Favorite Spring Running Things
Spring in Minnesota can be a tricky time for runners. We’re caught in a cat and mouse game between winter and spring with temperatures fluctuating (sometime dramatically) within a week.
In order to make it through this season, just like Oprah, I’ve put together a list of my “favorite things”. Unlike Oprah, I can’t gift you all the items off my list, but I can share what I’m loving this spring!
Legwear
Tights and capris are a must as I transition from winter to summer running. I hate being cold on a run and I’m not always ready to show off my legs come April. While the CW-X Stabilyx will always remain a staple in my wardrobe, I’ve got two new favorites I’ve added to my rotation.
Even if I weren’t an ambassador, I’d sing the praises of the SOAS Run Tights! They’re lined with a fabric that prevents them from being too see-thru and adds an extra bit of support. They also have a wide yoga style waist band that doesn’t rub or pinch when running.
Admittedly a bit of a splurge, the Sweaty Betty Santa Marta Tights are amazing. The fabric is different than most tights, a thin and lightweight performance fabric with a lot of compression to them. What makes these a favorite of mine are the mesh panels that paired with the thin fabric keep them from feeling like ‘tights’ on a spring run.
Headwear
I’ve got three Original Buffs (my Twin Cities Marathon buff is my personal favorite) and I love that I can use it in so many different ways.
From run to run or even in the same run it’s able to get me through a variety of weather conditions; it’s a cap, a headband, a neck gator and as an allergy sufferer who can’t make it a mile without watery eyes and a drippy nose – a tissue. For less than $15, pick one up and enjoy the wonders of the buff!
Footwear
Running shoes are so unique to a runner’s needs that I can’t make a universal shoe recommendation, but what I can do is recommend the ultimate slipper; what I like to think of as my recovery shoe (from a run or a day in heels).
The OluKai Slippers are sublime. Soft and cozy on the inside with a little arch support makes them much more supportive than your typical slipper. An additional cool feature is the fold down heel which turns them into a slip on. Until the warmer months of summer are here – enjoy these pillows for your feet!
Running Accessories
Keeping things simple, relatively inexpensive and tech-free – here are the three “accessories” I am using on a daily basis this spring!
This cookbook, written by Pip Taylor, dietician and professional triathlete, has loads of advice and recipes aimed at the endurance athlete. Most recipes are fairly easy to make and require little additional ingredients you don’t already have stocked in your pantry (if you cook, that is!). My personal favorite is the pumpkin chocolate chip cookies – perfect for a mid-day snack or dessert!
I shared my in-depth thoughts on keeping a Training Journal in a previous post – but will say it again, keeping this journal has really kept me honest and on track with my 2016 goals. If you’ve got some big (or small!) goals ahead, pick one up. At less than $15 – if it helps you reach those goals, it’s worth every penny!
In addition to my journal, one of the things that helps me stay on track with my goals is to see how many days I have left to a big milestone. Whether it’s how many days of consecutive running I have under my belt, or how many days left to my next marathon, this app helps me realize that the days are limited and I need to make the most of them!
Your Favorite Things
What are some of your go to spring running gear and accessories that help you transition from the bitter cold to blistering heat?
