Running apparel for women has changed dramatically over the 33
years that I have been running. From simple construction that met basic needs,
to eye-popping color-coordination, women s running outfits have truly evolved.
Today, running clothes for women are designed not only to be visually
appealing, but also to enhance performance.
I have fond memories of my first pair of Nike “waffles”; blue with a yellow swoosh, and very wide soles with nubs on them (hence the nickname). They were effective, simple and stylish, and were most-often accompanied by knee-high athletic socks with wide color bands that very seldom matched my cool shoes. This ensemble was completed by short-shorts, and your typical 70’s t-shirt. Back then, running clothes for women were usually what was required for gym class, or what was worn for a host of other activities. Women s running outfits, such as they were, did not really address variations in climate; you either wore your short-shorts and froze or wore sweats and suffered the opposite effect.
Of course, it has not been proven that dressing in color-coordinated and otherwise stylish running apparel guarantees success in running endeavors. However, it most definitely boosts that can-do feeling. Along with an occasional admiring glance from onlookers, this can lead to better results and an increased desire to get out there and run in the first place!
It was a very cold race day in February, when I learned to truly appreciate the evolution in women’s running apparel. The race took place around a frozen lake. The actual temperature was 15 degrees Fahrenheit, with a 25-mile-an-hour wind bringing the wind-chill factor to well below zero (or at least that's the way it felt). Yes, I believed that I looked very stylish in my matching lycra running pants with coordinating jacket, gloves, beanie, and shoes. However, it was not the fashionable aspect of my outfit that was its saving grace that day, but the physical aspects of the design. The fabric was relatively light and form fitting, yet surprisingly warm, with the ability to wick perspiration away from the body. This kept me from freezing. The cut and design allowed for uninhibited movement. I didn't come in last.
I have fond memories of my first pair of Nike “waffles”; blue with a yellow swoosh, and very wide soles with nubs on them (hence the nickname). They were effective, simple and stylish, and were most-often accompanied by knee-high athletic socks with wide color bands that very seldom matched my cool shoes. This ensemble was completed by short-shorts, and your typical 70’s t-shirt. Back then, running clothes for women were usually what was required for gym class, or what was worn for a host of other activities. Women s running outfits, such as they were, did not really address variations in climate; you either wore your short-shorts and froze or wore sweats and suffered the opposite effect.
Of course, it has not been proven that dressing in color-coordinated and otherwise stylish running apparel guarantees success in running endeavors. However, it most definitely boosts that can-do feeling. Along with an occasional admiring glance from onlookers, this can lead to better results and an increased desire to get out there and run in the first place!
It was a very cold race day in February, when I learned to truly appreciate the evolution in women’s running apparel. The race took place around a frozen lake. The actual temperature was 15 degrees Fahrenheit, with a 25-mile-an-hour wind bringing the wind-chill factor to well below zero (or at least that's the way it felt). Yes, I believed that I looked very stylish in my matching lycra running pants with coordinating jacket, gloves, beanie, and shoes. However, it was not the fashionable aspect of my outfit that was its saving grace that day, but the physical aspects of the design. The fabric was relatively light and form fitting, yet surprisingly warm, with the ability to wick perspiration away from the body. This kept me from freezing. The cut and design allowed for uninhibited movement. I didn't come in last.
Of course Under Armour is the leader in climate-based running
apparel. Not to mention the fact, that Under Armour running clothes always look
great.
