Activewear vs Sportswear: What’s the Real Difference in 2025?

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Let’s be real, everyone’s wearing activewear now. Whether you’re at the gym, grabbing coffee, or joining a Zoom call, comfort is king in 2025. But how do you know if you need activewear or sportswear?

Here’s the quick version: Activewear vs Sportswear

  • Activewear = made to move and made to style
  • Sportswear = made to play and made to win

From pink activewear sets to team-branded sportswear uniforms, this guide breaks down what fits your lifestyle or your locker room. Whether you’re building a fitness brand, managing a sports team, or outfitting your staff, we’ve got you covered with the latest styles, top brands like Gildan and Columbia Sportswear, and bulk ordering tips.

What Is Activewear?

Activewear isn’t just for workouts anymore; it has become a lifestyle essential in 2025. Whether you’re heading to yoga, running errands, or filming fitness content, today’s activewear is designed to perform and impress. From moisture-wicking activewear tops to high-waisted activewear leggings, this clothing keeps you dry, supported, and looking sharp all day. The best part? You can now shop affordable activewear, custom activewear, and plus-size activewear for every body type and activity.

Trending Activewear Must-Haves:

  • Long sleeve activewear for layering in transitional seasons or post-workout recovery.
  • Compression activewear that sculpts, supports, and enhances performance during training.
  • Gym activewear hoodies, pullovers, and joggers that blend comfort with sweat-ready tech.
  • Pink activewear plus-size activewear for women, perfect for bold, inclusive styling.
  • Custom-printed activewear is great for fitness apparel brands, bulk activewear orders, or influencer drops.

Whether you’re shopping for activewear for women, activewear for men, or kids’ activewear clothing, the options are endless. The Apparel Factory: Top brands, including Gildan Activewear and Columbia, offer styles that combine durability with style, so your gear works as hard as you do.

Perfect for:

  • Yoga, Pilates & stretching
  • Gym workouts & running
  • Daily errands & hybrid workdays
  • Athleisure wear for influencers and fitness branding

Explore styles like stylish activewear sets, breathable activewear fabrics, and custom activewear leggings that give you full freedom of movement. Whether you want to create your own branded activewear line or simply stay comfy and sharp, activewear is your answer.

What Is Sportswear?

Sportswear is all about performance, power, and presence. It’s the gear your team wears to compete and win. From custom sportswear uniforms to compression sportswear, this category focuses on function, durability, and team branding. Whether you’re outfitting a school, managing a sports league, or leading a training camp, sportswear helps build identity while enhancing athletic performance.

Must-Have Sportswear Essentials:

  • Team jerseys with logo and number printing for school or club-level matches.
  • Compression sportswear that supports muscles and reduces fatigue during training.
  • Sportswear fleece jackets and pullovers are ideal for warm-ups or colder weather play.
  • Sportswear shorts, pants, and tracksuits for everyday drills and practice sessions.
  • Custom sportswear sets are made for tournaments, school programs, and team gear packages.

Top-rated brands at The Apparel Factory, like Augusta Sportswear, Columbia, and Team 365, lead the pack when it comes to high-quality sportswear. These names are trusted by coaches, PE teachers, and team managers alike.

 Perfect for:

  • School and college teams
  • Training camps and athletic programs
  • Sports clubs and branded events
  • Coaches, referees, and support staff uniforms

Whether you need sportswear for men, women’s sportswear, or boys’ sportswear sets, go for options that are breathable, customizable, and built to last. Shop wholesale sportswear and team sportswear in bulk to get the best value and ensure your team is game-day ready.

Activewear vs Sportswear: Quick Comparison

Feature Activewear Sportswear
Use Gym, yoga, and daily lifestyle Team play, sports performance, and training
Fit Trendy, flexible, body-sculpting Structured, performance-optimized
Fabric Breathable, moisture-wicking Durable, flexible, game-ready
Custom Use Personal branding, influencer merch Team uniforms, school branding
Top Searches affordable activewear, branded activewear Wholesale sportswear, team sportswear

 

Clothing Categories: What’s Hot in 2025

From gym floors to street style, Activewear vs Sportswear 2025’s trending clothing categories are all about comfort, performance, and bold style.

Activewear Clothing Includes:

High-waisted leggings, sports bras, and tank tops
These are everyday essentials for workouts, yoga, or lounging. High-waisted leggings offer tummy control and flexibility. Breathable sports bras and tank tops keep you cool during movement. They’re stylish enough to wear beyond the gym.

 

Activewear jackets, long-sleeved tops, and performance joggers
Layering is big in 2025, and moisture-wicking jackets and joggers are in. Long sleeves t-shirts add comfort without restricting motion. These pieces are perfect for warmups, chilly mornings, or post-workout errands. Designed for comfort and movement all day.

 

Girls’ activewear sets, plus-size activewear, and yoga gear
Today’s activewear fits every body. Girls’ matching sets are perfect for school and sports. Plus-size options provide confidence and comfort with inclusive fits. Stretchable yoga gear supports every pose, flow, and stretch.

