On the off chance you’re still one of the critters huddled up holding out for warmer weather – it’s time to peep through those blinds. The world is changing friends and after a long, dark winter, it’s finally time to get back in stride and and crank up your run routine. With the wind at your back and the right gear at your disposal, your Spring run routines will transcend earthly delights to something straight from the storybooks. This late spring, early summer gear guide features the favorite pieces coming across our desks, in addition to some of the mainstays in our run kits.
SAXX Pilot 2N1 Run Short
Second only to shoes, shorts are the most important piece of apparel a runner can put on before heading out to pound the pavement. And towards those ends, the Pilot 2N1 Run Short are the quintessential example of the idiom “details matter.” Placing a premium on ergonomic comfort, the Saxx Pilot Shorts feature a feather-weight shell with minimal seams, no side pockets and bonded hems. As with every pair of SAXX you get all the benefits of the BallPark Pouch™ which not only keeps everything in place, but prevents unwanted friction and movement to reduce chafe and allow contact-free support. Not only are these the lightest running shorts you’ll ever wear, once you slip them on, you’ll never wear anything else again.
Saxxunderwear.com; MSRP: $64.95
Patagonia Long-Sleeved Slope Runner Shirt
After a winter on the dreadmill, step outside and enjoy blooming fruit trees and the invigorating sights and smells of warmer weather adventures on your run with the Patagonia Long-Sleeved Slope Runner shirt. Available for men and women, This high-performance supple top features body-mapping that will keep moisture moving away from your skin quickly, without restricting your movements when a little sun on your back inspires you to pick up the pace. Side paneling adds extra performance and a unique brand aesthetic. We try not to play favorites, but it’s hard not to absolutely this long-sleeved technical top.
Patagonia.com; MSRP: $69
SmartWool PhD Merino 150 Hoody
Warm weather? Cold weather? No problem. Merino wool can handle it all. Merino wool has been a part of adventure gear since the Vikings were stealing sheep, and few contemporary brands know how to manipulate that venerable material better than SmartWool. So when your alarm goes off at 5am and you need that little extra push to get out of the house and get in your work – the PhD Merino 150 Hoody (for men and women) is there to spur you forward and onward. Comprised of the brand’s lightest most versatile fabric yet this layer is ready to tackle runs come day or night, urban jungle or forest trail.
Smartwool.com; MSRP $100
Lululemon Metal Vent Tech Surge Shirt
Beneath its unassuming look, the Lululemon Men’s MVT Surge shirt is equipped with the tools needed to keep you cool and comfortable when you’re pushing your limits. A new twist on an existing favorite, the MVT shirts introduce an innovative construction for enhanced airflow and breathability for those spring days that are more lion than lamb. Integrated open-hole Mesh fabric allows for maximum airflow so you can push yourself to the max. Powered by X-STATIC, it inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria so you can go from running your favorite routes to enjoying a much-deserved cold one at happy hour. Not a fan of sleeves? Then ditch the extra fabric and rock the MVT tank.
Lululemon.com; MSRP: $78
SmartWool PhD Ultra Light Sport Hoody
Spring isn’t all sunshine and flowers. That is why every serious runner should have a dependable shell like the SmartWool PhD Ultra Light Sport Hoody on hand. This weather resistant, ultralight jacket is built to cut through wind, shed water, and with body-mapped mesh panels for additional breathability, it will keep you cool and warm on even the dampest of runs.
Smartwool.com; MSRP $125
Patagonia Men’s Airshed Pullover
The Patagonia Airshed Pullover (available for men and women) charges your runs whether you’re tackling trails or sprinting down sidewalks. Built with the same shell fabric as the Patagonia Nano-Air jacket, it’s a whisper-light soft-shell pullover perfect companion for those cool mornings or when the weather gets a little drizzly. Stretch knit at cuffs and hem keeps out weather, dries fast and wears softly under gloves or a pack. And because the sun isn’t always out when you are, a reflective logo on left-bottom hem and center back provide added visibility. From early morning runs to scrambles up Camelback Mountain, this has been our go-to piece for every adventure on or off trail.
Patagonia.com; MSRP: $119
SmartWool PhD Ultra Light Sport Vest
When you’re working hard to earn those miles, it can get too hot for a full jacket, even when the weather is cold and windy. So, zip up The SmartWool PhD Ultra Light Sport Vest (available in men’s and women’s) to keep your core warm, without overheating. Delivering streamlined protection, this lightweight vest protects your core in blustery conditions, while the DWR-finish helps shed moisture if you get caught in an unexpected rain shower. The added benefit of body mapped panels of PhD Ultra Light Mesh provides the ultimate in breathability and temperature control.
Smartwool.com; MSRP $100
Darn Tough Run Socks
Listen, there’s no shortage of sock brands to choose from. But for folks who demand serious performance from all their gear, Darn Tough should be the only name on your shopping list. Wrap these American made gems around your tootsies and prepare to forget about foot discomfort for the years of miles that lay ahead. Whether you pick the Vertex No Show Tab Ultra-Light Cushion or the Coolmax® Vertex 1/4 Ultra-Light Cushion you get a run sock that offers unprecedented durability and the brand’s unique “put it on, forget it’s on” feel. And because it’s Darn Tough, they are guaranteed For Life: No strings. No conditions. For life.
darntough.com; MSRP $16-$18
Superfeet Run Comfort Insoles
Looking to upgrade your ride, or simply add a more customized feel to your favorite run shoes? Superfeet® RUN insoles are ready to personalize the fit and feel of your running shoes like no other insole can. Responsive and lightweight, the brand’s run-specific insoles are designed to reduce foot fatigue while gaining efficiency. The EVOLyte carbon fiber cap and AeroSpring Dual Comfort foam combine to deliver exceptional comfort and smooth and efficient energy transfer through your gait from foot strike to toe off.
Superfeet.com; MSRP $49.95
Headsweats Performance Trucker Hats
Having a hat that looks good on the open road is always a bonus – but when your ready to break out those big mile days in spring, that’s when you’ll truly appreciate these caps. The lightweight fabric promotes on-the-go breathability, while the Eventure terry sweatband captures perspiration and wicks it away from the scalp keeping your face clear of distracting sweat drops.
Headsweats.com; MSRP: $26