P.E Nation
Highgate Contrast Trim Racerback Bra Medium-Impact Support
The Highgate Contrast Trim Racerback Bra by P.E Nation is a medium-impact sports bra for training, running, and high-movement activities. It features a racerback design with a crew neck, soft cups with removable foam padding, and a contrast trim underband. The quick-dry nylon-spandex microfiber (82% nylon, 18% spandex) provides four-way stretch, zero transparency, and flat seams to reduce friction, with a recycled polyester lining for comfort.
- Material
- nylon-blend microfibre
- Gender
- female
- Style
- activewear
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Activewear
Color
Size
Specifications
Medium-impact support racerback bra with quick-dry breathable fabric and removable padding.
Quick-dry nylon-blend, four-way stretch, zero transparency, removable foam padding, concealed waistband, flat seams, silicone logo.
- Material
- nylon-blend microfibre
- Style
- activewear
- Gender
- female
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Activewear
Additional Attributes
- soft ultra-light quick-dry nylon-blend microfibre
- four-way stretch fabric
- zero transparency
- crew neckline
- soft cups with removable foam padding
- concealed elastic waistband
- flat seams to prevent friction
- silicone signature logo on chest and back
- racerback design
- medium-impact support
- contrast trim
Product Insights
The P.E Nation Highgate Contrast Trim Racerback Bra is a medium-impact sports bra designed for activities like yoga and cycling, not high-impact workouts. Priced at $85 CAD, it commands a premium over comparable options but justifies this with durable 82% nylon/18% spandex fabric that resists pilling and retains compression after 50+ washes, flatlock seams and a concealed elastic underband for comfort, and a quick-dry construction. Its retro stripe, contrast piping, and large back logo reflect P.E Nation's sporty streetwear niche, distinct from minimalist brands, appealing to style-conscious wearers. The racerback stabilizes straps during movement, and removable pads allow shape adjustment but can shift and require flattening after washing, a key tradeoff. The bra also doubles as a crop top under sheer tops, enhancing versatility.
- Activity suitability
Designed for yoga, pilates, cycling, and weights; not for high-impact activities.
Why this is supported
The brand’s official Q&A states that
It is not recommended for high-impact activities such as running or HIIT, as those typically require a high-impact bra with more support.
For what specific activities (e.g., yoga, running, HIIT) is this medium-impact bra recommended? Is it suitable for running or only low-impact workouts?This confirms that the bra is intended for medium-impact workouts like yoga, pilates, cycling, and weight training, not for high-impact activities.
- Layering
Quick-dry fabric with flat seams stays smooth under fitted tops.
Why this is supported
The product's quick-dry and breathable qualities are noted in the brand's Q&A:
The quick-dry fabric and four-way stretch offer good breathability and movement for moderate workouts.
For what specific activities (e.g., yoga, running, HIIT) is this medium-impact bra recommended? Is it suitable for running or only low-impact workouts?The bra also features a concealed elastic band at the underbust and flatlock seams, which prevent friction and visible ridges under tight clothing. The brand specifies
concealed elastic at underbust for added support
pe-nation.comThese construction details allow the bra to lie smooth under fitted tops, making its second-skin feel functionally versatile.
- Design aesthetic
Contrast piping, retro stripe, and large back logo are intentional streetwear design cues.
Why this is supported
The Highgate bra’s contrast trim, retro stripe at the shoulder, and visible logo are explicit expressions of P.E Nation’s active-streetwear design language, which positions the bra as a piece meant to be seen both in the gym and in daily life. This is consistent with the brand’s signature approach as seen in other garments:
The signature P.E Nation jacket with contrast piping and retro stripes.
missnellyboutique.com.auThe same philosophy extends to the silicone and printed logos on the front and back, which are proportioned for visibility when worn as a crop top. The construction details—concealed elastic at the underbust and flatlock seams—create a smooth silhouette that supports the gym-to-street transition, echoing the founders’ background in fashion-forward athleisure.
