What to Wear Running in the Rain

Never bring a wind breaker to a rain storm. Here's what I wore and why it didn't work.

Temperature: 45 degrees F (5 C)

Water marks

Humidity: 100%, raining hard
Wind: ~10mph
Terrain: Rolling hills
Distance: 4 miles

What I wore: Light-weight tights short-sleeve, wicking top; and a wind breaker.

Why: It was too warm for any of my "real" rain jackets but too cold to just wear a technical top. I thought the wind breaker would be the perfect balance.

I also needed a place to put my iPhone so I could track my miles.

Did it work? No. As the t-shirt photo shows, my upper half was soaked. So were my tights, but that's ok. In the rain and/or cold, what I really worry about is head, core and hands. Keeping these dry and/or warm are key to staying healthy and keeping muscles functioning.

Instead, my hat was water logged, the wind breaker broke the wind but not the water and my hands were freezing. Happily, my phone stayed dry thanks to being in my tight's pocket, under the jacket.

On the trail

What to Wear: Being too warm can be as bad as being too cold, so I don't recommend a rain jacket that doesn't breath or have vents. The best are pit-zips - zippered vents that run along your under arms to your torso.

Between 40 and 55 degrees, you'll want a light layer that keeps you dry for as long as possible. It may not be perfect, but it should give you time to warm up before letting the rain seep in.

Note: One of the things I like about this Puma jacket is the high, fitted collar. At least I didn't have rivulets of water running down my neck!

Enjoy your spring running. It's a beautiful time of year to be outside.

Convert a T-shirt into a tank

For various reasons, a lot of athletes don't like short sleeves. Long sleeves - great if it's cold or your muscles haven't warmed up yet. Sleeveless tank - great for freedom of movement and showing off your biceps. But the T-shirt? The sleeve lives in no man's land. It's nondescript, not flattering, not functional. Just gives you a farmer's tan and, in the worst case, makes your shoulders look extra broad.

Here's an easy tip (mostly for women) on how to turn a t-shirt into a tank without cutting off the sleeves and looking like a power lifter:

I saw this at the Under Armour store in Baltimore. It looked so cute (better than I've done here), that I actually asked where they were selling the little ties. Turns out (and here comes the tip for how to make your t-shirt a tank), they had cut up their own head bands and made them into ties. Because of the grippy rubber on one side, they stay tied, so your sleeves stay up. One headband makes about three ties.

Why do it: You might have a drawer full of athletic t-shirts that you don't wear because they just aren't good looking. Instead of shelling out another $20-40 for a new tank, go to the hair products section of your local drug store and buy one of those multipacks of fun-colored (or black, if that's more your style), skinny headbands. Go home, get crafty and get happy with your new gear!

Stay healthy.

Running gear: what to look for when trying on

Buying running gear should be easy but it varies in quality, cut and function so much that it's easy to be overwhelmed. Here's a couple of things to look for when shopping for running clothes.

On the rack/online:

• Function is key
• Shorts - Men: buy shorts with a liner so your junk doesn't jump around. Women: buy shorts with a liner so you don't have to wear your cute underthings and don't give a show while stretching
• Top - Everyone should have a quality wicking top. This is the one area where it's worth spending a little more. A lot of companies claim their shirts wick away sweat but many don't. I recommend Nike, Asics, Brooks, Under Armour and sometimes Road Runner Sports.



Champion sausage bra

• Sports bra - ladies, consider these two things: poke through and jiggle. A lightly padded sports bra will handle poke through. If you don't have much to poke, focus on compression. A tight fit will hold you in place and flatten your pokey parts. HOWEVER, too much compression and you'll be squishing out like a sausage. Check the flesh around your armpits to make sure you aren't oozing out (yep, that's as sexy as it sounds).
• Think big picture
• This is for the ladies. There are a lot of cute tops out there. Many of them have

  

  Cute but bad for layering

  interesting tank styles. This is great looking, until you put your sports bra underneath and most of it shows.If it doesn't have a built in bra, go for a slightly more traditional cut.

In the dressing room

• Comfort is king
• When trying on your gear, hold still for 30 seconds. Can you feel the clothes? Good gear should sit on your body, almost weightlessly. If it feels tight under the arms, it won't get better and may lead to chafing. If it's pinching off the circulation in your thighs, you'll have a hard time running. Don't look in the mirror, just FEEL.
• Now, swing your arms, try to touch your toes and squat. Again, feel the gear. Do the shorts ride up? Does the shirt twist or ride up? Are you already getting overheated as if you were wearing a polyester blanket? If it's not comfortable, you're not going to want to wear it.
• Take look
• Once you know how it feels, see if you like how it looks. Does seeing yourself all geared up make you wanna run? Do you feel faster already? Jump up and down - are you putting on a bouncy show? Hopefully the answers are yes, yes and no.

