Are Adanola leggings really worth the hype?
Is the hype around Adanola leggings justified? I felt compelled to share my thoughts on these leggings after noticing their popularity among Instagram influencers. I must admit, I was swayed by their appealing appearance and reasonable price.
However, as a fashion journalist, I am naturally cautious when it comes to brands promoted by influencers. I am well aware of the intricacies of marketing and couldn't help but wonder if these leggings were simply a passing trend for the influencers. With this in mind, I embarked on a thorough investigation.
What is Adanola?
Adanola, a brand catering to an 'everyday active lifestyle', boasts an impressive following of 268,000. Founded by Josh and Hyrum Cook, this information isn't readily available on their website, but a little investigation reveals that they pitched their idea on Dragon's Den in 2015. Prior to becoming the renowned athleisure brand it is today, Adanola started as a blog owned by Hyrum Cook for six years. Their product range includes popular items such as leggings, tank tops, sweatpants, sweatshirts, and socks.
The brand exudes a certain Kendall Jenner-esque vibe as she goes about her errands in LA. I mean this in the most complimentary way possible. Adanola has established itself as an "it" brand, much like Varley and Les Tiens. It has made a significant impact in the luxury athleisure market, especially during a time when we all crave the comfort of leggings. What sets Adanola apart is its affordable price point, which naturally piques our curiosity.
Adanola leggings
Adanola leggings are undoubtedly the top-selling product on the website. With a wide range of 19 vibrant colors to choose from, these leggings are priced at an unbeatable £39.99.
What sets them apart is their versatility in terms of fit. You can opt for the regular 7/8 fit or the tall fit, ensuring a perfect match for your body type. Crafted from a four-way stretch fabric, these leggings eliminate the need for a front seam, guaranteeing a seamless and flattering look.
Moreover, the high waist design not only enhances your physique but also provides utmost comfort whether you're hitting the gym or going about your daily routine. Adanola leggings truly offer the best of both worlds - style and functionality.
My Adanola leggings review
I am completely sold. My entire weekend was spent at Center Parcs, chasing after a hyperactive 15-month-old toddler. I played badminton and squash, and even put on these leggings after swimming to test their comfort. I walked around and briefly relaxed in them.
In the past, I have purchased leggings from Sweaty Betty, Nike, Adidas, Spiritual Gangster, and Marks & Spencer. However, these leggings from Adanola have exceeded all my expectations.
Unlike Adidas, these leggings are thick and provide full coverage, so no matter how many squats you do, your underwear remains hidden. Unlike Sweaty Betty, the material is not constricting and uncomfortable. I must admit, Nike leggings are good, but Adanola's are even better.
I bought them in a size medium, which fits perfectly as a size 10. I loved them so much that I bought them in black and now also have them in sea green.
I was also influenced by the online photos and ended up purchasing the cream Adanola socks to pair with my New Balance trainers. I can't resist a good pair of socks.
Here are the standout features of the Adanola leggings:
- True to size
- Thick material that doesn't reveal your underwear
- Good length
- No camel toe
- Suitable for both exercise and everyday wear
- Minimal branding
- Wide range of colors.
The Adanola range
Adanola offers a wide range of products beyond just leggings, and I wanted to highlight some of my other favorite items from their collection. As mentioned before, their outdoor wear has a similar vibe to Pangaia / Les Tiens, which I absolutely adore. What's even better is that the price point is much more affordable without compromising on quality.
Unfortunately, many of the oversized sweatshirts priced at £49.99 (shown below) are currently out of stock. However, there is an option to receive a notification when they are back in stock, and I have already signed up for it.
I'm also a huge fan of their socks, as seen in the image above paired with New Balance trainers. Additionally, the image showcases the black Adanola leggings that I recently purchased.
Furthermore, Adanola's new in range is absolutely fantastic. It gives off a refreshing Yosemite in the spring vibe, featuring oversized t-shirts with 'Go Outside' emblazoned on them, as well as funnel neck half-zip hoodies. Think of it as the athletic version of the popular half-zip phenomenon from & Other Stories.
As someone who was initially skeptical about influencer marketing, I can confidently say that Adanola has won me over. I'm already searching for my next purchase. Move aside, Nike, there's a new contender in town when it comes to leggings.