Monday, June 10, 2013

Nike top best for yoga?

A gift from a friend means I have more new top in the gear test kitchen this month: Nike two-tone T with cutouts. Today I wore it rowing. It's a bit snug under the arms, so more testing is needed to see if it is irritating for sports involving repetitive arm movement (running, rowing...boxing?). 

I'm thinking it might be perfect for yoga. I did a long headstand and, because it is fitted, the top stayed up while I was down.

It is cute, with the keyhole cutouts over the shoulders and down the back. But, in gear as in people: cute isn't everything.

Friday, June 7, 2013

What to Wear Running: 80 Degree Run in Under Armour for Women

Temp: 80 degrees F/25 degrees C
Humidity: Moderate (55%)
Wind: 10-15 mph
Terrain: Rolling hills
Distance: 3 miles

What I Wore: Under Armour's Fly By mesh tank and knit short. Champion compression sports bra.


Did It Work: As much as possible, yes. I don't handle heat very well. When the mercury hits 75, I'm a hot mess. HOWEVER, this UA gear worked well. The tank didn't bunch or chafe. The mesh wasn't cheesy and see-through. Instead it was breathable and a good weight. The design creates a gather in between the upper shoulder blades so it's less restrictive and more modern. The one thing I would change: make it two inches shorter. But that's just because I have a short torso.

I REALLY like the shorts, with two considerations for anyone going shopping. Here's what's good: modern fit with no excess fabric; wide, comfy waistband; pocket built into liner; close-fitting liner or some nice soft material; VERY good looking, classic design.
Considerations: tiny inseam (~2 inches); lack of inseam can make it feel like it is riding up between the thighs (I don't think it actually was). When buying, be sure to try them on. The shorts are so fitted, you can get VPL (visible panty line) from the built-in liner on the hips or lower bum area.

And the shoes? I'm still testing Under Armour's Micro G shoes. They did well today. I modified my stride a bit and didn't have any ankle pain. Note to self: tighten those laces! These shoes will slip from side to side if not laced tightly.

Thank you to Under Armour for letting me try out this gear.

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Under Armour Running Shoes: Charge RC 2

Under Armour's Charge RC 2 shoe just arrived in my little test kitchen. Love the color. Silver should be the new black when it comes to training footwear.

Aside from how they look, the one thing I can comment on is the sizing. The reviews on Under Armour's site said they run big. I normally wear a 7.5 street shoe and a size 8 running shoe. Based on the reviews, I got the 7.5 and there is plenty of room at the end of the toe. I have moderately wide feet and a high arch. So far, the smaller size isn't pinching. We'll see how they feel after tonight's workout.

Thanks for the opportunity to try these out, UA!

Monday, June 3, 2013

Under Armour Running Shoes: Micro G Toxic Six

What I'm Test Running: Under Armour's Micro G Toxic Six running shoe


Why:
  1. It deserves to be called Micro. Lightweight and low profile at 5.5 oz. 
  2. The laces are offset to reduce pressure on top of the foot (I have such high arches, I usually can't wear Nike). 
  3. A friend who is sponsored by Under Armour offered (full disclosure!).

So far I've worn them for a 3 miler on pavement and 1.5 miles on the treadmill. The fit is good and I like the sock liner more than I thought would. Sadly, my achilles is acting up. Not sure if it's the shoe - there is almost no padding under the ball of the foot - or me, so I'm giving myself a little break. More after I've logged a few more runs.