If the price is right and your gear meets the criteria above, buy! And then get out there and RUN!

Happy trails.

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.

Should I Wear My Race Shirt on Race Day?

When it comes to running, one size does not fit all. This is especially true about the free shirt you might get when you run a race. Here's some things to consider when debating if you should wear the race's shirt on race day:

• Quality - is the shirt a brand you trust? If not, don't wear it. The shirt might be great but you don't want to test it on "the big day."
• Temperature - some race swag is bought because it's cheap, not practical. Given a t-shirt for a winter run in Chicago? Handed long sleeves in Death Valley? Wear the right sleeve length for the race temps, not the race director.
• Distance - I might wear new shoes, socks or a shirt for a short run but will fall back on proven favorites for longer races. Think about how long you would be ok being uncomfortable and then decide if you want to try something new or broken in.
• Team spirit - are you running with or for a team? You might need to suck it up and wear the shirt. Or have a reliable friend give you the team shirt at the finish. That way, your finisher photos rep the team and you stay comfy.

Non-wicking, too-big race shirt

You may be asking, what could possibly go wrong if I wear the race shirt for a little 5 or 10k?
Probably nothing major BUT, if the fabric doesn't breath, like this shirt I got in 2010, you may overheat and be slower than you like. If the seams under your arms are too tight, the fabric too bunchy or the shirt poorly crafted, you may take home some chafing along with your medal.

No matter what you wear, enjoy the race and pray for good swag!

Happy running!

What to Wear Running: Puma Faas & Puma Running Gear

About three years ago, Puma Running sent me some gear. I'd never run in Puma before, so I was interested to see how it compared to my old standbys. I was looking for a few things, including comfort and durability, which is why I'm doing another blog post now, years later.

Nike top from circa 1999

When it comes to gear, I've always loved Nike. Their stuff just lasts! I've had this red top since 1999. Seriously, kids running in my last 5k are younger than this shirt! But, it still looks good, wicks sweat and lets my skin breath. I knew Puma looked fresh and was interested to see if it stayed that way (I had heard rumors that it falls apart).

Three years later, I still LOVE this blue tank. It looks great on - I get compliments

Puma top 2010

when I wear it. The two layers of silky fabric are comfortable up to 80 degrees. The built-in sports bra has silver threads that haven't popped and (hopefully) help prevent stinkiness. The pleats around the neckline hide "poke through" when I'm chilly. And, the sports bra is strong enough for serious runs if you're an A or B cup. Most importantly, as I shift from being a runner to a multitasker, this top has successfully come along for rowing, yoga and cycling adventures.

Puma's running shorts are also holding up really well. The

Purple Puma shorts, another fave top

pockets still zip, the elastic is strong, the lining is hole-free and the style is classic. I have them in purple and black. Current color trends mean the purple ones look modern even though they're a few years old.

For shoes, I became a runner in Saucony back when they were touting stability. Brooks and Asics were my brands when I became a marathoner and wanted something a little fleeter. Now, Brooks Cadence and Saucony Kinvara time share my runs along with the Puma Faas 500.

The first shoes Puma sent weren't a good fit. The 8 was too big and the 7.5 too small so I donated them to charity and gave up on getting to test the brand. Lucky for me, Puma didn't give up and sent me a second pair a year later (about two years ago) - the Faas 500. They sent my friend the Faas 300 to test and photograph. The sizes were right, so we got down to running.

I still love the Faas 500 after two years, uncounted miles of  running, a few trail hikes and South by

Faas 500 Photo copyright: Dana Underwood

Southwest - I was wearing them when I met Jimmy Fallon (it was a Nike event but I still rocked them). What I like: The color is hot. The weight and minimal materials are cool. They hold on gently, so my natural mid-foot strike can flow.  Unlike my Kinvara's, the nylon hasn't split and, unlike the Cadence, they never made my feet cramp. Detractors: As a mid-foot striker, I wouldn't mind if the heel was less built up. That would be a great way to drop weight without losing structure. Also, when I corner, the loose hold of the shoe means it slips a bit around the toe box, so I have less control.


