https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Thu, 09 Apr 2026 23:03:11 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2283075 Mon, 26 Sep 2022 23:38:37 +0000 jill58 2283075@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Long time runner who hasn't posted for awhile. As other's have said, proper running shoes (frequently replaced) are absolutely the most important investment. I'm 64 and have been running since my mid thirties, 5-7 miles, most days of the week, with few injuries. I honestly attribute this, at least in part, to replacing my shoes ever 400-500 miles (no matter how new they look on the outside). Although I'm otherwise not a fan of synthetic fabric, I never wear cotton for running -- to prevent chafing and to avoid the look and feeling of soaked wet cotton. Some of my favorite running clothes have come from Target. I also quit smoking many years ago and found exercise to be a much better stress reliever. But I also agree with what's been said about investing slowly--see if you really like it before you buy much other than a pair of good running shoes. I've worn Asics, Saucony and Nike over the years. Congratulations! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282902 Sun, 25 Sep 2022 17:49:07 +0000 Jonesy 2282902@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yay for quitting smoking (but I am so sorry to hear about your leg injury!)! I quit in my mid-twenties (I had started when I was an early adolescent) and it's strange: Now I can't imagine ever doing it. And yay for running on a treadmill during the colder months! I have nothing to add re. gear, but it seems to me that running indoors gives you a great deal of flexibility in terms of gear, so you have tons of options, just depending on how hot you run (internal temperature, I mean), how modest you are, that sort of thing.</p> <p>When I use my treadmill, I wear a cropped tank top and bike shorts all year round, but mine is in my basement so I don't need to worry about feeling exposed or anything at a public gym :). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282839 Sun, 25 Sep 2022 11:58:26 +0000 LaPed 2282839@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Treadmill for winter is smart! If you do decide to venture out onto the icy streets at some point, start a thread on traction devices and I'll chime in. We have probably half a dozen different types of microspikes lying around our house. :D&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282807 Sun, 25 Sep 2022 01:56:36 +0000 Jaime 2282807@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Don't know anything about running, but do know about quitting smoking (I quit when I was trying to get pregnant with my now 20 year old son). Congratulations and good luck with the new goal! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282805 Sun, 25 Sep 2022 01:39:51 +0000 Sal 2282805@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well done Irina on your health achievements! So good!</p> <p>I think La Ped is right on the money with advice. I can’t offer any more!</p> <p>I do find my active wear/gear gets a hard time and wears well - and even after a few months of tracking I can see that running shoes get more than twice the wears of anything else - although only for 1-2 hrs not all day. I aim to get good brands on sale for tops - but rarely get a deal on shoes, socks etc </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282777 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 23:22:04 +0000 Irina 2282777@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Salt-sea, DonnaF, suntiger -</b>thank you! Getting a good pair of running shoes is a first on my list.&nbsp;<div><b>LaPed</b>, thank you for providing such a detailed explanation and advice. I especially appreciate you suggestions re rain jackets. I even ordered a few but they all felt too bulky. I’m a novice and don’t expect to be able to do more than light &nbsp;jogging/walking for about 30 minutes. I went to Patagonia store to look for jackets but got so confused. Maybe I should start from a cheaper option like Uniqlo.&nbsp;</div><div>Also, I don’t expect to run in the winter outside. I will have to overcome my fear of slippery roads for that. I slipped on ice in February and broke my leg in two places. I’m planning to use a treadmill in meanwhile.&nbsp;<br /><div><br /></div></div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282770 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 23:01:02 +0000 LaPed 2282770@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oooh, my kinda thread! Congrats on kicking the smoking habit, and on becoming a grandmother! :)</p> <p>In terms of building kit, I'd work from the bottom up, which means prioritizing shoes and socks. Try on lots of different running shoes in person, and buy from a place that offers guaranteed returns and a trial period so you can exchange them *after* running in them. Get some wool socks -- Smartwool, Darn Tough, Icebreaker, etc. They make such a difference in comfort!