Is the Set Active Layered Bra Worth the Hype? A Pilates Princess' POV
As someone who takes a group fitness class every day in NYC, I go through a lot of activewear brands. Here are my honest thoughts on the Set Active layered bra.
As someone who takes a group fitness class every single day in New York City (don’t do the math on what that's costing me), I feel like I've tested just about every athleisure brand out there, and there are a lot. Compared to when I was growing up, it seems like new labels are popping up everyday, but they're not all great. There is one, however, that's been on my radar as a front-runner for my favorite.
Set Active has been making waves over the past year, and it helps that celebrities like Kaia Gerber and Kendall Jenner have been spotted wearing its monochromatic sets numerous times. As an OG fan, I've tried various pieces from the brand and can confidently say that the layered bra (officially dubbed the Cloud Training Bra) is one of my top picks for a sports bra, period.
The layered bra, which retails for $58, features a sleek double-strap design with a contrasting white inner layer that peeks through the front, it’s an elevated take on your go-to workout essential. The best part? It comes in multiple colorways (although my personal favorite is the black and white combo). If you prefer a classic, minimal sports bra, I get it. But there’s something undeniably chic about activewear that’s just as interesting as the rest of your wardrobe.
Chances are, you’ve seen this bra on your favorite wellness influencers and instructors, but how does it actually perform? I wear-tested it across various activities, from Pilates to high-intensity cardio, and I'll tell you how it measures up across low- and high-impact workouts. Keep scrolling for my honest review.
What I Like About the Set Active Cloud Training Layered Bra
For a sports bra that leans more fashion-forward through its two-tone layering effect, the Set Active Cloud Training Bra is surprisingly supportive. As a true size medium, I found the fit my body well, and it was snug without feeling restrictive—everything stays put (if you know what I mean), even when I'm doing my higher intensity workouts.
Despite the thin straps, which I worried would make it a bit flimsy or not ideal for an intense fitness routine, it holds up just fine. Plus, the double-layered design provides just as much support as a traditional sports bra. What I like most about it, however, doesn't have as much to do with its performance as it does the look. Set Active's layered bra is stylish enough to wear as a top. Throw on an oversized blazer or cardigan, and you’ve got an effortlessly chic look... think Meredith Blake from The Parent Trap.
Cons: Maintenance
If I had to name one flaw with the Set Active layered bra, it has to do with maintaining its look. Keeping that white inner layer crisp and bright is a bit challenging. While the color on my Cloud Training Bra hasn’t faded, the reality is that after countless sweaty workouts and washes, the white is not going to stay pristine forever. That said, I guess it’s a small trade-off for an otherwise flawless piece.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re revamping your workout wardrobe, looking for a new everyday bra, or just eager to hop on the celebrity-stamped Set Active bandwagon, the layered bra should be your first pick. In my experience, it offers great support for workouts, whether you're also a pilates princess or love to lift. And, it looks stylish on its own, making it the ultimate versatile activewear piece. With new collections and colorways dropping frequently, it's easy to find what suits your style, too. Personally, I’m manifesting a two-tone pink version.
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