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Relaunching Outdoor Voices: A Journey Through Time
In the mid-2010s, Outdoor Voices (OV) revolutionized athleisure, blending style with function. Founded by Tyler Haney, the brand embodied an ethos: fitness was for everyone, and its colorful leggings and chic designs democratized movement. Yet, this narrative faced a steep decline post-2020, when Haney was ousted from the company.
Post-pandemic, OV struggled to compete as rivals like Alo and Lululemon flourished, leaving many loyal fans nostalgic for the vibrant days of the brand’s inception. Rumors of bankruptcy circulated, as retail locations closed and quality was questioned. Fast forward to 2024, a new dawn emerged for OV as Consortium Brand Partners re-acquired it and brought back Haney to spearhead the relaunch.
OV 2.0: The Revival Collection
With anticipation building, the Hike Collection launched, featuring familiar staples such as the Waffle Baby Tee priced at $48, and the RecTrek Zip Pant at $138. Our team delved into the offerings, exploring how these pieces compared with nostalgia-filled memories of early collections.
Hannah Pasternak, our Lifestyle Director, wore the Waffle Baby Tee and felt a reminiscent warmth akin to a youthful Britney Spears’ photoshoot. The thick waffle material comfortably hugged her body without compromising modesty—a perfect layering piece for active days.
“This piece offers a mix of comfort and chicness,” she reflected, praising the perfect shade of blue that echo the early days of OV. The RecTrek Zip Pant, a versatile piece, impressed with its function both on casual outings and in motion, embodying the blend of practicality and style that OV championed in its founding days.
Quality Concerns and New Designs
As we evaluated the new collection, prominent concerns arose regarding sizing consistency and fabric quality. Items like the Candy Fleece Jacket at $188 and the Two-Tone ⅞ Legging at $98 showcased a contemporary flair but raised eyebrows over fit and comfort. Bianca Richards, our Social Media Manager, found the Candy Fleece’s snug fit limited its utility on colder outings, even if it remained a stylish option.
She noted, “It’s lightweight and colorful, which adds a nice touch to my outdoor wardrobe, but it’s not tackling the chill like I’d hoped.” By contrast, the Two-Tone leggings rekindled fond memories of past collections with their soft touch, again leading to debates over the ideal size for a proper fit.
Fitness Meets Fashion: Evolving Trends
The fusion of fitness and fashion continues to evolve, with OV pushing boundaries through vibrant new designs and innovative materials like Bubble Wrap. The return to athleisure embraces comfort and versatility, often transitioning seamlessly from the gym to social settings.
As consumers increasingly seek pieces that serve multiple purposes, OV’s recent designs resonate with current trends—reflecting a lifestyle that prioritizes flexibility and personal expression through fitness wear. The paradigm shift aiming at inclusivity remains a key consideration among new designs, inviting discussions on sizing diversity in the market.
Conclusion: A Step Forward for Outdoor Voices
While OV’s path has been challenged, the reimagined collection signifies a promising resurgence in the athleisure realm, paying homage to its roots while evolving with the times. As loyal fans hold their breath hoping for the company to reclaim its former glory, the brand marches forward—offering pieces that not only fuel active pursuits but also embrace the beauty of everyday life.
If you want to get your hands on the new O.V. collection and assess its potential role in your journey toward holistic health, now is the time to explore these offerings. Embrace the blend of style and function—because the journey towards wellness can be as much about feeling good in your skin as it is about moving your body.
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