Summer running is challenging enough with the heat and humidity. The last thing you need is to be held back by underperforming running shorts. The perfect running shorts should be so comfortable that you hardly notice themā€”no bunching, chafing, or feeling restricted, all while looking good. We tested over 40 pairs in the most sweltering conditions to find the best running shorts for you, whether you prefer the freedom of 3-inch shorts, the standard 5-inch, or the extra coverage of 7-inch.

While youā€™re at it, be sure to check out our picks for the best running shirts for men and the best running shoes.

Updated August 2024: We’ve removed one item and added three new picks to our guide from Hoka, Adidas, and Under Armour.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around:
• Best Value:
• Best for High Heat:
• Best Splurge:
• Best Half Tight:Ģż
• Best Wear-Anywhere:
• What to Look For in Running Shorts
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.

Best All-Around

Patagonia Strider Pro 5ā€ Shorts

Sizing: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Comfortable fit and fabric
āŠ• Breathability
āŠ• Flattering understated style
āŠ— Some prefer a shorter inseam in high heat and humidity

ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶųā€™s testers have run in several dozen shorts over the past few years, yet they keep landing on this workhorse as one of the best (it made our list in 2023 as well). ā€œThe fabric and tailoring combine to make a short that is coolly comfortable in fit, performance, and style,ā€ tester Jonathan Beverly said. ā€œThe waistband has the right thickness and amount of stretch to stay put but not squeeze, the fabric drapes and dries nicely, and the liner is soft and airy without any irritating seams.ā€

Its just-right qualities extend to the pocketingā€”with one central rear zip and a stealth slot on each back hipā€”and to moisture management: only when the dew point was above 70 Fahrenheit did the outer layer get saturated enough to cling. Environmental bonus: Recycled polyester makes up 90% of the garment. – Scott Douglas

Best Value

Under Armour Launch 5ā€ Shorts

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Excellent value
āŠ• Comfortable fit
āŠ— No secure zippered pocket

Sometimes, simplicity is the best approach. Designed to provide exactly what you need to stay dry and comfortable and nothing more, the Under Armour Launch 5ā€ Shorts deliver high performance without the high price tag. The shorts are made from a stretchy woven polyester fabric over a breathable mesh liner and have vented mesh side panels to allow excess heat to dissipate.

As you might expect from a budget-friendly pair of shorts, they donā€™t offer the most ergonomic fit designed specifically for runners, trending to the looser side. However, the relaxed fit through the legs with side notches does offer good mobility.

The shorts feature two side hand pockets, one of which includes an elastic mesh holder meant for your phone. We found, however, that Itā€™s not the most secure spot while running and recommend finding a for carrying your phone. Beyond the competitive price point, one of the best features is the the wide choice of colors (seven options!). – Cory Smith

Best for High Heat

Hoka Glide 5ā€ Short w/ Brief

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Extremely lightweight
āŠ• Comfortable liner
āŠ— Phone bounces in back mesh pocket

If you’re the kind of runner who trains no matter how hot and humid it gets, you need a pair of shorts that are lightweight, breathable, and won’t weigh you down when drenched in sweat. The Hoka Glide 5ā€ short with brief fits this bill perfectly.

The thin stretch-woven polyester/spandex fabric with a DWR coat is incredibly airy and flexible. A mesh liner enhances the shorts’ breathability while offering a good amount of support. Even during my most humid runs, when I became soaked with sweat, the shorts remained unrestrictive, soft, and comfortable.

The shorts feature a small zippered pocket ideal for securing essentials like keys and money, and a spacious mesh rear pouch, open on both ends and large enough to hold a phone or soft flask. Items in the large mesh pocket, however, tend to bounce around while running. – CS

Best Splurge

Soar Run Shorts

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Good blend of comfort and performance
āŠ• Suitable for most seasons
āŠ— Pocket too small to hold a phone

These unassuming, light, ventilated offerings are a good option for your core shortsā€”that pair you grab throughout the year, for all kinds of runs, because you know theyā€™ll be comfortable and functional. During our summer testing, they especially excelled on hard runs when sweat rates were higher, thanks to their polyamide/elastane blend. The slim, separate waistband keeps everything secure without causing lower-GI-tract distress, which is common when your body has shunted blood from internal organs to the skin to help with cooling.

