Public Rec Review: Elevating Athleisure with Style and Comfort
Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of men’s fashion, the line between comfort and style has become increasingly blurred. Enter Public Rec, a brand that’s been making waves in the athleisure space since its inception in 2015. Founded by former investment banker Zach Goldstein, Public Rec set out to solve a common problem: creating comfortable, versatile clothing that looks sharp enough to wear beyond the gym or living room. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into what makes Public Rec stand out, explore their product range, and help you decide if their apparel is worth adding to your wardrobe.
About Public Rec
Public Rec was born out of Goldstein’s frustration with the lack of stylish, comfortable loungewear options for men. The brand’s mission is to bridge the gap between performance wear and casual clothing, creating versatile pieces that can seamlessly transition from a workout to a casual outing or even a relaxed office environment.
| Product | Price | Key Features | Best For | Fabric Blend | Available Sizes |
| All Day Every Day Pant | $98 | Elastic waistband, faux fly, tapered leg | Versatile everyday wear | Nylon/Spandex | Waist: 28″-44″, Inseam: 28″-36″ |
| All Day Every Day Jogger | $98 | Elastic waistband, cuffed hem, zippered pockets | Casual outings, light workouts | Nylon/Spandex | Waist: 28″-44″, Inseam: 28″-36″ |
| Workday Pant | $108 | Belt loops, 5-pocket design, slim or straight fit | Office, business casual | Polyester/Spandex | Waist: 28″-44″, Inseam: 28″-36″ |
| Politan Hoodie | $98 | Raglan sleeves, kangaroo pocket, v-neck collar | Layering, casual wear | Polyester/Spandex | XS-XXL |
| Go-To Tee | $54 | Tailored fit, moisture-wicking | Everyday casual, workouts | Pima Cotton/TENCEL/Spandex | XS-XXL |
| Pro Pack (Backpack) | $162-$204 | Laptop compartment, water-resistant | Work, travel | Polyester | One size (medium or large) |
Key Benefits Across All Products:
- Moisture-wicking fabrics
- Stretch for comfort and movement
- Versatile designs for multiple settings
- Free US shipping and returns
- 30-day trial period
Product Range
Pants and Joggers
Public Rec’s flagship product is the All Day Every Day Pant, which kicked off their success on Kickstarter in 2015. Since then, they’ve expanded their bottoms lineup to include:
- All Day Every Day Jogger
- Workday Pant (available in Slim and Straight fits)
- Stadium Jogger
- Weekend Short
Tops
The brand offers a variety of tops, including:
- Go-To Tee
- Politan Hoodie
- Crosstown Bomber
- All Day Every Day Polo
Accessories
Public Rec has also ventured into accessories with items like:
- Pro Pack (backpack)
- Weekender Bag
- Beanie
Key Features
Fabric Technology
One of Public Rec’s standout features is their proprietary fabric blends. They use a mix of nylon, spandex, and other technical materials to create clothing that’s moisture-wicking, breathable, and stretchy, while maintaining a polished look.
Fit and Comfort
Public Rec prides itself on offering a tailored fit that flatters various body types. Their pants and joggers come in waist and inseam sizes, allowing for a more customized fit than traditional S/M/L sizing.
Versatility
The brand’s clothing is designed to be versatile, suitable for various settings from the gym to casual outings and even some office environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-quality, technical fabrics that offer comfort and performance
- Versatile designs that can be dressed up or down
- Excellent fit options, especially for pants and joggers
- Thoughtful design details like hidden zippered pockets
- Free shipping and returns within the US
- 30-day trial period for most items
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- Limited color options for some items
- Some customers report inconsistencies in sizing across different products
- International shipping can be expensive
Product Highlights
All Day Every Day Pant
The All Day Every Day Pant is Public Rec’s bestseller, and for good reason. These pants strike an impressive balance between comfort and style. Made from a nylon and spandex blend, they offer the comfort of sweatpants with the look of chinos. The elastic waistband and internal drawstring provide a custom fit, while the faux fly and tapered leg keep things looking sharp.
