This Is One Of The Chicest Gym Brands Out – 2 Editors Put It To The Test
Investing in stylish workout essentials is one of those things you rarely regret. Aside from keeping you fit, we turn to our activewear staples for off-duty comfort too. So when Australian fitness brand, BAHE, offered to send two Handbook staffers gear to roadtest and review, they enthusiastically put their hands up – here’s how they went.
In Partnership With Bahe
The daily fitness devotee: Harriet
Head of Partnerships
As a diehard Peloton user and someone who usually opts for cardio or HIIT, I’ve always wanted to incorporate Pilates into my routine, so when the opportunity to review BAHE came around, I lunged at the chance (quite literally).
Gymwear
I have a fairly extensive workout wardrobe, heavy on Lululemon, so I’m usually a bit sceptical about trying new activewear. I opted for BAHE’s classic Attune cross-back top and pocket leggings and they’re definitely a close competitor. The fabric stood out for its soft, premium feel and the fit was true to size. The TDry® fabric also feels breathable and keeps you cool while working out.
The leggings sat comfortably on the waist and didn’t roll down, which is always my biggest test.
Harriet, Head Of Partnerships
I went for the versatile black colourway that can double up for a daily walk or travel, and the simple design definitely works beyond the gym. The cross-back top was a win for me, supportive without digging in. For higher-impact training, I’d probably need more compression, but it works well for yoga, Pilates or strength sessions.
The leggings sat comfortably on the waist and didn’t roll down, which is always my biggest test. One unexpected favourite was the detailing, the subtle logo placement and streamlined cut make the whole set look a lot more premium.
Overall, while I usually spend more on performance-driven brands, I think this range is a great athleisure option if you want something stylish, comfortable and wearable day-to-day.
Equipment
This is the kind of workout gear that makes you immediately want to roll out your mat and get started. The use of natural, earthy tones sets the tone for a mindful workout, and the luxe packaging makes for the perfect gift, one I’ve already planned for this Christmas.
As someone new to Pilates, the resistance bands, loops and ball felt a little intimidating at first; however, after a quick review of the product info and incorporating them into my Louisa Drake Method classes, they soon felt second nature. The ankle weights are also a great investment and can double up for core and HIIT workouts.
Having used the equipment for over a month, I’ve yet to see any signs of wear and tear. The products are stylish, durable and easy to use and have helped make my recovery sessions feel intentional rather than an afterthought. The supportive mat also has a strong grip, something I’ve struggled with in the past, making it great for mobility work and stretching.
When you compare the average price of a Pilates class in London to the initial investment in equipment, it’s a no-brainer. It’s all about consistency and routine, so if you manage to use the equipment even once a week, you’ll definitely get your ROI. Thanks to their versatility, I can also use these products for Pilates, core and HIIT, which is another big plus.
The supportive mat also has a strong grip, something I’ve struggled with in the past, making it great for mobility work and stretching.
Overall, it’s a yes from me. Since incorporating the products and Louisa Drake Method workouts into my weekly routine, I’ve seen a real improvement in my core strength and mobility. BAHE has provided me with the tools to build flexibility, improve my core and enhance recovery, which is definitely supporting my high-intensity workouts.
The bi-weekly classer: Tash
I tend to work out 2-3 times a week, and lean towards a combination of spin for cardio, along with barre or Pilates for resistance and toning.
Gymwear
The fabric is soft to the touch and feels like it could be from a premium activewear brand. The tones are tasteful – I’m a neutral wardrobe kind of girl – and I was drawn to the (now sold-out, but you can still shop the shorts version) flare-style leggings because they’re a more on-trend silhouette.
For me, I struggle to find sports bras and tops that don’t feel constrictive, and this was definitely one of the more comfortable styles I’ve tried. Having a smaller bust, perhaps I should’ve sized down to ensure the top stayed put throughout my workout, but there was no flashing.
On the flip side, I was really impressed with the grippy socks – they’re super comfortable and have the best grip strips I’ve ever used – big fan!
As for the leggings, they are thinner than other pairs I own, so I recommend wearing seamless, neutral-coloured underwear if you opt for the ivory colourway in a class setting.
Overall, despite working in fashion for 15 years, I really don’t spend much on activewear – I’d rather invest in my day-to-day clothes. So, for me, spending above £50 on a gymwear piece isn’t something I’m ever inclined to do, no matter how nice.
Equipment
As someone who loves barre, I used weights, mats and resistance bands on a semi-regular basis. As soon as I opened this gear, I was immediately impressed with how cool it is – from the tasteful, tonal colour palette to the modern design, this is a fashion girl’s workout equipment.
Mat and bands are quite straightforward to use, so nothing out of the ordinary to report on that front. As for the 500g arm/ankle weights, my normal issue with these is that they’re too heavy/slippery to secure on your own wrists. The thick velcro straps and streamlined design on these ones, though, meant they were easy to fasten and very comfortable, with no big weight shifts mid-workout. One thing I had a really fun time getting to grips with (and I’m still not sure I’m quite there) is the four-way Flow Reformer – I took a photo of me trying my hand at it, but I think I’ve got a way to go before I’ll make this public.
From the tasteful, tonal colour palette to the modern design, this is a fashion girl’s workout equipment.
Natasha, Digital Editor
Aside from the aesthetics, I was really taken with the quality of the gear. The workout mat is super tactile and has a good 4mm thickness. Plus, the semi-grippy finish means I don’t need to worry about it slipping around when I use it on wooden floors or tiles. One of my favourite details is the minimalist strap, so you can sling it over your shoulder on your way to class – it’s not a necessary touch for a workout mat, but I really appreciate it.
I’ll be honest, I didn’t know the price point of this kit before I started using it, so when I got to evaluating whether it was worth the spend, based on the quality, I had already assumed it was much more expensive than it actually is. For the equipment, I think the prices are very competitive and good value. If I were starting my at-home workout set from scratch, Bahe would be the first brand I look to. The equipment is stylish, great quality, and even matches my interior colour scheme – what more could you ask for?
If I was starting my at home workout set from scratch, Bahe would be the first brand I look to.
