Rival Kit are no longer the new kid on the block. With four years of experience behind them, they’re entrenched in the rowing community as kit providers to numerous clubs, schools and universities as well as acting as official kit provider for The Boat Race. Their transition from infancy to full-fledged powerhouse of performance apparel is down to several factors but their commitment to ongoing and iterative improvement is chief amongst them. They’re redesigned numerous parts of their portfolio to match and meet the expectations and demands of their customer base and their latest all-in-one is a clear example of that drive to differentiate and develop.
Rival’s most recent publicly available AIO is unlike anything we’ve worn before. Design, material fit, comfort and weave have all been upgraded to ensure this bit of kit performs unlike any other. As we tested the AIO in July – when the weather is warmer compared to the colder winter months – we immediately noticed its ability to breathe and remain opaque despite perspiration. The material sits well around both the waistband and the legs, allowing for improved flexibility throughout the stroke; the shorts are now fitted with an elasticated section which causes them to hug the thigh. The AIO also has UPF 30+ UV protection, which negates the need to be hugely concerned about the sun – protection is still recommended but this is a great nod towards the increasingly warm weather we are experiencing.
Aesthetically, the AIOs we received were colourful and playful with an obvious lean towards the boundary-breaking design protocols that Jenny Stevenson and her team have brought to rowing. Jenny has been busy expanding her team over the past couple of years, bringing in emerging talent from across the fashion ecosystem to blend beautiful design with practicality and race-readiness. The ‘lava’ design we received did not peel or stretch, maintaining its quality even when tested in race scenarios. It’s also machine-washable, ensuring you don’t have to take any special precautions post-use. Unlike many contemporary AIOs, the interior was not scratchy or uncomfortable.
Above all else, the factor that has stood Rival out from a relatively congested market is their ability to cater for the individual needs of numerous customers. This AIO is the exemplar for relentless commitment to betterment, predicated upon thousands of feedback emails, calls and submissions from the rowing community. Rest assured; they’re not done yet. As the official performance apparel partner for The Boat Race – alongside with several other exciting announcements to come over the next few months – they want to continue to raise their game with market-leading kit that allows wearer, purchaser and custodian to feel comfortable, secure and heard.
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