We recently came across RBX, a new company to Run Oregon, but one which has been around for about 10 years. They have evolved over this timeframe into their current form.
From our beginnings over a decade ago, Rugged Bear X-Treme has evolved into RBX Active. Built on the radical concept that everyone has the right to feel great about his or her body, RBX Active is dedicated to an idealistic and enthusiastic mission to add value to customers’ lives by providing the best value fashionable fitness essentials at a price truly accessible to everyone.
We were recently sent some sample items to try out and give some feedback on. We felt that the styling and construction of RBC items were pretty basic and would fit in best with casual to mid-level runners. RBX, unlike other running-heavy companies, have some roots in bigger box stores, like Kohls, and fill an often necessary role of adding to running closets on a budget. While we found them to be solid items, we will acknowledge up front that there are more technical, lighter, and more minimalistic (and often more expensive) running-specific apparel companies out there.
Matt: I received two bottoms – a pair of training shorts and some compression pants. The shorts had a longer inseam and cam connected with a pair of compression shorts underneath. I felt that the undershorts stuck out below the main shorts a little longer than I desired, but that’s only a personal preference. Other than that, they were a fine pair of shorts that seem like they would be well suited for cross training.
The pants were listed as “compression”, but I didn’t find them to really fill that descriptor. The 94% Polyester / 6% Spandex construction wasn’t tight and technical enough to be a full “compression” running pant in my opinion (or at least what runners may think of when they hear that word). That’s not to say that they are bad – quite the contrary actually. They fit relatively tight on the body and did a very admirable job of keeping me warm in some cold and extremely wet runs. I found them to be super comfortable, with the inside being a “waffle-like” construction that was kept my legs warm enough.
While neither of these styles are available on their website, check out their shorts and pants options on their website or on Amazon. Shorts run between $20-$25 and pants around $30.
Teresa: I tested out the RBX running tights and ended up liking them more than expected. Initially, I thought they looked too big and the reflective stripe down the solid black leggings was a bit of an eyesore. However, if you’re going to run in the dark, you want to be seen and these will help with that. I loved the material. It was a thicker synthetic blend for colder running months, making these ideal for outdoor mileage. I found that they run big, so keep that in mind. I made it work, folding over the waistband and actually enjoyed the extra support through the midsection. All of my clothes are wash and dry and these were no exception to the rule. They came out of the dryer each time looking as good as new. For the price point, I think these are a great deal. The fabric is quality and they definitely hold up.
Tung: I tested out two RBX tech short-sleeve tech shirts and a pair of compression tights. Weird fact: although the shirts looked the same, just different colors, one was made in Kenya and the other in China. The medium size fit me perfectly in the torso, and felt soft and comfortable. Like most tech shirts, these had a slick feel to them, but perhaps less than the Champion C9 ones sold at Target. (I happen to like that slick feel. YMMV)
Another thing I liked about the shirts was that the colors were sedate – one was maroon and the other was gray. Honestly, I did not know until after testing these shirts that RBX fills a more budget-conscious line; these are great running shirts. As for the compression tights, we haven’t had cold days where I really felt the need for them, but I did test them out on a mild but very windy morning, figuring that they would help block windchill. The outside temperature was in the low 50s, so not surprisingly, I felt warm after a while – but not so much that I felt like I was overheating. The compression was just enough to remind me that it was there. I don’t normally wear compression gear, but I didn’t find that it interfered with my running.
Bobi Jo: I have been wearing 2 RBX products: a pair of leggings with mesh (similar look to these) and a long-sleeve tech hoodie (similar to this one). The leggings have worked well for weight-lifting and other non-cardio classes, but found the fabric to be a bit too stiff to want to run in. There is a deep pocket in the front of the waistband for presumably a key, but without a zippered pocket, I’d be hard-pressed to trust anything more than a gel in there. The mesh adds a cute look to the legs of an otherwise simple black workout pant.
The hoodie is a super soft jersey fabric and is incredibly cozy for post-work out, a yoga class, or running errands. I wore it on a particularly rainy day at a farmer’s market and loved how comfortable (and quick drying!) it is, though certainly isn’t my warmest lightweight hoodie. The bottom has an elastic hemline and the neckline adds an interesting look.
Shelly: I was able to try two RBX products: the Vortex Raglan Long Sleeve Shirt and the Vortex X Strap Mesh Ankle Legging. The first thing I noticed when I opened the package was how soft the shirt was. It is a new favorite and one that I wear all the time because it’s so comfortable, soft and breathable. Made with X-Dri technology fabric and spandex, it is ultra-light which helps the top retain its shape while keeping me cool and comfortable. The overlock stitching and faux wrap hem are beautiful and go well with the leggings. I wore it on fall runs, to the gym, brunch, and everywhere else where comfort was a priority.
The Vortex X Strap Mesh Ankle Legging has breathable mesh perforations throughout the legging that kept me cool while running and working out. There is a small interior waistband pocket for storing keys, cards or cash while on a run or at the gym. The 7/8 ankle length is a favorite and with a 24″ inseam, it is a perfect length for most heights (they also fit my daughter, who is 3 inches taller). The Vortex Mesh Ankle Legging and Vortex Raglan Long Sleeve Shirt are stylish and comfortable for workouts, running and casual days out.
More about RBX:
The energy and endurance cultivated by an active style of life is what drives our business. We know first hand the importance of investing in our health, and the far-reaching positive effects that physical activity has on all aspects of who we are. We measure our success by affordably equipping you with fashionable tools that allow you to do the things that make you feel alive.
RBX is rooted with unshakable values celebrating integrity, innovation, and teamwork. We know that great people are what make great companies; we pride ourselves on our spirited and passionate team that illustrates the persistence of fitness. Our partners and staff are made up of hard-working and down-to-earth people forever evaluating trends, products, and processes on the lookout for a more effective way to add value to the customer. RBX offers the best solutions to empower and outfit us all as we live well, do good, and stay active together!
Thank you to RBX for providing us with a sample pack. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
