Aware of a growing trail running trend in adventure sports, Arc’teryx have diversified their collection of high quality performance products by expanding an established alpine collection to include active wear. Spring 2011 saw the release of the Women’s Endorphin range which looked in particular at multifunctional fit and feel for aerobic activities. I tested out the Cita Bra – a stylish product that aims to act as an athletic crop top in the warmer summer months and as a sports bra base layer for the cooler seasons.

As you would expect from Arc’teryx, absolute detail defines this garment and the brand’s entry point into this new product area. To fulfill its multifunctional role in aerobic activities, the Cita is lightweight and breathable thanks to its Aria and Aerix material blend. Key performance features include flat locks seams and a built-in bra shelf to maximise comfort. To top the product off, a neat cut on the dorsal side of the garment adds an attractive charm.

I took the Cita out for on a hill running test near home, looking specifically at its comfort in an activity that demands great fluidity of movement. Even beneath a normal t-shirt, the bra wicked moisture well, distributing perspiration and preventing underarm rubbing. As a testament to the fashionability of this garment, I was also perfectly happy to strip down to the bra alone for a testing on a warmer day.

Feel and fit are the focuses of the Cita and, coming in an attractive magenta and pearl grey versions, this new top from Arc’teryx could take your training intensity from A to B.

More on Arc’teryx Cita products at arcteryx.com