We shorter people know how tricky it can be to find clothes that fit; dresses are too long, trousers look ridiculous and sleeves are always way too baggy.
Other than our usual day-to-day clothes, sportswear is another department that can be a bit challenging when it comes to finding the right fit. Whether that’s folding up a hem of your favourite leggings, or struggling to find a sports bra that’s snug enough, petite individuals usually draw the short end of the stick (no pun intended).
Luckily, more and more brands are taking note and have started to introduce petite ranges of clothing, specifically designed for shorter women.
To help you find the perfect outfit for your next workout, we've scoured the web for the best petite activewear brands, as well as a few of our favourite pieces from each range.
Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections.
Adidas
Activewear giant, Adidas, offers a high range of petite ranges for both men and women. From hoodies to leggings and lots more in between, these are a few of our top picks from the range.
www.adidas.co.uk
A sportswear classic, the three-stripe Adidas joggers are a must-have. Designed with a slim fit and made from recycled content, they're available in standard, petite and tall and can even be personalised for free! Review: "I hate shopping for petite sportswear but Adidas makes it so easy with their range of petite options that I donu2019t shop elsewhere for petite sportswear now. Iu2019m 5ft 2u201d and 9st 5lbs and the joggers fit me perfectly."
www.adidas.co.uk
A basic pair of leggings is vital, and these breathable, sweat-wicking leggings tick every single box. They're made of durable material, contain seams to compliment your figure and are available in petite, as well as standard and plus size. Review: "I'm 5' 4", size 26. I got a small and it fits perfect! I love the 7/8 length! The length hits right above my ankle. It also it hides my belly button so it is high rise. The material is amazing! It's stretchy enough to feel comfortable, but also durable and sturdy when I do my stretches. I hand washed the tights and it still feels and looks brand new."
www.adidas.co.uk
Forget rolling up your sleeves, find the perfect fit in this petite striped hoodie with drop shoulders and Aeroready material. Review: "Bought this hoodie for my partner and she absolutely loves it. The style, colour, quality and fit were just what she was looking for. Iu2019ll be checking to see what else is available in the ZNE range."
Under Armour
Another brand that gets it right when it comes to petite sizing is Under Armour. While it doesn't carry petite ranges for tops or hoodies, all of the brand's leggings have short, regular and tall sizing options.
www.underarmour.co.uk
With a four-way stretch construction and chafe-free fit, the HeatGear leggings are sure to keep you toasty on your next early morning run. They're high-rise, sweat-wicking and - best of all - contain a pocket for your phone and/or keys. Review: "Bought this as a gift for my athletic daughter. After using them several times she let me know that during her workouts - running lifting stretching running again - she didn't have to worry about constantly pulling them up. She said they were comfy and great during her workouts."
www.underarmour.co.uk
Another great option available in two colourways, this pair of leggings is soft and ultra-lightweight to help carry you through your workout in a breeze. Review: "These are my absolute favourite leggings. Theyu2019re comfortable. Form-fitting. Love love love!"
www.underarmour.co.uk
A change from the classic black legging, we love the iridescent pattern that'll help you stand out. Perfect for Pilates class, the gym, or a casual day of running errands. Review: "These are so comfy for a compression legging and I love the colour, very forgiving of cellulite! They stay put, no pulling them up every half mile and don't give a muffin top, thank you Under Armour! these fit true to size."
ASOS 4505
ASOS is known for carrying a wide variety of petite sizes, so it's no surprise it's very own sportswear line ASOS 4505 caters to short people as well.
www.asos.com
Need something to throw on and head to yoga? Look no further than this simple beige long-sleeve top with open back detail. It has a relaxed fit but is still petite, so no need to worry about drowning in the oversized sleeves.
www.asos.com
This all-over camo print is great if you're tired of the same old monochrome look. The leggings are high-rise, contain reflective details and have an elasticated waist for extra comfort.
www.asos.com
Going on an early morning, or late night run? A 1/4 zip long-sleeve top is a necessity, This one is petite, so no long sleeves, and has a slim fit, close-fitting cut.
Alo Yoga
A brand we all know and love, Alo Yoga's sportswear is high quality and super comfy. While the brand does not carry a petite line per se, it does offer a huge range of 7/8 and capri leggings that are ideal for shorter women.
www.aloyoga.com
What we love most about these leggings is the amount of choice we get in terms of colours. Available in 15 different wonderful hues, the 7/8 Airlift leggings have a second-skin feel and hit the ankle on petite women. Review: "I've tried many, many brands and types of leggings but these are truly the gold standard. They are so silky smooth and comfortable. They never sag, I never have to pull them up or adjust them throughout the day. Completely worth it. They are the BEST!!!"
Alo Yoga's airbrush leggings sculpt, lift and smooth your body, all at the same time. They're designed to flatter every size and the capri fit is perfect for shorter ladies. Review: "Best leggings ever! These are the most comfortable leggings I have ever had, I bought 3 more pairs. They are very flattering. The lift and provide support in all the right places."
www.aloyoga.com
It doesn't get any softer than these Alosoft 7/8 leggings. They have a velvety feel, are moisture-wicking and are made of four-way stretch material for a move-with-you feel. Review: "Leggings are so soft! Material feels thicker than my other Alo leggings (airbrush and airlift), but still comfortable and flattering. Great on a cold day. XS fits true to size - 5u20194u201d, 104 lbs (I donu2019t like my leggings too tight). Love the dark heather grey colour."
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