Wednesday, July 13, 2011

OT: MPG Sport Review - Really Nice!


Intro, A Special Discount, & Give Away:

A couple of months ago I was contacted by MPG Sport, to give their active wear a try. They were super nice and sent me a large selection of things to try, both active and casual wear.  MPG Sport is a Canadian sportswear company that isn't widely known in the US, however, they are sold in the upscale Equinox gym chain and were on my list of brands to try. Funny enough one of my fellow PTA members at my kids' school almost exclusively wears MPG so I was able to quiz her about the durability and how she liked the brand. She buys it at one of our local running stores and also orders on-line. They often have great sales and they were kind enough to give the readers of this blog a special discount code. Use luluaddictlovesmpg to get a one-time 25% off your order (good until August 5th). They have also agreed to give away a piece of MPG clothing - your choice of a top or bottom (outerwear excluded) - to one lucky reader. You can enter buy liking their Facebook page (you have to comment that you saw this give away/review on the Lulu Addict blog), liking my Facebook page, putting it on your twitter feed or blog. Your entry is a comment on this blog about what you did (like a FB page, etc) and what piece from their website that you'd like to win. They make both men's and women's clothes so guys can win, too. I'll pick the winner (names in a hat type thing or a randomizer if I can figure that out) from the comments on this blog so you guys have to de-lurk or give yourself a unique name for this to work correctly. The more entries you make the better. I'll pick a winner on July 27th.

The Reviews:

MPG Savvy Tank in Bright Coral
One thing I really like about MPG is that their tanks are long. So many active wear manufacturers make their women's tanks too short which makes your rear look larger, not to mention shows skin when you bend over. The other thing I like about their designs is that they are curve-hugging and feminine but have great coverage - there is not a lot of cleavage showing so you can exercise without worrying about revealing too much. MPG sent me the Savvy tank above. I initially ordered the wrong size and they were kind enough to send me the next size down. The Savvy is made of a lightweight material (90% nylon, 10% spandex) that reminds me a lot of Lululemon's luxtreme in the silky feel and weight. It has a built in bra with little wedge-shaped bra cookies but they are small and kind of float around so I took them out. The bra is supportive enough for around the house purposes but I need to use another bra underneath for the gym, which is typical for me. The material has a sheen, MPG calls it Sparkle Jersey, so it has a unique look that's kind of fun. I found the tank very comfortable for workouts. The fit is TTS.

Savvy Tank Product Details:


Sparkle jersey workout tank with contrast laser cut details.

  • Nylon-spandex blended jersey
  • Four-way stretch, moisture wicking, quick dry
  • Self fabric taping details
  • Ergonomic performance seams
  • Contrast laser-cut sonic welded inserts
  • Built in Coolmax bra liner with removable cups
  • Full support
  • High visibility logo
RECOMMENDED FOR: Light to heavy workouts, yoga, training, general exercise

MPG Eris Bra in Bright Coral
MPG also sent me the Eris bra which I really liked. I found it super comfortable and supportive for moderate activity for my DD chest. I really like the strap detail in the back. I would get another one of these in a heartbeat. This bra is made of  a polyester/spandex (88/12) blend that has a matte feel and look, a lot like luon. The fit is TTS.

Eris Bra Product Details:

Performance bra top with built in support.
  • Polyester spandex blended jersey
  • Four-way stretch, moisture wicking, quick dry
  • Open back design with supportive cross-strap
  • Built in Coolmax bra liner with spacer bra cup feature
  • Medium support, fitted silhouette
  • MPG custom logo stripe at back
RECOMMENDED FOR: Light to heavy workouts, yoga, running, tennis, training

