There's a small change happening in the world of activewear and it's anything but neutral. For too long workout clothes have stayed safe, black leggings, grey top, occasional navy sports bra. But now? Bold is back just in time for Summer. And this time it's not just fashion its about function, mood and motivation.
At FlipBelt, practical design has always been our foundation, but we believe your workout gear should reflect you too.
Color Isn’t Just Cute. It’s Science
Do you ever notice how slipping into a bright outfit just feels better? Or how adding a pop of color, or matching a cute top and bottom can shift your whole vibe? It’s not just in your head. Studies in color psychology show that certain colors can have a direct impact on your mood and energy levels. Wearing red, for example, has been linked to increased physical performance and confidence. Yellows and oranges can uplift your mood, while blues and greens tend to bring a calming, balanced energy, perfect for pre-run nerves or post-workout recovery.
The idea isn’t just to look good (although you will), it’s to feel more inspired, more motivated, and more yourself. That extra little boost of confidence you feel when you love your outfit. That’s real, and it can actually help improve how you show up in your workout.
It’s a Mindset Shift
There’s a confidence that comes from choosing something bold, especially when you’re not totally “feeling it” that day. Color helps you fake it until you make it. You might not want to go to the gym or on a run, but your outfit says you’re going to crush it anyway. You might feel off, but your Moss Green Shorts say you’re moving forward.
Small details like that matter more than we give them credit for. They become signals: “I’m not hiding. I’m not shrinking myself today. I showed up.”
You Don’t Have to Be Loud to Be Bold
Not everyone wants to wear hot pink, and that’s okay. Bold doesn’t have to mean neon. Sometimes, bold is just trying something new: swapping black for a dark blue, charcoal for a white or mixing pieces you wouldn’t normally pair. It’s about stepping into your identity, your power, and your mood on purpose.
Color can be subtle. It can be soft. But it always says something.
3 Ways to Style colorful Shorts (and Actually Wear Them Everywhere)
Here’s how we’re rocking ours:
- For the gym: Pair Velvet Midnight with a Black Running Short Sleeve for a sleek but powerful look. Add some wireless earbuds and you’re ready to zone in.
- Feeling cute: Go softer with Dune compression shorts and a Blossom Pink running tee. Whether you're headed to hot yoga or grabbing coffee after, it's the perfect sweet-but-strong combo.
- For post-run errands: Throw on Soft Army Compression Shorts with a cozy hoodie and sneakers. You’ll feel comfy but still put-together, like athleisure was made for you.
- For a morning or night run: Go full-on bold with Etles Colored Tank Top or Gulf Blue Running Shorts. Bright tones help with visibility (especially at night), and they seriously level up your running photos.
Let Your Workout Wardrobe Reflect You
In a world where we’re constantly managing stress, motivation, and energy, the clothes we wear, especially while moving, can make a big difference. Choosing bold, confident colors is like sending a message to yourself and others: “I showed up today. I’m here. I’m doing this for me.”
And that might be the most empowering thing of all.
So, whether you're a trail runner, gym rat, or just someone who wants to feel good in their skin, don’t be afraid of a little color. Step outside the black-and-grey box. Experiment. Express yourself. Feel different, because you are.