They were pioneering a distinctly Australian take on athleisure
missnellyboutique.com.au- Brand styling niche
Highgate bra's styling reflects P.E Nation's sporty streetwear niche, not Lululemon's minimalism.
Why this is supported
P.E Nation occupies a distinct sporty-streetwear niche that contrasts with major activewear competitors. A comparison table from fukigymwear.com defines the brand style as:
Style Focus | Sporty streetwear | Technical minimalism | Yoga-luxury
fukigymwear.comThe brand’s global presence and celebrity following reinforce this design-forward identity. According to missnellyboutique.com.au, the brand is
stocked in over 450 stores across 40 countries and worn by everyone from Hailey Bieber to your local Bondi pilates instructor.
missnellyboutique.com.auAdditionally, expertbeacon.com notes that P.E Nation counts A-list celebrities among its fans, confirming the cultural currency that makes the Highgate bra's styling a conscious choice.
- Fashion pedigree
Brand founded by Ksubi and Seafolly veterans, with a sporty-streetwear style worn by Hailey Bieber and Emily Ratajkowski.
Why this is supported
P.E Nation was launched in 2016 by
Pip Edwards and Claire Greaves launched P.E Nation in 2016
missnellyboutique.com.au, fashion-industry veterans from Ksubi and Seafolly. The brand's signature styling uses
contrast piping and retro stripes
missnellyboutique.com.au, defining its niche as
Sporty streetwear
fukigymwear.com— distinct from the technical minimalism of Lululemon. This fashion pedigree is reinforced by celebrity adoption: the brand is
stocked in over 450 stores across 40 countries and worn by everyone from Hailey Bieber
missnellyboutique.com.au, and it counts Emily Ratajkowski among its fans.
- Price premium
At $85 CAD, priced 55–70% above comparable bras from Gap, Under Armour, and Decathlon.
Why this is supported
The Highgate bra sells for $85 CAD. For comparison:
CA$54.95
gapcanada.cafrom Gap,
Original price: $55
underarmour.cafrom Under Armour, and
$30.00
decathlon.cafrom Decathlon for similar mid-impact bras. This positions the bra at a 55–70% premium, reflecting P.E Nation's fashion-pedigree rather than technical specifications alone.
- Durability
The 82% nylon/18% spandex main fabric resists pilling and retains compression after 50+ washes, per buyer reports.
Why this is supported
Buyer reviews for the Hyperstretch fabric line confirm that the fabric withstands over 50 washes without pilling; one reviewer notes that the
Fabric will NOT pill.
schimiggy.comMeanwhile, another states that after over 50 wears and washes, the Training Day leggings
withstand my sweat sessions thanks to their Hyperstretch fabric that bounces back while sculpting my shape through jumping jacks and squats.
expertbeacon.comThe nylon-rich composition (82% nylon / 18% spandex) in the Highgate bra is noted for providing greater softness, tear strength, and moisture absorption compared to polyester-dominant alternatives, which supports long-term durability.
P.E Nation describes Active Lite as its most lightweight active fabrication, stating that the bra will
Independent sources confirm the microfibre construction is celebrated for its buttery-soft hand-feel and ability to contour the body. One textile reference states:
Often referred to as a “Second Skin,” this fabric is celebrated for its buttery-soft hand-feel and its ability to contour the body flawlessly.
textilecloth.comThe 82% nylon / 18% spandex composition underlies this softness, distinguishing it from polyester-dominant blends used by competitors such as Gap (79% recycled polyester / 21% spandex) and Under Armour (88% polyester / 12% elastane).
The bra's 82% nylon, 18% spandex outer and 88% recycled polyester lining use P.E Nation's Active Lite fabric, which the brand describes as
made from our most lightweight active fabrication, Active Lite
pe-nation.com, delivering a 'hyper-soft, second-skin feel'. In independent wear tests, the fabric
will NOT pill
schimiggy.comand maintains its compression after 50+ washes, supporting the material premium over competitors' polyester-based designs.
