We all know the big players in athleisure—Lulu, Alo, Vuori. But let’s be real for a minute: there’s a whole world of lesser-known brands out there bringing fresh energy without all the hype and celebrity sponsorships.
If you’re the type who likes to be a step ahead, this list is your next move. These seven under-the-radar brands don’t just play it safe with comfort; they bring their own flavor, combine innovation and quality, and all have a pretty dope look.
So, if you’re ready to level up your closet with something that stands out from everyone else, let’s dive in. You can thank me later.
1. INTO THE AM Apparel
INTO THE AM kicked off in 2012 with bold graphic tees that got attention. Today, they’ve expanded to polos, hoodies, and joggers, keeping that same appeal. They’ve found a good balance between casual and practical, making it easy to look sharp without trying too hard.
The All Day Pants cost $89.95 and have a nice stretch ready for all-day movement. They come with zippered pockets, a comfortable waistband, and extra room where it counts.
The Long Sleeve Hooded Active Tee is $39.95, which isn’t bad. The tee has moisture-wicking, anti-odor tech and a hood to add more of an athletic feel. Both pieces keep things simple and comfortable while adding a little interest to the everyday lineup.
2. Edge Lifestyle Clothing
Edge Lifestyle Clothing, founded by Boston-based strength coach and author David de las Morenas, brings a no-nonsense approach to men’s essentials. He’s known for teaching men how to level up in confidence and fitness, and David’s brand is all about gear that complements the work you put in without over-complicating things.
The Essential Tee V2 costs $42 and has a relaxed athletic fit that shows off your build with a slight swoop hem to keep it in place. Made from upgraded performance cotton, it’s soft, breathable, and ready for anything from office hours to whatever unfolds at night.
The Active Chinos cost $97 and blend comfort with versatility, featuring a tapered fit and a stretch waistband that moves with you. These chinos keep it clean, whether you’re tucking in or keeping it casual.
3. 021 Originals
021 Originals blends California’s surf vibe with Rio’s bold street style, aiming to uplift Rio’s favelas while making apparel that crosses borders. They focus on quality, affordable pieces with a purpose—bringing people together through style and community impact.
The Essential Drop-Cut T-Shirt costs $28 and is made with 95% cotton and 5% spandex, which keeps its shape all day. This tee has a drop-cut hem, which adds more of a modern fit without overdoing your look.
The Essential Drop-Cut Hoodie comes in at $60 and is crafted from a tri-blend fleece fabric that’s as soft as it sounds. It has an athletic fit and a drop-cut bottom to elongate the look, giving you that put-together dope vibe.
4. TexTale
TexTale was founded by former tech pros who set out to create no-fuss, high-quality clothes built to perform. Starting small, they tested every detail to get it right. Beyond great clothes, they push for a sustainable future with OEKO-TEX and B Corp certifications. They partner with fabric innovators from Japan and Taiwan to bring fresh tech into the mix.
Their _FRESH Stain-Repel Signature Tee ($40) is built for the long haul with EasyClean™ hydrophobic fabric that shrugs off spills. With a blend of cotton, modal, and spandex, it’s soft, breathable, and pre-shrunk to keep its shape.
Then there’s the _FRESH Rain-Repel Hoodie ($99), made with a special cotton-modal mix that’s rain-resistant and soft as ever. Hidden pockets keep essentials out of sight, and the 3D-cut collar is all about ease.
5. Black Crest Clothing
Black Crest combines military precision with modern design, crafting resilient, purpose-driven gear for life’s demands. Born from special operations roots, this brand champions strength, honor, and self-growth—values stitched into every piece.
The Vicinity Hoodie is $114 and combines comfort with practical features from 4-way stretch French terry that wicks moisture and resists odors. It’s got an invisible sleeve pocket for cards and keys so you won’t lose track of your essentials.
The Interval Jogger comes in at $111 and is made from recycled water-repellent fabric with antimicrobial properties. These joggers have zippered pockets, a gusset for flexibility, and a soft waistband that will keep things comfortable.
6. BLNK LÉBL
BLNK LÉBL pulls straight from L.A.’s coastal vibe, built for those who get the beauty in keeping things simple and real. Forget mass appeal—this brand’s a tribute to laid-back coastal life, crafted locally with an edge that nods to the ocean without the surfer vibe.
The BLNK Tee costs $50 and nails it with a buttery rayon-spandex blend and a coastal cut that flatters without trying too hard. Thanks to the color-fixed treatment, it keeps that fresh look, wash after wash. Consider it your low-key essential that doesn’t need to shout.
7. CO36
CO36 is all about balancing the urban work-life vibe with style and comfort. Founded by David Saalkind, who began with neckties in 2016, CO36 has grown into a community-focused brand about making men look sharp and feel comfortable, whether at the office, on a date, or traveling. With minimalist designs that evolve alongside modern needs, CO36 brings people together through stylish and functional clothing.
The Crewneck T-Shirt costs $35 and is a heavyweight tee with a slim fit and soft, stretchy fabric that pairs easily with a jacket or blazer. The Co Polo Shirt costs $54 and goes further, featuring a stitched-down collar to keep it looking sharp and ultra-soft fabric versatile enough for any setting.
Best Athleisure Brands
We’ve curated the top men’s athleisure brands all in one place. We’ve built a brand directory with brands like BYLT Basics, Cuts Clothing, Vuori, and Ministry of Supply. We feature brands like Black Ember, Ekster, and Alpaka, each making some of the dopest backpacks, totes, and sling bags.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Michael Brito
Michael Brito is the editor-in-chief for Athleisure Wear for Men (AW). He launched this site in 2024 as a hobby. He’s a TEDx speaker and leads global analytics for Zeno Group, an integrated communication agency. Connect with him on social media.
