Spring/Summer running gear

[runningwild]

Hi everyone,

I've never been one to exercise in the heat, so have never run outside in the late Spring and Summer months.  But I plan to tackle that challenge this year!  There are a few things I'm looking for some advice on. 

I don't particularly like the ?tight? shorts, or the short shorts, and am looking for something longer and less curve hugging.  I have a pair of capris, but in the really hot weather, is there a longer short out there that might work?

What kind of sunscreen should I use?  Is it as simple as Coppertone Sport, or is there  an alternative for runners that doesn't leave that yucky, heavy, greasy feeling?

Is a hat and sunglasses necessary, or just a luxury?

Any other tips would be much appreciated!

Cheers,
  Stephanie

[April]

Hi Stephanie,

I too, did not like or ever think I would wear tight shorts but I found a pair that I am comfortable in. Find a pair that makes you comfortable. Spend some time trying on different styles, like me, you may be surprised at how comfortable they are. I always wear hat, winter or summer. It not only keeps my hair out of my eyes but stops the sweat from dripping in them too. Some hate hats. I don't wear sunglasses but I've heard a comment about having a "light" pair because of bruising on the bridge of the nose. I'm lazy at wearing sunscreen but choosing one that doesn't sting if it gets in your eyes is a safe bet. Like your shoes, nutrition and hydration, it is all trial and error. Use your training runs to test everything. It's all personal preference.


Good Luck
April

[Kate]

Hi Stephanie

Ask Sandy ... I absolutely was DREADING the thought of running in the heat and humidity at the start of last summer.  One of the best things I found was to run as early as you are comfortable running in the morning or as late as you are comfortable running at night.  Definitely avoid the middle of the day!

I was never a water (or anything) drinker when running, but am now a true Tri and Run customer and run with water.  Anything over 10K, I add electrolyte tabs to the water all through the year.  And in the warmer weather, I take salt tabs.  And I am just learning about "fueling" when I run and taking things like (Gu Chomps) to keep my energy level up on longer distances.  All things, I am sure, that someone more knowledgeable than me can educate you properly about.

As far as short shorts or tight shorts ... I am not a huge fan of short shorts.  I personally like one Nike style short that fits fairly loosely and has built in (underwear?) in it.  I also have one pair of shorts that has (what I call a tight fitting) compression short that is a little longer built into a looser short that sits overtop.  I wear them when the weather isn't quite so hot but too hot for capris or long pants.  I know people that will wear a separate pair of longer compression shorts under a shorter pair of looser fitting shorts.

I don't wear sunglasses or sunscreen, but I DO wear a cap with a brim to help shield some of the sun off my face.

Hope this helps you!

Kate

[raceluvr]

I do not like short shorts or tight shorts, for the same reason many women don't...I don't have a tiny, little butt that looks good in spandex or short shorts.  My saving grace has been running skirts, or skorts, ESP. the TRICKS brand.  They are great for hiding dimply areas on the thighs, they are not too short, and they are make you feel like a girl!

And they're cute!

[Glo]

Is the TRICKS brand available at Tri & Run?   Interested in looking at them.  Most running skirts that I've seen are pretty short, but the shorts themselves are too short for my bigger inner thighs.  I need something a bit longer for me to feel comfortable.

Gloria

[Sandy]

Yes they are Gloria.  We have a variety in stock with more to come! 

[Glo]

Thanks Sandy.  I hope I can find something I feel comfortable in, will be a nice change from shorts with spandex under them, and hopefully more colourful than basic black.
I'll be in before the warm weather is upon us (again).

Gloria