MPG Simha Crops in Smoke/Bright Coral
Probably my favorite piece that MPG sent me was the Simha crops. I'll admit I have been spoiled by the fit of Lululemon crops and pants for years now but the fit of these MPG crops was every bit as good as Lululemon's. It hugged my curves, didn't fall down my rear with movement, and the seaming was placed in flattering spots. I was a little leery of the lighter Smoke color but the material is thick enough (very similar to regular weight luon) that it hides any ripples and dimples. It definitely passed the bend over test - I cannot see the color of my underwear through my pants. I found the v-shaped waistband very comfortable. It has flat seams in most places and a crotch gusset. The fabric content is a polyester/spandex blend (88/12) which was soft and comfortable. I found it a little hot for warm weather indoor workouts in Southern California (I wore it for cardio on the elliptical) so I am going to save these crops for cooler days and outdoor activity. I really love the fit and feel of these crops and want to get a pair of the pants in the same design, the Chic pant. The fit is TTS.

Simha Crops Product Info:

Slim fit performance jersey dance/yoga pant.
  • Polyester-spandex blended jersey
  • Four-way stretch, moisture wicking, quick dry
  • Built in gusset for maximum movement
  • Semi-low rise, fitted silhouette
  • High visibility reflective logo
RECOMMENDED FOR: Low or high impact workouts, yoga, dance
MPG Lounge Tank in Smoke
Another of my favorite pieces that I use as as a coverup and casual wear is the Lounge Tank. This is also made of the same lightweight silky Sparkle Jersey (90/10 Nylon/Spandex) as the Savvy tank and has a sheen. I realize this style isn't for everyone but I found it very comfortable. It runs very long - mid thigh on me (5'5").  It has an adjustable drawcord at the hem. It has a built in shelf bra but I layer the Eris bra underneath and it looks really cute. I think it's great for a coverup. I think this fits TTS.

Lounge Tank Product Details:
Blouson active tank in our signature 'champagne' sparkle jersey fabric.
  • Nylon-spandex blended champagne jersey
  • Four-way stretch, moisture wicking, quick dry
  • Adjustable bottom hem
  • Built in Coolmax bra liner with removable cups
  • Medium support
  • Semi-fitted silhouette
  • MPG custom logo stripe on upper back
RECOMMENDED FOR: Light workouts, yoga, leisure, general exercise

MPG Harmony Jacket in Smoke
Sleeve detail on the Harmony Jacket
 MPG also sent me their Harmony Rain Jacket. It's a super lightweight jacket that has a ton of cute design details like gathers on the sleeves. I got to try this out one rainy morning and it's great protection against drizzles. It is very lightweight so perfect for summer days with a bit of a breeze. The fit is great - very roomy in the shoulders, chest, and upper arms (unlike most of Lululemon's jackets) and I was able to layer a Define Jacket underneath one rainy morning. It has a cute waist-defining elastic at the waist. The only issue is that the sleeves a tiny bit short. They end right at my wrist bones. If you are a tall woman, I think you will find the arms too short. I feel very sporty but feminine in this jacket. This fits TTS.

Harmony Jacket Product Details:
Nylon rain jacket with decorative stitching and light gathers.
  • Wind and water resistant nylon shell
  • Ruching details on sleeves and back
  • Billow effect on bottom hem, with adjustable cord
  • Mesh elastic taping trim
  • Contrast color front zipper
  • Zippered storage pockets
  • High visibility reflective details
  • Contoured silhouette
  • MPG custom logo stripe
RECOMMENDED FOR: Outdoor rain-or-shine exercise, light protection for mild or damp weather


MPG also sent me the Essential Active capris. The material on these is a nylon/spandex (89/12) blend that feel a lot like luon - soft feel, like brushed cotton, and thick coverage. The fit was just as nice as the Simha crops. The wide waistband is comfortable and is flat seamed, as are the vertical seams. These are a great basic crop.These fit TTS.

