Look closely at Golf Digest's Fitness Issue and you might spot an under-the-radar story: women's workout clothes are vastly superior to men's. The LPGA stars featured in the May issuewere all swagged out head-to-toe in super-cool looks but when I go to the gym, it's still a sea of dudes in frat tees and mesh shorts. Finding workout clothes that are functional and aesthetically versatile is tough for guys -- we just don't look good in leggings. But just because there's not a #bandier for us yet, doesn't mean there aren't smart ways to upgrade our sweat style. Here are some of my favorite pieces in the market this season with a few tips on how to wear them in more than one way.
ICNY Reflector Gradient Sock
In 2012 designer Mike Cherman was hit by a car while riding his bike. The accident inspired him to create ICNY, a line of active clothing and accessories designed with high-res reflector details. These are cool casual socks, and the added safety benefit of the reflecting gradient makes them perfect for early morning runs or rides.$19icnysport.com
Patagonia Baggies Short
The Baggies short is one of those iconic Patagonia products that have been in its line for decades. The fast drying, well fitting, sturdy nylon short works great as a swim trunk or a running short. I also wear mine with a washed out oxford shirt and my canvas sneakers to barbeques all summer long.$49patagonia.com
Adidas Aktiv Printed Short
I've seen a ton of women moving toward patterned and printed running tights (see Cheyenne Woods image from her May spread), and it works just as well for men's shorts, too. You get some more leeway to mess with print and pattern with your workout gear. Also, a portion of the sales from all Adidas "Aktiv" styles goes to support Aktiv Against Cancer and its cancer charities around the world.$45adidas.com
H&M Tailored Sweat Pant
The tailored sweat pant is quickly becoming a casual-wear staple for men. Whether you're working out or just walking around the corner to get the paper, the slim-fit sweat is actually something you'll be able to wear comfortably and stylishly outside the house.$34.95hm.com
Travis Matthew Graphic Tee
This Stradling White graphic tee from TM's new Red Fitness capsule looks like your standard cotton tee but is made from the company's modal single-stretch Drytech fabric. The shirt is designed to work like the other active tech shirts on the performance market but looks like something I'd actually wear outside the gym. Layer this under a denim shirt and a pair of chinos and your set for spring.$41.95Travis Mathew
Nike Fly Windrunner
A superlight nylon layer is great for early mornings on and off the course. Just like the short/tight idea, tonal prints are a great way to add interest to the top half of your outfit. The micro design actually makes this easier to wear with other bolder prints but look just as sharp with solids as well. For extra credit, layer this under a more formal wool jacket and a pair of jeans to create some really interesting contrast.$110Nike
Nike AW77 Full Zip Hoodie
The AW77 hoodie is one of my favorite pieces from Nike's new Nike Golf Club collection of hybrid active/golf wear. The raglan sleeve gives you extra mobility in the shoulder and arm and makes this the perfect sweatshirt for chillier afternoons on the range. The black-on-black Nike logo makes this feel less sporty and again, more like something I'd throw together with some dark denim and my white sneakers if I were headed out to my local bar.$80Nike
