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Aviator Nation (Venice, Malibu, Manhattan Beach)

GOODS & SERVICES • FOUND Shop

Back when I lived in Los Angeles in the late aughts, I’d occasionally stop by the electric-blue Aviator Nation store on Abbot Kinney in Venice to browse the buttery-soft sweats with retro designs. In its early days, Aviator Nation felt like a hip, West Coast insider label.

Since its 2006 debut, though, the brand has expanded to 20 locations nationwide, including outposts in Venice, Malibu, and Manhattan Beach. The once sweats-focused line now spans everything from puffer jackets to cashmere sweaters to activewear. That latter category is what’s brought the brand back into focus for me.

Founder Paige Mycoskie first dipped into leggings and such just under a decade ago, but earlier this fall she launched her largest collection yet, and it has become my new obsession. My forever go-to workout is SLT (what I like to call Pilates on crack). It’s a tough workout — you’re basically planking for half the class — so comfortable workout gear is non-negotiable. I’ve already expressed my love for Splits59’s Airweight leggings, and now I’m adding Aviator Nation’s new line to the rotation.

I’m especially into the vintage white ribbed high-rise leggings ($138) and matching scoop-back bra ($112). They remind me of the thermal underwear I used to wear as a kid under my snow pants, only sleeker and way more flattering. Made from nylon and spandex, the pieces are free of chemicals like PFAS, phthalates, and bisphenols, making them a safer choice than options from many other activewear brands. –Kat Odell

→ Shop: Aviator Nation (Venice, Malibu, Manhattan Beach).