Searching for a new gymwear brand is harder than it should be. Half the lists online are written by people who have never touched a barbell, and the other half only exist to sell you one label. This guide is different. We are JCKD, a gymwear brand from Auckland, and yes, we appear on this list, but so do the brands we genuinely rate, including the ones we compete with. Fair is fair.
Here is how the best gym clothing brands available to lifters in New Zealand and Australia stack up in 2026.
1. Gymshark — the global giant
The biggest name in gymwear, full stop. Huge range, constant drops, and sizing for everyone. Best for: variety and availability. Watch for: you will see your outfit on three other people at the gym, and local shipping and returns run through offshore warehouses.
2. LSKD — the Aussie all-rounder
Queensland-based and moving fast, LSKD has built a loyal community around quality activewear that works for training and everyday wear. Strong in leggings and women's ranges. Best for: versatile activewear and women's training gear. Watch for: more athleisure than heavy-lifting focused.
3. JCKD Liftwear — built by lifters, made for the iron (that's us)
Auckland born and bred, shipping across New Zealand and Australia. We make heavyweight gymwear for people who actually lift: 220 GSM premium cotton tees, oversized cuts that drape right over a built frame, singlets and stringers cut for bodybuilders, and shorts made for leg day. Small drops, premium trims with 3D badges, woven labels and raised prints, and support direct from the owners. Best for: heavyweight tees and oversized fits, bodybuilding singlets, premium finish, supporting a homegrown label. Watch for: limited drops sell through, and we do not do fast-fashion volume. Shop the range.
4. Muscle Nation — the physique crowd's pick
Australian brand with a strong bodybuilding heritage and a big range across training and lifestyle. Best for: physique-fit training gear. Watch for: popular styles sell out quickly.
5. Stay Shredded — loud Aussie energy
Elite Aussie gymwear built for slaying sets and turning heads. Bold designs and strong personality. Best for: statement pieces. Watch for: style-first, less about heavyweight fabrics.
6. Ryderwear — the powerlifter's mainstay
Adelaide brand known for lifting shoes and D-Mak flats as much as apparel. Best for: lifting footwear plus gear in one order. Watch for: fashion-forward pieces rotate fast.
7. Front Runner — premium streetwear crossover
High-end finishes, embroidered and appliqued pieces that blur gym and street. Best for: premium street-gym style. Watch for: the price point matches the finish.
How to actually choose
- Fabric weight is the tell. Premium gym tees are 200 GSM and up. If a brand does not list GSM, it is usually because the answer is disappointing.
- Cut for your build. Oversized needs real drop-shoulder construction, and singlets should be cut for shoulders, not beach wear.
- Check the trims. Woven labels, quality prints that survive 50 washes, and proper hems are the difference between gymwear and a printed blank.
- Local matters. A brand based in your part of the world means real sizing advice, fast shipping across NZ and Australia, and returns that do not cross an ocean.
Frequently asked questions
What gym clothing brands are made in New Zealand?
JCKD Liftwear designs in Auckland and ships from NZ across New Zealand and Australia. Most other gymwear sold here ships from Australia or further afield.
What is the best fabric for gym tees?
100 percent combed cotton at 200 to 240 GSM balances weight, drape and durability. That is the standard our tees are built to.
Is oversized gymwear still in for 2026?
Yes. Oversized tees remain the dominant gym silhouette across NZ and Australia, and heavier fabrics have replaced the thin oversized look.
