Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer deep discounts on activewear, but rushing to snag the best deals can lead to costly errors. A poorly fitting or impractical “bargain” isn’t a saving—it’s wasted money. With nearly 14 years of experience in fitness, we’ve seen these mistakes firsthand. Here are five common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring your workout gear actually enhances your training.
1. Prioritizing Aspirations Over Reality
It’s tempting to buy high-end gear hoping it will magically improve your fitness. That premium running jacket won’t make you a marathoner if you don’t actually run. Focus on your current routine. If you’re a beginner, invest in well-fitting daily trainers first. That fancy running watch can wait until you’ve established a consistent training schedule.
2. Choosing Price Over Fit
A 50% off shoe is useless if it doesn’t fit. Blisters, muscle aches, and gait issues are the result. Fit and functionality matter most. Know your foot size, width, and arch type. Consider a gait analysis (often free at running stores) or stick to models that have worked well in the past. For clothing, measure your waist, chest, and hips and check user reviews for sizing discrepancies—compression fabrics often run small.
3. Falling for Fake Discounts
Retailers inflate “original” prices to create a false sense of urgency. Verify discounts using price tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon). Don’t dismiss older models; annual releases often have minimal differences, but drastically different prices.
4. Shopping Based on Looks Alone
That stylish workout top may look great, but it won’t perform well if it’s the wrong fabric. Match materials to your activity. Moisture-wicking fabrics (polyester, propylene, nylon) are best for high-intensity workouts. Compression fabrics (spandex) are ideal for strength training. User reviews can confirm whether a fabric suits your routine.
5. Ignoring the Return Policy
Many retailers switch to “final sale” policies during Cyber Monday. That half-size-too-small shoe might be unreturnable. Always read the fine print and shop at stores with generous return policies. REI, Zappos, and dedicated running brands offer peace of mind if the fit isn’t right.
Smart shopping for activewear means prioritizing fit, functionality, and a solid return policy. Avoid impulse buys and focus on gear that complements your current fitness level and routine.