&nbsp;</p> <p>Pants/shorts is the next thing I'd upgrade. Since you're in a cold climate heading into fall, it probably makes more sense to stick with joggers and not worry about shorts. I really love these Athleta pants in Finds. Very lightweight, not form fitting but not sloppy, zip pockets, comfy waistband, room for a baselayer underneath when it gets cold. So good I ended up duplicating, and am tempted by the new olive color they have this year. For winter temps, you'll probably want some kind of Polartec tights, even if you wear joggers on top. My favorite pair of fleece tights is from -- you guessed it -- Athleta. :)&nbsp;</p> <p>I'm guessing you already have some beanies/toques and lightweight gloves that you could repurpose as winter jogging gear (think wool, fleece, polypropylene). But if not, you'll definitely want to add some if you'd like to keep up the habit as it gets colder.&nbsp;</p> <p>I don't think it's a big deal to wear a cotton tee for an around-the-block/park-run sort of scenario. I do it all the time when the weather's nice. Longer distances and trail runs are a different story. Because cotton stays damp, it can lead to chafing and blisters on a longer run. In the mountains, the phrase "cotton kills" is a common one, and refers to the higher likelihood of developing hypothermia when wearing moisture-retaining fabrics. But for quick jogs, I wouldn't worry about it. Once temps start to near freezing though, I'd absolutely recommend switching to synthetic or merino to keep your core warm.&nbsp;</p> <p>You mentioned rain jackets. The biggest thing to look for in an activewear rain jacket, IMO, is underarm vents or "pit zips". Having vents on the sides allows you to dump heat//moisture, essential because even the most breathable Gore-Tex isn't *that* breathable. You might also want to consider a lightweight windshell, like a Patagonia Houdini or Arcteryx Squamish (or Uniqlo UV Pocketable Parka for a solid budget alternative). They'll block light rain and offer a lot more breathability than a full-on rainshell.&nbsp;</p> <p>Hope that helps!&nbsp;</p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282767 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 22:54:28 +0000 Anonymous 2282767@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yay to quitting smoking!!!!!!<br /> I haven't been running lately, but here's my 2c. Running shoes- go to a specialty shop where they look at your gait on a treadmill. Hi visibility colors- definitely. Another vote for Athleta! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282759 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 20:49:19 +0000 DonnaF 2282759@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations on quitting smoking. I agree with starting with going to a running store to get advice on shoes. I overpronate so I have to buy the Brooks and Hoka styles that never ever go on sale. I always have two pair in my rotation so they can dry out more between wears. </p> <p>For socks I wear the thickest Thorlos because I need the padding. This means choosing the socks and then the shoe size. Brooks Addictions come in W and WW and my Hokas come in W.</p> <p>I avoid bodycon on my lower half. I wear nylon(?) hiking pants and basketball style shorts. Boys’ shorts fit me better than women’ because a boys 14-16 is closer to my height. Also, some hiking pants have zippers to convert them into shorts. I get mine at REI. </p> <p>For exercise gear, I am all about function and cheapness and not cuteness. I won’t buy colors I loathe, but if the bottoms have pockets and at least one that will fit my phone, I’m in. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282748 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 19:20:36 +0000 salt-sea 2282748@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>If you have an icebreaker store near by also check out the lightweight long sleeve tops - they are great to run in. They don’t get stinky, they wick sweat well and they are comfortable in a wide range of temperatures.<br /> If you have any foot/knee issues don’t hesitate to see a podiatrist right away - they can often suggest specific brands and models of running shoes, and specific PT exercises that can resolve things quickly. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282741 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 18:28:38 +0000 Irina 2282741@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh, wow, so much encouragement and great advices!<br />Thank you very much, ladies!<br />I’m seeing my surgeon on Monday to check on the recovery of my leg. I need to ask how much activities I can safely do. But I think fast walking/jogging is going be OK. The first thing I’m going to do is get a pair of proper running shoes. And a rain jacket. I will use info on this thread for the future gear purchases.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282706 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 15:32:01 +0000 kellygirl 2282706@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wow! Congratulations! I go through phases with running--some days I love it, others not so much :). My 2 cents is to get fitted with some good running shoes to start and don't skimp on stretching and mobility. As far as gear, I love Athleta Rainier tights in cooler weather--the rest of the time I wear shorts (with a zippered pocket for my key.) I don't run with head phones because I'm paranoid about creepers. Sleeved tops are generally performance fabrics (Athleta speed light or momentum) to avoid under arm chafe. Not picky about bras - the girls are small and I could probably run without one (but I don't.) Have fun!