Essential Active Capri Product Details:
MPG Active Luxury basic capri pant, ideal for dance and yoga.
  • Nylon-spandex blended brushed jersey
  • Four-way stretch
  • Luxurious sueded feel
  • Semi-low rise, semi-fitted, flared leg opening, 21" inseam
  • High visibility logo
RECOMMENDED FOR: Light workouts, yoga, dance, general exercise, casual wear

MPG Charm Tank in Turquoise
MPG sent me the burnout style tank called the Charm. It has a cotton/poly blend (35/65) that is super comfortable. It's a very cute style that is great for casual wear. I liked this one a lot and want to get the black one. I thought this one fit TTS.

Charm Tank Product Details:

This unique "burn-out" jersey active racer back top features light gathering details throughout.
  • Polyester-cotton blended burnout jersey
  • Four-way stretch, moisture wicking, quick dry
  • Elastic gathered side seams
  • Racer back design for an athletic fit
  • Semi-fitted silhouette
  • High visibility logo
RECOMMENDED FOR: Layering, light workouts, yoga, leisure
MPG Vivid Tank in Black

MPG also sent me the Vivid tank at my request. This was the piece that I liked the least. It's hard to see but there is a seam that is supposed to go under the bust but it hit me too high. I also found the polyester/spandex material a bit hot. I thought the fit on this a bit small.

This light jersey racer back tank has a flattering deep v-neck design.
  • Polyester-spandex blended jersey
  • Four-way stretch, moisture wicking, quick dry
  • Self fabric taping details
  • Built in Coolmax bra liner, medium support
  • MPG custom logo stripe at back
RECOMMENDED FOR: Light to heavy workouts, yoga, training, leisure

One nice thing about MPG is that they have a 30-day return policy. You do have to pay for shipping though unless you order a certain amount. Although I only have had the clothes for a short while they seem durable and well-constructed. The bottoms don't bag out. My PTA friend who has been wearing MPG for a couple of years now has nothing but good things to say about the clothes and the durability. All in all, if you are looking for something different to add to your workout wardrobe, I think MPG offers nice functional styles at a reasonable price point with good quality.

42 comments:

yogibabe said...

Hi LLA, The Simha Crops looks fetching. My question is if I am a 2 in Lulu's Groove Crop, will the XS in this fit me? I noticed that this crop does not come in XXS. Same in sizing question for the Charm Tank. I like it too, just size wise, if it is comparable to the Modern Racer Tank which I take a size 2.

Anonymous said...

Wow looks like nice stuff, I may try it! I find it ironic that another sportswear company contacted you even though this is a lulu blog, yet lulu has never offered you a few test items.... LULU is so arrogant and cheap. I know they offer ambassador positions to people who wear Nike etc but offer loyal customers nothing.

Anonymous said...

Yes, more sizing information would be very helpful! Are those essential crops pretty stretchy? If so i think I'd rather size down rather than have the waistband a little bit too loose. THANKS luluaddict!

Anonymous said...

This line looks pretty unexciting to me. I would imagine the line fitting well on taller, larger women but I am petite, skinny and flat chested so I don't think this line would look so hot on me. I tried to branch out recently and I tried a Zohba Marilyn tank and hated the fit and look. I may not love everything Lulu comes out with, but I have come to believe Lulu really does make the best workout wear, at least for my petite figure.

Krissy said...

I love the Savvy tank! I commented on the MPG FB page :)

Krissy said...

I like your FB page :)

Run4Paws said...

Some cute stuff and good sale prices, too! I might have to give them a try. Both the Charm Tank and Savvy Tank look really cute. Nice to see a discount code offered - thanks for all your reviews! I "liked" the MPG facebook page and commented about seeing this on your blog. Hoping to give this brand a try, too.

Anonymous said...

in Canada, i bought a few MPG items at the Winners store,and, if I am not mistaken, I saw a few things at Costc. MPG pricing is more afordable compared to lulu. This translates into quality. I was happy with MPG things until I start wearing them and washed a couple of times... I hope they improved quality.

North of 17 said...

Hum...interesting...good to see more can companies... Vixen coat paired with the trinity whets please!

Allison
Adbyles yahoo.ca

MNPilatesGirl said...

saw...loved...liked on facebook and commented...

