Vuori Kore vs. Banks: Which one should you buy?

While both brands sit at the premium end of the activewear market, Vuori and Banks Sportswear cater to two very different styles. Vuori is known for its minimalist, versatile aesthetic with muted earth tones perfect for transitioning from workouts to daily life, while Banks offers bold, vibrant, fashion-forward designs that make a statement.

Here’s a clear look at what each brand offers to help you decide which one aligns with your personal style and needs.

Vuori

Based in California, Vuori embodies a laid-back West Coast vibe, blending high-performance functionality with understated style. Their pieces are designed to be exceptionally comfortable and versatile, making them just as suitable for running errands or lounging as they are for a grueling workout session.

• What it is: A performance apparel brand focused on comfortable, sustainable, and versatile activewear with a minimalist design.
• Key features: Signature soft fabrics that are often sustainable, a neutral and earth-toned color palette, and multi-functional designs ideal for everyday wear.
• Price: Mid-range, with most tops, shorts, and joggers priced between $70 - $150.
• Materials/Construction: Prioritizes soft and sustainable materials like recycled polyester, organic cotton, and Tencel. Construction is high-quality with strong attention to finishing details for durability.
• Sizing/Fit: Tends to offer a relaxed but true-to-size fit. The brand generally carries sizes from XS to XXL, accommodating a wide range of body types comfortably.
• Pros: Extremely versatile pieces, prioritizing all-day comfort. Strong commitment to sustainability. Minimalist style is timeless and easy to wear. Highly dependable sizing.
• Cons: The muted color palette may not be exciting for everyone. Relaxed fits might not be ideal for those seeking high-compression activewear.

This brand is ideal for anyone seeking high-quality, understated activewear that puts comfort and versatility first, all while supporting eco-conscious manufacturing.

Shop this brand: vuoriclothing.com

Banks Sportswear

Banks is an energetic activewear brand designed for women who want their workout clothes to be as bold and stylish as their everyday wardrobe. Their collections are defined by vibrant colors, eye-catching patterns, and fashion-forward details that stand out in the gym and beyond.

• What it is: A contemporary women's activewear brand specializing in stylish, functional, and statement-making performance apparel.
• Key features: Bold, trend-driven designs with bright colors and unique patterns. Innovative performance fabrics designed for moisture-wicking and stretch.
• Price: Mid to high-range, with most leggings, bras, and tops sitting between $80 - $180.
• Materials/Construction: Uses high-quality, technical performance fabrics that are durable, supportive, and feature four-way stretch. Garments have reinforced seams built for active use.
• Sizing/Fit: Runs true to size with a focus on fitted, body-hugging silhouettes, especially in compression leggings and sports bras.
• Pros: Unique and energetic designs make a fashion statement. High-performance materials are excellent for intense workouts. Strong community-focused brand identity.
• Cons: Higher price point. The bold aesthetic is less versatile for formal or professional settings. The fitted nature of some styles requires closer attention to sizing charts.

This activewear is perfect for fashion-conscious individuals who want performance gear that reflects their confident and energetic personal style.

Shop this brand: bankssportswear.com

Vuori vs. Banks Sportswear Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

This is the most significant difference between the two brands. Vuori champions a minimalist, "less is more" philosophy. Their aesthetic is rooted in clean lines, solid muted colors, and classic silhouettes that won't go out of style. It’s the perfect brand if you want clothes that blend in seamlessly, offering quiet confidence and maximum versatility.

On the opposite end, Banks is all about standing out. Their collections are full of life, featuring vibrant colors, lively patterns, and trendy details. If you see activewear as another opportunity for self-expression and love fashion-forward pieces that command attention, Banks is the brand for you.

Price & Value

Both brands operate in the premium activewear space, but there is a slight difference. Vuori tends to be slightly more accessible, with popular items frequently priced between $70 and $150. Given the versatility of their pieces, many customers see this as a strong value since one item can serve multiple functions in their wardrobe.

Banks' pricing is slightly higher, often from $80 to $180. This price reflects their focus on bold, unique designs and high-performance, technical fabrics. For people who prioritize statement style alongside function, the price is justified by the fashion-forward aesthetic they deliver.

Materials & Quality

Both brands deliver exceptional quality, so the choice comes down to preference. Vuori is famous for its incredibly soft, comfortable, and sustainable fabrics. The materials feel great against the skin, making them perfect for all-day wear from the trail to the couch.

Banks also uses high-quality, durable fabrics, with more of a focus on technical performance. Their materials excel at moisture-wicking and provide four-way stretch with a supportive, often compressive feel designed to handle intense activity while retaining their shape and color.

Sustainability & Ethics

Both Vuori and Banks Sportswear are committed to responsible manufacturing. Vuori places a strong emphasis on using recycled and organic materials and is transparent about its sustainability journey and goals for reducing its environmental impact.

Banks also utilizes eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods. While both are moving in the right direction, Vuori's deep integration of sustainable practices across its product lines gives it a well-established reputation among eco-conscious shoppers.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, both brands offer fantastic products, but they are built for different consumer priorities.

Choose Vuori if:

• You prefer a timeless, minimalist style over trends.
• You value clothing that can easily transition from the gym to daily errands to relaxing at home.
• Comfort and soft-feeling fabrics are your top priorities.
• Sustainability and the use of recycled materials are important factors in your decision.

Choose Banks Sportswear if:

• You want your activewear to make a bold, stylish statement.
• You love energetic colors, vibrant prints, and fashion-forward details.
• You are looking for specific technical pieces designed to perform during high-intensity workouts.
• You see activewear as an extension of your personal style and love to stand out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Vuori and Banks?

The primary difference is their style and aesthetic. Vuori offers understated, versatile, and minimalist activewear in muted colors, while Banks focuses on bold, vibrant, and trend-driven designs that make a statement.

Which brand is more expensive?

Banks is generally slightly more expensive, with items typically ranging from $80 to $180. Vuori's pieces are usually priced between $70 and $150.

Is Vuori clothing true to size?

Yes, Vuori is known for having a consistent, true-to-size fit. Many of their classic styles offer a slightly relaxed silhouette designed for comfort.

What about sizing for Banks Sportswear?

Banks also runs true to size, but its styles are often more fitted and compressive, especially leggings and sports bras. It’s a good idea to consult their sizing chart for a secure and comfortable fit.

Which brand is better for high-intensity workouts?

Both are great for workouts, but Banks' focus on technical, compressive, and moisture-wicking fabrics often gives it a slight edge for very high-intensity training. However, many of Vuori's performance lines are also perfectly capable of handling tough workouts.

Which brand is better for casual wear and lounging?

Vuori excels in this category. Their commitment to all-day comfort, soft materials, and versatile designs makes their clothing perfect for lounging, errands, and everyday casual life.

Are both brands sustainable?

Yes, both brands have a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical production. However, Vuori has built a larger part of its brand identity around using recycled and eco-conscious materials across its collections.

Can men wear Banks Sportswear?

Banks is currently designed and marketed as a women's activewear brand, with fits and styles created specifically for women's bodies.