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282705 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 15:27:14 +0000 Carla 2282705@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>*rubs hands together*.&nbsp;</p> <div><br /></div><div>Congratulations Irina! &nbsp;Quitting smoking is a&nbsp;<i>huge&nbsp;</i>accomplishment, and deciding to pick up running is a great way to reward yourself. &nbsp;Like any new practice, having the right equipment can make it easier, but that said running can be an inexpensive habit to start. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Start with good shoes. &nbsp;They don’t have to be expensive top of the line, when you are starting out (couch to 5K) but they should be run specific footwear, and you should save them for when you are heading for the track and going out for a training session. &nbsp;That will ensure they last and &nbsp;also also signal the specialness of your commitment. &nbsp;Experiment with socks. &nbsp;Some folks like thick socks (me) and some like thin. &nbsp;You don’t need run specific socks. (I like Thorlo’s, but currently wear Under Armour from Sport Check.)</div><div><br /></div><div>You are going into winter, so staying warm and dry is important. &nbsp;You probably won’t even get particularly sweaty for anything under an hour on a track, but as you progress from fast walking through light jogging/running, you&nbsp;<i>will&nbsp;</i>get warm - so starting out a little cool is okay. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Though you&nbsp;<i>can&nbsp;</i>wear cotton (we all did back in the day) it doesn’t dry once it gets wet and can feel cold and even chafe your skin. &nbsp;A running outfit in our climate for the next 6 months would be: a long sleeved t-shirt, a light weight fleece, thick leggings or joggers (maybe even fleece lined) a lightweight tuque, and light weight pair of gloves or mitts. &nbsp;Later on a lightweight wind and rain/snow resistant shell with pit zips would be a nice addition. &nbsp;Since you may be tooing and frowing in the dark, a reflective vest is a good idea. &nbsp;(Running specific kit often comes with built in reflective bits - my tights and jackets all do.) </p> <p>Start slow and enjoy the project. Stay unplugged. &nbsp;Listen to your body and tune in to your surroundings. &nbsp;Enjoy the changing seasons. &nbsp;</p> </div><div><br /></div><div>For funsies visit a&nbsp;Running Room (Canadian by the way) and browse the merch to get an idea of the kind of kit that works for a good cross section of recreational runners, and for running doodads to put on your Christmas list! &nbsp;MEC (MountIn Equipment Co-op) has a surprisingly versatile cool weather collection of activewear. &nbsp;Winners is worth checking out. &nbsp;Sports Check &nbsp;for shoes and socks.</div><div><br /></div><div> </p> <p> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282704 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 15:22:04 +0000 Janet 2282704@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congrats on quitting smoking! My sister quit after 40 years and I’m soooo thankful. </p> <p>I don’t run much anymore but did a few half marathons and other events 7-12 years ago (a non-running-related surgery got me out of the habit and I turned to cycling and then hiking and other activities). I still work in a mile or so of running, mixed into my brisk walks, when the mood strikes. </p> <p>You’ve gotten some good advice already. I love Balega socks — they last forever. Brooks running shoes are my best, sized up a full size from my regular shoe size. I like Athleta and Lululemon for running pants and tights — yes, even though my legs are thick and I’m not proud of how my body looks in tight pants, they suit me best for running, as they make my legs feel compressed and supported. I also wear wicking technical tops from a wide assortment of brands, from Champion to Lulu. I’m not as picky about tops as bottoms. Zella pants are nice but cut too short for me, and a lot of running pants slide down my waist, which drives me nuts. Lulu and Athleta seem to stay in place well. </p> <p>I like to have a lightweight rain jacket as well as full-zip, closer-fitting jackets for layering as weather dictates. Again, those come from a variety of sources, even TJMaxx and Marshall’s can have some good ones.</p> <p>Good luck! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282700 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 15:12:11 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2282700@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I hear you on the materials question. I also generally far prefer cotton over poly. It does get wet, just as they say, but the cooling effect is only a problem once you stop in cool weather. This summer I picked up some workout tops at Target (not the ultra-fitted bra top kind, more like T-shirts, but kind of cropped) that are recycled poly. So far they are comfortable. I think there has been a real shift in the ways poly is made into fabric; the technical blends can work quite well for me. The trick is finding items made the right way, because plain old poly=plain old poly=gross (imo). I'm curious what you find once you experiment with a couple tech tops.