According to my friend, the Faas 300 are really only good for road running. They need to be laced tightly because otherwise they slip if you pronate. If you're looking for a racing slipper, and not something that you can also trail or city walk in, these might be good for you.

Puma Faas 300

Thanks again to Puma for the chance to test. Happy running!

What to Wear Running: Leg Sleeve

Issue: mild achilles burning up into calf on left side only
Attempted solutions:

1. Not running - calf muscle/achilles still felt hot after 6 months so I returned to running

   

   CEP leg sleeve

   
   

2. Changed stride - shifted from heel striker to landing on the outside mid-foot then rolling onto the ball. This helped all my other aches (knees, hips) and prevented achilles from getting really twingy but calf was still pesky
3. New shoes - Saucony Kinvara helped me maintain my new stride. Calf still hot
4. CEP leg sleeve - honestly, I can't tell if it's actually doing anything but I like it because it makes me think that everything is being held together and, therefore, won't fall apart. It also is a gentle reminder to keep my stride easy, paying casual attention to my delicate tendons.

Recommend? Not in general. If you've got an issue, why not, but if you're just on a gear buying spree, I'd skip the sleeve and buy better socks (Nike or Asics will love your feet like nothing else).

What to Wear Running: 45 degrees and comfortable

Temp: 45 degrees and sunny
Humidity: 50% (moderate)
Wind: Mild
Distance: 3 miles
Terrain: Flat to Rolling hills

What I Wore to Run: Shorts! T-shirt! Singlet tank underneath and a hat.

Did It Work: Yes. It's definitely shorts season again, if you are comfortable showing your legs. Want

Brooks shorts, Nike tank & T

to enjoy your run? Show a little skin! Pump those bare arms and legs and let the sunshine remind you that winter is over. By the end of my run, it was 50 degrees - spring, such a fickle creature! - so it was nice to have a layer to shed if I would have done a longer run.

Note: It's tempting to overdress in the spring (and maybe underdress in the fall?) because we're sick and tired of being cold after the freezing winter. Resist the temptation and only baby your "cold spots" - those places that refuse to warm up until after Memorial Day (mine are my ears).

Also, make sure that, if you're wearing layers, the bottom layer must wick. Having all your heat and moisture sit on your skin is bad aesthetically and functionally.

Personal note: I think this is one of the best times of year for running - not too hot, not too cold! Good for your muscles, good for the soul!

Happy running.

Yoga + Running = Perfect day

The older and achier I get, the more it takes for me to maintain a running practice. For example, I actually stretch (sometimes) now. There's also a mental component to staying in active; I find inspiring places and run them. This place in Pacifica, Calif., provided both inspiration and some cool places to do yoga. Thanks to my Brooks shoes for handling the terrain, Icebreaker top for keeping me warm in the sea breezes and Under Armour tights for being tough enough to handle to rough surfaces.

Small tip: when combining yoga and running, start with a bit of running or a hike. There's a risk of injury if you stretch before warming up.

Running Gear Blog: What to Wear Running

What to Wear Running in 70 degrees: shorts, wicking t or tank, and low-rise socks that don't curl up into your shoes when you run.

Why? 70 is pretty warm - anything over 65 is going to increase your heart rate and slow you down. The best way to stay cool: expose your skin. The body's largest organ, skin is an amazing cooling system involving evaporation and ventilation. So, expose as much as you feel comfortable for maximum cooling. Just remember, wear sun block.

Today's featured brand: Puma. After a year, I still love these running shoes. The Faas 500 are a little more supportive than I need but they're holding up really well (one of the myths I'd heard about Pumas is that they fall apart quickly), look great and are comfortable. The only negative: the tongue sometimes slides down into the shoe when I'm running, which can create pressure on the top of my arch.

What to Wear Running: Running with a Dog

Temp: 25 degrees F
Wind: 5 mph
Humidity/Precip: Moderate/Snowing
Terrain: Flat
Distance: .9 miles

Thanks petinfoonline.com

What I Wore: A dog! Who cares what I wore, I got to run with a dog. And not just any dog: a Siberian Husky on a snowy day in Idaho. It was like the Iditarod only much shorter, way fewer animals and on pavement.

Seriously, in all my years of running, I've never gotten to run with a dog that just wanted to run. I've always wanted to but, growing up, we had a West Highland terrier. This is the white version of a Scotty - short legs and very bossy, so when you run, they either try to stop or herd you.

Later, my mom got a Corgi. He was also a bossy herding dog and his legs were so short he made the Westie look tall. My mother is short and a long-distance walker, so these sturdy little dogs make sense for her. But I'm tallish and (was) a runner.