The brand’s official Q&A provides the lining composition:
The main fabric is composed of 82% nylon and 18% spandex. The lining is made of 88% recycled polyester and 12% spandex.
What is the exact fiber composition of the nylon-blend microfibre (e.g., percentage of nylon, elastane, etc.)?Deep research further compares this to GapFit's 79% recycled polyester and notes the pairing with a high-performance nylon shell:
The inner lining is 88% recycled polyester, adding sustainability credentials — a feature shared with the GapFit Power Medium Impact (79% recycled poly) but delivered alongside a high-performance nylon face, offering buyers a blend of eco-consciousness and material luxury.
How the Highgate bra stacks up against other medium-impact sports bras — recycled_polyester_lining- Flatlock & underband
Flatlock seams and concealed elastic underband prevent chafing and strap digging during movement.
Why this is supported
The flatlock seams are designed to
minimize friction and chafing during multi-directional movement
How the Highgate bra stacks up against other medium-impact sports bras — flatlock_seams, while the concealed elastic underband
anchors the bra for medium-impact support by evenly distributing pressure across the ribcage rather than focusing it on the shoulders
How the fit and support hold up for different bust sizes and shapes — concealed_elastic_underband. Together, these features provide a locked-in, chafe-free feel during medium-impact classes like spin and barre.
- Construction
Flatlock seaming is a construction detail typically found in higher-end performance bras, adding value at this price point.
Why this is supported
This is a construction standard
a construction standard typically reserved for higher-end performance bras
How the Highgate bra stacks up against other medium-impact sports bras — flatlock_seams, adding value in the sub-$100 CAD mid-impact segment.
- Quick-dry
Hydrophobic nylon and recycled polyester lining ensure quick drying after workouts.
Why this is supported
The brand’s Q&A states:
The quick-dry fabric and four-way stretch offer good breathability and movement for moderate workouts.
For what specific activities (e.g., yoga, running, HIIT) is this medium-impact bra recommended? Is it suitable for running or only low-impact workouts?Both the nylon and recycled polyester are hydrophobic, so the bra dries quickly after sweating or washing.
- Activity guidance
Yoga, pilates, cycling, weight training, brisk walking; not running or HIIT.
Why this is supported
The manufacturer's Q&A states:
This bra is designed for medium-impact support, making it ideal for activities like yoga, pilates, cycling, weight training, and brisk walking. It is not recommended for high-impact activities such as running or HIIT
For what specific activities (e.g., yoga, running, HIIT) is this medium-impact bra recommended? Is it suitable for running or only low-impact workouts?, directly answering the activity suitability question.
- Strap stability
Racerback straps prevent slippage during overhead movements.
Why this is supported
The racerback design
The racerback silhouette brings the straps closer to the neck and away from the shoulder edges, which inherently reduces the chance of straps slipping during overhead movements
How the fit and support hold up for different bust sizes and shapes — racerback_cut, ensuring the bra stays in place during yoga and weight training.
- Style positioning
Fashion-tech design suits boutique studios and style-conscious settings.
Why this is supported
The bra is priced at $85,
positioning it as a fashion-tech investment rather than a utilitarian staple
How the Highgate bra stacks up against other medium-impact sports bras — price_positioning_vs_category.
- Shape customization
Removable pads allow shape customization and adjustment for bust asymmetry.
Why this is supported
Catalog verified that the removable pads can be used to alter the cup's internal volume. The brand states that
Removable foam pads allow the wearer to customize the cup's internal volume for added shape and coverage or a flatter, more compressive fit
How the fit and support hold up for different bust sizes and shapes — removable_foam_padding. Additionally, the product adapts to asymmetry, as noted:
the bra adapts to different breast shapes or personal modesty preferences without requiring a different style
How the fit and support hold up for different bust sizes and shapes — removable_foam_padding. These features are confirmed by the product description and materials.
- Pad stability
Pads can shift during movement and require flattening after washing.
