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It’s probably no secret by now that I’m very enthusiastic about Soar. In contrast to other brands, they don’t do just colour updates and always develop exciting new products.
Sponsored Post: Soar provided me with the products for this review at my request. This had no influence on the content of my post. The article is written indipendently and reflects exclusively my personal experiences.
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Inhalt / Content
Soar Elite Race Shorts 4.0
I have been running with the Elite Race Shorts by Soar for a really long time. As always with Soar, I don’t think there is anything left to improve since version 2: they are simply perfect for races and intensive training runs in the summer. However, that doesn’t stop the team working on the details… ;)
The material is thin and elastic. It follows your every movement and is hardly noticeable when you run. Even when the shorts are completely soaked, they are still very comfortable.
The airy waistband keeps the shorts securely in place at all times. Car keys, gels or anything else you want to take with you can be stored in a zipped pocket on the back. The pocket could be a bit bigger (unfortunately, my smartphone doesn’t fit in it) and I don’t always find the vertical closure ideal when you need to access the pocket more often on the go. Alternatively, the marathon shorts solve this better.
The fit and feel, on the other hand, give no cause for criticism: when running, you completely forgot about the Elite Race Shorts 4.0. :)
ReviewSoar Singlet 2.0
Soar Singlet 2.0
63 Euro
12 weeks
The Soar Singlet is also designed for intense sweaty runs. If you think the Race Vest is too minimal at the arms, this is a good alternative.
The material is more like Tech-Ts: it’s soft, light and wicks sweat well. The tight, but not too tight cut of the top helps with this.
The singlet is available in two colour variations, of which the blue and yellow version shown here is the more inconspicuous. As much as that can be said for the unusual pattern. ;)
Here are the always very interesting Designer’s Notes on Film:
I like to wear the singlet on hot days during training, while I reserve the race vests for competitions. But no matter how and when the singlet and race shorts are used, for me the biggest advantage is that I don’t feel them at all while running because they are so light and well cut.
ReviewSoar UTR Top
Soar UTR Top
133 Euro
12 weeks
The UTR Top marks the beginning of a new product line for trail runners at Soar. It was developed specifically for use with running vests.
The biggest problem here is friction: the hard material of running vests usually doesn’t get along with the fine, breathable fabrics of running shirts.
That’s why the UTR top is made of different materials: an abrasion-resistant fabric on the stressed areas such as the shoulders and chest, and a lightweight, breathable fabric in the lower torso area and back.
You can see these material changes particularly well when you open the full-length front zip. This also reveals a small pocket on the inside.
When I tried it on, I immediately noticed how Tim Soar solved the other problem: the friction between the shirt and the skin. You don’t have to worry about the UTR top wrinkling under your running waistcoat, because the cut is really sporty…. Almost like “one size too small”. But that’s exactly the way it’s meant to be for the reasons I mentioned.
I have worn the Soar UTR Top with various running vests and “test loads” and found it really comfortable even under the very tight-fitting models. I haven’t noticed any abrasion or pilling so far – but ultra-distances are yet to come. ;)
ReviewSoar Ultra Lightweight Gilet
For me, the Soar Ultra Jacket 3.0 is still the ultimate rain jacket. At first glance, the gilet seems to be simply a sleeveless version of it – but it’s not.
Of course, the unique “Rainout” material was used, which promises very good breathability with optimal protection against rain. But there are some adjustments in the details. The stand-up collar is deliberately missing and the cut is noticeably tighter.
There is a change of material in the back section to increase breathability. Unfortunately, this also means that the area lacks rain protection.
There is also a zipped pocket (not waterproof) in the back that can hold a modern smartphone. Thanks to the close-fitting cut, it won’t bounce around when you run.
But the absolute highlight for me is the very special material. It is woven and therefore very comfortable to wear. In addition, it is elastic and provides rain protection with very good breathability.
That’s why I use the Soar Lightweight Gilet so often. No matter whether a rain shower is threatening, it’s just a bit too windy for a T-shirt or you simply don’t know what to expect: the gilet can be slipped on quickly and never gets in the way. Even on hot days, there is no “plastic bag” effect. And if you decide you’d rather run without a gilet, it can be quickly folded into your hand (it doesn’t take up any more space than that).
Here are the very interesting “Designer’s Notes on Film”:
Conclusion
. For the higher price, you always get much higher quality from Soar than from the competition. Soar's fit and function are simply unbeatable.