I'm low-key obsessed with Ciele's new performance running collection

As the biggest fan of short shorts on the planet, the Ciele Elite Collection immediately caught my attention. Upon further inspection, I realised there is so much more than just running shorts on offer here; the Elite Collection is chock-full of the coolest running gear I've seen in a while. No wonder I'm getting obsessed with it. I might need to update your best running shorts and best running tops guides soon...

The Montréal-based company is well-known for its headwear, but nowadays, eight years after Ciele was established, they offer so much more than just funky running caps – and the Elite is a testament to this. Compromising of men’s and women’s three-ply jackets, lightweight singlets, UPF protective T-shirts, no-stitch split shorts, premium relaxed shorts and a sports bra, the Elite range comes in an assortment of trend-leading colourways and styles. 

But it wasn't the otherwise pretty colours that caught my attention; I was drawn to the performance nature of the collection. Elite items use no-stitch construction and are made of COOLmatic performance fabrics, "engineered for quick drying action and incredible breathability in extreme conditions", Ciele explains. Additionally, COOLmatic.EXP – an 'elevated fabric' in the COOLmatic fabric series – features integrated carbon yarn for impeccable temperature control, antimicrobial odour control and optimum UPF sun protection.

The FLRJacket is a good example of what the Elite collection has to offer. This technical, inclement-weather running jacket provides a combination of highly breathable, waterproof protection in a lightweight, 10-denier recycled nylon three-ply shell fabric. The result is a hard-wearing, durable and – likely – comfortable performance piece designed to 'stand up' to adverse weather while offering the right amount of stretch for freedom of movement.

Image 1 of 3

All pieces in the Elite performance running men's and women's apparel collections are backed by the company's Million Mile Guarantee and range from US$60 to US$400. The collection will be available starting 1 September 2022 directly from Ciele. Or, you know, you can always just get a bucket hat.