H&M’s New Activewear Collection Is Inspired by Hot Pilates, Saunas & Cold Plunges

Heat-based training and recovery rituals are all the rage. H&M Move’s latest wellness edit suggests their influence on activewear design may just be getting started

H&M is coming in hot for 2026, literally.

The retailer’s activewear division, H&M Move, has launched a new wellness-focused activewear collection headlined by SculptMove, a body-enhancing, smoothing fabric inspired by hot Pilates, infrared saunas and cold plunging.

Described as featuring sculpted silhouettes with nods to ’90s minimalism, the collection has rolled out globally in select stores and online, just as consumers head into the new year with renewed focus on fitness and wellness goals.

The drop includes flared and classic leggings with a deep-V back panel, a cropped long-sleeve top with a square neckline, a zip-up jacket, scrunch-detail hot pants, playsuits, tanks and sports bras in ink black, ivory white, soft sand and pomegranate.

“This collection is about glowing from the inside out, facing the future with purpose and power and feeling excited,” H&M Move head of design Marie Fredros said. “We wanted to channel all the energy, anticipation and transformation that comes with starting a new year into pieces that will make you feel and look like the best version of yourself.”

The release also includes coordinated accessories, including hand and wrist weights, a frosted translucent tote, a non-slip mat towel, a one-piece swimsuit, waterproof and sweat-proof jewelry and self-care items such as a metallic face roller and a gua sha facial sculptor.

What stands out is that while activewear was once designed mainly for movement, H&M Move’s latest drop suggests recovery practices now have a seat at the design table.

The move also lands amid heightened competition from NikeSkims, Vuori, and leadership turnover in the activewear space. 

At Lululemon, a looming CEO transition following recent operational tightening has been compounded by a proxy fight initiated by founder and major shareholder Chip Wilson, as the brand searches for its next chief. Current CEO Calvin McDonald, who’s led the activewear giant since 2018, is set to depart Jan. 31.