I don’t consider myself an early adopter when it comes to trends. I prefer to stick with what I know and love, but sometimes a particular product or brand comes along that I just can’t ignore. That’s what happened when I found Quince. I first learned about the company when one of our editors reviewed their $50 cashmere sweater — yes, you read that right — and when I found out they were launching an activewear line with pieces under $50 I’m excited. After extensively testing the new activewear pieces, these are my honest thoughts.
Quince has made a name for itself as an affordable brand with a focus on high-quality, sustainably made products, and their activewear line is no exception. Made from post-consumer recycled polyester fabric containing approximately seven two-liter bottles, each piece is moisture-wicking, quick-drying and antimicrobial. Their pieces are also certified according to the Global Recycle Standard. Translation: I feel good as a consumer because I buy pieces that are better for the environment. Additionally, Quince offers transparent pricing, sharing the exact costs associated with each garment and showing how it compares to leading brands.
I’m probably the pickiest person you’ll meet when it comes to the fit and feel of my leggings. I don’t run or train particularly hard, so I don’t need compression in my leggings. Instead, I want them to feel like a second skin that moves with me while I take Pilates classes, lift weights, or run on the treadmill, and Quince’s high-rise leggings do just that. They have a fitted waistband that stays in place so they won’t slip or slip while you work out. At the same time, they are soft enough that I could lie comfortably in them.
You may notice a pattern here: I like my workout clothes to be soft. When I saw that I could create a matching set with my Ultra-Soft High Rise Leggings and this tank top, I immediately added it to my cart. I was pleasantly surprised that the top has no padding. While that means it definitely doesn’t offer maximum support, it does hold you in well and you don’t have to worry about the padding bunching up or slipping. I usually prefer a full length tank top, but when I wore it with the matching high waisted leggings, the cropped tank didn’t show too much skin for me so I still felt comfortable. Bonus points: I don’t have to worry about grabbing a bra and shirt while I get ready for the gym. This top is both at the same time.
Walking, running errands, going to the gym – I do it all in this top. I don’t normally like the feel of moisture-wicking fabrics, but Quince managed to make them feel more like soft, brushed cotton that’s comfortable to wear during all activities. I also like that the fabric has UV SPF 40, making it the perfect accessory for my hot girl walks. For just under $30, it feels like I treated myself to a high-end piece.
Just like their other products, Quince’s activewear line doesn’t disappoint. The quality of their products can be compared to high-end activewear from companies like Alo or Lululemon, but without the high-end price tag. I love that Quince makes quality activewear possible because we all deserve to feel comfortable while sweating in our workout outfits. Another reason to love Quince? They offer free shipping and returns all year round.