Priced at $98, these pants come in a variety of colors and are available in both waist and inseam sizes. They feature two front zippered pockets and two back pockets, making them practical for everyday wear.
Politan Hoodie
The Politan Hoodie exemplifies Public Rec’s approach to elevated basics. Made from a moss jersey blend of polyester and spandex, this hoodie offers a soft, luxurious feel with added stretch for comfort. The sleek design includes a subtle v-neck collar and raglan sleeves, giving it a more refined look than your average hoodie.
At $98, the Politan Hoodie is on the pricier side for a sweatshirt, but its versatility and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment for many customers.
Fit and Sizing
Public Rec offers a range of sizes to accommodate different body types. Their pants and joggers are available in waist sizes from 28 to 44 inches and inseam lengths from 28 to 36 inches. Tops generally come in standard sizes from XS to XXL.
Many customers praise the fit of Public Rec’s clothing, particularly the pants. The ability to choose both waist and inseam measurements allows for a more tailored fit than many competitors offer.
Quality and Durability
Public Rec uses high-quality materials and construction techniques, which is reflected in their pricing. Many customers report that the clothing holds up well over time, maintaining its shape and color even after multiple washes.
The brand’s attention to detail is evident in features like reinforced seams and durable zippers. While the initial investment may be higher than some other athleisure brands, the longevity of the products can make them a good value in the long run.
Style and Versatility
One of Public Rec’s strongest selling points is the versatility of their clothing. The All Day Every Day Pant, for example, can easily transition from a casual office environment to a weekend outing or even a light workout. The clean, minimalist aesthetic of their designs contributes to this versatility.
The brand’s color palette tends to lean towards neutral, muted tones, which some customers appreciate for their timeless appeal, while others might wish for more vibrant options.
Customer Experience
Website and Ordering Process
Public Rec’s website is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Product pages provide detailed information about materials, fit, and care instructions. The checkout process is straightforward, with options for guest checkout or account creation.
Shipping and Returns
The brand offers free shipping and returns within the US, which is a significant plus. Orders typically ship within 1-2 business days. International customers, however, are responsible for shipping costs and any potential customs fees.
Public Rec’s 30-day trial period allows customers to return unworn, unwashed items for a full refund, which provides peace of mind when trying out new styles.
Customer Service
Many customers report positive experiences with Public Rec’s customer service team, praising their responsiveness and willingness to resolve issues. However, some reviews on third-party sites indicate occasional delays in communication during busy periods.
Price Point and Value
Public Rec’s products are positioned at a premium price point within the athleisure market. While some customers may experience sticker shock, many feel the quality and versatility of the clothing justify the cost. The brand occasionally offers promotions and discounts, which can provide better value for budget-conscious shoppers.
Sustainability and Ethics
While Public Rec doesn’t heavily market their sustainability practices, they do use some eco-friendly materials in their production. However, there’s room for improvement in terms of transparency about their manufacturing processes and supply chain.
Final Verdict
Public Rec has successfully carved out a niche in the athleisure market by offering high-quality, versatile clothing that bridges the gap between performance wear and casual attire. Their attention to fit, fabric technology, and thoughtful design details set them apart from many competitors.
For men who value comfort without sacrificing style, and who are willing to invest in premium basics, Public Rec is definitely worth considering. The All Day Every Day Pant and Politan Hoodie, in particular, stand out as versatile pieces that could become wardrobe staples.
However, the higher price point may be a barrier for some consumers, and those looking for bold colors or patterns might find the selection limited. Additionally, international customers should be aware of potential additional costs for shipping and returns.
Overall, Public Rec delivers on its promise of creating comfortable, stylish clothing that can seamlessly transition between various settings. While not the cheapest option on the market, the brand’s commitment to quality and versatility makes it a solid choice for men looking to elevate their everyday wardrobe.
Whether you’re a busy professional seeking comfortable office attire, a frequent traveler in need of versatile pieces, or simply someone who appreciates well-made basics, Public Rec offers a range of products that could meet your needs. As with any premium brand, it’s worth taking advantage of their 30-day trial period to ensure the fit and style work for you before fully committing to their higher price point.
