Dare2b Kit Review – Combining Active Style with Innovation
When I started running at the start of the first Lockdown, I never for minute thought I’d keep it up. But here I am a year later still tying up my trainers at least once a week embracing a new active version of myself! One of the biggest tests of my dedication to my new sport has been running through the winter. Bracingly cold air that hurts your lungs, numb fingers and icy underfoot there’s been many a time when I’ve wanted to close the door and just stay inside. Finding the right gear to allow your body to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout a run has proved crucial. I’m still in a place of trial and error when it comes to kit and clothing but one brand that has proved to be a saving grace is Dare2b. I discovered a Dare2b top in my husband’s wardrobe at the start of the winter which I have worn religiously on every sub 6 degrees run. It keeps me warm but is breathable enough to allow my skin to cool when I’m hot and sweaty – it even has sleeves long enough to pull over my hands when they’re starting to go numb with cold. Needless to say when I was asked to review some of Dare2b’s range I jumped at the chance! I was sent a pair of leggings and two tops which I’ve really enjoyed putting to the test – here’s what I thought…
Please note all reviewed items came up slightly smaller than sized. I wore a size 14 in all items listed – I usually wear a size 12.
Women’s Influential Leggings Black Molecular Print £30
These leggings are a dream to wear! They’re flattering, comfortable, supportive and feel incredibly soft and silky to touch. I’ve worn them for numerous runs now with them quickly becoming my go-to pair thanks to the fact they stay in place (no sagging or falling down) without being too tight around the tummy. I also really like the fact that they’re quite long in the leg so there’s no draughty gaps around the ankles. At £30 you really can’t go wrong – comfortable, look great, fit well.
Highlights – Flattering, fit well, stay in place during exercise, discrete pocket for house key, easy to wash, good value.
The Dominion zip mid layer is part of Dare2b’s collection in collaboration with Swarorski Crystals. The top comes with a metal badge and zip pullers embellished in crystals! It’s really a bit too fancy for me but it certainly makes the top feel luxurious and a treat to wear. In terms of practicality this is a great jacket for layering during warm ups and cool downs. Quick and easy to throw on and off I can see this working really well during outdoor HITT or boot camp sessions. The jacket is made from a lightweight Ilus knitted core fabric which is particularly breathable and quick drying making it the ideal wear for drastic temperature changes. It looks really smart – you could definitely get away with wearing this for more than just exercising and is currently priced at less than half its original price!
Highlights – Easy to take on & off, stylish, lightweight, plenty of pockets, versatile, great price.
Another item from the Swarorski range but this one is a bit more low-key and much more me! I love the soft texture of croc patterned fleece – I’ve ended up wearing this top as a warm under layer on chilly days out and outdoor dining. As a running top it also work really well. It’s loose enough to allow for plenty of movement with the low zip offering ventilation when your body starts to work. Another reduced item – this is currently priced at £24.95 which I think is really good value.
Highlights – Super soft, super cosy, lightweight, low cut zip for ventilation, good value.
If you like what you’ve seen here then make sure you check out the full Dare2b active wear range here.
Disclosure: I was kindly gifted the items listed above in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