I love the charm tank. Saw it on someone this weekend and almost got stalking charges trying to figure out who made it!

MNPilatesGirl said...

BTW bstadheim(at)google(dot)com is MNPilatesGirl if I win...I missed the delurking comment. Thx! charm tank in any color and a medium.

Anonymous said...

gross. hate everything and it is always so pathetic when companies try so desperately to copy lululemon, right down to the logo on the pant legs... as if the logo on the pant leg is the one thing that makes lulu so successful. Haha

Anonymous said...

i'm willing to try anything that isn't lulu right now. so please give more info as to sizing. if you wear an 8 in lululemon bra tanks but a Sm in regular life tops, would you wear a M in this or a S?

Anonymous said...

I'm usually an 8 or 10 in the Lulu tanks and have one MPG top in Medium that I bought from Nordstrom's two years ago. No complaints on the MPG top - which is still in great shape. As for the commenter @9:19 p.m.: Chill out. No ones trying to "copy" lulu clothing. Judging from your comments, you'd think Lulu invented technical clothing for women.

Anonymous said...

I just went to their site and clicked on about 6 items I thought looked cute. All items were out of stock in all colors in size small. Lame. (not even sale items)

Unknown said...

I had never heard of this brand before. Definitely going to check it out. I commented on the MPG FB page and I would love to win their Nuance top.

VBJennifer said...

I love MPG! I found a pair of their shorts at a TJ Maxx a few months back and love them. Then just happened upon them(while traveling) at Deka in Atlanta. The move shorts are great, have the same stretch as Lulu shorts and I would equate the length of them to groovy run shorts. They are a nice alternative if you don't want the super short Run speeds. Also, I wear a 6 in most bottoms in Lulu and a medium in these shorts. Hope that helps! By the way, if you can convince MPG to bring back the magenta Glow jacket that's on clearance, let me know! So sad no XS or S left :(.

ChiRunner said...

I liked both FB pages and commented at MPG. I'd never really paid attention to this brand before, but they have some pretty cute stuff. I'd love to win a pair of the Nova Pants! (I think I'm in the minority, but most of Lulu's pants don't work for me.)

momof5 said...

Checked out their stuff -- i would love the trek jacket in porcelein -- the bags look cute too -- they have a lot of nice stuff -- will definitely check the quality out for myself!

trainermom said...

I love MPG. I have been wearing for a few years now, its good to see people are finally taking notice. HArmony is my favorite jacket. MOVE is the best running short that I have ever had. Cute stuff, so feminine and versitile from the gym to the grocery store! Check out the bags- pretty cool

Anonymous said...

MPG looks awesome! It's so exciting to see a new brand out there other than Lululemon. Sooo tired of seeing lulu everywhere, its starting to look like a uniform, it's not unique or cool anymore. I hate seeing everyone wear the same thing, I love the freshness of seeing a new brand and not wearing what everyone else is.

Anonymous said...

Love this stuff way better than Lululemon,I agree with the comment Lululemon are arrogant.

Anonymous said...

Love your blog luluaddict! Have been a daily fan for nearly two years now. Really glad for this post since lulu quality has been on the decline for some time now. My purchases too have declined. Ready to mix up my brands. Excited about MPG and a discount!!

Crystal said...

Like you on FB!

Kate said...

I really like some of these styles! I'm always on the lookout for stylish, comfortable, high-performance clothes - function and quality are more important than the label on the leg.
MPG is definitely going on my to-try list.

Crystal said...

I'd try the Leap skort or the Savvy tank.

laut0022 said...

Love MPG! I really like the Nuance jacket and the Charm tank.
I "liked" MPG's FB page...

Peony said...

