UKC

3rd Rock Women's Clothing Review

© Rob Greenwood

3rd Rock are a Derbyshire based climbing apparel company that design practical and fashionable clothing using organic cotton and recycled fabrics. Over the summer I've been wearing a range of their stuff for everything from bouldering and cragging to travel - the Solstice leggings, Luna bra top and Eden trousers.

While reviewing 3rd Rock products it is hard not to notice that the company's ecological credentials are put into practice throughout the entire design process - from sourcing the fabrics, to designing practical well-fitting clothes that are made to last. It is great to see that you can make sustainable clothes that do not compromise on quality and do not cost a fortune. Although I've tried to review each product without any bias I'd like to be open about the fact that the environmental factor is very important to me. I think that anyone with a little knowledge of the typical supply chain in the fashion industry would agree that sustainability is not just a middle class whim.

Women's Solstice leggings £42.99

The first piece put to the test were Solstice night-sky printed leggings. With their eye-catching print, they are a fashion statement above everything.

Penny Orr demonstrates the yoga-compatibility of the Solstice leggings  © Rob Greenwood
Penny Orr demonstrates the yoga-compatibility of the Solstice leggings
© Rob Greenwood

Cut and features

The leggings are fitted all the way, with a little pocket just above the right ankle. The pocket is handy for small items like a locker key or money. I noted that the care label is hidden inside the pocket, which is a great idea as it doesn't get in the way and it can still serve its purpose. The leggings have a wide, double fabric waist, which keeps them in place and looks great. There is also a gusseted crotch and flat seams for comfort.

Fabric

The fabric used on the Solstice leggings is 78% Recycled Polyamide and 22% Lycra Xtra Life, while the print was done with ecological inks. They are shiny, slick and strong. They keep their shape throughout days of wearing and feel thicker than they look.

Conclusion

These are great leggings - good quality, comfortable and well designed. The print makes them look different and fun. I've found them ideal for climbing, yoga or just as a fashion piece. The only downside for me was that they felt a little too warm at times, but then I have been wearing them all summer and this should turn into an advantage during the winter months. At £42.99 they are very reasonably priced in comparison with other leading climbing, yoga and lifestyle brands.

3rd Rock say:

Solstice product shot  © 3rd Rock

Say no to saggy knees with the SOLSTICE. Our Moisture Control Recycled Leggings that feel so good they'll brighten your day. Made from Italian recycled fabric, these leggings are sustainability with a perfect fit.

  • Now darker around your bum and bright on the legs; the ultimate combination for flattering fun.
  • UV Protection for those lovely legs on your outdoor climbs and yoga sessions.
  • No Pressure Ankle Pocket to keep your small belongings safe and ankle comfortable in Downward Dog.
  • Wide Double-Layer Waistband that flattens your tum and makes your booty look fab.
  • Sizes: XS, S,M, L
  • Colours: Blue & Yellow (pictured); Red & Black

For more info see 3rdrockclothing.com

Luna - Moisture control bra top £33

The Luna is a beautifully designed sports bra/crop top that I found myself wearing pretty much all summer. It is a hybrid between a top and a bra that can be worn on its own or underneath another layer; and it comes in a selection of colours.

Cut and features

The Luna can be best described as a crop top with in-built bra that comes down to just above the waist. The inner bra has removable pads which provide extra support, and thick elastic under the bust. It has broad shoulder straps that cross at the back and are narrower around the neck and wider towards the bottom. On the back there is a printed 3rd Rock logo.

Fabric

The fabric is 44% Recycled Polyester, 44% CD polyester and 12% Spandex. It is light and stretchy and has a nice mottled, cotton-like look and feel. It is very breathable and quick drying, making it perfect for active wear.

Conclusion

The top fits snugly and feels supportive. It is a true bra, not just a "liner" type -ie. it actually holds everything in place. At the same time it feels very comfortable and it doesn't feel like you are wearing a sports bra. It was designed with a low impact activity in mind like climbing, cycling or yoga; running might be a bit much for it. It is perfect for hot summer days but can easily be worn underneath other clothes all year round too. I love the fact that it is simple, multifunctional, flattering and stylish. It costs £33, which I think is very reasonable. Just in case you fancy a change, the Luna also comes in an organic cotton version as well as in Recycled Polyamide / Lycra with an eco print (the same as the Solstice leggings).

