Category: Shoes

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?

There’s Always Room for Shoes

SadieLeave a comment

Ok, now that we’ve established that it’s the season for an easy slim leg pant, let’s talk shoes. I go two directions. If I’m feeling ambitious, it’s a pointed toe 3-4 inch heel. If I’m feeling tired, it’s a cute loafer. Shoes are not a category where I like to spend a lot of money so my general strategy is to buy a few basic options under $100, wear them into the ground, and then replace them after a couple years. I usually have nude pumps and flats, black pumps and flats, and a couple statement shoes or alternative neutrals for fun. Here are a few that I have and few that are on my list right now.

Super Simple Loafer from JCrew Factory

I have these in the grey above and they also come in black on nude. They are a great neutral both in color and design and will go with almost any pant color out there. They are typically priced around $50 depending on the current sale, so the price is right. A bonus is that they’re really light and easy to throw in your work bag when you have to commute in snow boots!

Super Sleek Nine West Loafer
Sometimes I find loafers to be too chunky or unflattering, but these are the perfect finishing touch to an outfit for work. They’re from Nine West and the Nine West website is constantly having sales, so you’re not going to spend close to the $79 that they are full price.

Fun and Easy Nine West Pumps

How fun are these? I think these would be perfect for a really neutral outfit that needed a statement. I love that they’re a 3 inch heel which is very do-able. Again they are always on some kind of sale at Nine West. These are in the shopping cart…

Fabulous Gold Boden Loafers

I’m a little upset that I don’t own these, but I actually have 2-3 pairs of gold flats that are a couple years old and in too good shape to buy another pair. For women from New Jersey like myself, we have the added fashion advantage that metallics and leopard print are considered neutrals in our closet. I would wear these with anything. I haven’t shopped too much a Boden, but I did just get a dress on super sale from there that I love.

Basic Pointed Toe Sam Edelman Pump
My go-tos for basic pointed toe pumps are Sam Edelman, Vince Camuto, and Nine West. They all usually have a style like the one above that is basic but sleek. I require a pointed toe, because I find a rounded toe unflattering on me, and like I said earlier, a 3-4 inch heel. Too high and I’m not comfortable, too low and I think it just looks awkward.

My other secret to success with work shoes is that I never commute in them. This cuts down on wear and tear (escalators can really scuff up a new pair of shoes), and it makes it easy for me to move quickly through the metro stations. I have my Toms most of the year and then Uggs or snow boots when it’s cold and snowy out. I have no shame when I can run up an escalator next to the women struggling in heels.

What shoes are you loving right now?