Category: Running

Running Gear Run Down

SadieLeave a comment

I envy the people who can just throw on sneakers and go for a jog. I require all the planets to be in perfect alignment, along with all the right apparel. I don’t want anything moving, chaffing, riding up, or rubbing. If I’m going to kick my own ass, I need to be as comfortable as possible doing it. Here is the equation that works best for me:

Undergarments:

Let’s start with the base layer. I’m not a big fan of Lululemon, but I have found that this sports bra works best for running. It’s very pricey, but necessary for me.

Tops:

If the temperature outside is between the high 30’s through the 50’s I wear a Nike long sleeve quarter zip. Every brand makes something similar, but I like the fabric Nike uses and the fit is perfect for me- fitted but not clingy (the model above makes it look baggier than it is). I hate feeling restricted or packed in while I run.

If the temperature is low 30’s or below, I add the above tank and I might up my long sleeve to something a little heavier with fleece on the inside. Layers are key. If the temperature is below 20, I go to the gym instead of running outside because I like running outside, but not that much.

In the summer it’s suns out guns out. I like a light weight, low profile, loose tank in the warmer months. I think I feel too body conscious in the really clingy or “seamless” tank style. I often opt for a shorter or cropped style just to reduce the amount of fabric flying around. Most of the “cropped” styles hit my waistline so it’s not like I’m showing a lot of extra skin.

Bottoms:

Usually in weather below about 55 or 60 degrees I opt for capris. I actually only run in Nike Epic Lux crops. They are the perfect length, have drawstring at the waist (so they stay up), and two pockets for keys, etc.

There are two types of runners in warm weather: runners who wear running shorts, and runners who wear spandex. Guess which one I am. I love the Nike 5 inch Nike Pro compression shorts. The downside is that they don’t have a key pocket, but I like that they’re lightweight and long enough to stay in place (most of the time).

Sneakers:

I’ve been wearing the New Balance Fresh Foam Zante for a few years now. I get new shoes every 6ish months. I usually check New Balance to see what the latest version is then cross reference DSW and Amazon to see who has a good price on the color that I want.

Accessories:

  • I need to keep my bangs out of my face so the stretchy headband is a must
  • If it’s 45 degrees or below, I wear gloves because they make such a difference
  • Body Glide is definitely an essential for any runner
  • For reasons unknown, Under Armour is my preference for athletic socks
  • Rather than a belt I usually put my keys in the zipper pocket on my capris, or a cuff on my wrist in the summer (I can’t find the cuff online right now)
  • I love my Garmin watch because it helps me track my distance and splits. Looking at the current models, I’m probably due for a new one soon!

Ok, I think I’m ready to go for a run now! 

 

Wait, where’s my sunscreen?

New Workout Clothes I Love

SadieLeave a comment

May was kind of shopping month for me, and among my winnings, I got some great new workout clothes! I thought I would share my favorites!

Lululemon Enlite Sports Bra

I need to start by saying that this was a conflicted purchase for me for two reasons: 1. it’s $98, and 2. Lulu is not my favorite company based on some of the elitist statements that the founder has made over the years. I decided to go to the store to try it on because I’m in the market for a new running bra. My favorite one seems to have been discontinued, and the perfect running bra is extremely hard to find. The reviews on the site said the sizing was off so I had a wonderful fitting room experience where I was standing, basically in public, in the bra debating the appropriate tightness of the straps with several salesmen. The UPS man who was making a delivery at the time was really helpful as well. I’m glad I did it though because I ended up going down a cup and band size from my normal size.

I definitely feel very held in, in the bra, and I’ve run in it a couple times and guess what, it works! It was relatively comfortable (for a really secure sports bra), and did everything it needed to do, which is saying a lot! I’m not about to buy a whole wardrobe of them because it’s cost prohibitive, but I might get one more for the rotation.

Athleta Salutation Capri The Salutation Capri is made out of a relatively new fabric for Athleta called Powervita. It feels less cottony than their “Chat” pants and thinner and softer than their “Stealth” pants, so it’s recommended for yoga, etc. I wore them for Pump class and cardio machines at the gym and they were glorious. I felt held in, but really comfortable at the same time. Perfect combination! At $69, they’re a nice mid range that won’t necessarily break the bank. Who doesn’t need a new pair of black leggings- go get them!

Adidas Image Tank Top

I love an old school Adidas tank top, and this one is the best! It’s comfortable and really cool at the same time. I think it strikes the perfect balance between “I take my workout seriously” and “my top was on sale for less than $25.” Plus, it’s heather grey so it fits right into my workout wardrobe.

What are your favorite workout clothes right now?

Foundation for Summer

SadieLeave a comment

And now for something real- we’re going to talk about some of the summer necessities for women who are fortunate enough to be well endowed. I think the summer poses some unique challenges because there are strappy or strapless outfits, a lot of active outdoor activities, and, of course, it’s swimsuit season.

Sadie Dishes- Foundation for Summer

First, we need a new strapless bra for that bridesmaid dress, or your strapless maxi. I recently got this one from Wacoal. It hits all my criteria for a strapless: 1. it stays up, 2. it’s simple and low profile, 3. it has a large range of sizes.

Sadie Dishes- Foundation for Summer

Bralettes seem to be all the rage right now. So that’s cute for the 17 year olds, but for the rest of us that need a little more support… I really like this front close unlined bra from VS. It’s really lightweight, it goes up to DDD, and it’s low profile for those days you don’t want the scaffolding and padding. Plus the straps can cross in the back, so you can wear it with halters or racerbacks.

Sadie Dishes- Foundation for Summer

This is a game changer for me. I typically have to layer two sports bras when I go for a run, and this is the only sports bra I’ve ever worn that I can wear by itself! It’s kind of a bitch to get into, but I like that it doesn’t have an underwire because those sports bras make me feel like I’m running in an uncomfortable push up bra. At $60, I’m not replacing all my sports bras just yet, but between this option, and another winner for mid-impact, I’m rethinking some life choices…

Sadie Dishes- Foundation for Summer

When it comes to swim suits, it’s all about the sizing and quality of the garment. Freya is one of my go-to brands because they usually put out a few cool options every year that are very true to their bra sizing. I also like VS and Becca suits for their styles and sizing.

What styles are working for you this year?