Tag: Workout Clothes

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?

Winter Running Apparel

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Even though it’s been unseasonably warm in the DC area the past few weeks, I’ve been getting ready for the colder weather workouts. Recently some of my friends have mentioned that they hang up their running shoes in the winter. I think, however, if you dress appropriately (and don’t live in Buffalo), you can run almost year ’round. I actually love running in cold weather because I find if I can’t feel my hips and thighs, I can’t feel any pain. It’s a workout and an ice bath all in one! As long as the sidewalks or paths are relatively clear of snow and ice, and the temperature is at least in the high 20s, I’m game!

For workout clothes in general I tend to wear a lot of Under Armour, Nike, and Athleta, but when it comes to running, I’m usually pretty loyal to Nike. I don’t have a very good reason, except everything stays put (a tall order for my inefficient form!) and is more comfortable and durable than any other brand.

Pants

EpicLuxCrops

I’m a fan of Nike running crops in general but their Epic Lux line of shorts, capris, crops, and pants is really awesome. After a lot of trial and error, I’ve realized there are two small details I can’t live without: 1. a drawstring to prevent the pants from falling down, and 2. a pocket for my keys. Those two details along with pants that just stay up in general make me a happy camper. You would be surprised how elusive that can be! Epic Lux items can be pricey, but if you keep your eyes on sales, you should be able to get a discount.

Long Sleeve Outer Layer

Nikequarterzip

The quarter zip is a classic option for the outside layer. They usually vary in weight, so you want to pick a lighter weight for the fall and spring and a thicker one for the depths of winter. It can operate by itself in cold weather and be layered with an undershirt in even colder weather. I like this option from Nike because it’s sleek and functional. Most brands also have a basic quarter (or half) zip that start at about $50 and go up from there: Nike, Under Armour, Athleta.

Long Sleeve Base Layer

NikeBaseLayer

If it’s really chilly you’re going to want a long sleeve undershirt under your quarter zip or jacket. This shirt is as basic as it gets, and it’s the perfect weight for a base layer. The $28 price tag makes it easy too. If you want a low profile layering tank, check this out.

Vest

AthletaVest

I’m breaking from Nike for this one, because I like this vest from Athleta. I personally do not find many occasions for a vest, but if I did, I think I would wear this one. It looks warm, but not too puffy which makes it easier to move.

Gloves

NikeGloves

I actually do not ever wear a hat in cold weather because I find it annoying, and if I’m not working out, it’s also because I always prioritize my hair. That said, I CANNOT live without gloves for a winter run. These from Nike are a good mid-weight, and are surprisingly more affordable than several other options in the running glove market place at $25. They also have tech friendly finger pads making it easy to deal with all of your running technology.

Look Good, Feel Good, Run Fast! Now you have no excuse!

PS- While we’re on the athletic apparel topic, I need these, right?

NewBalanceSneaks

Suns Out Guns Out

SadieLeave a comment

Even though I hit the gym year-round, there’s something about the spring that makes me think, it’s time for a gym wardrobe refresh! Here are a couple things I’ve grabbed over the last couple months and a couple things I have my eye on.

Gym Shoes:

NewBalancesneaks

I got these a couple months ago and I love them! They are super cute, comfortable, supportive, but very lightweight. Basically the best of all worlds. I was dabbling with Nike shoes for a while, but now I’m happy to be back with New Balance! (and they’re on sale right now at Athleta!)

UA Tank:

UAtank

Even though I’m not usually a logo girl, I love a placement print, and if there’s anywhere I will wear a logo, it’s definitely the gym. This top is easy breezy cotton. It’s perfect for those days when you’re not looking for a super skimpy, skin tight top (which is most days for me).

Coordinating Cropped “Joggers”:

UAjoggers

Again with the placement print. These aren’t necessary for my workouts, but it’s the perfect lounge solution. Comfortable, easy to wear, but not oversized and ratty like those college sweats. (I have them in grey)

Carrie Underwood Seamless Capris:

CUcapris

Have you seen Carrie’s new line of workout gear at Dicks Sporting Goods? There are some really cute things! Also, I did some comparison shopping and while her prices are not necessarily bargain basement, they are consistently lower than the big names in fitness apparel, and the quality seems very comparable. It seems like everyone sells a seamless capri these days, but these have some serious shaping properties (almost to the point of muffin top, so be careful about sizing). They are very comfortable!

On my wish list:

Nike Epic Run Shorts:

Epic

During the warmer months I like to run outside in 5 inch Nike Pro shorts. The only downside is that they’re very basic so they lack a couple features like a zip pocket for keys. These Epic Run Lux shorts are pricier than my typical shorts, but they’re designed specifically for running and the zip pocket might be worth it!

Nike Gradient Top:

NIKE-GRADIENT-TANK-646634_518_A_PREM

I like that this top has some interest but isn’t too obnoxious, and these also have a zip pocket for keys! It takes some effort to find the right kind of sports bra, or capris that stay put, but tanks are easy so I always forget about them. This would be great for my weekly summer runs, or just the gym.