First look at rabbit trail running apparel

Monica Devreese and Jill Deering created rabbit with the mission to fit well, feel good, and function while running many kilometres. The gear prioritizes function and comfort, targeting what real runners need to train hard. Made in California, the winter line keeps even tough Canadian athletes comfortable and warm. With the serious runner in mind, rabbit “wanted to go back to the basics.” 

With the basics in mind, we tested some key pieces for winter training. Running in wet and winter conditions, we stayed warm and dry with zero chaffing issues. Tested on the trails, here’s what we think:

The zip & zoom

The zip & zoom is cozy and practical on its own, yet functions to fit base layers overtop or underneath. Whether it was 10 C or -10 C, the shirt kept me warm and cool as it wicked away moisture. As fall weather turned cooler, the thumbholes were practical when it wasn’t cold enough for gloves. During the workout, I adjusted the zipper depending on my own body heat. There was optimal comfort in the neck, no matter where the zipper was placed.

I felt as though I could run in the shirt forever. Even after my workout, I didn’t want to take it off. Usually after a run, I need to change immediately due to sweaty and wet skin. But the The Polartec Thermal Pro material kept me dry and cozy. As well, the flat seams left me happy and chafe free while sweating for hours in muggy and chilly trails. 

mighty tights

Every year, I like to run in shorts as long as I can. But as the weather got colder, I was forced to put on pants. The rabbit mighty tights are a useful alternative for the shorts-biased runner. The compress with an interlock compression fabric, yet stretch in four ways to maximize comfort. These winter tights are the perfect length and thickness for running in all kinds of winter weather. The tights can also hold small items in their dual front internal pockets. Plus, they were so comfy, I forgot I was wearing pants at all.

RELATED: What to look for in winter running tights

leading lady/captain jacket

This jacket was tested on the trails in Whistler, B.C. It was the first time the trails were seeing ice, snow, and frost. We hit the trails just as it was getting dark in -5 C. I ran in the full zip jacket with a base layer underneath. The jacket kept me warm, visible, and managed my body moisture. With the breathable mesh back, I felt as though I could move freely while playing in the trails and not worry about getting too cold if we needed to stop. The thumbhole slits felt thick enough in negative temperatures without gloves. The reflective details helped keep me seen in the dark trails. I fit my phone in the reflective zipper pockets, without it jostling around. 

leading lady $140USD

captain jacket $140USD

RELATED: The unseen benefits of winter running and training

Rabbit gear may look like your average athletic apparel, but their comfort and function set them apart. The company outfits serious trail runners throughout North America, and will ship to Canada.