Public Rec Clothing Review: Unraveling the Brand Hype

Why is Athleisure Wear for Men So Hot Right Now?

Back in the day, showing up to your office job in sweatpants would have been a one-way ticket to a stern talking-to from your boss. But times have changed, and the lines between formal and casual wear have blurred significantly. This shift is largely due to the rise of athleisure wear, a fashion trend that combines the comfort of athletic wear with the style and versatility of casual clothing.

Athleisure wear for men is particularly hot right now, and one brand that’s been making waves in this space is Public Rec. Born out of a desire to create comfortable, stylish, and versatile clothing, Public Rec has been at the forefront of the athleisure trend, offering a range of products that are as suitable for a relaxed day at the office as they are for a weekend outing or a workout session.

The popularity of athleisure wear can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the modern man values comfort just as much as style, and athleisure wear offers the best of both worlds. Secondly, the versatility of these clothes means that you can wear them for various occasions without feeling out of place. Lastly, the rise of remote work and flexible work arrangements has made it more acceptable to dress casually, further driving the demand for athleisure wear.

So, why are men’s athleisure outfits so hot right now? It’s simple: it’s all about comfort, versatility, and keeping up with the changing times. And if you’re looking for a brand that embodies these qualities, you can’t go wrong with Public Rec. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into Public Rec clothing reviews and explore what makes this brand stand out in men’s athleisure wear.

Public Rec’s History

Public Rec was founded in Chicago by former investment banker Zach Goldstein. The idea for the brand was born in the late 2000s when Goldstein was still in college. He loved wearing sweatpants but was frustrated by the market’s lack of well-fitting and stylish options. After a few years in finance, Goldstein quit his job and pursued his dream of filling this gap in the leisurewear market. His efforts culminated in launching Public Rec’s flagship product, the All Day Every Day Pant, via Kickstarter in 2015. The campaign was a resounding success, raising over $175,000 against a modest $15,000 goal. Since then, Public Rec has expanded its range to include a variety of bottoms, tops, layers, and accessories.

Mission and Vision

Public Rec’s main slogan is “We make leisurewear for everywhere.” The brand aims to provide versatile clothing that offers a tailored fit through custom-made performance fabric, design details that outshine competitors, and indoor-level comfort. They strive to create business casual clothing for men that blur the lines, allowing them to transition seamlessly from the office to the gym or the couch.

Unique Selling Propositions

What sets Public Rec apart from other athleisure brands is their attention to detail and commitment to quality. Each piece of clothing is prototyped and refined for at least one year before it hits the market. The brand’s understated branding and solid, neutral tones make their leisurewear highly versatile and suitable for layering and dressing up or down. Public Rec also stands out for its innovative design features, such as hidden zip pockets and raglan shoulder seams. Their clothing is extremely comfortable and universally super soft against the skin. Despite being at the premium end of the leisurewear market, Public Rec’s clothing’s quality, comfort, and versatility justify the price tag.

Exploring Public Rec Clothing & Products

Variety in Styles

Public Rec is all about that fresh swagger, offering men’s athleisure pants for work and play with several styles.. From their iconic All Day Every Day Pant that kicked off their brand to joggers, tees, and light outerwear, they’ve covered your casual yet dapper look. Their line has expanded to include women’s styles, making it a one-stop shop for all your athleisure needs.

Their products are designed for the modern man who wants to look put together without sacrificing comfort. Whether working from home, hitting the gym, or stepping out for a casual outing, Public Rec is the brand to take you to the next level. Their clothes are designed to be as comfortable as possible without sacrificing fit or polish, making them the ideal choice for the new normal of WFH life.

Color and Size Range

Public Rec doesn’t skimp on options when it comes to color and size. For example, their All Day Every Day Pant comes in nine sick colors, including Navy, Black, Heather Charcoal, Khaki, Fog, Dark Olive, Stone Grey, Heather Navy, and Heather Burgundy. This means you can mix and match to your heart’s content, keeping your wardrobe fresh and versatile.

When it comes to sizes, Public Rec has got you covered too. Unlike most sweatpants in generic sizes like small, medium, and large, Public Rec uses waist and inseam measurements for a fit that’s neither baggy nor sloppy. The waist also features a drawstring for added comfort and fit. So, whether you’re a 30×30 or a 32×28, you can find the perfect fit for your body type.

Public Rec All Day Every Day Pant

The All Day Every Day Pant is the flagship product of Public Rec and the one that started it all. Priced at $108, these pants are a more stylish alternative to sweatpants and a more comfortable alternative to jeans. They are available in nine fresh colors: Navy, Black, Heather Charcoal, Khaki, Fog, Dark Olive, Stone Grey, Heather Navy, and Heather Burgundy.