The 5ā€ inseam strikes a balance between modesty and uninhibited motion. The rear zip pocket is too small for a phone but can simultaneously hold a key, credit card, and gel. – SD

Best Half Tights

Adidas Control Running Shorts Tight

Sizing: XS-2XL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Supportive fit
āŠ• High-quality material
āŠ— Thick material can run hot

There’s something uniquely satisfying about the feel of snug, supportive tights hugging your muscles. The Adidas Control Running Shorts Tight, crafted from a relatively thick blend of 83% polyester and 17% elastane, delivers mild compression to your quads, glutes, and hamstrings, ensuring they stay engaged and protected during even the most intense runs.

Flexible, rubber-like (TPE) strips stretch across the major muscles to add additional support. The result is a tighter, more supportive fit than any other tight we tested. Although you might expect tights to feel restrictive, the material is surprisingly stretchy and flexible, allowing full range of motion. The downside is that they can feel too warm in hot conditions.

Inside the tights, there’s a small fold-over pocket designed for essentials like keys or cards. While functional, the addition of a zippered pocket would have been ideal to ensure the secure storage of important items. -CS

Best Wear-Anywear

Flylow Hawk Shorts

Sizing: S-XXL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Pockets aplenty
āŠ• Leisurewear styling
āŠ— Bigger fit than some runners prefer

The Flylow Hawk are high-performing, well-pocketed shorts that wonā€™t make you look like a running nerd. ā€œThese are officially my new favorite running shorts,ā€ tester Nathan Brown said. ā€œFrom the comfort of the brief liner to the aesthetics, these shorts ticked all the boxes.ā€

The polyester/spandex fabric is water-resistant and wicks massive amounts of sweat, provides UPF 40+ sun protection, and allows full range of motion. The back-hip pockets hold fobs and fuel without sagging. The zippered rear pocket accommodates a phone without excessive bouncing. At the same time, they look more like leisurewear shorts than high-performing running bottoms. Our tester often wore them for non-running activities, which isnā€™t something most of us like doing in most running shorts. – SD

What to Look For in Running Shorts

Running shorts vary in length, liners, pockets, fit, and fabric. Youā€™ll want a length that is short enough for full, unimpeded motion (the faster the run, the shorter and more split the shorts tend to be), but long enough to feel decent on the trail, road, or post-run coffee shop.

Liners range from soft, loose briefs to compression-shorts-like stretchy boxersā€”or none at all for those who prefer to wear their own underwear. Choosing between liners is a matter of personal taste, balancing breathability and range of motion with level of coverage and control.

Pockets need to be big and secure enough for whatever you want to carry: phone, keys, cards, gels. Location is important to allow convenient access and avoid bouncing and chafing, as is the robustness of the waistband to prevent sagging when carrying anything heavy, like a phone.

When it comes to fit and fabric, as with all summer running gear, you want pieces that breathe, wick moisture, move naturally, donā€™t stink, and donā€™t get in the way.

Here are some quick tips on buying the best summer gear without going broke:

• Look for high-quality synthetic fibers. Yes, our top picks include a few items with natural fibers. But for the most part, specially designed varieties of polyester, polyamide, nylon, and the like can handle summer runningā€™s high sweat rates better than wool and cotton.

• Seek sun protection. Even if you run at dawn or dusk, or on trails, sun damage can be insidious. Many shorts and tops come with a UPF coating. Well-ventilated hats reduce squinting while shedding heat. Running tan lines arenā€™t something to be proud of.

• Check for chafing. If youā€™ve ever been rubbed raw by a rigid seam or sagging liner, you wonā€™t want to repeat the experience. Abrasion accelerates when youā€™re drenched in sweat. Look for flat seams, unobtrusive logos, and other elements of construction that will minimize chafing.

• Go with the flow. Our picks in this review strike the right balance between being loose enough to allow cooling air flow but not so billowy that they impede normal running form.

• Banish bacteria. Many high-quality summer running items incorporate an anti-bacterial treatment that greatly reduces nasty odors setting up shop. These pieces not only can be worn many more times before needing to be washed, but also lessen your chance of developing a funky skin situation.