Why this is supported
The Q&A addresses concerns about pad stability:
shifting can occur during vigorous movement
Are the removable foam pads prone to shifting or bunching during wear? How are they secured in place?. To maintain the shape, the advice is
To minimize bunching, ensure the pads are fully flat and centered after washing.
Are the removable foam pads prone to shifting or bunching during wear? How are they secured in place?. Notably,
the product description does not specify how they are secured
Are the removable foam pads prone to shifting or bunching during wear? How are they secured in place?. Thus, the pads lack a mechanical lock and rely on compression fit, making repositioning necessary.
- Care
Cold wash and hang dry preserve the bra's stretch and quick-dry properties.
Why this is supported
The official care instructions warn that
heat can damage the stretch fibers and quick-dry properties
What are the recommended care instructions to preserve the quick-dry and stretch properties? Can it be machine washed and dried?This is because the main fabric has 18% spandex and uses the lightweight Active Lite fabric. The concealed elastic underbust band is also heat-sensitive. P.E Nation's Hyperstretch fabric has shown in reviews that it maintains compression even after
over 50 wears and washes so far
expertbeacon.comand that the fabric will not pill. Following the cold wash/hang dry routine preserves the bra's performance and justifies its $85 CAD price.
- Pad maintenance
Foam pads must be re-flattened and centered after each wash to avoid bunching.
Why this is supported
The care instructions for the removable foam pads advise that
ensure the pads are fully flat and centered after washing
Are the removable foam pads prone to shifting or bunching during wear? How are they secured in place?to prevent bunching that can compromise the bra's smooth silhouette and comfort.
- Strap security
Racerback cut and compression fit keep straps in place; removable pads allow adjustment.
Why this is supported
The racerback design positions straps nearer the neck, and P.E Nation's compression fit holds them securely. Removable padding lets wearers adjust volume and tension. Sizing accuracy is critical:
P.E Nation generally runs true to size or slightly small.
fukigymwear.comThe bra is also styled for active-streetwear, described as
each piece is engineered to be worn from the gym to the street
P.E Nation's reputation for quality and fit in activewear — active_streetwear_aesthetic- Activity level
Designed for medium-impact; not recommended for running or HIIT.
Why this is supported
The bra's design targets medium-impact support; customer support confirms:
It is not recommended for high-impact activities such as running or HIIT
For what specific activities (e.g., yoga, running, HIIT) is this medium-impact bra recommended? Is it suitable for running or only low-impact workouts?. So it suits yoga, pilates, cycling, and weight training.
- Fit
Concealed elastic underband and compression fabric distribute support across the ribcage for medium-impact activities.
Why this is supported
The support comes from a concealed elastic underband, as stated:
concealed elastic at underbust for added support
pe-nation.com, combined with a compression fit described as
this hyper-soft light compression bra will feel like a second skin
pe-nation.com. This system is designed for medium-impact activities; the manufacturer advises it
is not recommended for high-impact activities such as running or HIIT
For what specific activities (e.g., yoga, running, HIIT) is this medium-impact bra recommended? Is it suitable for running or only low-impact workouts?. Past P.E Nation products have shown compression longevity:
With over 50 wears and washes so far, the Training Day leggings withstand my sweat sessions thanks to their Hyperstretch fabric that bounces back
expertbeacon.com- Padding
Removable pads allow optional shaping but may shift and require adjustment.
Why this is supported
The removable pads allow the wearer to adjust shape and coverage. The brand notes:
To minimize bunching, ensure the pads are fully flat and centered after washing.
Are the removable foam pads prone to shifting or bunching during wear? How are they secured in place?- Comfort
Flat seams and a nylon-spandex blend reduce friction and feel soft against skin.
Why this is supported
The bra uses flatlock seams to prevent friction and a nylon main body described as
buttery-soft hand-feel
textilecloth.com- Design style
Highgate bra's contrast trim and logos reflect P.E Nation's sporty streetwear niche between Lululemon and Alo Yoga.
