Our Editor Reviews 4 Popular Activewear Sets Designed in the Philippines

For the longest time, I wasn't someone who would fuss about what I wear while I work out, because I was never comfortable in my own skin. I used to always just put on an oversized tee to hide my belly, and a pair of basic black leggings to conceal my cellulite.

However, thanks to months of working from home, I finally had time to take up running -- socially distanced while wearing a mask, of course -- and have continued toning my body. With fitness now becoming a part of my routine, I started to realize how a good sports bra and yoga pants set can help boost my confidence. While most would probably recommend activewear from reputable brands like Nike or Alo Yoga, I decided to support local businesses from the Philippines (where I'm from) and try out what independent labels have to offer.

From Andi Activewear, to Future Relics, to MillennX Activewear, to Recess, read on for my honest review of these brands' best-selling pieces.

Andi Activewear

WHAT IS IT: Moriah Strappy Box Bra and Yve 7/8 Leggings in "Marsh Green"

REVIEW: Founded in 2018, Andi Activewear is a female-owned business that aims to empower women through its apparel. The brand's sportswear styles arrive in a minimal aesthetic and are constructed out of its breathable, stretchy and quick-dry Alpha Lite fabric.

The Moriah Strappy Box Bra provides medium support and features a square neckline. I tend to prefer sports bras that don't show too much cleavage, and this piece definitely meets that requirement. What I especially love about this design is the hook enclosure at the back, which allows me to adjust the fit to my liking. Complete with deep side pockets, the Yve 7/8 Leggings comes with a high rise waistband with darts that accentuate the waist. These bottoms are designed for high-impact practices, so I usually wear them if I plan on going for a run.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND IT: Priced at ₱1,300 and ₱1,500 PHP respectively (approximately $26 and $30 USD), the Moriah Strappy Box Bra and Yve 7/8 Leggings in "Marsh Green" are available to purchase via Andi Activewear's web store.

Future Relics

WHAT IS IT: Crossback Bra and Mesh Panel Tights in "Black"

REVIEW: Dedicated to shifting the mindset of young, active people in urban areas, Manila-based Future Relics is not your ordinary activewear label. Known for sharing inspiring content with its wellness community in the capital of the Philippines, the brand offers suggested running routes you can follow and is currently working on opening new studios in central hubs.

Working closely with local factories, Future Relics' garments are made from ethically sourced fabric. The Crossback Bra comes with washable pads, and features a four-way stretch fabric that instantly dries after I break a sweat. As for the tights, ventilated mesh design details can be seen on the sides and near the calves, giving it an overall premium look. I prefer my leggings to be a little tighter around my waist so that I don't have to constantly pull them up while I exercise. If you're like me, I would suggest sizing down to avoid that loose fit.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND IT: Priced at ₱1,800 and ₱2,500 PHP respectively (approximately $37 and $50 USD), the Crossback Bra and Mesh Panel Tights in "Black" are available to purchase via Future Relics' web store. The brand currently only ships within Manila but it working on international shipping.

MillennX Activewear

WHAT IS IT: Madison Sports Bra and Faith Leggings in "Dusty Blue"

REVIEW: Founded by deaf fashion designer Jamille Co Hernandez and her husband Glenn, MillennX is an inclusive label that caters to men and women of all shapes and sizes. Additionally, the brand's stylish offerings come at a discounted price for people with special needs. Offering personalized options, MillennX allows you to customize your set with your desired shades and even names, numbers or graphics you want to add to your pieces.

The Madison boasts a halter structure and interconnected bra pads. Designed for high-intensity training, this piece will help keep your breasts secured throughout your workouts. The Faith tights arrive in a mid-rise fit and sports a full sublimation print with the mesh panels. If you plan on working out in these bottoms outdoors, I would recommend wearing your go-to nude seamless panties underneath, as the material of the leggings is a bit sheer.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND IT: Priced at ₱1,980 PHP (approximately $40 USD) each, the Madison Sports Bra and Faith Leggings in "Dusty Blue" are available to purchase via MillennX's web store.

Recess

WHAT IS IT: Come At Me Bra in "Sunflower" and Do Everything Short in "Matcha"

REVIEW: Despite being fairly new to the game, Recess has been making waves in the local activewear industry since its founding back in December 2020. Established by Anne Curtis, Isabelle Daza, Paulina Ortega and Roxanne Farillas, the brand is known for its timeless, fun and feminine aesthetic.

With the aim to provide its customers with versatile silhouettes, the Come At Me Bra in its latest "Sunflower" colorway sports a low V-neck design with adjustable straps and removable pads. Providing light support, this bra is ideal for low-intensity workouts. On top of that, the piece is crafted from soft fabric, making it perfect for everyday wear as well. Complete your look with the Do Everything Short in "Matcha," which comes with four-way stretch material and provides gentle compression. Both items are true-to-size, so make sure you know your exact measurements before submitting your order.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND IT: Priced at ₱1,498 and ₱1,598 PHP respectively (approximately $30 and $33 USD) respectively, the Come At Me Bra in "Sunflower" and Do Everything Short in "Matcha" are available to purchase via Recess' web store.

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