The pants are made from Public Rec’s proprietary All Day Every Day Fabric, a unique blend of nylon and spandex that ensures maximum durability without sacrificing comfort or shape. The fabric is super soft to the touch, making these pants a pleasure to wear all day, every day.

The All Day Every Day Pant features an elastic waistband with an internal drawstring, two front zipper pockets, a faux front fly, and two generous back pockets. The pants have a generous fit, giving glutes and thighs room to breathe while tapering slightly at the ankle for a smart finish. They are available in waist sizes from 28 to 44 and inseam sizes from 28 to 36, ensuring a perfect fit for almost everyone.

The All Day Every Day Pant has received rave customer reviews, with a 4.5-star rating from over 14,000 reviews. Customers love these pants’ comfort, fit, and versatility, with many saying they are the most comfortable pants they have ever had. Whether working from home, hitting the gym, or stepping out for a casual outing, the All Day Every Day Pant will take care of you.

Public Rec Workday Pant 2.0

The Workday Pant 2.0 is another dope offering from Public Rec, priced at $128. These pants are designed to bring undercover comfort to formal occasions, making them a versatile addition to any man’s wardrobe. They are available in a color called Sand, a neutral tone that can easily be paired with other colors.

The Workday Pant 2.0 is made from 100% polyester, making it wind- and water-resistant for all-season wear. Despite its durability, the fabric feels light and comfortable, making it perfect for a busy workday or a relaxed weekend.

The pants feature a modern fit that skims the thighs and fits straight from the knee down. They come with belt loops, a front zipper fly, and a hidden back zipper pocket for convenience. The pants are available in waist sizes from 28 to 44 and inseam sizes from 28 to 36, ensuring a perfect fit for almost everyone.

The Workday Pant 2.0 has received a 4.5-star rating from over 1277 reviews. Customers love the comfort, fit, and versatility of these pants. One customer described them as the “best work pants ever,” while another praised their “perfect stretchy lightweight” feel.

Public Rec Weekend Half Zip

The Weekend Half Zip is a sick addition to Public Rec’s lineup, priced at $98. This half-zip sweatshirt is designed to bring comfort and style to your weekend wardrobe. It is available in a color called Stone Navy, a versatile hue that can be paired with various other colors.

The Weekend Half Zip is made from a blend of Pima Cotton, Polyester, and Spandex, creating a French Terry fabric that is both durable and comfortable. The fabric is light and soft, making it a pleasure to wear during any season.

The sweatshirt features a modern, athletic fit that is flattering without being restrictive. It comes with raglan shoulder sleeves and no-bounce zippers for added convenience. The Weekend Half Zip is available in sizes from S to XXL, ensuring a perfect fit for various body types.

The Weekend Half Zip has received a 4.3-star rating from over 40 reviews. Customers have praised the comfort, fit, and versatility of this sweatshirt. One customer described it as the “best half zip ever,” while another praised its “perfect stretchy lightweight” feel. The Weekend Half Zip is a dope choice whether you’re lounging at home or heading out for a casual outing.

Public Rec Weekend Full Zip

The Weekend Full Zip is a fresh addition to Public Rec’s collection, priced at $108. This full-zip hoodie is designed to bring comfort and style to your weekend wardrobe. It is available in a color called Heather Navy, a versatile hue that can be paired with various other colors.

The Weekend Full Zip is made from a blend of Pima Cotton, Polyester, and Spandex, creating a French Terry fabric that is both durable and comfortable. The fabric is light and soft, making it a pleasure to wear during any season.

The hoodie features a modern, athletic fit that is flattering without being restrictive. It has two front hand pockets, a scuba hood with a high neckline, and no-bounce zippers for convenience. The Weekend Full Zip is available in sizes from S to XXL, ensuring a perfect fit for various body types.

The Weekend Full Zip has received a 4.3-star rating from over 70 reviews. Customers have praised the comfort, fit, and versatility of this hoodie. One customer described it as the “best full zip ever,” while another praised its “perfect stretchy lightweight” feel.

Public Rec Crosstown Bomber

The Crosstown Bomber is a dapper addition to Public Rec’s collection, priced at $128. This bomber jacket is designed to bring a sleek, stylish, and functional layer to your wardrobe. It is available in a color called Dark Olive, a versatile hue that can be paired with various other colors.

The Crosstown Bomber is made from a unique blend of nylon and spandex, creating a fabric that ensures maximum durability without sacrificing comfort or shape. The fabric is light and soft, making it a pleasure to wear during any season.

The jacket features a modern, athletic fit that is flattering without being restrictive. It comes with a chest zipper pocket with a media opening, two front-hand zipper pockets with an additional media opening, and no-bounce zippers for added convenience. The Crosstown Bomber is available in sizes from S to XXL, ensuring a perfect fit for many body types.

