If your activewear only works for workouts, it's probably not working hard enough to get you through more than one season.

The best pieces today need to transition seamlessly from morning walks and early Pilates classes to long travel days, coffee runs and everything in between.
Just in time for a fall fashion reset, Athleta's new drops offer breathable performance fabrics, trend-forward silhouettes and elevated textures designed to move with you all season long, and beyond.
Athleta describes the Wilder Run Collection as a blend of lightweight Featherweight Stretch fabric, airflow-enhancing construction and fashion-forward details designed for women in motion.
Meanwhile, the Fabric Shop brings soft ribbed fabrics, engineered pleating and versatile layering pieces that make everyday dressing feel a little more intentional.
Whether you're refreshing your workout wardrobe
or building a fall capsule closet, I rounded up my top Athleta pieces for under $50 and under $100 I'd buy first.
Shop new arrivals at Athleta
My favorite fall Athleta activewear pieces under $50
1. Save 30% on the Vital Sports Bra A-C | Buy now for $31.50
Athleta Vital Sports Bra A-C
Athleta's Powervita fabric is famous for feeling buttery soft, and this low-impact sports bra offers support without uncomfortable compression.
Best for: Yoga, barre and Pilates
See at Athleta
More sizes: Get the Vital Sports Bra D-DD for $45
2. Save 30% on the Transcend Wrap Crop Top | Buy now for $48.30
Athleta Transcend Wrap Crop Top
This crossover-inspired top feels more like a fashion piece than traditional activewear. Athleta's ultra-light VitaFree fabric delivers second-skin stretch while offering sweat-wicking performance and UPF 50+ protection.
Best for: Yoga, errands and elevated athleisure
See at Athleta
3. Athleta Studio Still Bra A-C | Buy now for $49
Athleta Studio Still Bra A-C
If you prefer barely-there support, this studio bra uses Athleta's lightweight VitaFree fabric and an internal shelf bra for comfortable coverage.
Best for: Low-impact workouts
See at Athleta
4. Save 30% on the Mesh Racer Run Mid Rise 4-Inch Short | Buy now for $38.50
Athleta Mesh Racer Run Mid Rise 4-Inch Short
These best-selling shorts combine a lightweight Featherweight Stretch fabric with targeted mesh ventilation, making them ideal for warmer fall days. Athleta also includes a secure zip pocket, built-in brief and reflective details.
Best for: Running, walking and outdoor workouts
See at Athleta
5. Save 40% on the Athleta Foundation Cap Sleeve Tee | Buy now for $27
Athleta Foundation Cap Sleeve Tee
This simple tee is exactly the kind of wardrobe staple I reach for constantly. The stretch cotton blend feels polished enough for travel and casual workdays while remaining comfortable.
Best for: Work-to-weekend versatility
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6. Save 30% on the Athleta Perfect Form Strappy Longline Bra A-C | Buy now for $45.50
Athleta Perfect Form Strappy Longline Bra A-C
This bra feels elevated thanks to its longline silhouette and modern strappy design, making it easy to style under jackets and oversized tees.
Best for: Studio workouts and layering
See at Athleta
More: These are the 5 styles I'd buy from Athleta's new August collections
Ready to spend a little more? Here are my top Athleta pieces for fall under $100
1. Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise Capri Legging With Pockets | Buy now for $99
Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise Capri
Athleta's fan-favorite Salutation line has developed a cult following, and this streamlined capri version keeps the buttery-soft Powervita fabric while offering a sleek, functional silhouette with pockets.
Best for: Yoga and all-day wear
See at Athleta
2. Save 20% on the Athleta Wishful Cotton Dress | Buy now for $71.20
Athleta Wishful Cotton Dress
Not every Athleta recommendation needs to be a legging. This dress is a great example of the brand's growing focus on lifestyle dressing. The heavyweight cotton fabric feels polished while remaining breathable, making it an easy throw-on-and-go option for busy mornings.
Best for: Travel, casual workdays, weekend plans and transitional fall weather
See at Athleta
3. Save 36% on the Athleta Seasoft Rib 1/4 Zip Popover | Buy now for $74.99
Athleta Seasoft Rib 1/4 Zip Popover
Every fall wardrobe needs a comfortable layer that doesn't look like gym clothes. Athleta's Seasoft collection has become one of the brand's sleeper hits thanks to its signature suede-soft feel and beautiful drape.
Best for: Airplane outfits, morning walks and cozy fall layering
See at Athleta
4. Save 30% on the Athleta Coaster Luxe High Rise Jogger | Buy now for $55.30
Athleta Coaster Luxe High Rise Jogger
These joggers have been an Athleta favorite for years thanks to the brushed Nirvana fabric and relaxed silhouette. They're the kind of pants you'll wear on flights, weekends and work-from-home days.
Best for: Travel days and lounging
See at Athleta
5. Athleta Seasoft Classic 1/4 Zip Sweatshirt | Buy now for $99
Athleta Seasoft Classic 1/4 Zip Sweatshirt
This may be the cozy fall layer worth grabbing first. Athleta's Seasoft fabric features Tencel fibers and a suede-soft finish for lightweight warmth.
Best for: Layering all fall long
See now at Athleta
More: Women are replacing basic workout clothes with Pilates-inspired styles
Is Athleta worth the price?
Athleta stands out for combining technical performance features like moisture-wicking fabrics, UPF protection and stretch with lifestyle-friendly designs that work beyond workouts.
What are Athleta's best activewear pieces for fall?
For fall, look for versatile layers like the Seasoft 1/4 Zip, Coaster Luxe Jogger and Salutation Legging, which transition easily between travel, errands and exercise.
More: I found the best back-to-school clothing deals starting at $15
What is the Athleta Wilder Run Collection?
The Wilder Run Collection is Athleta's newest performance-focused collection featuring lightweight Featherweight Stretch fabric, breathable construction, UPF 40+ protection and fashion-forward pleated details.
Shop Athleta's Wilder Run Collection
What is The Fabric Shop collection?
The Fabric Shop focuses on elevated everyday dressing, incorporating ribbed fabrics, engineered pleats and wearable layering pieces designed for versatility.
Shop Athleta's Fabric Shop
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: I found the best fall activewear under $50, here's what I'd buy first