My Running Gear (plus recommendations from our testing team)
Like many of you, I have a closet full of pricey Tracksmith clothes. They’re great, but lately, I have eschewed wearing my matching sets and opted instead for some newer, less fancy clothes that have become my workout go-tos.
To that end, I wanted to share some of these recommendations as we get into the spring training season. I also tapped the expertise of some fellow runners who wear women’s apparel for their recommendations.
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The Bottom Half
Many runners, bikers, and yogis know about Baleaf, a Chinese manufacturer of sports apparel. I picked up a few pairs of pants and shorts last year to test them, and they are still going strong.
Men’s Pants
Men's Lightweight Quick Dry Tapered Jogger
These joggers were in constant rotation this winter. They are great for morning runs when the temperatures still have a little bite. I personally use an armband for my phone, but these pants have zippered pockets that provide plenty of secure storage.
Men’s Lightweight Quick Dry Tapered Pants
I also picked up a pair of athletic pants from Baleaf. Same technical fabric as the joggers, but with a tapered leg.
Women’s Leggings
Women's Quick Dry, Lightweight Joggers with Zipper Pockets
While I don’t run in women’s clothes very often, I do have some trusted running friends who do! They recommended the women’s version of the lightweight joggers as a great alternative to running in yoga pants. Bonus points for the zippered pockets.
Men’s Shorts
Men's 3” Quick Dry, Lightweight Running Shorts with Briefs
These shorts were my favorite last year. They are seriously light, making summer miles a little more bearable. They do get a bit wet if you’re a heavy sweater, but they get top marks in my book. If three inches isn’t your speed, they have a 5” option and 7” option as well.
Women’s Shorts
Women's High-Waisted, 3” Running Shorts 3" with Liner
Women's 5" Gym Running Shorts with Liner and Zipper Pockets
Two more great options here from Baleaf, according to my expert reviewers.
The Top Half
Men’s Tops
Men's Short Sleeve Running T-Shirt
Once again, recommending a solid, cheap shirt from Baleaf. I bought four pair last year, and they get the job done. If you like a loose fit, these are great.
Women’s Tops
Women's Long Sleeve, UPF 50+ Running Shirt
Women’s Sleeveless Running Shirt
RUNNING GIRL Sports Bra with Criss-Cross Back and Removable Cups
Our testers loved this afforadable alternative to lululemon’s sports bra.
For Your Ears
Some runners love pump up music. Others swear by complete silence. I prefer somewhere in between with audiobooks and podcasts.
My go-to is Libby for free library books through the D.C. Public Library. If there isn’t a book available that I am interested in listening to, I switch over to Spotify or Audible for a wider selection.
I currently use the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 headphones, and I love them. If you haven’t upgraded to bone conducting headphones, you will love it, and you will feel safer running with greater awareness of your surroundings.
Tracking Your Miles
I have used a number of smart watches over the years, most recently the Apple Watch Ultra. But I have switched back to running with my Garmin Forerunner 965, a lightweight, trusted companion that got me through multiple marathon and ultramarathon training blocks. The battery life is incredible for long runs.
If you’re looking for something a little cheaper, the Forerunner 265 is also a great option.
