In our debut collections of performance apparel, we introduced three different women's tops, each serving their own unique purpose, but ultimately sharing the underlying qualities that make them dynamic enough to take on any run.
The tops are all cut from the same double-layered premium Italian "SuperBeam™️" fabric, which optimizes for chafe-prevention and a super quick drying speed. SuperBeam™️ is also sweat-wicking, bringing moisture to the surface of the garment and wicking it away from the skin, but it's important to keep in mind these garments can get sweaty (which is ok!). Generally, there can be a bit of a trade-off to make between preventing chafing and preventing sweatiness when deciding on a performance fabric. We chose the former as functionality and comfort is a top priority for us at Bandit.
One thing we heard in just about every single focus group conversation we had, was that a comfortable phone pocket was a must-have no matter the use case of the top (racing vs training). At first, you might be skeptical about the phone pocket on the side of the body—we were too. However, in our dozens of wear-testing experiences, the number one bit of feedback we heard was that the athlete completely forgot the phone was even there. That's exactly what you want. On the sweetheart bra (pictured in the middle), we put the phone pocket in the center back and dual gel pockets on the side. To make the phone easy to reach, we added a cut-out detail effectively preventing the phone from being able to slide too far down. The slick SuperBeam fabric also makes it effortless to put your phone in / take it out of the pocket.
Without further adieu, let's meet each top...
Designed initially for racing and now beloved for virtually any run, this top has a higher neck line and dual side-pockets fit for your phone, gels, keys, and anything else you might bring along with you. The length of the body is fit for any race bib (yes, even those giant ones from Berlin). The compression level provides the support you need to run as fast as you can, for as long as you can. Just ask Bandit athlete, Erin Gregoire, who qualified for the Olympic Trials in her first time wearing it.
Our first take at running sports bra with a slightly less conventional silhouette. The Sweetheart provides enough coverage for you to feel secure and supported with a neckline that allows you to breathe and run free. The sporty racer back is designed to give you everything you need and nothing you don't. With significantly less surface area than the other two tops, we positioned the phone pocket on the center back and gel pockets on both sides, under arm. In these colder days where you're balancing staying warm on the outside and cool on the inside, the Sweetheart is a perfect bra to throw on underneath any long-sleeve top you're currently reaching for.
The "Scoop" - Scoop Neck Run Crop
We try our best not to play favorites, but if you can keep a secret, the Scoop Neck is our favorite top. It's the most versatile of the three and has been validated in any and every distance and climate. You can race with it, marathon with it, stride with it, gym with it... whatever your heart desires, this top will perform. Dual side pockets for your phone, gels, etc. This is also the best top for layering underneath our new women's quarter zip, coming out next week.