The Crosstown Bomber has received a 4.6-star rating from over 190 reviews. Customers have praised the comfort, fit, and versatility of this jacket. One customer described it as “sleek, stylish, functional,” while another praised its “excellent fit.”

Public Rec Go-To Short Sleeve Henley

The Go-To Short Sleeve Henley is a fresh addition to Public Rec’s collection, priced at $68. This Henley shirt is designed to bring a relaxed, athletic fit to your wardrobe. It is available in a color called Heather Silver Spoon, a versatile hue that can be paired with various other colors.

The Go-To Short Sleeve Henley is made from a unique blend of Pima Cotton for softness, spandex for stretch, and TENCEL for durability. The combination ensures tees that are as soft as they are strong. The shirt features raglan shoulder seams and flatlock stitching, adding comfort and style. It is available in sizes from S to XXXL, ensuring a perfect fit for various body types.

The Go-To Short Sleeve Henley has received a 4.4-star rating from over 190 reviews. Customers have praised the comfort, fit, and versatility of this shirt. One customer described it as having a “sexy look,” while another praised its “nice athletic fit.”

Public Rec Clothing: Reviewing Quality and Comfort

Material Quality

Public Rec’s products are crafted from a blend of top-notch materials that deliver durability and comfort. Take the Workday Pants, for instance, they’re made from 100% polyester, which not only makes them more durable than the original All Day Every Day Pants but also gives them water and wind-resistant properties, making them perfect for year-round use. The pants are super lightweight, a plus for those who prefer a lighter feel. On the other hand, the All Day Everyday Jacket is made from a blend of spandex, Tencel (a recycled fiber made from wood pulp), and Pima cotton, offering a soft and almost luxurious feel.

Comfort Level

Comfort is a key aspect of Public Rec’s products. The Workday Pants are described as having a good amount of stretch, not just confined to the waistband but extending to the whole pant, allowing for a comfortable fit. The All Day Everyday Jacket is also praised for its comfort, snug fit, and stretch in all the right places. Like the pants, the Workday Shorts have a slim silhouette that is not too tight, striking a happy medium between form-fitting and comfort.

Durability

Regarding durability, Public Rec’s products seem to hold up well. The Workday Pants are made from 100% polyester, known for their durability. The All Day Everyday Jacket, made from a blend of spandex, tencel, and Pima cotton, is also expected to be durable, given the materials’ quality. The Workday Shorts are made from the same blend of polyester and spandex as the Workday Pants, suggesting similar durability.

Evaluating Fit and Sizing

Sizing Accuracy

Public Rec’s clothing line, particularly their Workday Pants, has been praised for its accurate and consistent sizing. The pants are designed with a modern fit that’s not too baggy or skinny, almost like a tailored fit. They have a lot of stretch, even for this style of pants, which is a huge plus for those who value comfort and flexibility.

The waist isn’t super stretchy, and there’s no elastic waistband. However, the pants are made from a blend of polyester and spandex, meaning that the whole pant stretches, not just the waist. This added stretchiness allows for a comfortable fit, even if the waist is tight.

The brand has also updated its original Workday pants to the 2.0 version, which includes a 28″ inseam for guys with shorter legs and added room in the seat and thighs for added comfort and flexibility. This update has been well-received, as it caters to a wider range of body types and preferences.

Fit Description

Public Rec’s clothing, especially the Workday Pants, is designed to offer a relaxed yet fitted look. The pants are described as having a modern fit – not too baggy or skinny – almost a tailored fit. They are made from a blend of polyester and spandex, which allows the whole pant to stretch, not just the waist. This means that even if they are tight in the waist, they still provide a comfortable fit.

The pants are also designed to accommodate a variety of body types. For instance, they have added room in the seat and thighs for comfort and flexibility. This makes them a great choice for those who want a relaxed yet stylish look.

Pricing and Value for Money

Pricing Analysis

Public Rec, BYLT Basics, Cuts Clothing, and UNRL Apparel all cater to the athleisure market, but their pricing strategies vary significantly, reflecting their unique brand positioning and product offerings.

Public Rec’s All Day Every Day Pant, one of their signature items, is priced at $98. This pant is designed to offer the comfort of sweatpants with the look of a more structured trouser, making it a versatile piece for various occasions.

In comparison, BYLT Basics offer their Drop-Cut LUX Pants at a lower price of $68. While these pants also aim to provide comfort and style, they lean more towards a casual aesthetic, which may not be as versatile as Public Rec’s product line. Read our BYLT Basics Review for more deets.