 

Affordable activewear and bulk orders for studios & brands
Outfit your team or studio without overspending. Get wholesale pricing on trending styles, with options for screen printing or embroidery. Ideal for gyms, fitness brands, and coaches looking to order in bulk. No minimums required.

Sportswear Clothing Includes:

Men’s sportswear polos, coaching pants, and fleece styles
These items are ideal for coaches and support staff. Polos offer a clean, professional look, while fleece pieces provide warmth during outdoor sessions. Track pants and coaching gear ensure mobility and style on and off the field.

 

Sportswear hoodies, jackets, and team jerseys
Sportswear layering is essential for training, travel, and game day. Lightweight team hoodies and outerwear offer warmth with mobility. Add team jerseys with logos for a bold, unified appearance that shows pride and performance.

 

Custom sportswear with logos and number printing
From youth leagues to pro teams, custom logos and number prints are a must. Personalize jerseys, warm-ups, and even accessories. Boost team identity with quality prints that last through every game and wash.

 

Boys’ sportswear sets and school sports uniforms
Durable and designed for action, boys’ sets are ready for recess, PE, or tournaments. These uniforms come in school colors and sizes for every grade level. Easy to move in, easy to care for, and easy to customize.

Popular Sports Uniforms

Baseball Uniforms:
Baseball uniforms include full-button jerseys, stretchable pants, and matching caps. Designed for game performance and sponsor visibility, they offer great branding space. Durable and moisture-wicking for long innings on the field.

 

Basketball Team Uniforms:
From breathable mesh jerseys to quick-dry shorts, basketball uniforms focus on movement and ventilation. Lightweight materials keep players cool on the court. Add player names and numbers to build team spirit.

 

Softball Uniforms:
Softball uniforms combine function and flexibility, featuring raglan sleeve tops and custom-fit bottoms. Built to handle rough slides and dirt, they come in fun colorways and bold team graphics. Ideal for both casual and competitive leagues.

 

Football Uniforms:
Designed for high-impact sports, football uniforms include stretchable compression shirts, padded pants, and practice gear. With added room for helmets and pads, they’re made for comfort and toughness. Perfect for leagues, schools, and training camps.

 

Soccer Uniforms:
Soccer uniforms include lightweight, breathable tops and shorts that dry fast during high activity. Long socks and shin guard space offer protection. These sets are ideal for youth, school, and club teams alike.

 

Volleyball Uniforms:
Volleyball uniforms are all about fit and function. Fitted tops and stretch shorts allow quick movement and dives. Available in both indoor and beach styles, they provide comfort and style under pressure.

Accessories & Must-Have Add-Ons

Top off your outfit or complete your team kit with these popular extras in 2025:

Activewear Accessories:

Sportswear Accessories:

  • Hydration packs, gloves, sun visors, and branded gear bags

Protective Gear:

  • Mouthguards, shin guards, elbow/knee pads, and performance gloves

Customize It Like a Pro

Customization is a game-changer in 2025. Whether you’re launching branded merch, building team uniforms, or selling to clients, make your gear stand out.

Choose from:

  • Embroidery – Best for jackets, polos, and caps
  • Heat Transfer – Ideal for logos on compression wear and lightweight activewear
  • Screen Printing – Great for tournament gear, giveaways, and branded t-shirts
  • Appliqué & Laser Etching – Perfect for high-end finishes and standout details

Top picks: Gildan Activewear for budget-friendly printing, Port Authority for premium cuts, and Sport-Tek activewear for outerwear with impact.

Where to Buy in Bulk (No Stress, No Minimums)

At The Apparel Factory, we make it easy to get the gear you need, whether you’re running a gym, coaching a school team, or launching your own brand. We offer wholesale activewear and bulk sportswear with no minimum order limits, fast turnaround, and access to over 250 top brands. 

Need custom branding? Choose from embroidery, screen printing, appliqué, or heat transfer to make your logo stand out. With reliable service and affordable options, we’re your go-to source for all things activewear and sportswear.

Final Take

Activewear or sportswear? Here’s the real deal:

  • If you want something to move in and chill in, grab breathable activewear.
  • If you want something to win in and represent, go for custom sportswear.

Either way, The Apparel Factory delivers bulk discounts, full customization, and no minimum orders because your brand deserves the best fit.

Conclusion: 

Choosing between activewear and sportswear isn’t just about style, it’s about what fits your goals.

  • Want to build a fitness brand or athleisure line?
    Go with branded activewear that’s stylish, breathable, and made for movement.
  • Need uniforms for a team, school, or sports club?
    Choose custom sportswear that’s durable, unified, and performance-ready.

With affordable options, bulk discounts, and top brands like New Era, Port & Company, Sport-Tek, and Bella + Canvas, The Apparel Factory is your trusted partner for everything from moisture-wicking activewear to team sportswear uniforms.

Ready to level up your apparel?

Explore our full collection of activewear and sportswear today—no minimums, full customization, and fast delivery.

Published on:

May 29, 2025

About the Author: Temer Samson

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