Janji Run For Another

Janji is a running apparel brand that provides food and water to those in need.

Runners require proper hydration and ample nutrition to train, run 5Ks and finish marathons.  At the same time, millions of people around the world lack the basic necessities for survival.

We can change that.

Through each purchase of Janji’s distinctive running apparel, a portion of proceeds funds organizations that are alleviating the worst problems related to food and water.  By funding solutions and raising awareness through our apparel, Janji wants to create a nation of runners that run for another and eliminate the global food and water crisis.”

 Jenny J’s Take

Women’s Rwanda Running Shorts First off, I love when a company gives back and that’s exactly what janji was founded upon.  When we were approached to review janji’s clothes, I had this vague feeling that I had heard of them before but couldn’t place it.  After visiting their website, I realized that the guys who started it lived a block over from me and while I had never met them personally, I used to run with one of their girlfriends!   All of them have since moved from St. Louis, but this is where they got their roots. What a small, small world.

I totally dig the concept of janji and what they stand for.  Their clothes are made of quality materials and constructed really well.  They’ve paid attention to detail with paneling, venting and seaming–the shorts actually remind me a LOT of *gasp* Lululemon’s Speed Short.  I guess this makes sense since “previous girl mentioned” worked/works for Lululemon.  I’m wondering if they didn’t get some inspiration from her!  While the quality is amazing, the sizing seemed way off.  Their size chart states that the shorts run small but I actually found them to be the opposite.  I am usually a solid XS (5’1″, 102lbs) but was SWIMMING in the Rwanda XS.   It wasn’t the length that bothered me so much as the excess in the waist.  The shirt was roomy and long but that’s easier to play off than large bottoms.

So, the good is this company is doing great things for the world around us and in addition, offers quality clothing in their support.  I would just love to see them add an XXS to their size list.

Meaghan’s Take

When Janji asked us to pick out running gear to review from their site, I almost passed up the opportunity. That would have been such a mistake! Not only is Janji helping with the global food and water crisis, but they’re producing some sweet products in the process.  I tested out the Women’s Bangladesh Running Shorts, of which I have become a huge fan. They fit great. They were slightly large in the waist, but the drawstring alleviated that issue. I prefer shorts with a 3 inch inseam, so at 2.75″, I was happy with the length. One of my favorite aspects of these shorts is the small zip pocket in the back; perfect for a key.  I wore these shorts for a longer run (18 miles) and sported them to the bar afterwards (cause that is how I roll.) They stayed comfortable throughout the day and dried quickly. I can without a doubt recommend these shorts to everyone. In fact, I just purchased another pair (Rwanda, same style, different color). It’s easy to spend money on running gear when you know it’s going to a good cause!

Stein’s Take

Men’s Rwanda Breeze Shirt & Men’s Rwanda Running Shorts

Fit
The shirt fits great. The shirt has short sleeves and is cut perfectly for my medium frame; it’s not too tight or too loose. The shorts fit well and look nice, but the liner is a little “baggier” than I prefer.

Texture
The shirt and shorts are both made from synthetic materials. I had no chaffing problems and the shorts are holding up well. The shorts are made from what you would expect, with a slippery type sheen to them. The shirt material is more of a weave, and however nice, it has developed a few small snags.

Wicking
The shirt has good wicking ability, but I felt the shorts getting heavy on some sweatier workouts. Really can’t complain though; all of my clothes are soaked after a good summer workout.

Heat escape
Both the shirt and shorts had adequate heat escape. With any breeze (or if you’re running fast), the shirt really feels natural and breathable.

Distance
I’d run any distance in the shirt or shorts.

Overall
The shirt and shorts are both lightweight and have the same Rwandan flag color theme. I like the flashy colors and have worn the shirt casually on a couple sunny days. I also really appreciate the social conscience aspect of the Janji clothing line. Right on the garment tag it says “with this purchase, you’re providing 3 days of nutritional medicine to a child in Rwanda.” That’s a practical and real reason to purchase – and even gives you a bit of feel-good-karma stuff.

Thomas’ Take

The shorts are quality. I ran in the Men’s Tanzania Running Shorts. They are a bit long for my normal preference at a 7″ inseam. I am less modest than the average runner. I will wear these when I know I’ll be hanging out in public and don’t want other parts of me hanging out too. Definitely good for post run cafés and bars. Yes, I love going for a beer after a long run. It is one of my favorite things. These shorts are fun with their unique colors and design. They feel light even with all the extra material. I was surprised at the quality of the garment. I thought they would be ok shorts with a good cause behind them. These are solid products that have a solid mission. I look forward to watching this brand grow and seeing what new designs they come up with. If you want a good piece of gear that makes you feel good about giving back check out Janji and run for others.