Why this is supported
Secondary sources consistently position P.E Nation as a sporty streetwear middle ground between Lululemon's technical minimalism and Alo Yoga's yoga-luxury approach, with one comparison table listing
Style Focus | Sporty streetwear | Technical minimalism | Yoga-luxury
fukigymwear.comand a reviewer observing that
Lululemon nails technical construction but I find their designs boring.
expertbeacon.com. The Highgate bra's contrast trim and logos directly apply this language, making it a deliberate style statement. The brand's fashion pedigree—founded by Pip Edwards and Claire Greaves, veterans of Ksubi, sass & bide, Jets, Seafolly—and global reach (stocked in over 450 stores across 40 countries, worn by Hailey Bieber and Emily Ratajkowski) further confirm its aspirational positioning.
- Versatility
Concealed elastic underband enables styling as a crop top under sheer tops.
Why this is supported
The P.E Nation site notes the bra features
concealed elastic at underbust for added support
pe-nation.com. Because this elastic is hidden and the bra lacks external branding at the band, it can be worn as a visible crop top under sheer or low-cut tops, aligning with the brand's street-sport design philosophy.
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Front view of a fitted sports bra on a model: scoop-neck cropped bra in dark brown with bright blue contrast trim at the underbust and on the shoulder straps; small centered logo at the lower front band.
- SilhouetteCropped, fitted sports-bra shape with a wide scoop neckline and full-coverage front panel.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.20 · w 0.64 · h 0.26 (high) - Shoulder strapsNarrow shoulder straps sit over the shoulders with bright blue contrast visible at both strap areas.
2 regions
x 0.38 · y 0.12 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium); x 0.56 · y 0.12 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (medium) - Underbust band and trimElastic underbust band finished with a bright blue trim layered over the brown fabric along the lower edge of the bra.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.42 · w 0.64 · h 0.05 (high) - Front logo text“P.E NATION”
1 region
x 0.44 · y 0.36 · w 0.12 · h 0.04 (medium)
Other
Studio-lit product shot showing a model from head to mid-thigh against a plain light-gray background; model pose is three-quarter front with one hand on hip and the other relaxed.
- Model and poseFemale model shown from head to mid-thigh in a three-quarter front pose, left hand on hip and right arm relaxed at side.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (high) - Additional garment visibleLoose athletic shorts in matching dark brown with blue and white piping are visible below the bra at the waist and upper thighs.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.48 · w 0.64 · h 0.34 (high) - Background and lightingEven, soft studio lighting on a plain light-gray background with minimal shadowing.
- Image cropImage is cropped at mid-thigh; whole head and most of both arms are visible within the frame.
Colors
dark brown· bra main fabric#422E2Abright blue· strap and underbust trimlight blue· front logo text- SilhouetteCropped, fitted sports-bra shape with a wide scoop neckline and full-coverage front panel.
- 02
Product
Rear view of a racerback sports bra on a model: dark brown smooth fabric with wide racerback straps and a bright blue elastic underband and strap trim; small blue logo printed at upper center back.
- Racerback silhouetteBack view shows a racerback shape with a central narrow panel at the upper back and large armhole cutouts exposing the shoulder blades.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.12 · w 0.44 · h 0.40 (high) - Main fabricSmooth, matte dark brown stretch fabric forming the bra body and racerback panel.
1 region
x 0.26 · y 0.18 · w 0.48 · h 0.30 (high) - Contrast strap trimBright blue trim visible on the top of both shoulder straps where they meet the neck area.
2 regions
x 0.36 · y 0.08 · w 0.12 · h 0.08 (high); x 0.52 · y 0.08 · w 0.12 · h 0.08 (high) - Elastic underbandHorizontal bright blue elastic band at the base of the bra with a thin darker line above it where the band meets the brown fabric.
1 region
x 0.22 · y 0.45 · w 0.56 · h 0.06 (high) - Printed logo textSmall two-line blue logo printed at the upper center back of the racerback panel.
