear with these? These shoes scream, “Hey, look at me, I just ran a 10k and shop at Whole Foods exclusively for sprouts and other micro greens.” At a functional level, they may not even be very healthy for your feet.
Wear THIS Instead: New Balance MX20v3
There are much better options for a minimalist training shoe. These look great and perform as well as they look. Remember that different shoes fill different purposes.
$99
Available at: New Balance and Zappos
What NOT to Wear: The Bill Belichick Hoodie
Are you the enigmatic leader of the New England Patriots? Do you routinely work with Mr. Gisele Bundchen? Then leave the broken down hoodie at home.
Wear THIS Instead: Nike KO 2.0 Men’s Training Hoodie
A hoodie should be comfortable and warm. This one also happens to fit closely without being too snug. Simple and clean.
$50
Available at: Nike and Dick’s Sporting Goods
What NOT to Wear: Too Much Cologne/Body Spray/Signature Scent/Natural Musk
Listen. It’s great to smell good. However, the last thing anyone wants to do while gasping for air on the treadmill is getting a whiff of that sweet new Iced Polar Fresh Nature Garden Ocean Breeze body spray. The gym shouldn’t smell like a junior high locker room.
Wear THIS Instead: MenScience Androceuticals Advanced Deodorant
Applies well and is fragrance free so you won’t suffocate your fellow gym-goer. Aluminum free is also nice. Don’t want those dreaded pit stains.
$19
Available at: MenScience and Amazon