What to Wear to the Gym If You’re a Pear Shape

Photo Credit: Jasmine

Finding activewear that fits a pear-shaped body is like trying to squeeze your curves into a size chart that was clearly made for someone else. The leggings fit your hips but sag at the waist. The tops are either too loose up top or too tight around the bottom. And don't even get us started on shorts.

Before we fix all that, let’s make sure we’re clear on what a pear-shaped body actually is.

What Is a Pear Body Shape?

Pear-shaped women tend to carry more weight through the hips, thighs, and booty—with a smaller bust and a narrower upper body. Your waist might be defined, but the lower half is where most of your shape shows up.

You might be a pear shape if:

• Your hips are wider than your shoulders

• You gain weight mostly in your lower body

• Pants are tricky, but tops usually fit well

• You’ve avoided shorts because of thigh rub, fit issues, or both

Sound like you? You’re in the right place.
If you’re still not sure, start with our How to Find Your Body Shape guide.
And when you’re ready for full outfit solutions, save How to Dress a Pear Body Shape for later.

Now, let’s fix your gym wardrobe. These are the best activewear pieces for pear-shaped women—because it’s not just about working out, it’s about feeling confident while you move.

Before you grab anything new for your wardrobe, make sure you’re actually dressing for the shape you have—not the one you're guessing at.
Start here with our Body Shape Guide — it breaks everything down in simple terms so you can shop (and dress) smarter.

1. When Leggings Fit Your Hips But Gap at the Waist

You finally get leggings over your thighs... and now there’s a whole back gap at your waistband.
High-waisted leggings with a contoured waistband or adjustable tie. Some even have a crossover top to hug your shape without the gap.
 

Soft High Waisted

$22.99

2. When Shorts Are a Hard Pass Because of Thigh Rub

Chafing? Nope. Not today.
Longer bike shorts made from buttery-soft material that doesn’t dig or ride up. Look for 7–9 inch inseams to prevent rubbing.

High Waist Buttery Soft Biker Shorts

$14.98

3. When You Want a Top That Balances You Out

You’ve got curves down below, but up top? It’s easy to feel off-balance.
A light-colored or detailed top (think: subtle shoulder design or mesh) that draws the eye upward and helps balance your proportions.

Open Back Workout Shirt

$17.98

4. When You Want Support Without Bulk

You want a sports bra that supports your bust but doesn’t add unnecessary volume to your already-curvy frame.
Go for a support bra with wide straps and a deep scoop or V neckline to keep things streamlined.

Adjustable Deep V Neck Bra

$30.99

5. When Tops Ride Up Over Your Hips

You wear a workout tank, take a few steps, and it’s halfway to your chest.
A swing or tulip-hem tank that’s flowy at the bottom and long enough to cover the hips without bunching.

Tank Tops Loose Fit

$17.99

6. When You Want to Accentuate Your Waist (Not Your Thighs)

You’ve got shape—now let’s highlight it without putting the focus on your thighs.
A belted zip-up hoodie or cinched crop jacket that defines the waist but doesn’t cling to the lower body.

Slim Fit Athletic Zip Up Jacket with Thumb Holes

$29.99

7. When You Want Flowy Bottoms But Don’t Want to Look Bigger

Not every day is a leggings day, but you don’t want to add bulk.
Tapered joggers that are roomy through the thigh but narrow at the ankle. Avoid wide-leg styles that make everything feel bigger.

Soft Tapered Leg Joggers

$34.50

8. When You Want to Feel Confident in a Set

Sets can make you feel put together—or self-conscious, depending on the fit.
A two-piece with a cropped top and high-rise leggings. The shorter top pulls focus upward while the high waist flatters your lower half.

3 Piece Workout Set

$24.99

9. When You’re Taking a Class and Want to Feel Balanced

All eyes are forward in class—so you want something that draws attention to your strong points.
Try: A supportive top with strappy or open-back detail. It creates interest up top and makes your proportions feel more balanced.

Halter Crop Top V Neck

$26.99

10. When You’re Just Trying to Feel Comfortable Running Errands After

You want to feel cute after your workout without fussing over your fit.
A loose-fit tank or sweatshirt with high-rise leggings and sneakers—an outfit that actually stays put and flatters your curves.

Piece Matching Sets Long Sleeve Cross Wrap Shirts Tube Crop Tops Fold Over Flare Pants

$37.99

Need more help dressing your shape?

Get the Pear Body Shape Style Guide for outfit combinations, wardrobe strategies, and tips that go beyond the gym.

Not sure about your shape?
Take the quiz + grab the Find Your Body Shape Guide to make it make sense.