On the other hand, Cuts Clothing is more recognized for its tees than its pants. Their Crew Curve-Hem tee is $48, and their Long Sleeve Polo is $68. They don’t offer a direct equivalent to the All Day Every Day Pant, which makes a direct comparison challenging. Read our Cuts Clothing Review to get the lowdown on what they bring to the market.

UNRL is another competitor in the athleisure space, but its product range focuses more on sport-specific apparel. Their St. Louis Blues Quarter-Zip, a sporty outerwear piece, is priced at $90, while their All Day Pant, the closest equivalent to Public Rec’s offering, is priced slightly lower at $85. Our UNRL Clothing Review details the products so you can make more informed decisions.

In conclusion, while Public Rec’s pricing might be on the higher end compared to some brands, it’s important to consider the unique value proposition of their products. They focus on creating versatile clothing that bridges the gap between comfort and dope men’s athleisure style that justifies the premium pricing. The brand’s commitment to quality, comfort, and durability makes it a worthy investment for those who value these attributes in their athleisure wear.

Aesthetics and Style

Design Evaluation

Public Rec’s design philosophy leans towards the athleisure aesthetic, combining comfort with sophistication. For instance, the All Day Every Day Pants are sweatpants with a slightly classier aesthetic. They come in nine colorways, each exuding a different level of the athleisure vibe. The pants also feature a faux front fly, which adds a marginal level of sophistication. However, the fabric and how these pants wear on the body are unmistakably reminiscent of sweatpants.

The Workday Pants, on the other hand, are made of 100% Polyester, making them more durable and comfortable than the original All Day Every Day Pants. They are also water and wind-resistant, making them perfect for year-round use. The pants come in several colors: black, navy, slate, fog, and sand. The pants are lightweight and have a modern fit – not too baggy or skinny – almost a tailored fit.

Versatility for Outfit Creation

The All Day Every Day Pants and the Workday Pants are versatile in outfit creation. Their simple and sleek design allows them to be paired with various tops, from casual t-shirts to more formal button-down shirts. However, their athleisure vibe might limit their appropriateness for more formal settings.

Unique Style Features

One unique style feature of the All Day Every Day Pants is the pockets sewn into the front seams, which close with YKK Conceal® zippers. This feature is not commonly found in sweatpants and adds a touch of sophistication. The Workday Pants, on the other hand, have a zippered back pocket, belt loops, and a front zipper fly, adding to their modern and stylish appeal. The tips of the drawstring on the All Day Every Day Pants have a luxurious rubbery feel to them, which helps give these pants an overall premium feel.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Summary of Review

After a deep dive into Public Rec’s offerings, it’s clear that this brand is all about comfort and style. Their products are designed with a focus on quality, comfort, and fit, and they’ve managed to strike a balance between casual and formal wear. The brand’s commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability is also commendable, adding another layer of appeal to its products.

Recommendation Rationale

Public Rec’s products are highly recommended for those who value comfort and style in their everyday wear. The brand’s focus on quality materials and fit ensures that its products are comfortable and durable. The versatility of their clothing items also makes them a great choice for those who want to maintain a stylish look without sacrificing comfort. However, it’s worth noting that their products come with a higher price tag, which may not be within everyone’s budget.

Ideal Customer Profile

The ideal Public Rec customer values comfort, style, and quality in everyday wear. They will likely lead an active lifestyle and appreciate clothing that can transition from casual to formal settings. They are also likely to be conscious of ethical sourcing and sustainability in the brands they support. If you fit this profile, Public Rec might just be your brand.

FAQ

Q: Who makes Public Rec clothing?
A: Public Rec is a clothing brand that designs and manufactures a line of comfortable and stylish apparel for men and women.

Q: Where is Public Rec clothing made?
A: Public Rec clothing is made in various countries, including the United States, China, and Peru. They work with ethical and responsible factories to ensure high-quality products.

Q: Is Public Rec a US company?
A: Yes, Public Rec is a US-based company. It was founded in Chicago, Illinois, and is headquartered there.

Q: When was Public Rec founded?
A: Public Rec was founded in 2015 by Zach Goldstein, who wanted to create comfortable and versatile clothing for everyday wear.

Q: Do Public Rec shirts shrink?
A: Public Rec shirts are made from high-quality materials that minimize shrinkage. However, it’s always a good idea to follow the care instructions on the label to maintain the quality and fit of your clothing.

Q: Does Public Rec have free returns?
A: Public Rec offers free returns and exchanges within the United States for items returned within 30 days of purchase. Items must be in new, unworn condition with original tags attached.

Q: What are Public Rec pants made of?
A: Public Rec pants are made from polyester, nylon, and spandex. This combination provides comfort, durability, and stretch for a perfect fit and feel.