lululemon Puts The CULT In Culture
October 8, 2009
I’m an avid fan of attractive athletic apparel. Mostly, I can’t seem to get myself out of my favorite capri length running tights (I admit, I have a ridiculous stock in black and grey) and take every opportunity to wear them…whether it is on my way to go running, after running or during the weekends when I’m doing things that have nothing to do with running. In college, it was virtually what my friends and I lived in. For whatever reason, guys seem more inclined to change immediately following the gym, while girls like to advertise their 30 minutes on the elliptical with a little stretch fabric. To me, my running tights make me look fit and healthy plus suck everything in like a vacuum. It’s so much easier to throw them on and head out the door than meticulously plan out an outfit. Don’t mistake this bond with spandex for a lack of interest in my appearance – I love getting dressed to the nines at night, but during the day, even my favorite party dress can’t compete with a pair of running tights.
lululemon, Vancouver based athletic apparel company, recognizes this niche market and combines high performance material with attractive product design to create a commited brand following. Originally targeting yogis, the company has expanded to consider cyclists, dancers runners and other athletes. Their stores offer various free yoga/pilates/spin/running classes (check their websites) including summer yoga in Bryant Park (see picture). The incredibly perky sales staff (sometimes a little too hyper) are always helpful in finding sizes or explaining the various styles. Men rave about their WDW Boxer Briefs ($24) while I’m in love with their Wunder Under Reversible Pants ($88). The free alterations (semi) help take the sting out of their steep prices.
Whether you’re a spandex groupie, or just someone who likes to look pulled together post gym, after you wear your first piece from lululemon you’re likely to be joining the cult…I mean culture.
You Don’t Know Jack Until You Visit JackRabbit
October 2, 2009
Paragon Sports is a great place to find anything and everything…as long as you know exactly what you want and have the luxury of time. The lines and crowds (especially from September – January) are absurd coupled with the fact that trying to find a staff member to help is worse than a blindfolded Where’s Waldo search. The frustration of clawing through a mini Times Square just to pick up a new pair of yoga pants or couple pairs of running socks is not worth it. This is why, my favorite one stop shop for athletic gear is JackRabbit in Union Square (they have two other locations, one on the UES and the other in Brooklyn).
Founded in 2003, the small boutique style store focuses on providing superior performance wear and products with outstanding customer service. Their staff is knowledgeable and committed to educating customers. JackRabbit concentrates on supplying running and triathlon gear but they also have things for yoga and general fitness use. Don’t let its small storefront trick you, the Union Square location is packed with everything including gels, electrolyte powder, fuel belts, glide sticks, watches and athletic apparel. Not sure which sneakers to get? JackRabbit’s high-speed video camera will record your gait while you run on one of their treadmills. After a thorough analysis of your stride, a staff member will help find the perfect shoe to meet your athletic needs – in this case, one size does not fit all.
