In the second half of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century, a distinct development of physical culture took place, and a growing interest in sport and recreation was noted. Those changes were also observed in Galicia. The arrival of new forms of physical activity and the growing popularity of the already existing sports were accompanied by the transformation of customs and mentality. One of the most important issues accompanying the changes concerned clothing which had to be adjusted to safety requirements, hygiene and comfort. However, etiquette, aesthetics and ethics stood in the way. Additionally, the problem was dependent on the level of institutionalization and professionalisation of the sport and on the gender and social status of the participants. The co-dependence and the dynamics of changes taking place in the physical culture, sports fashion and mentality are presented in memoirs, press and iconography: painting and photography.