* This post was sponsored by Aggressive Living Performance Apparel. I was not compensated monetarily, but I was provided several items for review. As always, all opinions are my own.
If you’re anything like me, you’re very picky about what you’ll wear to work-out. And even more specifically, you’ve got one outfit for race day, one for long runs, one for speed workouts, one for easy runs, and one or more for cross-training. I’ve noticed a lot of people have an affinity for this brand or that one, but I’m not usually like that. I prefer to mix and match my outfits (a Nike singlet here, Lululemon shorts there, Pearl Izumi hat on my head).
I have a long history of trial and error in my workout clothes. Oiselle shorts? No. Under Armour shirts? No thank you. Lululemon capris? Uh uh. I’ve probably spent more money than I care to remember trying out clothes to find the perfect ones. So I thought I was settled with my usual Lululemon shorts and Lululemon or Nike tank.
But, like many athletic folks, I LOVE buying clothes for working out.
And, like many athletic folks, I am always searching for something that’s (1) high quality, (2) functional, and (3) versatile.
Enter Aggressive Living. I found Aggressive Living (A L) on Twitter and was immediately intrigued by the name. After doing a little research I found that A L is a relatively new apparel company whose designer (Michael) is committed to producing a high quality product with an insanely functional design who pays close attention to the wants and needs of his clientele. I thought, I could work with a company like that – one that hasn’t lost sight of its values.
Michael over at A L was kind enough to send a bag of goodies my way for review, including two shirts for myself and one for my husband. Currently, A L offers two women’s tops: a racerback tank and a v-neck tee. For men, they are currently offering a crew-neck tee. They also have available a signature hoodie, complete with the A L logo (which I am not reviewing).
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of my current favorite running tank and the A L Racerback tank.
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Lululemon Cool Racerback
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Aggressive Living Racerback
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| Material | Luon (can’t find out what it’s actually made of) | Bamboo, cotton, and spandex
(anti-bacterial) Ribbed design |
| Fit | – Slim fit, but breathable
– Long length – Tight around chest
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– Looser fit, but still contoured for women
– Long length (longer in back, ensuring coverage) – Great fit through chest and shoulders (important for me because I have broad shoulders) |
| Reflective elements | None | A L logo bottom back and A L logo bottom front |
| Sweat-wicking | -Absorbs my sweat, remains wet afterward | -Breathable side panels help sweat evaporate more efficiently
-Fabric wicks away sweat but is also quick to dry |
| Price Point | ~ $40 | ~$40 |
Overall, the differences between the tanks are slight, but important.
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-A L tank is anti-bacterial, which the Lululemon tank is not.
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-A L tank is a bit more forgiving in fit, which I find more flattering and also more versatile. This tank could easily be worn out and about.
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-I was surprised by the ribbed design of the A L tank – but as the tag promised, it “feels rich, wears light”. When working out, I barely noticed I was wearing the tank.
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-A L tank is full coverage without being dowdy.
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-Reflective detailing on the tank is great to have while running or exercising outdoors.
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