Brand Picks: Athleta
If I had to sum up the appeal of Athleta in one word: POCKETS!
I've had the pleasure of being re-introduced to Athleta over the past six months or so. I'd tried their stuff in the past and for some reason got away from it, but I'm glad to be back...can't necessarily say the same for my wallet - ha!
Comparatively, though, Athleta's quality is amazingly in line with their price point. The fabrics are soft, the waistlines are high, and they hold up really well in the wash. I don't know about you, but I can't be bothered to separate my laundry by color, fabric, & whatever else you're supposed to do so I really need materials that hold up. I haven't experienced any pilling, shrinking, or discoloration with my Athleta gear! The items come in several different fabric styles - some are thicker and therefore better for yoga or something not super sweaty (Athleta calls them Softluxe), while others are lighter and better for your HIIT workouts or cardio (Powervita, Powerlift or SuperSonic).
One key thing to note is that Athleta's styles run a bit on the larger side. I am typically a size small in most brands, but wear an XS in Athleta leggings. I still stick with the size small for bras. They're just easier to put on when you don't feel like you're squeezing the girls into an Olympic swimsuit, ya feel me?
I will say that the top of the waistlines do tend to roll down a bit on me, but that probably has something to do with my short torso and the way my ribs are only about 4-5 inches from my hips when I sit down. If this is the way your body is set up too, just something to keep in mind.
In terms of bras, a lot of Atheta's have a long-line design which means they come down closer to the bottom of your ribs (think of a really short & tight crop top as opposed to a bra) which I tend to prefer. I feel more secure especially in workouts that require lifting your arms above your head. Goodbye, wardrobe malfunctions during the arm track of your cycling class!
I'm also a huge fan of Athleta's athleisure pieces. They have great joggers and even better jackets. I'm linking one below that I have not been able to take off this Winter - even in SoCal!
But back to the real appeal - the pockets. Every pair of Athleta leggings I own has at least one pocket on the waist that can fit something small like your keys, and some of them have a larger pocket on the leg that can fit your phone, cards, etc. This is a major win if you're anything like me and hate carrying around bags. I just tuck everything in those pockets and I'm off. We all love a ~ no baggage ~ lifestyle am I right?!
Let's break it down:
Comfort - 10/10
Fit - 9/10
Durability - 10/10
Best Suited For - HIIT, Cardio, Yoga, Pilates - we stan a versatile brand!
Diversity in Marketing - 9/10
For ease of website searching, here are some of the legging lines within Athleta that I love:
HIIT/Cardio - Salutation (in Powervita), Contender (in Powerlift)
Yoga/Pilates - Elation Ultra High Rise (in Powervita), Andes
Here are some of my favorite Athleta pieces at the moment - any questions? Hit me over on Instagram at @emilycollins, happy to chat!
Leopard Elation Ultra High Rise Tight in Powervita
Salutation Stash Pocket II 7/8 Tight in Powervita