3rd Rock say:

The LUNA eco friendly bra-top is the classic beauty that you have been waiting for ladies. Look stunning and feel fully supported. We didn't forget the nips either - got you covered with removable pads. Big muscles? No problem, made with thick pressure distribution shoulder straps, you'll stay strong and comfortable. Love showing off that skin in the sun? The LUNA doubles as a belli crop-top with extra coverage and support with our longer cut.

Luna product shot  © 3rd Rock

  • Quick Dry Moisture Control Recycled Polyester
  • Soft and comfortable fitness bra perfect for climbing, dancing, or the movies.
  • Holds and lifts your goddess like breasts and keeps them looking heavenly.
  • Thick Pressure-Distribution Strap design hybrid between a two-strap and halter neck for perfect pressure distribution on shoulders.
  • Cross back cut straps for breathable back-window to the world.
  • Cross back straps to frame your back beautifully. We provide the bra, you provide the back.
  • Smooths any back lumps normally caused by bras. Let's be honest, we all have lumps.
  • Removable boobie enhancement pads.
  • Holds fast in any movement without putting pressure on your neck.
  • Sizes: XS, S, M, L
  • Colours: 'baloo marl' (aka blue); black/mauve/yellow; black

For more info see 3rdrockclothing.com

Women's Eden pants £69

The Eden are organic cotton climbing trousers with a slightly more casual fit and functionality. At first glance they didn't look much different to the 3rd Rock Skat pants I previously owned, but I was soon to find myself wearing them everywhere and every day until it got really hot.

REVIEW: 3rd Rock Eden pant  © Eric Andrew

Cut and features

Starting at the top - they have a zipped fly and additional pull cord, plus two hand pockets on the front. The back of the waist is a wide elasticated band that curves around the hips. This enhances hip movement and makes the bum look good (I'm told!).

Eden trousers have a gusseted crotch and articulated knees. On the sides of the legs there are very handy deep pockets, one of them zipped, which fit a large mobile phone. These have proven very useful during travelling and trips to the pub.

Leg cuffs are straight and simple without any cord or elastic to pull them up. If you need to roll them up, they stay up, so I didn't find it a problem. They come in two different leg lengths: short 31" and regular 33" which are longer than standard, so don't get caught out! Having only a simple leg cuff means that the Eden trousers can easily be taken up if you are shorter in the leg.

Fabric

Eden trousers are 97.5% Organic Cotton and 2.5% Elastane. They feel soft, slightly stretchy, robust and light ...but not too thin.

Conclusion

The fit is described by 3rd Rock as slim/straight. They feel slightly less baggy than other similar climbing trousers. I was also surprised to fit comfortably in the size small when my Skat pants are medium - something worth considering.

The slimmer fit did not have any negative effect on climbing functionality. In fact if I didn't know about the casual cut I wouldn't have noticed it. They are great for bouldering, trad and sport cragging, and equally the pub afterwards.

I also found Eden trousers extremely comfortable and functional for everyday use, either out on the town or just around the house. They are number one for going away with the limited luggage allowance. They were brilliant at the airport too due to the secure pocket that can fit a passport and boarding pass without feeling heavy or looking bulgy.

They cost £69 - a little bit more expensive than other similar brands, but I feel that the price reflects the quality and design effort.

3rd Rock say:

Eden pants product shot  © 3rd Rock

Introducing the new EDEN, our women's climbing trouser with the most enhanced movement panels and cuts. The EDEN isn't just for climbing; this all-round trouser is perfect for walking or just sunbathing at the crag. Sport climbing, bouldering, any kind of climbing.

  • Diamond Cut Crotch for extra movement.
  • Elasticated waistband for comfortable movement.
  • Waist Puller Cord for security.
  • Side pockets one easy access the other zip close - the perfect size for passport and phone.
  • Curved Leg Seam to give extra knee room.
  • Makes your bum look great - our speciality!
  • Sizes: XS, S, M, L
  • Colours: Amber (yellow); Venom (purple); Tibet (plum); Frog (turquoise); Forest (dark green)

For more info see 3rdrockclothing.com




23 Sep, 2016
Wait, hold on, they made a product called the Skat Pant? Interesting choice of name.

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