As a fitness instructor, workout apparel is a large part of my wardrobe. Over the years, I have found a few quality brands that I gravitate toward whenever I need to refresh something in my closet or look to add another piece.
However, I am always excited to try new brands and gear to see how they perform and try new styles. I was very excited when I was asked to try a few pieces from Wild Rye Apparel, which states they are “dedicated to crafting both beautiful and technical mountain apparel for women.” I can be a little picky when it comes to cycling gear, as I worked in the corporate office for a leading cycling apparel company earlier in my business career, and it opened my eyes to the performance capabilities of different fabrics and educated me how to elevate the fitness apparel I decided to purchase.
Wild Rye allowed me to select three different pieces from their line, and I selected their Lucille Sports Bra, Mackay Crop Top Tee, and Merrit Muscle Tank Top. I tested these items for about 45 days to give adequate feedback on the fit and how they held up through multiple workout sessions and trips through the washing machine. Read on to consider adding Wild Rye gear to your closet.
3 Things I Look for in Fitness Apparel
1. Performance
- Sweat-wicking: Whether you are out on a long ride or completing an intense workout indoors, wearing sweat-wicking apparel is another feature I look for when selecting gear. I want materials that can wick away sweat and breathe rather than keeping my sports bra wet and making me cold or uncomfortable.
Pro Tip: Never add fabric softener to your performance apparel, as it will interfere with its moisture-wicking capabilities.
- Anti-microbial: no one likes to be the person who smells; unfortunately, certain fabrics can be guilty of trapping unwanted odors. While natural anti-microbial fabrics exist, many synthetic polyesters can be engineered to do the same. Antimicrobial fabrics tend to last longer in my closet.
- Stretch: Does the piece offer stretch technology that helps with performance, support, or how the gear looks or feels? Fitness clothes can be so much more than tight spandex. I especially look for this feature in shorts and leggings.
2. Fit
In my field of work, my gear needs to fit correctly for performance and for teaching my students proper body alignment. The silhouette of the garments matters, as does whether they are built to allow me to execute the motions I need effectively.
3. Quality
I do not mind paying a little more for fitness apparel if I know it will last. Quality encompasses the other points I mentioned above with the added key of longevity. The Wild Rye apparel I tested was well-made, sourced from quality fabrics, and designed to last. It is really disheartening to spend a little more on a pair of workout pants, shorts, or a top only to find that it loses its shape after a few washes or the fabrics begin to break down. The Wild Rye apparel, however, maintained its shape and quality even after multiple washes and intense workouts.
Wild Rye Product Reviews
Mackay Crop Top Tee
I was apprehensive about selecting a crop top for multiple reasons, including being the mother of two and having a strict no-stomach policy at my gym while instructing. Crop tops definitely do not usually fall into my comfort level, but I have to admit that Wild Rye has me rethinking whether I have been too hasty to dismiss this style or whether I should only exclusively purchase from them. The design and cut helped me fall in love with this piece. I was worried that the top would rise when I raised my arms and my stomach would show. However, that was not the case. The arm holes are designed so that the top stays perfectly in place throughout every workout.
The Mackay Crop Top Tee looks great while riding, but it can also be paired with a cute pair of pants or shorts with a relaxed fit. I selected Sunshine as my color, which arrived as a beautifully vibrant yellow that has remained that same color through repeated washes. The Mackay Crop Top Tee comprises 76% recycled poly, 19% tencel, and 5% spandex. I found this crop top very lightweight and dry quickly following class. There was a little moisture where it came in contact with my sports bra. The fabric is incredibly soft, and I hope to purchase the black crop top when it comes back in stock in my size.
Lucille Sports Bra
The Lucille Sports Bra packs a lot of personality with its vibrant design options. It is very soft, and its fabric mix is 79% recycled poly and 21% spandex. I found this sports bra comfortable and haven’t experienced chaffing under my arms like other brands. Interestingly, this sports bra included slots for pads but didn’t include the pads themselves. I guess this could be in part due to how some women have a love-hate relationship with the pads that can often get twisted while washing or come out altogether.
The impact level of this particular style is low to medium, and I would probably agree with this assessment. Since I have a slightly larger chest, it did not provide me with enough support when riding for my comfort level, but it would be sufficient for hiking or yoga.
Merrit Muscle Tank Top
The Merrit Muscle Tank Top is not just another workout top. Soft, with a relaxed silhouette and standard fit, this tank top is a dream to wear. It’s incredibly comfortable to ride in, and its breathability makes it a game-changer. It quickly dries if it gets a little damp during a ride or workout, keeping you feeling fresh and comfortable. The Muscle Tank Top comprises the same materials as their crop top, with 76% recycled poly, 19% tencel, and 5% spandex.
I selected the black version of this style and wear it often, even on my off days. It is great for layering or to be worn on its own. I love the length and fit of this tank top as it stays in place when I lift my arms and falls below the waistband of my workout pants.
The Bottom Line
While you can purchase less expensive fitness clothes elsewhere (although these are still reasonably priced with all things considered), I feel that the saying “you get what you pay for” rings true regarding workout attire. Not only is Wild Rye women’s fitness apparel well made, but it is also a company that cares about the planet, which is pretty cool in its own right. I find myself wearing their tank tops more than any other brand I currently have and I plan to purchase more as long as they continue to hold their shape and quality.
Want to try Wild Rye at a lower price tag? You can also purchase gently used apparel on their website as well.