• Invest in quality. It can be tempting to think, ā€œWhatever I run in is going to get soaked anyway, so Iā€™ll just buy the cheapest gear out there.ā€ Such reasoning quickly falls apart when, well, the item itself starts to fall apart because of constant exposure to sweat and frequent laundering. Fewer high-quality pieces that hold their form and donā€™t hold odors are better than more cheaply made gear that will start disintegrating in one summer.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 10
• Number of shorts tested: 40+
• Number of miles run in testing: 4,500+
• Highest testing temperature: 97 Fahrenheit

Our testing team ranged across the U.S.ā€”from coastal Maine and western Maryland to central Wisconsin, the high plains of Nebraska, the urban bake sites of Chicago and Houston, and out to Santa Barbara on the California coast, plus, for good measure, the running hub of Eugene, Oregon. All are dedicated runners with average weekly mileage ranging from low 20s to mid 70s. Some have been running for 30 or more years and can compare todayā€™s running apparel to previous attempts to keep runners cool in the summer.

We focused on a subjective combination of moisture management, comfort, versatility, value, and looks to answer a simple question: Of all the apparel you logged summer miles in, which would you be most likely to recommend to fellow runners?

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų and Runnerā€™s World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a personal best of 4:31 in the mile. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week over roads, trails and on the track.

A cross-country race Cory Smith ran while testing running shorts:

(Gaia GPS is owned by ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Inc.)

Scott Douglas

Iā€™ve run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen in the 1970s, and have always loved how daily runs undergird and elevate the rest of my life. As and a writer/editor about fitness, Iā€™m fortunate to have my personal and professional lives mesh. I sweat like crazy despite living in Maine.

Here is a portion of the trails Scott Douglas ran on while testing running shorts:

(Gaia GPS is owned by ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Inc.)

Other testers included:

• , a Nebraska resident who is a senior running gear editor for ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų and has also been running since the 1970s.
• , a doctor of physical therapy who founded the Pineries Running Lab in Wisconsin.

The post The Best Running Shorts for Men appeared first on ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Online.

Whether you embrace the heat and humidity of summer running or long for a return to cold, dark winter days, running during the summer can be both exhilarating (all that daylight!) and daunting (all that sweat!) at the same time.

Regardless of your preference, the right running top can keep you cooler and drier while making you feel fast and fashionable. To help you choose the best running tops, we tested over 50 short-sleeve t-shirts and tank tops to find the best moisture-wicking men’s running shirts.

While youā€™re at it, be sure to check out our picks for theĢżbest running shorts for men and the best running shoes.

Updated August 2024: We’ve added three new shirts to the guide, including a new best value pick from Under Armour. All links and picks are up to date.

At a Glance

• Singlets/Tank Tops
  • Best All-Around:
  • Best Value:
  • Best Airflow:
  • Best Splurge:Ģż
• T-Shirts
  • Best All-Around:
  • Best for Trail Running:
  • Softest Feel:
  • Best Value:
• What to Look For
• How We Test
• Meet Our Lead Testers

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.Ģż

SINGLETS/TANK TOPS

Best All-Around

Adidas Adizero Running Singlet

Ģż

Sizing: XL-2XL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Silky smooth feeling
āŠ• Superb mobility
āŠ— Saturates with moisture easily

There’s something about a light, airy singlet that makes me feel fast. No other singlet captured this sensation better than the Adidas Adizero Running Singlet. Made from a thin, lightweight blend of 86% recycled polyester and 14% elastane, the texture feels phenomenalā€”smooth and silky, easily moving over the skin. Testers praised its soft touch and barely-there sensation, with one noting it as ā€œthe lightest and most comfortable singlet Iā€™ve ever worn.ā€

The fit is slightly slim, but thanks to the stretchy fabric and side slits in the hem, the singlet offers exceptional mobility. I prefer a slightly looser fit, and my typical menā€™s medium fit that bill perfectly.

The entire singlet has tiny holes in the face to enhance breathability. Testers enjoyed its airy feel but noted that the fabric tends to stick to the skin when fully soaked through, a common issue among most super thin shirts tested. Despite this, this stylish, comfortable singlet stood out as one of the best we tested, one we reached for often. ā€”Cory Smith

Best Value

Path Projects Andes AD Tank Top

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Highly breathable
āŠ• Doesnā€™t cling
āŠ• Good value
āŠ— Some prefer wider armholes in hot weather

We valued this tank for its lightness and breathability. ā€œThe 90% polyester/10% spandex fabric is woven with an interior texture that reduces the amount of fibers touching the skin, and ventilating holes that let it breathe freely,ā€ one tester said. ā€œIt never got soaked and clingy against my skin like most tech singlets. Itā€™s slim-fitting without being tight, so it stays close to the body and out of the way. Plus, it falls just past the waistline, so it isnā€™t bunching over my shorts.ā€ I also appreciated the wider shoulder straps on trail runs, as a little extra protection against brush snags and bug bites.

