Girl Gear Review: Saucony Running Gear
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Online editor Liz Hichens reviews some of the latest running gear from Saucony designed specifically for women.
For some of us, choosing an outfit for our next training run can be as complicated as choosing an outfit for a night out on the town. But in the end, it is often the function, not the fashion, which leads us to debate our outfit of choice. Maybe it’s a little windy or rainy, but it’s still generally mild out. Do you wear a jacket and risk doing half of your long run with a jacket tied around your waist? Or, do you brave the conditions with a T-shirt and hope the weather doesn’t turn and leave you freezing?
Saucony has come out with a great solution to this problem in its Spring 2009 line. The Radius Transition Sportop, Ignite Bra and Go Girl Beach Run Short offer the perfect combination when you’re not exactly sure what weather your next run will bring.
Radius Transition Sportop ($50): This top was my favorite part of the outfit. I was so relieved that I packed it on a recent trip to San Francisco. The clouds were out and the infamous winds along the San Francisco Bay were swirling, and this top provided the protection I needed. About an hour into my run, the sun came out and it became warmer than I had anticipated. The same top that had kept me warm during the cooler morning was now keeping me cool in the hot sun with its lightweight mesh material. This top also comes in four different colors, giving you the option to focus on the function of your outfit, while still being fashionable.
Ignite Bra ($35): Sports bra preferences can vary wildly from athlete to athlete. I found the Ignite Bra contains every feature anyone would likely need in a sports bra. I started out solely wearing the bra with the Go Girl Beach Run Short (reviewed below) because of the great color matchup. Overtime, I found myself wearing it under a variety of shirts, including my cycling jerseys, because of its great fit and comfort. No matter how long or hot my run or ride, I have never had an issue with chaffing. Like the Radius Transition Sportop, the Ignite Bra comes in four different fashionable colors.
Go Girl Beach Run Short ($40): After receiving these shorts, I went through my dresser in search of another pair of patterned running shorts. I came up empty. I was surprised to find that every pair of running shorts I own are solid, and I’m sure I’m not unique in this situation. These shorts pop in my dresser and also stand out on the trails. While it took a little while to get used to, I also grew to like the oversized waistband. I often fuss with the waistbands on my running shorts, trying to decide if I should roll it up once, or leave it flat. The oversized waistband eliminated the unnecessary fidgeting. Be sure to try these shorts on before purchasing, as they come with a relatively short 4.5” inseam, and may not be comfortable for everyone.