What you need to know
- Winter ready and looks like
- Special prices commensurate with the technology and premium materials
- Measure the size if you are familiar with US sizing
- Available now from the SOAR website
Brandon: Well all of you, I have a lot more to say, but I promise it will be worth your time if you work for the Euro-luxe brands.
For the record, this is my first time testing SOAR’s winter clothing, so I had little or no expectations about it, but from what I can gather, the gear seemed pretty high-tech. I have had the opportunity to try out the small and medium sizes of the products below. I’m traditionally a size small in all of my clothes. This is an all-European size, so note that in your typical US size, these items will feel very snug (like, more comfortable than you actually think), so you should definitely go up the size. I suggest increasing the size of anything you buy. I would put SOAR winter clothing in the same category as luxury running as Tracksmith, Iffley Road, Satisfy, Miler Running, etc.
The boutique brand is based in London with one goal in mind: to coordinate, craft and design the most advanced fabrics and running gear on the market. Honestly, that’s a lot of expectations for a growing brand. So, the question is, do the clothes live up to the hype? Short answer, probably no. Longer answer, OK, some items hit that mark pretty well, but you’ll have to hang around with me a little longer to find out.
Winter gilet fest
Brandon: Who doesn’t love a running jacket, right? I don’t always see use, but an extra layer or zipped pocket is excellent for when it’s cold out. What makes the Gillette jacket stand out is how dependable it is. The jacket is light, windproof and water-resistant thanks to the “Italian Mill” that looks elegant. It has two zip pockets, one on the chest and one on the back to store the gels in it.
The winter gilet provides adequate protection in low light thanks to its stylish reflective elements. My only complaint is the fit. Sticking around the waist and arm left the jacket somewhat uncomfortable and too tight, making it undesirable at times. For $240, this jacket will set you back a bit. For me, I think a running jacket is a great idea, but only if it’s done well.
the price: $240
Shop the winter gilet
Wooltech Half Zipper Blouse
Brandon: You know what they say, best for…sec? Ah yes, finally, half a zip file worth talking about. The Wooltech Half-Zip Top might be the best item I’ve received from this set. This slim fit garment is antibacterial and possesses merino properties that allow for a versatile ride. Whether it’s 30 degrees or 65 degrees, this half zip shirt can do it all. of coure, in part due to his use of merino, which might be our favorite material here at Believe in the Run. Moisture-wicking and odor-resistant, if you gave us merino, we’d probably love it.
The seams on this are laser cut and fully bonded, which allows for better heat retention and moisture prevention than you would get from a sewn seam. Additional subtle touches include reflective elements, a back zip, and thumbholes, which round the piece nicely.
SOAR’s winter clothing is clearly not shy about details. This top will work on any run, whether it’s speed days or long running days. If this is a product you’re considering, I’d go back. At $193, this chest pocket might bump up a bit, but if you can spring it up you won’t be disappointed.
the price: $193
Shop WoolTech with a half zip
3.0 . Double Fabric Socks
Brandon: Functionally, these socks hit the mark. Fashion-wise, this isn’t just in my wheelhouse. And looking good is half the reason to run, right? It’s something about the compression fabric woven into the bottom of the socks that look so silly when I put them on. Anyway, if you can get past that, or hey—you probably like the look—these socks fit perfectly. I was able to run at a small size without any problem. I’ve found that tights only work for too long for me, but I don’t seem to notice it at all while running.
The socks are not very warm, so I would not recommend any temperature below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Nice place for these socks is about 35 degrees Fahrenheit. The socks offer a zipped pocket in the back and a zip system around the lower leg for easy access. The tights offer all-around reflective elements to keep you visible at night. For $140, this isn’t just one of the cheaper winter clothes SOAR has to offer, but it’s probably one of the best pieces. Hey you know, as long as you don’t get the colored road that I did.
the price: $140
Shop Double Canvas Tights 3.0
Merino pattern jacquard beanie
Brandon: Running experts say Merino is the best in the game, and they might be interested in something. Functionally, the Jacquard Pattern Merino Beanie is great, but in terms of design, let’s just say you wouldn’t exactly be the coolest kid on the block to wear it. As far as pennywise go, this one is super snug and suitable for any situation. If you are a fan of hats, go for it. For $44, I’d sprinkle cash elsewhere, but if you love SOAR running gear and want something unique and different, this hat fits the bill. It definitely gets the job done while running during cooler temperatures, providing great heat retention and temperature regulation.
the price: $44
Shop a plaid merino hat
winter gloves
Brandon: Nothing makes running more than a decent pair of winter running gloves. In fact, cold hands are just as likely to destroy as bad running shoes do. A good thing for SOAR winter wear, these gloves live up to their expectations. As far as running gloves go, they are extremely warm, comfortable and fit well. The fleece lining is absurdly comfortable, and the extended fleece cuff is a nice touch for some extra coverage in the cold. Some of the other nifty features include silicone on the palm for expert grip, touchscreen compatible fingertips, and an extended cuff buckle to keep gloves together and away from running. Again, for $45, it’s not cheap, but it’s in line with other luxury clothing brands out there. You will not be disappointed.
the price: $45
Shop Winter Gloves
Brandon is the video editor and fastest runner on the Believe in the Run core team. He is from New Jersey but lives in Baltimore where he recently graduated from Loyola University.
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