A new gym accessory has been hailed as a “genius” invention by women online, but the reason behind its creation has sparked a much bigger conversation.
The $35 product promises to solve a problem many female gymgoers know all too well, and its creator says it was never designed to make men more comfortable.
But critics are questioning whether women really need another specialized piece of activewear to feel comfortable working out.
Highlights
- A $35 gym accessory is being praised as a clever solution to a problem many women face, but its purpose has sparked a bigger conversation.
- Its creator says the product was born out of unwanted attention and the pressure women feel to cover up while working out.
- While some gymgoers are calling it a game-changer, critics aren't convinced women need another piece of activewear to feel comfortable at the gym.
One person mockingly questioned online, “Great idea!! What are some of the reasons I’d use this for again?”
A viral activewear accessory designed for women promises to replace bulky sweatshirts tied around their waists at the gym
The Booty Bib is a lightweight activewear accessory that provides extra coverage over leggings or gym shorts during workouts.
Created by Los Angeles-based fitness entrepreneur Jessica Martin and launched in September this year, it uses a magnetic closure that lets women attach or remove it quickly without tying and retying a sweatshirt.
Unlike a heavy hoodie or cotton jumper, the accessory is made from breathable, sweat-wicking fabric intended to stay in place through squats, stretches, and other exercises.
It also comes with a mesh travel pouch and a double carabiner clip, making it easy to attach to a gym bag.
The product retails for around $35 and is available across the US through the brand’s website and TikTok Shop.
Jessica said the idea came from seeing how uncomfortable women could feel while exercising in public.
Creator Jessica Martin says unwanted stares and comments about women's gymwear inspired her to create the accessory
“It's the stares, the tug at your leggings, the worrying your pants are see-through,” she told news.com.au.
The accessory was designed to give women more control over how much of their bodies they want to show while working out.
Comedian Shane Gillis sparked widespread backlash after making controversial remarks about women's gym outfits during a Saturday Night Live monologue.
“I haven't been to the gym in so long, I didn't know women just dress like w**res now,” he said.
Shane added, “Look, I’m sorry, there’s no other way to describe it… They’re those neon, like, artificial bait-colored (shorts), and the wrinkles go around the cheeks, and all come together at the bu**hole. And don’t look! You’re not allowed to look.”
Women are calling the Booty Bib a “genius” idea, while critics question whether it is genuinely worth the price tag
“I think the men are mad if we're not wearing enough clothing for their liking, and they're mad if we choose to cover up,” she said.
“But this product was never intended to make men more comfortable, as the Booty Bib is for the girls, always.”
The product has received enthusiastic responses from women who say it addresses an everyday gym frustration.
One woman wrote, “When I’m on my period I always carry a cardigan or something to wrap around my waist as an extra barrier to cover up in case of unexpected leaks, and it’s bulky and annoying especially if it’s a hot day. So this is perfect even for that alone!”
Another praised the idea, saying, “THIS is a great idea!!! Not all shorts or leggings are squat proof.”
“Been in the gym my entire adult life and yet I’ve never seen anyone put as much time and energy into creating something for us gym girlies to comfortably wear… It's going to change the game for me. Truly can't wait to get mine,” a third user wrote.
Others were equally impressed, calling it “so creative” and saying the fitness industry needed such an invention.
One critic called the viral accessory “overconsumption final boss,” arguing that women already have cheaper alternatives
Martin said the response was particularly meaningful, adding, “Nothing like this has ever been made before.”
“So many women have reached out to share their personal stories of feeling uncomfortable in the gym, and how they wish this product existed sooner,” she said. “It's been super touching, and it fuels my ‘why.’”
However, not everyone is convinced that the Booty Bib is a necessary addition to women's gym wardrobes.
Another wrote, “$35??? For a piece of fabric??? I promise you a longer top or shorts works just fine.”
Others called it “Overconsumption final boss” and argued that similar coverage accessories “have existed in gyms for years.”
“100% not the world’s first booty cover haha I've been seeing these in the gym for years,” one commenter pointed out.
Another suggested, “Women could simply wear a longer T-shirt and leggings that don't ride up.”
For Martin, however, the enthusiastic response from women who have struggled with gym discomfort appears to outweigh the criticism.
“I always wrap my hoodie around me, but this would be so much better,” one supporter wrote