Anyway, I was in Idaho and a friend had this sweet Siberian Husky, Spirit. I had some time after taking my grandma to lunch so I volunteered to take Spirit for a walk. I promise, to all who know I've given up running, I did not intend to run. After all, I was wearing Vans, Levi's, a down parka and this hat:

Me, Grandma Rae and The Monster Hat

When we got outside, the snow was falling, the dog harness was jingling and a big voice in my head said, "Let's run!" So we did. Spirit was all that I have dreamed of when I think of running with a full-sized dog. He stayed close, but didn't bump me. He kept pace, never pulling or lagging. He didn't stop to pee every 20 feet. He never pooped. We just trotted along. Me, grinning like a mad person, wearing The Monster Hat that my grandma gave me for Christmas. It was, in a word, brilliant.

Today, my calves are tight. I don't think Vans are made for running.  It was worth it. Thanks to Spirit, I have a new, wonderful running memory.

Ending a Relationship; breaking up with running

(Note, this post may be best enjoyed by playing The Manhattans in the background.)
I have been in a relationship with running for more than 15 years. Despite recently breaking it off, I can't help give one last, furtive, look back.

With Darren. I'm 2nd from left.

I started dating running when I was finishing college. It was casual - we barely were making it to 1st base (take that how you will). Things got a hot and heavy the summer of '95, when I added more miles and developed a regular training plan.
In 1996, running and I took things to the next level. I ran my first marathon and basked in the glow of love requited. In 1998, we affirmed our commitment with a second marathon.

After Chicago marathon '98

I kept spending time with running after I tore my knee skiing, the winter of 99/00. It was wrong. I wasn't ready but it made me happy.
Running was there for me when I moved to England and would have gained 15 pounds from eating cookies (they were in every meeting!). And, it was there for me when I got divorced, initially serving as a shoulder to cry and then, temporarily, becoming a crutch I relied on (which led to my 3rd and final marathon in 2007).

Post NYC 2007

My love for running knows no limits. When I can't do it, I dream about it and sigh with longing when I see people running on the street. No matter how much it has hurt me, I keep going back to it because so much about it is wonderful and pure and makes me feel good about myself.
Running doesn't mind if I try other sports. "Go ahead, cycle!" running laughs. "It won't make your heart race like I do." About yoga, running snorts at the lack of commitment. "You're not going anywhere," running comments. "Standing on a mat is not what I would call 'taking the next step.'" It's right, of course.

Me & Nathan. Baltimore

Running is willing to share me with other loves. My boyfriend and I ran together in New Zealand. My brother and I ran/walked a half marathon together in Baltimore. And I happily share running with everyone - I invite others to get to know running and even blog about what to wear to ensure the relationship grows.
But it's over. A year ago I told myself I had to stop. At first I said I would quit stepping out with running by my birthday but quickly I pushed back our break-up date to the end of the year. I thought about going out big - maybe one last marathon or even an Ultra. But running reminded me of why it had to go by hurting me again and again. First Achilles tendonitis, then issues with my piriformis muscle and, always, the aching knees. So, I let it slip away. We didn't go out with a bang or acrimony. We spent some quality time together over the winter break and then, on new year's eve, I laced up my shoes one last time and, as I wrapped up that last mile, said to myself and running, "Let's just kiss and say goodbye."
I'm gonna miss you.

What to Wear Running in Vancouver

Conditions: Cool (below 60F/15C) and damp (usually)
Terrain: Rolling hills
Distance: Up to you

By special request, a post about running in the beautiful city of Vancouver, Canada. Why? Because it's damp, so it seems colder. And, because it isn't always flat, there's lots of opportunity to warm up. Plus, it really is pretty, so if you visit, go for a run during the day.

Nike gloves, singlet and capris

Three Hs: The key for me in damp, cool places is Heart, Hands, Head. I talked about the 3 Hs in an earlier post, but here's a quick refresher. You'll feel more comfortable if you:

• Prevent heat from escaping through your head
• Protect your most important muscle - the heart
• Pamper your extremities (your feet are probably in shoes, so this means gloves)

What to Wear: Basics for 50F/9C and below: a hat, singlet or T (wicking, of course), and gloves. Layer on a long-sleeve top that you can shed when you warm up. Shorts, capris or light-weight tights are usually fine in Vancouver. It's a rare day when you want something heavier like lined tights.
If it's above 50/9, I would still bring the layers but leave the gloves at home.

