Price: $35
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: Black, Forage, Quail, Birch
Material: 48% Tencel, 33% Organic Cotton, 14% Royal Alpaca, 5% Spandex
Availability: Online
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
Dry and Comfortable On and Off the Bike
The Bralette was backordered earlier this year when I reviewed PAKA’s everyday base layer and Performance ¾ crew socks. It arrived two weeks ago and is as luxurious as the other items. Made from a blend of 48% Tencel, 33% Organic Cotton, 14% Royal Alpaca, and 5% Spandex, the Women’s Alpaca Bralette is lightweight, barely-there soft, and unbelievably comfortable.
One of the key features of this Bralette is its ability to regulate body temperature. Thanks to the thermoregulating properties of alpaca fiber, it ventilates heat, keeps me cool on warm days, and warm on winter rides.
The Royal Alpaca fiber used in its construction is moisture-wicking, fast-drying, and odor-resistant. It’s also anti-microbial, preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and microorganisms. The Tencel fabric, derived from eucalyptus pulp, adds a cooling sensation to the skin, making it perfect for warmer weather, on the indoor trainer, or workouts.
Regarding laundering, this Bralette is machine washable in cold water. The company states you can tumble dry it on low. However, I hang it to dry. The Bralette comes out of the washing machine perfectly without being stretched out or misshapen.
The Bralette comes in four colors and sizes XS to 2XL. In terms of fit, the Women’s Alpaca Bralette is true to size, providing the perfect amount of medium support without feeling restrictive. The flatlock seams ensure there’s no chafing or irritation for an extra level of comfort.
Bottom Line
PAKA’s Women’s Alpaca Bralette offers comfort, sustainability, and ethically sourced fabric. At $35, this Bralette is comparable to other bras or sports bras available today, but its fabric is far superior. The company’s priority of supporting over 150 women artisans in Peru through their Origin Program is hands down the reason to wear this product.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
This looks comfortable once it’s on. But that’s the rub. Getting this style on and off is , for me, ridiculously difficult. Would love to wear these but wayyyy too much effort.