Olivers Apparel Review: Premium Men‘s Activewear Worth the Investment?

Brand Overview

First established in 2013, Olivers Apparel has steadily made a name for itself as a top men‘s activewear brand known for premium quality, versatile style, and sustainable practices. Founded by David Wolfe, the idea for Olivers originated from Wolfe‘s own frustrations with the uncomfortable, ill-fitting gym clothes available at the time.

Wolfe set out to create men‘s activewear that combined high-performance fabrics with sharp, modern design. The brand started with its now-signature All Over Short, which aimed to be the ideal workout and everyday short. The All Over Short was launched on Kickstarter and quickly surpassed its initial $10,000 goal, raising over $270,000 and affirming the demand for Olivers‘ mission.

Since then, Olivers has gradually expanded its product line to include a range of activewear staples, from tees and hoodies to joggers and shorts. Although the product catalog is fairly streamlined, Olivers is dedicated to perfecting each piece through premium materials, quality construction, and innovative details. The brand has attracted a loyal following and has been featured in major publications like GQ, Men‘s Health, and Gear Patrol.

While Olivers is still a relatively young brand, its commitment to doing things differently—from small-batch manufacturing to environmental initiatives—has made it a standout in the crowded men‘s activewear space. For guys seeking clothing that‘s a cut above your typical gym wear in both quality and style, Olivers is well worth checking out.

Product Range

Olivers offers a curated selection of men‘s activewear essentials, each thoughtfully designed for optimal performance, comfort, and style. While you won‘t find a huge array of products here, Olivers focuses on nailing the fundamentals.

The All Over Short remains one of Olivers‘ most popular items. Available in both 7.5" and 9" inseams, these do-it-all shorts work for everything from CrossFit to coffee runs. Made from ultra-lightweight, four-way stretch fabric, the All Over Short features a soft elastic waistband, multiple pockets including a zip back pocket, and a modern slim fit.

Another Olivers staple is the Passage Pant, a more elevated take on joggers. Made from durable Cordura nylon with a touch of spandex, these have ample stretch for activities like climbing or bouldering. But thanks to the clean, tapered silhouette, they can also pass as casual pants for travel or days working from home.

Rounding out the basics, Olivers‘ tees and tanks are simple yet meticulously constructed. Most, like the Merino Tee and Terminal Tech Tee, utilize performance fabrics such as merino and anti-odor polyester blends. The Convoy series includes French terry hoodies and crewnecks that are cozy yet polished enough to sub in for a light jacket.

Quality & Durability

If there‘s one thing that sets Olivers apart, it‘s the brand‘s obsessive attention to quality. Olivers goes the extra mile to source premium fabrics from around the world while focusing on durability and long-term wear.

Many of Olivers‘ fabrics are developed with leading textile manufacturers. For example, the Passage Pant features Swiss-engineered Schoeller Dryskin, a hardwearing warp-knit fabric that resists snagging and pilling. The All Over Short‘s four-way stretch polyester is specially engineered for Olivers and resists fading and wear after frequent use and washing.

Merino wool, used in tees and hoodies, lends natural odor resistance, breathability, and temperature regulation. Even the trim and hardware are carefully considered, from durable YKK zippers to custom-designed rubber bottle opener pulls.

In my experience, Olivers clothing has held up exceptionally well to repeated use and laundering. Shorts and pants retain their shape and resist bagging out or stretching over time. Tees and hoodies remain soft with minimal pilling. Details like reinforced pockets and double-stitched seams prevent rips and tears. While Olivers items are pricier up front, the quality is truly built to last.

Fit & Comfort

Along with premium materials, Olivers places a huge emphasis on tailoring clothing for an optimal fit and feel. Tops and bottoms sport a modern, slim cut that‘s shaped to the body without being overly tight or constricting.

I found the All Over Short true to size with a neat, flattering profile that never felt too snug or too baggy. The soft, smooth waistband stayed put without digging in. The lightweight fabric draped nicely and wicked moisture quickly during sweaty workouts. Four-way stretch provided complete range of motion for activities like running, yoga, and weightlifting.

The Passage Pant had a touch more room in the thighs compared to some slim-fit joggers, which I appreciated for high-intensity workouts. The crotch is slightly elongated to prevent awkward bulk or constriction when sitting. I also liked the ankle zips for ventilation and easy on-and-off.

Olivers‘ Terminal Tech and Merino tees felt lightweight and airy yet still substantial. Both wicked sweat rapidly and resisted clinging or feeling sticky against the skin. The raglan sleeves and curved hem were nice touches that enhanced mobility and comfort.

Across the board, Olivers succeeds in combining a clean, tailored fit with functional design. While fit is inherently subjective, I believe the brand has hit that sweet spot of looking sharp yet feeling unrestrictive.

Customer Service

Ordering from Olivers is a simple, straightforward process. The website is easy to navigate with detailed product descriptions and images. You can also find info on materials, care instructions, and sustainability. Shipping is free on US orders over $100.

One potential downside is that Olivers does not offer free returns. Customers are responsible for the $8 shipping fee on any returns or exchanges. However, the brand does have responsive customer service available via email or phone to assist with any issues or fit questions. Generally, I‘ve found the Olivers team to be helpful and quick to find a solution.

