As the temperatures gradually creep up, I’ve noticed a steady stream of sporty jackets filling my feed – it started with the new viral polka dot adidas Firebird collection that sells out each time new deliveries drop, and now it’s hard to ignore this rapidly growing spring/summer fashion trend 2026, that’s giving the athleisure look a contemporary rebrand.
Not only is this style of jacket super comfortable, but it’s flattering too, and thanks to its fast-growing popularity, it’s a very easy way to update your look. And it’s a great replacement for classic denim jackets in your spring capsule wardrobe. Celebrities have naturally been quick to jump on board with the silhouette too, with everyone from Alexa Chung and Jessica Alba to Anita Rani adding a sporty jacket to their outfits.
Sporty to smart
Thanks to the shorter length of most technical jackets, the waist-skimming hem means that this style works with a variety of pieces already in your wardrobe. Wondering how to style a satin slip skirt for spring? Anita Rani used hers to add a pop of colour (and an added layer of warmth) to her monochrome outfit with a bright green adidas jacket, underneath a tailored blazer, finished with a polka dot skirt. The smart casual outfit was a masterclass in how to wear athleisure in 2026, giving the whole trend a grown-up spin.
Shop the look
M&S
Cotton Rich Funnel Neck Bomber Jacket
Butter yellow is making a return for spring – team it with soft chocolate brown for a colour combination loved by stylists for effortlessly cool outfits. Lightweight, ideal for layering and in a spring-loving hue, at just £55, you can wear this design all week long, teaming effortlessly with denim, or more formal grey hues.
Hush
Maple Bubble Hem Funnel Neck Jacket
Funnelneck designs are everywhere at the moment, and it’s a hallmark of the technical jacket silhouette. This rich burgundy take on the sporty jackets trend will work with a range of looks. Try it as an accent colour in your favourite white jeans outfit. The bubble hem helps to keep the style waisted, so even though there is volume at the top, you’re still nipped in.
Nobody’s Child
White Polka Dot Funnel Neck Windbreaker Jacket
If you missed out on the limited edition adidas Firebird polka dot jacket, snap up this lookalike style from British clothing brand Nobody’s Child. I saw a very similar style at the M&S press day, and as polka dots are very of the moment, this jacket will help you to nail multiple trends with ease. The white base also makes it very warm-weather-ready.
adidas Originals
Teal Firebird Classic Track Top
Anita’s eye-popping green adidas jacket is actually from a previous season, but this teal version is a cool alternative. Add it to your jeans and blazer as an extra layer, as Anita did, team it with jeans and a tee on the weekend, or with a pair of relaxed, tailored trousers as a put-together, yet relaxed plane outfit.
H&M
Cream Nylon Windbreaker Jacket
This chic creamy windbreaker is the perfect way to introduce this sports luxe-inspired trend to your wardrobe. We love the added drawstring neck detail, which means you can create an almost ruffle-like effect, adding a little extra style to your sporty attire. The flattering cream hue makes this jacket look more expensive.
Calvin Klein Jeans
Cropped Colourblock Windbreaker in Navy
Inspired by Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s wardrobe in Love Story? Why not add a touch of Nineties style to your look with this Calvin Klein windbreaker? The most sporty of my selection, this one definitely sits in the casual sphere thanks to the graphic branding. Team with jeans for a little nostalgia.
A funnel neck technical jacket is also a great way to give your best wide-leg jeans a fresh look for the season ahead. Not only will the windbreaker style highlight your waist, but the contrast of fabrics adds a contemporary twist to even the simplest of outfits.
Whether you prefer loose-fitting blouson styles a la Alexa Chung and Jessica Alba or fitted cuts that you can slide under your blazer like Anita Rani’s, there’s a sporty jacket for every taste right now. This versatile design is the perfect lightweight layer for warm spring days. It will immediately offer an on-trend contemporary feel to every outfit, from your most comfortable jeans to midi dresses.
The key to this trend is to avoid wearing it with other sporty items, as this is what keeps the look contemporary. Apart from trainers, you want to pair your sporty jacket with slightly more structured styles, eg. jeans, tailored trousers, or slip skirts, so that you look like you’re going places rather than the gym.
Swap leggings for high-waisted wide-leg jeans, a crisp shirt and adidas Sambas for a laid-back look or juxtapose the sporty cut with a slinky slip skirt or bias-cut dress and kitten heels for a touch of Nineties nostalgia that feels bang up to date for your next date night outfit.
Sporty jackets? It’s a case of ready, steady, go!