Gold medals are so synonymous with Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky, it's almost jarring to see her in a setting without the shiny hardware draped around her neck. Over the last two decades, no athlete has had a greater impact on women's competitive swimming than Ledecky, who — with 10 Olympic medals, 21 World Championship titles, countless world records, and three (soon-to-be four) appearances at the Olympic Games — has transcended the sport entirely. The internet might throw the "G.
O.A.T.
" label around haphazardly, but with Ledecky, it's no exaggeration — she embodies it. In the coming weeks, Ledecky will compete on behalf of Team USA Swimming once again as she sets her sights on gold, with a focus on the 800- and 1500-meter races, where she's favored. But for the superstar athlete, this year's Games also offer an opportunity for reflection — on the history of women's sports, its evolution, and more importantly, where it still has to go.
"As I look forward to this summer, the Olympics in Paris is really a full-circle moment. The 1900 Olympic Games in Paris were the first Olympic games where women could compete; swimming was not one of those events," Ledecky says. The swimmer's efforts to support the next generation of female athletes goes far beyond her own success in the pool.
Earlier this year, Ledecky joined Athleta's Power of She Collective , a dynamic community of elite athletes (which also includes Simone Biles and Katie Zaferes) that aims to empower women and girls by building confidence and strength through movement. Through the program, collective members are able to provide personal and professional mentorship opportunities for up-and-coming athletes, participate in Athleta's Power of Impact programs, and even influence the development of certain performance products and styles. "Power of She evokes a feeling of pride for me.
The camaraderie we share as female athletes goes beyond the field of play. Whether we're competing or cheering each other on from the stands, the support and positive energy from my teammates is invaluable. Those little moments of encouragement and unity make a huge difference and create a strong sense of belonging – it really is the Power of She in action," Ledecky says.
Ledecky shared a few of her favorite activewear essentials from Athleta with PS, including a supportive sports bra , cozy half zip, and mesh workout short that's equal parts stylish and breathable. To learn more about her work with the brand, visit Athleta.com .
The Best Team USA Merchandise to Shop For the 2024 Paris Olympics A High-Rise Skort Athleta Brooklyn Heights High Rise Skort ($40, originally $69) Unlike other workout skorts, this Ledecky-approved style is crafted from a recycled polyester material that's stretchy and made to move with you. Plus, its practical side pockets are perfect for holding your essentials while you're on the go — whether it be your smart phone, emergency chapstick, or even car keys. A Supportive Bra Athleta Ultimate Bra A-C ($49) For a style that provides full coverage and ample support through even the most intense training, go for this compressive sports bra.
The colorful piece is perfect for cardio or HIIT workouts, and it's fitted with a sweat-wicking material that'll help keep you cool. A Breathable Tee Athleta With Ease Tee ($49) When it comes to more low-impact workouts like yoga or studio practice, comfort is key; the baggier and more breathable, the better. This relaxed T-shirt is a great option for those looking to invest in something with a more lived-in feel.
It's oversized silhouette ensures you can move your arms with ease. Mesh Workout Shorts Athleta Mesh Racer Run Mid Rise 4 Short ($49) Harsher workouts often call for breathable, low-key styles that can keep up with you — and help keep you cool. "In practice, I often push myself to the point of exhaustion to prepare for competitions, maintaining mental toughness and resilience," says Ledecky.
These workout shorts are made from a mesh material that promotes more consistent airflow, especially during long- or short-distance runs. A Seamless T-Shirt Athleta Momentum Seamless Tee ($59) Conquer your next workout in style with the help of this top-rated seamless T-shirt. Not only does it have Ledecky's seal of approval, but it also has more than 3,000 five-star ratings on Athleta's site.
Users love its fitted silhouette, chafe-free fabric, and variety of color options. A Cozy Half-Zip Athleta Salutation Half Zip ($119) Perfect for an early-morning workout or to wear en route to the pool, this nylon zip is made from a textured compression material that feels comfortable against skin and is supremely flattering. Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space.
She currently works as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally..
