I’ve wanted to try Bandit Running Apparel but whew, is it pricey. It’s hard to justify a simple race crop and shorts costing $160+.
They are kind of interesting in that they blend fashion-forward gear with gear that actually feels good to work out in. I’m generally not a fan of the scarcity technique in sales, where brands post small drops that almost always sell out. Like, why promote a product I can’t buy? (And the amount of Instagram and Facebook ads I’ve gotten for gear I can’t buy is wild.)
Plus, I also heard about how they didn’t do their due diligence and posted a photo of a runner banditing a well-known race (LOL, I guess it goes with the name Bandit). Do I hold that against them? Not really, but I do wish brands would at least do some research on the people they choose to promote. I digress.
Before trying Bandit Running Apparel, I had a few questions:
Is Bandit Running Apparel worth it?
That’s hard to answer. I find the quality awesome, but it will always be hard for me to say “yes, an $80+ pair of shorts is worth it.”
Does Bandit Running Apparel fit true to size?
Yes, I’ve found it fits true to size.
Should you become a Bandit Running Apparel member?
I think it’s worth it if you can be smart and justify the $125 by using their $50 gift card as well as some of the extra perks. Plus, save 20% using my referral.
Now let’s get into an honest review of Bandit Running Apparel.
What Is Bandit Running?
Launched in 2020, Bandit Running is a performance running brand built by runners, for runners. But what sets them apart isn’t just the gear… it’s their focus on community.
Bandit is based in Brooklyn, but their reach spans globally, with events, limited drops, and collabs that keep their fanbase engaged. Full disclosure: as mentioned, I’m never a fan of the scare tactic of things going out of stock quickly. Bandit also tests everything in real conditions, asks for feedback, and iterates… so each piece reflects what real runners actually want.
Bandit’s apparel line balances aesthetics and utility. You’ll find sharp lines, rich neutrals, and subtle branding. Nothing screams “I’m wearing a tech shirt,” even though everything performs like one. Whether you’re layering up for winter miles or shedding layers for summer training, Bandit’s catalog covers it all from compression tights to crop tops. They are probably most well-known for their racing gear that has plenty of pockets, especially for women. I’m all about crops that have pockets for gels and a phone.
My Honest Take: Wearing Bandit Running
I bought and tried a crop and shorts from Bandit Running Apparel.
Is Bandit Running apparel hype or is it good?
Bandit Running Apparel Stamina Race Crop
Size: small, fits between true to size and slightly large. If you’re between sizes, go smaller.
From the photos, the new Stamina Race Crop from Bandit Running is everything I want in a race-day top: comfortable, smartly designed, and stylish. As a heavy sweater, the open back really appeals to me, as well as the pockets to hold gels and a phone.
Why I Like It:
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Supportive but not stiff – Built-in bra gives medium-impact support without squeezing
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Moves with you – Overlapped back panels and envelope neckline allow real mobility
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Pockets:
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Center back layered pocket holds 1 phone + 3 gels (yes, really)
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Side pockets offer extra room without the bulk
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Fabric that performs
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Bandit’s custom Stamina fabric is soft, matte, and doesn’t stretch out
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Wicks sweat and dries quickly, even on hot long runs
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It stays in place, holds your essentials, and looks good doing it. I’ve found it to run a bit big, and it feels like the front bags a little bit (I kind of worry if I bent down to tie a shoe that you could see down the front). The other thing that bothers me a bit is the lack of pads in it. I know it’s controversial and most people don’t like the pads, but I do appreciate the modesty and this doesn’t have it. It’s not thin enough that you’ll be showing everything, but do know it will likely show some nipple if that makes or breaks it for you. I guess you can always just put your own pads in them and hope they don’t fall out.
As far as holding gels and a phone, it does just that with no issues. I was a bit worried the phone would feel too weighed down or heavy, but it doesn’t. It feels normal and it doesn’t bounce. In all, I’m a fan, and while the $82 is pretty steep for a crop, it’s cute and functional.
Cost: $82
Bandit Running Apparel Stamina 7″ Women’s Compression Shorts
Size: Small (fits true to size, but if you want a more compressive feel, size down).
The Stamina 7″ Women’s Compression Shorts from Bandit Running are worth a look.
What sets them apart? First, the updated design now features no front seam, which means no awkward bunching. The fit is smooth, flattering, and super comfortable… even on longer runs.
I heard from friends that they owned Bandit running shorts and they rode up. As someone who loves spandex shorts with many pockets, I was a little nervous. Nervous enough not to buy them? No, but nervous.
Key Features I Love:
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Side pockets on both legs with a waterproof liner (yes, your phone stays dry)
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Zippered back pocket for keys, cards, or cash
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Italian grip tape at the hem keeps the shorts in place… no riding up
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Custom waistband with internal drawstring that actually stays tied
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Stamina double-layer fabric feels soft, compressive, and matte (not shiny)
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Reflective hits for visibility without overdoing it
Bandit’s signature Stamina™ fabric holds everything in without feeling stiff, and the 7-inch length gives solid coverage without being bulky.
I’ve worn the Stamina 7″ Women’s Compression Shorts a few times and I’ve found them to fit well and hold a lot of things. As summer approaches, I’m holding hydration, gels, and my phone, I want shorts and gear that will hold all that. The Bandit Running shorts do, and they haven’t ridden up for me. Is that because I got 7-inch shorts? Maybe. I would be curious to see how the 5-inch and shorter shorts feel. In all, I’m a fan, and the gripper piece hasn’t chafed. Once again, the price is steep and you can definitely find cheaper pieces of gear that do the same thing, but the shorts are good.
Cost: $78
Cost:
Make no mistake, Bandit Running Apparel sits in the premium range, and that is the biggest drawback. You can join the Bandit Membership for $125. You’ll get exclusive offers, discounts, and the ability to shop drops before they become public. Is the Bandit Membership worth it? I think so, if you are able to use the discounts to your advantage. You can save 20% on the Bandit membership by using my referral link.
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Performance Tops: $88–$115
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Bottoms & Leggings: $88–$120
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Sports Bras & Crops: $68–$78
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Accessories: $35–$36
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Lifestyle Tees & Hoodies: $58–$120
Bandit Running Apparel Conclusion
Cost is definitely going to be the limiting factor with Bandit Running Apparel. Whether you’re chasing a PR or chasing endorphins, their pieces keep you comfortable, confident, and connected to a global running scene…but it will always be hard to look past the cost.
Who should buy Bandit Running Apparel?
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Runners who value style and comfort in equal measure
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Those who want to support a community-driven brand
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Athletes looking for gear that can transition beyond the run
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Fans of modern, minimalist designs that don’t skimp on performance
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Anyone craving a deeper connection to running culture
Who should not buy Bandit Running Apparel
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Shoppers on a tight budget
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Runners who prefer bright, bold graphics or maximalist colorways
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People who want gear from legacy or mainstream brands
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Athletes who don’t prioritize aesthetics or long-term durability
You can join the Bandit Membership here (plus get 20% off your membership). Or read all running apparel reviews here.
Curious about how I do gear reviews? You can read about that here. Love running? You can subscribe to my weekly newsletter or read more about running shoes in my ebook.
Questions for you:
What is the most expensive running brand you own?
Have you tried Bandit Running Apparel?