Men's running jacket by Puma

Most important, whether you live there or are planning a visit, is a brimmed hat and light-weight breathable shell. You never know when it might rain and these will keep the damp off your skin, which is crucial to keeping your body temperature up (which keeps muscles loose, which helps prevent injury. You get the gist!).

Happy running and send us a comment postcard!

What to Wear Running: What Not to Wear Running

Situation: Running in the dark

What Not to Wear: Black. Even if it has reflective elements. Those little silver strips will only prevent walkers from crashing into you. And only if they are wearing a headlamp that makes those elements reflect. Car drivers, bicyclists and even other runners will not see you. So, unless you're a running ninja...

The Fix: If all your gear is black and you refuse to buy anything lighter, then at least buy and wear something that lights up. Reflective strips (to which I'm pointing in photo) do NOT count. You can barely see them in the picture and I'm only 3 feet from the camera.
My two favorite items:

• Marmut headlamp - bright light lets me see the path, avoiding cracks and twisted ankles, and be seen. Comfortable enough for mid-distance runs, but I prefer to wear a beanie under it for long-distance comfort.
• Amphipod arm band - multiple LEDs can be seen from at least 30 feet and it fits snug around my arm thanks to Velcro. I like to wear it wrapped around the arm that is facing street side for maximum visibility.

 Be safe and happy running!

What to Wear Running in Humidity

Temp: 70 and above
Humidity: 70 and above
Distance: Anything longer than what it takes you to warm up

What to Wear

Post run, I'm glowing with sweat

- Lined running shorts made of a quick-dry fabric. Why? Nothing is going to truly make you cool when it's really humid. Good shorts will feel lighter (ie cooler) and will stay a little drier so they won't chafe or cling to your body. The lining is key because cotton underwear can turn a good pair of shorts into a hot, wet mess.
- You have two options on top. Either no shirt (ladies, this means just a sports bra) or a light-weight, loose singlet or tank.  I recommend keeping your shirt on if you're going to walk/run; if you want protection from the sun; or if the temperature is closer to 70 and it's the end of the day (short days can mean cold on the way home).
- Sweat bands. I like having something to wipe my brow and nose on. If I'm not wearing a shirt, I sport wrist sweat bands. When it's really hot, the terry cloth ones get pretty gross, so look for something wicking like Lululemon's.
- I generally skip sunglasses when it's humid because I want to be able to wipe the sweat out of my eyes with minimal effort. This means I wear a hat. It's protection from the sun and will soak up some of the forehead moisture.

Most important, bring water or know the location of your water fountains. It's easy to get dehydrated in these conditions.

Lastly, be easy on yourself. For every five degrees above 65, you can expect your pace to drop by 30 seconds. Don't worry, autumn is around the corner and your humid weather training will pay off at the Turkey Trot.

Happy running!

Walk, Don't Run

It's almost 2012. It might not seem like it if you just started something new, like the school year, but I'm about to end something big and for me, as the street doomsday men like to say, "The end is nigh."
On January 1, 2012, I will no longer be a runner. I'm giving it up for the sake of still being able to walk, bike, play tennis (gently) and do yoga 10 or 15 years from now. Maybe cord blood stem cells will return the knees and ankles of my teens to me one day, but for now, I'm preparing for the worst.
And for all who know me, yes I have wondered what I'll do with my blog; what will I do to stay fit; how will I work out my inner demons and excess energy. And yes, I am worried I'll gain a lot of weight.
As I go through the 7 stages of mourning (I'm a preemptive mourner - when I was a kid, I would cry for hours about my grandparents death even though they all were very alive in Colorado), I keep getting sucked into bargaining. I think, maybe I'll just ease up, only run once a week, only run a mile or two, only run slowly. A friend who is a physical therapist offered to look at my stride. I'm taking her up on it because hope is another stage. Maybe she'll see something I can change that will allow me to continue...
The reality is, in fewer than 4 months, while I may still sometimes run, I will no longer be a runner and, despite getting a jump on the mourning, I'm still going to be shocked.

And now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go lay out my gear for tomorrow's run. 

What to Wear Running: Lululemon

I didn't think I would, but I loved running in my new Lululemon "Let It Loose" tank with built in sports bra.

I bought the tank because I thought it was cute and sporty and would "sexy up" my normal hiking outfit. The hikes proved that the sports bra was tough and I thought, why not, let's take this puppy for a run.

