No matter what goals you’re setting for 2025, the new year is the perfect time to establish new intentions for yourself. But before you lace up your running sneakers, it’s essential to ensure you have the right gear to help you succeed.
The market for health gear is overflowing with devices and tools promising to help you achieve your fitness goals, but not every product lives up to its claims. Luckily, PEOPLE Tested has been trying out the latest health gear all year, and we’ve got a slew of products that we genuinely love and recommend. Our team of marathon runners, yoga practitioners, and pilates regulars have personally tested everything from comfortable sneakers to smart rings to headphones.
Ahead, you’ll find top-performing sneakers, leggings, massage guns, and more of the best health and fitness gear we tested this year starting at $16.
Best Fitness Gear We Tested
- Hoka Bondi 8, $132 (orig. $165); zappos.com
- Theragun Relief Massage Gun, $149; amazon.com
- Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant, $128; shop.lululemon.com
- Oura Ring 4, $349; amazon.com
- Under Armour Crossback Mid-Impact Sports Bra, $25 (orig. $35); amazon.com
- Apple AirPods Pro 2, $190 (orig. $249); amazon.com
- Hoka Arahi 7, $145; zappos.com
- Sperax Walking Pad, $82 with coupon (orig. $180); amazon.com
- Spanx Spanxshape Booty Boost Flare Pant, $108; spanx.com
- Saucony Cohesion 13 Running Shoe, $55 (orig. $75); amazon.com
Hoka Bondi 8
We tested Hoka shoes in not one but four tests last year, and the Bondi 8 came out ahead more than once. It topped our list of the best Hoka Shoes and earned a spot as one of the most comfortable sneakers for seniors. It’s popular for its ultra-cushioned base, immediate comfort, and support for low- and high-impact activity.
Theragun Relief Massage Gun
When we compared the best Theragun devices, this handheld massage gun impressed us the most thanks to its comfortable, ergonomic design, multiple settings, and compact size. Plus, it helped relieve some pain, tension, and stiffness for our tester.
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant
The competition may be fierce, but these earned the title of our favorite Lululemon leggings. They’re buttery-soft and provide enough compression for any activity. When we tested these leggings, we appreciated that they never sagged or needed adjustment. Plus, they have convenient side pockets that can hold your keys and phone.
Oura Ring 4
PEOPLE senior shopping editor Nicola Fumo has been wearing an Oura ring for over five years, and the ring has helped her stay motivated over time. It tracks heart rate, breathing, temperature, and more to deliver daily scores that let you keep track of your health. Whether you’re looking to improve your sleep or activity levels, this wellness tracker will help you build healthy habits.
Under Armour Crossback Mid-Impact Sports Bra
This sports bra is supportive enough for larger busts, and it costs significantly less than many other top-performing sports bras. During testing, it kept everything in place during HIIT workouts, providing a comfortable fit and a worry-free sweat session.
Apple AirPods Pro 2
These wireless earbuds are great for workouts since the comfortable and secure fit ensures they’ll stay in no matter what your training entails. They’re the best wireless earbuds we’ve tested, and they impressed us with their sound quality, noise cancellation, and easy setup.
Hoka Arahi 7
One of our editors walks with overpronation and found that this Hoka shoe alleviated all pain associated with that type of gait. The Arahi shoe actively pushes against the inner wall of your foot to improve its alignment during steps. Plus, it showed little wear at all after a year of regular use.
Whatever your fitness goals are for 2025, the right clothing, tech devices, and running shoes can motivate you to get started. Keep scrolling for more fitness gear we’ve tried and enthusiastically recommend.
Sperax Walking Pad, $82 with coupon
Spanx Spanxshape Booty Boost Flare Pant
Saucony Cohesion 13 Running Shoe
90 Degree by Reflex Fleece-Lined Leggings
All In Motion Seamless Medium Support Cami Sports Bra
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