Hi Luluaddict-
Can you give us the inseam on the Simha crops? I wish MPG would put inseam lengths (and Lululemon)!
Thanks!

flowerchild said...

liked their facebook page and commented that i saw this giveaway on your blog
angela m
flower_child_23(at)hotmail(dot)com

flowerchild said...

liked your facebook page
angela m
flower_child_23(at)hotmail(dot)com

flowerchild said...

tweet
http://twitter.com/flower_child_23/status/91562850962780161
flower_child_23(at)hotmail(dot)com

flowerchild said...

i would love to win the
Nova Pant


flower_child_23(at)hotmail(dot)com

Jenny T said...

You want to talk about copying? Compare the lulu website with the MPG one! Lulu is totally knocking off MPG's idea of dance and ballet inspiration. I'd never heard of MPG before today and decided to take a look myself. Lulu ends up looking weak and kind of pathetic...

hbbs55 said...

like MPG on facebook and wrote on their wall I found the review here!

hbbs55 at gmail dot com

Anonymous said...

Thanks LLA! I'm very impressed with what I'm seeing from MPG and just ordered a bunch of stuff from their clearance section-Venus tanks,Flair tanks, Avert and Revere pants :) They are practically giving them away! Here's the link to the sale:
http://us.webstore.mpgsport.com/c-61-winter-2010-clearance.aspx

hbbs55 said...

like Lululemon Addict on facebook as Holly C.

hbbs55 said...

If I won I would love the Simha crop in smoke

hbbs55 said...

tweeted
http://twitter.com/#!/hbbs55/status/91620461322051586

NicoleB said...

I liked the MPG Facebook page and commented... I would love to try the essential active capris!!

I wear a size 4 in Lulu... was thinking of order small with MPG??

I have a Mondetta polar fleece jacket that I picked up at Costca a few years back. I love it, but it's a medium, and I just swim in it now so I'm a little concerned about sizing...

NicoleB said...

star_shine_84(at)hotmail(dot)com

Unknown said...

I am a group fitness instructor and have been wearing MPG Sport for a couple of years now. Why? I love the fact that the clothing is designed for woman and not little little girls; I can teach a class and not worry about cleavage showing or worse; the girls falling out.
This line has not pilled on me; and although they recommend not to put in dryer, I must admit that I do and have not had any issues.
I love the detailing especially on the back, so figure flattering!
I love the length of the tops and and the pants are long so long legged woman are not forgotten.
Versatility; I wear MPG everywhere and get so many compliments on my wardrobe. Some of the items are definitely for the gym; but there are many that I wear with jeans and am often asked where I shop.
I did have one item that had a flaw; I got a hold of the company (as I ordered online) and I received a new item within a couple of days; so I know that they stand behind their name.
My only wish is that they instead of carrying xs-xlg that they would go with the 2-16 sizing system.
I also have to mention that MPG has a fantastic men's line. I bought my hubby a pair of the pants and he is hooked, they are great for curling, golfing or just lounging; they don't wear like a Yoga pant, they hang nice and are comfortable. My hubby who NEVER works out, does wear a lot of their shirts; again they carry such a great casual line and at a reasonable price. Prior to trying MPG (which I was introduced to a Fitness Conference) I was an avid LULU girl...I have not returned since..

Anonymous said...

Thank you SO very much for breaking down the various pieces in the MPG clothing line in great detail. I came across the brand at Marshall's and loved the fact that the clothes are great quality equaling that of Lulu, but without the high price! After buying several of their pants at Marshall's, I went online to search for more MPG clothing including looking at their company website. Your blog is great at giving additional feedback and covers the important points which I look for -- whether the pants pass the bend-over/butt exposure test, if the bra pads in the tops help or are distracting, and various details about the fit of the pants covering muffin top or thigh dimples. I'm a yoga instructor and when I'm teaching a class, I'm very conscious about details in my clothing because there always seems to be a student in every class who is noticing what I have on and seems to be looking at my yoga clothes with an appraising eye. I can't impress how helpful your detailed comments about MPG clothing has been in solidifying my already high opinion of the brand and helping to guide me in purchasing more MPG pieces. Thanks and namaste!