Some products show up everywhere — subway ads, Instagram, celeb endorsements. With this series, we're testing such products to conclude one thing: Does it live up to the hype?
Ten Thousand, a men’s activewear label that launched in 2017, which was created to end the frustrations that go with finding a good pair of workout shorts.
This direct-to-consumer brand has disrupted the activewear industry by creating a catalog of workout gear that's designed for all the ways you train. Ten Thousand sells a handful of products from their cult-favorite shorts, to socks, shirts, hats, compression shorts, and even water bottles.
In late 2019, Ten Thousand raised $1.2 million in VC funding to expand the apparel brand even further. The brand is set to release its Pro Line this month, which includes an ultra water-repellant, quick-drying pair of shorts dubbed the "Set Short."
- An Instagram following of 106K
- Reviews from Men's Journal, Gear Patrol, Runner's World, and Men's Health
- Their partnership with Equinox
- Their month-long pledge to donate at least 10% of their net profits to 30 independent gym partners who lost revenue in light of the global pandemic
If you've ever shopped online for gym clothes, you know what a struggle it can be. Some retailers don't list fabric details, which are crucial since you can't feel them or try them on prior to purchasing. Sometimes you have to scroll through dozens of customer reviews to make sure that they're true to size. I even go one step further and zoom in on photos to make sure that pockets look deep enough.
Ten Thousand aims to cut through the BS with its line of activewear. The brand focuses on simplicity and functionality as opposed to neon colors, loud patterns, and over-the-top typefaces you see on competing brands in the fitness space.
The 3-year-old brand offers a streamlined product lineup of bottoms, tops, base layers, and accessories. But what you should really pay attention to is Ten Thousand's shorts.
There are four different styles that come with a 5-, 7-, or 9-inch inseam.
I prefer the most popular variant, the Interval short, which is made from 86% polyester and 14% spandex. The shorts have a timeless, understated design with a black yoga-pant-inspired waistband. They're available in six color configurations — I'm partial to the maroon color, but you can't go wrong with any of them.
Compared to the brand's ultra lightweight Session short — which are geared toward running, the Interval short is more versatile and works well with anything from high-intensity interval training to weight-lifting, and playing sports.
The shorts feel comfortable, lightweight, and they didn't bunch up or pinch me. I like that Ten Thousand gives buyers the choice of inseam length and the option for having a liner or not. For what it's worth, I have the variant with the liner. It feels like a pair of compression style boxer-briefs and offers a snug, but not-too-tight fit. The liner didn't restrict my movement and it felt plenty breathable, but if you intend on lounging in the shorts, too, I'd recommend ordering a pair without it.
I chatted with my colleague Brett Williams, who is the associate fitness editor at Men's Health and a former pro football player, about the Interval shorts since he also owns a pair.
"They're one of my go-to choices for weightlifting days, and you can count on the liner for high-intensity workouts as well," he said. "I wouldn't run in them myself, but they'll serve you well for low-mileage or sprint sessions."
As for me, I enjoyed wearing the shorts while lifting weights using the Tempo Studio fitness station, on hikes, and even on grocery runs. Since they are moisture-wicking and have quick-dry tech, I even swam in them. I was impressed that they dried in less than 10 minutes. I also like that the shorts have a zip pocket and two side pockets that are deep enough to stow my keys, wallet, or phone.
Ten Thousand's philanthropic focus is twofold. First, the brand aims to help customers find high-quality athletic wear, but they are also currently raising funds for struggling local gyms that have had to close their doors during the global pandemic.
If you're in search of a highly versatile and comfortable workout short, I don't think you'll be disappointed with any of Ten Thousand's styles.
Read More:
I Finally Found the Perfect Pair of Sweatpants
High-Quality Men's Workout Shorts for Every Activity
This Weighted Jump Rope Will Get Your Arms and Calves Toned in Practically No Time
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