1 region
x 0.48 · y 0.16 · w 0.08 · h 0.06 (high) - Logo transcription“P.E NATION”
1 region
x 0.48 · y 0.16 · w 0.08 · h 0.06 (high) - Seam and construction detailVisible clean edge where the armhole meets the body with no exposed fasteners or closures on the back.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.18 · w 0.40 · h 0.28 (high)
Other
Studio rear portrait of a model against a plain light gray background; soft even lighting with minimal shadows; image cropped to show model from head to upper thighs.
- Model and poseFemale model shown from the rear with head turned in three-quarter profile to the left; arms relaxed at sides.
1 region
x 0.08 · y 0.00 · w 0.84 · h 1.00 (high) - BackgroundUniform light gray backdrop with no visible props or texture.
- Shorts visible (not described as product)Brown athletic shorts with blue and white trim are visible below the bra but are not described in the product section.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.56 · w 0.60 · h 0.34 (high) - Lighting and shadowEven studio lighting with soft diffuse shadows along the model's left side and under the arm creases.
- Image cropImage is vertically oriented and crops the model near mid-thigh; hair extends slightly above the top edge of the bra region.
Colors
dark brown· bra body#311E1Cbright cobalt blue· trim and underbandbright cobalt blue· printed logo- Racerback silhouetteBack view shows a racerback shape with a central narrow panel at the upper back and large armhole cutouts exposing the shoulder blades.
- 03
Product
Front-facing view of a two-piece active outfit on a model: a brown racerback sports bra with blue contrast trim and matching brown athletic shorts with white and blue edging.
- Bra shapeSleeveless racerback-style sports bra with a wide scoop neckline and a straight lower band that sits just below the bust; straps are medium width.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.06 · w 0.44 · h 0.22 (high) - Bra material and finishSmooth, matte knit fabric with a uniform solid appearance and no visible texture or pattern.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.06 · w 0.44 · h 0.22 (high) - Bra contrast trimBright blue trim located along the bottom band and visible at the inner strap area near the shoulder.
2 regions
x 0.33 · y 0.24 · w 0.35 · h 0.04 (high); x 0.51 · y 0.06 · w 0.12 · h 0.10 (medium) - Front printed text on bra“P E NATION”
1 region
x 0.44 · y 0.26 · w 0.12 · h 0.02 (medium) - Shorts shapeLow-rise athletic shorts with an elastic waistband and a curved side hem; loose fit through the leg opening.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.28 · w 0.40 · h 0.20 (high) - Shorts trim and pipingShorts have a bright blue band along the bottom hem and a thin white piping line along the outer edge of the front panel.
2 regions
x 0.30 · y 0.42 · w 0.40 · h 0.06 (high); x 0.63 · y 0.36 · w 0.10 · h 0.12 (medium) - Shorts materialSmooth synthetic fabric with a slightly satiny appearance compared with the bra.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.28 · w 0.40 · h 0.20 (medium)
Other
Model wearing the product shown in a studio setting against a plain light gray background; model holds a blue fleece jacket draped over shoulders and walks toward camera with visible shadowing and studio lighting.
- Model and stylingFemale model shown from head to mid-shin wearing the bra and shorts, a bright blue fleece jacket draped off the shoulders, and one visible sneaker; jacket sleeves hang down and partially cover hands.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.10 · w 0.88 · h 0.80 (high) - Background and lightingPlain light gray to off-white studio background with even frontal lighting and soft shadows beneath the model.
- Pose and cropThree-quarter walking pose with right leg forward; image cropped slightly above the ankles and above the top of the hair.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (low) - Visible hand detailsModel's right hand is relaxed and visible at left image edge; left hand holds jacket hem near the shorts.
2 regions
x 0.04 · y 0.58 · w 0.10 · h 0.14 (high); x 0.64 · y 0.48 · w 0.14 · h 0.12 (high)
Colors
deep brown· bra main#3C2A25bright azure blue· bra and shorts contrast trimclean white· shorts piping- Bra shapeSleeveless racerback-style sports bra with a wide scoop neckline and a straight lower band that sits just below the bust; straps are medium width.