Freezing? Oakwood woman launches new athletic pants that let you cover up and keep your shoes on

“There had to be a better way,” local inventor said.

Credit: Submitted

Credit: Submitted

Patty Vanderburgh had three bad options when she was running off to her boot camp exercise class on cold January days five or so years ago:

1. freezing her tail off as she ran between her car and the  gym in her shorts in 5 degree weather

2. pulling basic sweatpants on over her shoes and shorts

3. buttoning up a pair of old-school tear-away pants

Credit: Submitted

Credit: Submitted

“There had to be a better way,” Vanderburgh, who was taught to sew by her grandmother,  told this news organization. “I just kind of kept playing with every fabric I could find.”

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Rare Active, the University of Dayton alumna's patented athletic outwear pants line, was officially launched last month during an event at  Up & Running in Centerville, according to Dayton Tech Guide. 

The organization supports Dayton entrepreneurs.

Made in the United States using Italian materials, the pants are a cross between joggers and leggings and retail for about $148 each.

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Legs upzip all the way up, and the waistband stretches.

"The key is that you don't have to take your shoes off, and there is quick-and-easy layering," said Vanderburgh, an Oakwood resident and former educator.  
Featured on Dayton Tech Guide's website, the pants are being sold at Up & Running and online at rareactive.co.

Credit: Audrey Ingram, Dayton Tech Guide

Credit: Audrey Ingram, Dayton Tech Guide

About 280 pair of pants were part of the product’s first run in five sizes from extra small to extra large and three colors: black, grey and blue.

Fewer than 80 pants are still up for grabs.

Vanderburgh, a past participant in Dayton Tech Guide's Early Risers monthly pitch event for local startups, wants to expand her company's offering to items such as rain and hiking pants.

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The outwear pants could have applications for the military, she says.

Vanderburgh said she is thrilled the line is off and running.

“It is really super easy, and I think it is a flattering pant,” she said of her product. “A lot of things are happening this year, and it is exciting.”

Credit: Audrey Ingram, Dayton Tech Guide

Credit: Audrey Ingram, Dayton Tech Guide

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Credit: Submitted

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