BornBound, while still relatively new on the triathlon scene, are perhaps best known for their top end triathlon race suit, which helped Kieran Lindars on his way to a huge 30 watts saving on the bike last year – catapulting him from ‘up and comer’ to ‘podium contender’.
But the triathlon apparel brand are on a mission to take that same performance-led approach to running apparel. Because while most of us only get to take the race suit out for a spin a few times a year. Our swim, bike and run kit is in and out of the kit drawer multiple times per week. Which means finding kit that’s comfortable, and high quality, is key. And with BornBound putting such a strong focus on creating running gear that’s designed specifically to stand up to the demands of long distance run training. I was interested to see how their new range would fare as I put it through its paces during training on my build up to the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona.
On test: BornBound women’s Rekord run shorts and short sleeve tee
I’ve been testing out the new run shorts and short sleeve running tee from BornBound over the last few weeks, taking them for a spin on a few high intensity mid-week threshold runs as well as one of my longer weekend long runs. One of the key USPs for this run kit is chafe-free performance. And with the UK weather bringing the type of humidity that can leave you chafed in places you didn’t know existed – it’s been the perfect timing to put that claim to the test!
BornBound Rekord run shorts key features
| Chafe-free construction | 4-way stretch and V-cut leg for freedom of movement |
| Inner lining and drawstring waist | Sweat-wicking, fast dry fabric |
| Reflective logo and rear leg strip | Rear pocket with fold over design |
| bluesign® certified fabric | Available colours: Cosmos Blue, Black |
| Sizes: XS-2XL | RRP: $85 USD / £80 GBP |
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BornBound Rekord short sleeved running tee key features
| Premium breathable, quick dry fabrics | Anti-perspiration treatment |
| Abrasion free heat welded neck and arm openings | Reflective BornBound logo |
| bluesign® certified fabric | Available colours: white, peach, turquoise, lavender, cosmos blue |
| Sizes: XS-2XL | RRP: $80 USD / £75 GBP |
TL;DR Summary: Ultra-comfortable kit but taller runners are likely to need to size up for the shorts
BornBound’s attention to detail when it comes to things like fabric choices, seam placement and construction is clear in this running kit. In terms of how this kit is put together, I’d say it’s on a par with premium run gear I’ve got from ON running and Lululemon. It’s lightweight, fast-drying and so far has made for distraction-free running with no pesky chafe. The V-cut design of the shorts gives good freedom of movement, with no annoying swishing or riding up even during faster run workouts. The t-shirt does a good job of wicking sweat away and dries quickly, so you don’t get that horrible shirt stuck to your back feeling halfway round your long run.
However I would say the sizing on the shorts runs a little small. I’m a UK 6-8 and the size Small fits me well, though they are pretty short. I’m only 5ft 4′ (163cm) and I think if I was any taller, these would cross over into too short. So tall, slim builds may struggle to find the perfect fit.
In-depth review
That’s the headlines, but let’s dive a little deeper into what this running gear from BornBound brings to the party. Because what might look on the surface like a fairly simple set of tee and run shorts actually has some well thought-out technical features – making it ideal kit for longer distances.
Fit and comfort
As mentioned, I think the Rekord Run shorts are likely to run a little small so I’d recommend checking the size guide carefully and considering sizing up if you’re a taller runner. On me, they sit mid-rise on the waist and they’re short but not too short. You have also got an inner liner to keep your dignity intact. This liner also has some stretch to it, which is a nice touch. Quite often I end up cutting these out because they’re made from horrible non-stretch materials. I also generally opt for a tights-style short rather than a classic runner style because I hate that restrictive feeling you can get – but the 4-way stretch on these really does move with you. So far so good!
Where the shorts run on the small side, I’d say the tee is very much true to size. On me, the size Small gives a nice, relaxed fit without being too oversized – though I probably could have gone down to an XS if I wanted a more tailored fit. What I really like here is that they’ve used flat, almost laser-cut seams that actually remind me a bit of premium cycling gear, on the neck line and arm openings. So many run shirts get this wrong and you end up with annoying scratching seams that start to chafe when you get up to longer distances. It might be worth highlighting that the Lavender colourway I got this top in is more of a subtle lilac in person compared to the more vibrant colours when you view online – think pastels rather than vibrant brights!
This is really nice quality kit, taking your classic technical fabrics and elevating them into super soft, ultra-lightweight gear that’s genuinely nice to put on.
On the run performance
How many times have you found some running kit in the bottom of your drawer, put it on and thought to yourself: “Why don’t I ever wear this?” Only to get 5km into your run and have that “Oh, that’s why…” moment as the shorts ride up or the top starts sticking to your back. Sometimes you need to run in gear for a while before you know whether it’s good or bad.
And I’m pleased to report that so far, the BornBound kit has been just as comfortable out on the run as it is hanging out drinking my pre-run coffee at home. The construction of the shorts combined with the stretch means you’ve got great freedom of movement. For me, a sign of a good pair of running shorts is when you don’t really think about the fact you’re wearing them. The waist band stays put, and while I’ve had my hydration vest with me on every run so far so I’ve not needed to use the back pocket, it’s definitely roomy enough to fit a few gels and your keys comfortably.
The BornBound Rekord run tee has also been genuinely nice to run in. Lightweight, breathable and the raglan style sleeves mean you don’t get any armpit chafe on longer runs.
Both bits of kit have faired well in hot weather – I took them out for a spin in the midday sun on a particularly humid day to get a tempo run workout done and despite me getting horrendously sweaty (all in the name of Kona prep!) they didn’t get that horrible weighed down feeling you can get with other kit once you get a decent sweat on.
Verdict
Overall, this is premium quality kit with well thought-out details to prioritise comfort. As long as you can find a size that works for you, the BornBound run gear will quite happily see you through your long run sessions. Taller women with a slim build might struggle with the sizing on the shorts. And the camo-inspired Kryptek print won’t be for everyone (though it’s only on the back) so I think it would be nice to see BornBound consider expanding the design range or offering some completely plain versions of the tops. But beyond that, there’s not much to fault here!
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