Chicago's Very Own Workout Line is Both Feminine and Functional

Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.

Lulu who? There's a new upscale workout apparel line in town, and it's a formidable opponent to the Canadian brand Lululemon.

Swirlgear is a new online shop that sells similarly high-function workout gear. Like Lulu, Swirlgear offers pieces that are moisture wicking and offer minimal chafing. The difference? Swirlgear has local roots—the brand was started by South Loop-based Lacie Whyte, a longtime runner turned entrepreneur. The online store launched on February 1.

Whyte started the company to fill the void in the exercise apparel market: The lack of high-performance gear that boasts bright colors and sleek silhouettes.
· Swirlgear [Official Site]