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282694 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 14:40:32 +0000 cjh 2282694@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations on quitting smoking and starting up running. Keep it up and don’t worry about what you feel is the slow start, because that will keep you going for the long term, as well as avoid injuries and teach you how to come back from injuries.</p> <p>My clothing choices for running include basic good-support sports bra and quarter crew socks, Balega or Smartwool. The lower ones tend to slip down into my shoes unless they have that rounded back ankle part. The good brands last forever.<br />Warm-hot weather- traditional shorts with liner, such as Nike Tempo shorts, light wicking tank or short sleeve running shirt. Cotton ones&nbsp;aren’t good for me as they are bulky and hot.<br />Medium-cool weather- crop length tights, wicking short or long sleeve running shirt or 2 shirts, hi-vis nylon vest, or fleece or puffy if colder. Layer your shirts or vests as desired depending on weather, remembering that you will warm up fast. Zippers are good. Maybe a brimmed cap.<br />Chilly-windy-cold weather- long tights, long sleeve shirt layered with long sleeve heavier shirt, gloves, stocking cap.<br />Colder-too cold to be out weather- winter weight long tights, windbreaker hooded jacket. Layer on as you need according to wind chill factor, sun or clouds, length of run: warm up or wind pants, wool crew socks, light gloves under wind-proof gloves, earwarmer headband with your stocking cap, neck gaiter, puffy or soft shell jacket, hand warmer packets inside your gloves. I’ve found wearing bike shorts under long tights is good for windy days.</p> <p>I hope this is helpful. I’ve purchased running clothing from anywhere at many prices, Target, TJMaxx, local running stores, Sierra, Dick’s. Some pieces are 18 years old. Summer pieces tend to wear out faster or get pit stains. Don’t worry much about matching colors because at some point you’ll need enough layers that nothing matches that day anyway. Have fun. Wash in regular cool laundry and air dry to save the elastics.&nbsp;</p> <div><br />I started running at age 49, probably peaked at about 8 mile long runs ten years after that, and now at age almost 68, consistently run 4-5 miles three days a week. A little more walking than I used to do, and slower, but an hour plus outside in fresh air and daylight, working hard to sweat and get tired, is my salvation from often-looming despair. Added benefits, made new friends, enjoy wildlife including eagle sightings, lost 15 lbs. the first two years and have kept it off ever since. I’ve had about three colds in that whole time. Plantar fasciitis twice, intermittent IT band problems, and a hamstring injury which required PT but now I’m feeling better than ever.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Good luck and have fun and sorry for the long post.</p> <p>ETA I reread your post and you say you don’t want shorts or leggings,so not sure what else is out there? Sorry for diverting to my own preferences, but maybe someone will be interested. ?</div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282693 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 14:36:52 +0000 LJP 2282693@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Well, yeah, wicking poly tops are good to have, but I'd not worry about that until you really get into it and decide running is going to be your thing. &nbsp;You can get inexpensive athletic /gear &nbsp;tops at places like Winners though if you want to try one. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282684 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 14:27:41 +0000 kkards 2282684@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Not a runner myself but I know a lot of them, and have some experience via my job.<br /> As a beginner I’d worry less about the clothing and a lot about the footwear. If you haven’t already I’d find a really well respected running store that can do a gait analysis and get you fitted properly. They can also advice on socks, but personally I’d wear wool for the wicking properties.<br /> I’d also invest in a headlamp or clip light if your going to be out in the early morning or at night.<br /> Good luck and congratulations on quitting smoking </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282679 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 14:14:27 +0000 Irina 2282679@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks, Lisa!</p> <p>I like to repurpose my clothes and I wear some of my lounge wear cotton t-shirts for &nbsp;running. Some advice on running gear said to avoid cotton and wear technical fabrics. Is it right? It’s a big deal to me since I don’t usually wear polyester. