Girl Gear: SkirtSports Winter Gear

A Girl Gear review of a few products from the SkirtSports’ winter collection.

Written by: Liz Hichens

I already know what you’re thinking: ‘Doesn’t SkirtSports make skirts? How do I wear a skirt in the winter?’ Since the company’s inception in 2005, Nicole DeBoom and the SkirtSports team have expanded the line to include much more than their signature running skirts. I got a chance to try a few non-skirt pieces from SkirtSports holiday line.

ToughGirl Top ($70): Prior to testing out any product, I always find out the retail price of the item before trying it out. When I first saw that this top cost $70, I was a little concerned. At first glance the top looks like nothing more than a long-sleeve cover up. With longer, heavier running clothing often comes uncomfortable sweating and chafing. After trying out the top for the first time, I started wearing it on every one of my weekend long runs. The top is comfortable, breathable and provided the perfect amount of warmth for a chilly fall day. When it came time to compete at Ironman Arizona, I incorporated the ToughGirl Top into my race-day plan. Knowing I wouldn’t be one of the lucky few finishing before the sunset, I put the top in my run special needs bag in preparation for the cold desert air that comes when the sun goes down, and I was thankful I did. The top provided warmth and saved me from the chafing of my race top. As an unexpected bonus, the reflective zipper kept me safer on the darker parts of the course. I would spend $70 on this top in a heartbeat, and would highly recommend it as a Christmas present for any female runner.

Long Sleeve Jersey – Pink Crush Print ($84): This jersey is everything I would ever need in a winter cycling jersey. It is not made to wear in freezing weather conditions, but for the crisp, cool day it is the perfect top. The torso of this jersey is made slightly longer than the short-sleeve jerseys to keep the cool air from creeping up. The longer sleeves also provide added warmth. My favorite feature is the fact that it easily converts into a jersey for warmer weather. Here in San Diego, training often means starting out in cold, foggy conditions and finishing in warm sunshine. The sleeves are loose enough to be rolled up, and the full-length zipper provides the option to let a little air in if the weather decides to warm up. If the bright pink color isn’t your style, the jersey is also available in an equally fun black print.

Vogue Cycling Shorties ($65): Of the three products I tried, these shorts most exemplify SkirtSports’ mission to create athletic wear for only women. I highly doubt we will ever see a cycling short similar to this one from a company that makes product for both genders. While most companies create cycling shorts for men, and then adjust them to be comfortable for women, every part of the Vogue Cycling Short was made for women. While I have worn cycling shorts that are equally as comfortable as these, I have never worn shorts that are as flattering. The shorts have a five-inch inseam, which is shorter than most cycling shorts. The hot pink chamois is not only fun, it is very comfortable and is best for longer rides. My favorite feature of the shorts is the extra-wide waistband. The waistband eliminates the uncomfortable, and unflattering, feeling in the stomach that comes when you get in the aero position in form-fitting shorts.