If you follow me on Twitter (@whattoweartorun), you may remember that I recently made fun of a woman who was out for a run wearing a strapless tube top. It was cute, but it wasn't, if you know what I mean. She was bouncing all over the place and, as she ran toward me, she kept having to pull the thing up.

That's kind of how I felt as I headed out the door. The skinny shoulder straps and loose fabric (the folks in the naming department were spot on with this one) left me feeling uncovered and unsupported. But, that was just a feeling. The reality was that I was locked down where it mattered and enjoying breathable fabric and the wind on my skin where it didn't. The only thing that I didn't love was the fact that, as you can see in the photo, it shows when you use it as a hanky. Most wick-away tops hide the sweat/runny nose better. Other than that, excellent!

Overall letter grade: A-

External tank scoops under sports bra, creating venting

Who Is It Good For: Women with an A or B cup size who hike, bike, and run; and women who are apple shaped (the loose cut would be flattering)
Who Isn't It Good For: Women with a cup size C or above - I don't think the skinny straps would cut it; and women who are looking for a casual-wear tank - the tight straps make it uncomfortable to wear for more than a couple of hours.
Needs Clarification: The tag says this top is good for yoga but I'm not sure where all that looseness would go while upside down. Will the slightly fitted waist prevent it from sliding all the way down and smothering me while I'm in headstand? I'm also not sure if the tank is going to be for sale much longer. I wanted to include a link to lulu's website for interested buyers, but it wasn't there.

What Socks to Wear Running

I have a new favorite sock for running: Asics Hera low cut.

There is nothing about them that I dislike and lots to love:

• Low cut but with just a little extra in the front and back to help keep them from slipping into the shoe.
• Wide, firm but not painful arch support.
• Actually shaped like a human foot - flat on the bottom, instead of flat when sideways.
• Left/right specific.
• Nice cushion under the ball and heel but not excessive.
• Green (sort of) because they're PVC free.

Actually, they do have a downside - they are crazy expensive. One pair was $10 at my local running store, A Runner's Mind. If anyone knows of a place that sells them in bulk for cheap, let me know!

Happy running!

What to Wear Running: 75 degrees

Temp: 75 degrees, sunny
Humidity/Precip.: Moderate
Wind: 15 mph
Terrain: Rolling hills
Distance: 4 miles

What I Wore: Hat, Road Runner Sports singlet, Nike shorts and waterproof sunblock.

Did It Work: Yes, but barely. 75 degrees with sun can feel very warm, even with a breeze and moderate humidity, so minimal clothes, plus sunblock, was good. As summer continues to heat up, be sure to look for tops that wick sweat well and are breathable. This RRS singlet isn't my favorite for wicking and it has a big pocket in the back (think bike shirt) - putting extra layers over my lower back.

What Would Make It Better: I love small pockets built into running gear, particularly if they're built into the hem or side seams. The RRS singlet's pocket is big enough to hold two tennis balls. I don't know why, but when I'm running - versus playing tennis - I wish it weren't so.

What to Wear Running: Puma Running Jacket for Women

If you aren't thinking about Puma when looking for new running gear, you're overlooking some good stuff. The shorts I've owned for a couple years are holding up and the new running jacket that Puma sent me to try out is nice! Below is my review:

Light-Weight Windproof Running Jacket

Pros:

• Outside pockets on both sides. No zipper, but snug enough to hold keys and big enough for my hands.
• Venting so the inside doesn’t get too steamy (see hand poking through in photo - vents are invisible unless you do this...and why would you?!).
• Very wind resistant, making a cold wind on a 40 degree day no issue.
• Zipper guard at the neck, so no chafing.
• Good length for long and short torsos.
• Elastic at cuffs and hem isn't too tight.
• Black (yeah!) with subtle dashes of color make it casually match this season’s top and shoes.
• Reflective elements at the wrists and in the front and back.

Con:

Arrows: neck guard & cord holder

The earbud-cord holder. It’s location makes no sense – along the collar seam, over the left shoulder. This means that the cord for your right ear has to reach across your neck in an annoying way, especially if you aren't zipped all the way up. It also demands that you leave the cord from your iPod dangling on the outside of the jacket, rather than threading it underneath. Anyone who has snagged an arm on their iPod cord, ripping their earbuds from their ears, knows that a loose cord is a big hassle.

That’s a long gripe for a small issue, but the devil is in the details, especially when it comes to gear.

In sum, yes, this is my new go-to jacket when it’s windy. I give it an A-. Thanks, Puma!