Olivers also offers a 365-day guarantee on all products. If anything fails within a year due to a manufacturing defect, Olivers will repair or replace it free of charge. While I have not needed to take advantage of this policy, it provides nice peace of mind and attests to Olivers‘ confidence in its products‘ durability.

Pricing & Value

There‘s no getting around the fact that Olivers Apparel comes at a premium price point. Shorts start at $68, tees at $68, and pants at $128. Hoodies and jackets can reach nearly $200.

However, in my opinion, the quality and longevity of Olivers clothing justifies the cost for guys who want the best and are willing to invest in well-made, long-term pieces. It‘s also worth considering the cost per wear, as Olivers items are versatile enough for frequent use.

Olivers‘ prices are on par with other high-end men‘s activewear brands like Rhone, Myles Apparel, and Lululemon. But Olivers tends to offer a slightly more minimalist, modern aesthetic and a greater commitment to sustainability. This could be a deciding factor for some shoppers.

While Olivers doesn‘t have regular sales, the brand does offer occasional discounts to email subscribers, so it‘s worth signing up for the newsletter. Olivers also has a Refer a Friend program where you can earn $20 credit for each person you refer who makes a purchase.

Sustainability & Ethics

One of Olivers‘ core values is a commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The brand prioritizes recycled materials, small-batch production, and initiatives to extend the lifespan of its garments.

A significant portion of Olivers‘ products contain recycled fibers, such as the All Over Short which is made from 89% recycled polyester. The brand also uses sustainable cotton and ethically sourced wool. By 2022, Olivers has pledged to use 100% preferred fibers from recycled, renewable, or organic sources.

Olivers‘ 365 Guarantee also plays a role in sustainability, encouraging customers to repair rather than replace items. The brand has partnered with famed denim repair shop Denim Therapy to provide free mending services to extend the life of Olivers clothing.

When it comes to ethics and labor practices, Olivers works with respected manufacturing partners in Peru, Vietnam, and China. While not all facilities are Bluesign or Fair Trade certified, Olivers does visit suppliers regularly to build relationships and ensure workers are treated equitably.

The brand also donates 1% of all sales to environmental nonprofits through 1% for the Planet. Overall, sustainability is one area where Olivers strives to be a leader and continues to make progress year after year.

Final Thoughts

After thoroughly testing several of Olivers Apparel‘s core pieces, I‘ve come away impressed with the brand‘s offerings. While the price tag is undoubtedly steep, I believe Olivers largely delivers on its promise of premium quality, performance, and style.

Olivers has taken the typical men‘s activewear staples—shorts, joggers, tees, hoodies—and elevated them in both form and function. Standouts like the All Over Short and Passage Pant combine considered fabric choices with smart, streamlined designs that look and feel a notch above competitors.

I appreciate that Olivers doesn‘t overdesign its pieces but instead focuses on nailing the fundamentals extremely well. Construction and attention to detail are top-notch across the board, resulting in clothing that fits great, performs well, and is built to last.

As someone who values versatility, I also love that Olivers clothing transitions so seamlessly from gym to street. You can comfortably work out in these pieces but also wear them for casual everyday activities without looking like you just came from the gym. The styling is modern and sharp without being flashy or overly trendy.

Lastly, while the prices are high, I appreciate Olivers‘ genuine commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The brand backs up this ethos with real initiatives to use eco-friendly materials and help customers extend the lifespan of their garments.

All in all, if you‘re willing to invest in premium activewear that will perform, last, and keep you looking stylish in the process, Olivers is a brand I would highly recommend. The clothing has become a core part of my workout—and everyday—wardrobe.

FAQ

What do customers say about Olivers on Reddit?
Olivers Apparel has generally positive reviews on Reddit, with many users praising the quality, fit, and versatility of the shorts and pants in particular. Common feedback is that the pieces are pricey but worth it for the long-term durability and elevated look compared to cheaper activewear.

How does Olivers compare to other premium activewear brands?
Olivers is in the same tier as brands like Rhone, Myles, Lululemon, and Vuori in terms of price and quality. Olivers has a slightly more minimalist, modern aesthetic and is a bit more sustainability-focused than some competitors. Ultimately, it comes down to personal style preferences and budget.

What is the inseam of Olivers shorts?
Olivers All Over Shorts currently come in a 7.5" inseam (standard) or a 9" inseam (longer). The 7.5" is the most popular and works well for most heights, while the 9" is ideal for taller guys or those who prefer more coverage.

Where can I buy Olivers clothing? Is it available on Amazon?
The best place to buy Olivers Apparel is directly from the brand‘s website to ensure you‘re getting authentic products and taking advantage of any current promotions. Olivers is available on Amazon but with a more limited selection. The Olivers website is the most reliable for seeing the full product range.

What is Olivers‘ return and exchange policy?
Olivers accepts returns and exchanges within 30 days of purchase. Items must be in new, unworn condition with the original packaging. Note that customers are responsible for the $8 shipping fee for returns or exchanges. If you receive a damaged or defective product, Olivers will cover the cost of return shipping.