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282673 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 13:48:51 +0000 LJP 2282673@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations for quitting smoking . That is a HUGE achievement and not easy to do . I used to be a dedicated runner until the osteoarthritis in my knee made it impossible . If it was raining or misty , a running rain jacket with hi vis trim was a must . I didn’t worry about rain pants. What I didn’t do though was run outside in the winter . Too risky in my environment . Brands ? Anything the Running Room sold , lol. ASICS for shoes. I have mixed feelings about listening to music while running . I needed to - because I couldn’t get a rhythm going if all I could hear was myself breathing - but it’s not exactly safe to not be able to hear what’s going on behind / around you . If it’s not one thing it’s something else eh ? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282670 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 13:41:35 +0000 Irina 2282670@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Stag</b>, thanks for the link!!<br /><b>salt-sea</b>, interesting about socks, thanks! I had to buy sport cotton socks, my short cut cotton socks slip when I walk/run. I’m going to look at Icebreaker clothes, I think we have store here.&nbsp;<br /><div>I run on a running track near my house.&nbsp;</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282665 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 13:25:41 +0000 salt-sea 2282665@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congrats on two huge choices for your health!<br /> Here are some things I find useful:<br /> Hi visibility tops - i run on roads without much of a shoulder, so much of the year I wear either a bright top or a high visibility windbreaker.<br /> I like thin wool socks - either micro cut or crew length. Icebreaker or Smartwool are what most of mine are.<br /> I’m partial to Athleta for leggings and pants - I like the Rainier leggings and joggers. In summer I run in shorts - Oiselle makes some nice running shorts in a variety of lengths.<br /> When it’s raining i usually wear a light rain jacket with a hood (a Marmot precip) a waterproof baseball hat and just my regular leggings. I don’t use rain pants to run in.<br /> If you listen to music, podcasts or audiobooks while you run I find apple AirPods to work the best for staying in your ear and being easy to use. Over the years I’ve used a running armband, and a running belt to hood my phone - I’m currently partial to using a running belt. </p> <p>Brooks makes amazingly good running bras. If you can find a running store in your area they will probably stock them. </p> <p>And in case it’s useful for planning or measuring running routes - this is a great site: <a href="https://onthegomap.com/#/create" rel="nofollow">https://onthegomap.com/#/create</a></p> <p>Enjoy! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282664 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 13:11:21 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2282664@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations on quitting smoking--that is huge!</p> <p>Exercising outside is a good idea, because the ambient light has benefits in addition to the obvious exercise benefits.&nbsp;I am not a runner--can't stand it, unless I'm chasing a ball--but in anything, you have to build up slowly, so I encourage you to keep at it and not give up. I've heard Couch to 5k is good.&nbsp;</p> <p>Some of the suggestions I got in this thread might be helpful to you:&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/good-outdoor-workout-clothes">https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....ut-clothes</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/clothes-for-running#post-2282661 Sat, 24 Sep 2022 12:37:31 +0000 Irina 2282661@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>To begin, here is a bit of a background: I always wanted to be a runner, I dislike gyms and thought of running as an alternative and much better option for me. I tried it years ago for a few weeks and enjoyed it. I could not keep up. Here is why - I used to smoke (vaping in the last 6 years) and was out of breath in under 2 minutes when running.&nbsp;<div>I quit smoking after a surgery on my leg in February. I wanted my broken bones to heal faster, another huge motivation for me was that I wanted to be a non-smoking grandma :)<br />It was not easy but I quit in one go and I didn’t smoke since February.&nbsp;</div><div>I can’t fully run yet but fast walking and slow jogging are possible at this stage of my recovery. And running is one of my rewards after a difficult period in my life.&nbsp;</div><div>So, what do I wear?<br />I know what I don’t - shorts and leggings. I bought two yoga joggers (Zella), reuse some old&nbsp;cotton t-shirts and sweatshirts. Also bought my first sports bra and terry cloth sweatpants.&nbsp;</div><div>I know I need a rain jacket for fall. And possibly, pants. What else?</div><div>Which brands you like?&nbsp;</div><div>Thanks for reading :)</div> </p>