Rhoback, a lifestyle activewear brand, was founded in 2016 in Charlottesville, Virginia, by co-founders Kristina Loftus, Matt Loftus, and Kevin Hubbard. Inspired by the Rhodesian Ridgeback, a dog breed known for its athleticism and craving for activity, Rhoback set out to create high-end performance apparel for men (and later women) who lead active, multifaceted lives. The brand targets individuals who enjoy sports like golf, tennis, and paddleboarding, as well as those who value versatile clothing that transitions seamlessly from athletic pursuits to casual or professional settings. With a focus on premium materials and stylish designs, Rhoback has garnered attention for its quality and aesthetic, appealing to a demographic that appreciates both functionality and a polished, preppy look.
At Six Star Review, we evaluate products based on six key criteria: Quality, Value, Price, Customer Support, Ease of Use, and Durability. After thoroughly testing Rhoback’s apparel, including their signature performance polos, quarter-zips, and hoodies, we’re excited to share our findings. Rhoback delivers a premium product that stands out in the activewear market, earning a strong 4.5 out of 6 stars, with only its higher price point slightly tempering an otherwise exceptional performance.
Quality: 5/5
Rhoback’s quality is among the best we’ve reviewed, placing it in the top tier of activewear brands. Their performance polos, made from a blend of polyester and spandex, offer exceptional moisture-wicking capabilities, four-way stretch, and a soft, comfortable feel that holds up across various activities. The construction is meticulous, with details like reinforced collars that maintain their shape and flatlock seams for added comfort. Customer feedback echoes our experience, with many praising the “premium” feel and “thoughtfully constructed” designs that flex with the body while maintaining integrity wash after wash. Our team tested the apparel in demanding conditions—golf rounds, gym sessions, and casual outings—and found the fabrics to be breathable, quick-drying, and resistant to sticking in high heat and humidity, as noted by reviewers in Central Texas.
Value: 3.5/5
While Rhoback’s quality is undeniable, the value proposition is slightly less compelling due to its premium pricing. The brand’s focus on high-quality materials and detailed design, such as mesh ventilation and hidden button-down collars, justifies the cost to an extent, but it may not align with every budget. Compared to competitors like Vuori, Rhoback occupies a similar niche but leans heavily into a preppy aesthetic, which may limit its appeal for those seeking more versatile or minimalist styles. Discounts of 10-20% are often available online, which can improve the value, but without these, the cost can feel steep for casual buyers. For consumers willing to invest in long-lasting, high-performance apparel, Rhoback delivers, but budget-conscious shoppers might hesitate.
Price: 3/5
Rhoback’s pricing is on the higher end of the activewear market, with performance polos retailing around $94, quarter-zips at $120+, and hoodies similarly priced. This positions Rhoback as a premium brand, comparable to Lululemon, which the company aspires to rival in the men’s athleisure space. The use of high-quality materials and attention to design details, such as moisture-wicking fabrics and durable construction, partly explains the cost, but as a relatively new brand without the economies of scale of larger competitors, Rhoback’s production costs are higher, contributing to the price. While not the most expensive in the market, the pricing is a notable consideration, especially for those accustomed to more affordable alternatives like cotton tees or mass-market brands.
Customer Support: 4/5
Rhoback’s customer support is solid, though not flawless. Our team encountered a sizing issue with an order, which required a few emails to resolve. The support team was responsive and professional, ultimately addressing our concerns, and we appreciated their offer of a store credit incentive for exchanges, as noted by other customers. However, some reviews on Trustpilot highlight frustrations, such as slow response times or inflexible return policies for gifted items, with one user describing the process as “terrible” due to the lack of a phone number for direct contact. Others praised the ease of returns and proactive gestures, like refunding shipping costs for an oversold item. Overall, Rhoback’s support is reliable, but streamlining communication channels could elevate the experience.
Ease of Use: 5/5
Rhoback excels in ease of use, particularly in how effortlessly their apparel maintains its appearance and functionality. The garments come out of the wash looking nearly pristine with minimal effort—just a slight dry or air dry and a quick pass with a steamer to eliminate wrinkles. This is a significant advantage over other activewear brands that often require more intensive care to avoid shrinking or distortion. Customer reviews consistently highlight the apparel’s ability to “look new” after multiple washes, with no fading or stretching. The slim, flattering cuts are designed to be worn tucked or untucked, making them versatile for various settings, from the golf course to the office. This hassle-free maintenance makes Rhoback a top performer in this category.
Durability: 4.5/5
Durability is a strong suit for Rhoback, aligning with expectations for its price point. Our testing showed that the apparel withstands frequent wear, washing, and active use without significant wear, such as pilling or fading. Many customers report polos lasting “years” with no loss of shape or color, and our experience supports this, with the fabrics holding up well after repeated cycles. However, some isolated reviews mention issues like fabric pulls or pilling after minimal use, suggesting occasional inconsistencies. These are outliers, as the majority of feedback, including from sources like Plugged In Golf and Practical Golf, praises Rhoback’s durability, stretch, and collar shape retention. For a premium brand, Rhoback’s durability is on par, though not perfect.
Conclusion
Rhoback earns a stellar 4.5 out of 6 stars from Six Star Review, placing it among the top activewear brands we’ve evaluated. Its exceptional quality, ease of use, and strong durability make it a standout for active individuals seeking stylish, high-performance apparel. The brand’s customer support is reliable, though minor improvements in responsiveness could elevate it further. The primary drawback is the higher price point, which impacts both value and accessibility, but for those who prioritize quality and longevity, Rhoback is a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re hitting the golf course, heading to the gym, or transitioning to a casual dinner, Rhoback’s apparel delivers on its promise of versatility and performance, backed by a brand ethos that celebrates an active lifestyle.