Bonus: The Andes costs no more than most run-of-the-mill clingy tops. ā€”Scott Douglas

Best Airflow

Pressio Elite Singlet

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Good wicking and airflow
āŠ• Doesnā€™t cling
āŠ— Baggier fit than some prefer
āŠ— Too see-through for casual wear

The first time my wife saw me in this piece, she said, ā€œSinglets have really improved.ā€ Sheā€™s right. This and many other tops I tested look and perform better than the sleeve-free tubes of cheap polyester I used to wear for summer running. The Elite rose above most because it didnā€™t cling, even on runs when I sweated so much my shoes squished with every footstep.

The 100% recycled polyester yarn has a micromesh construction in the front and a larger, stretchy (thanks to 9 percent elastane), nearly see-through mesh in the back to maximize airflow. The drape of the cut and lightness of the fabric make chafing more or less impossible. If you havenā€™t bought a singlet in many years, the Elite will catch you up on innovations. ā€”Scott Douglas

Best Splurge

Tracksmith Strata Singlet

Sizing: S-XL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Unbeatable heat and moisture management
āŠ• Odor resistant
āŠ— Costs twice as much as many other well-made singlets

This ultralight marvel is the best singlet Iā€™ve run in during my 40+ years in the sport. The fit is slim but not restrictive, with plenty of stretch. The bluesign-certified nylon/elastane blend incorporates coldblack, a Schoeller Textil technology that reduces heat absorption like nothing else Iā€™ve experienced. As someone who can lose 5 of his 130 pounds on an easy hour run in Maine, Iā€™m used to wringing out gear post-run and leaving large puddles. This simply wasnā€™t possible when I wore the Strata; although my shorts and socks were drenched, little sweat had collected on the singlet.

And then thereā€™s its odor resistance: I ran at least an hour in it every day without washing it during one of summerā€™s hottest, most humid weeks. It smelled the same on Day 7 as on Day 1. The Strata is expensive, but a good value, given that owning one eliminates the need for all but maybe one other singlet. ā€”Scott Douglas

SHORT SLEEVE SHIRTS

Best All-Around

Walter Sky Merino Tee

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Wool softness and odor resistance
āŠ• Breathable, non-clinging
āŠ• Year-round versatility
āŠ— Fabric elongates during longer runs

This shirtā€™s $75 price tag seems like a lot until you experience its comfort and versatility. ā€œYou can both run in it and wear it casually during all four seasonsā€”on its own or as a base layer,ā€ said tester Jonathan Beverly. Innovative Nuyarn construction (70% merino wool/30% nylon) means more merino fibers are exposed to air than in conventionally made merino tops, leading to less moisture buildup and more cooling.

At only 105 grams per square meter, or about two-thirds the heft of many running shirts, it ā€œwicks and breathes excellently and stands away from my skin even when wet,ā€ Jonathan said. It also feels softer than any other lightweight merino tees we have tried, and doesnā€™t smell even after daily wear for a week. We have made this shirt a mainstay in our year-round running and daily life wardrobes. ā€”Scott Douglas

Best for Trail Running

Adidas Terrex Agravic Trail Running Tee

Sizing: XS-2XL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Mesh-vented back panel
āŠ• Superb moisture control
āŠ— Short hem length

With all the gear required for trail running, it’s easy to overlook the importance of a trail-specific running shirt, especially when using a hydration vest. What sets this trail running top apart is the highly breathable mesh that covers the entire backā€”perfect for maintaining airflow while wearing a pack. Even without something on my shoulders, the airy mesh was a game changer, keeping my back dry, venting heat, and preventing the shirt from getting drenched in sweat.

Crafted from recycled ocean plastic, the front of the shirt is incredibly thin and also excels at moisture management. Even during a trail run in near 100-degree temperatures, the shirt barely became saturated. One tester said it kept him cool, dry and comfortable during the surging heat and moisture spikes of a warm-day fartlek workout, and it was the shirt he kept reaching for whenever the morning dawned steamy and sticky.

The fit is described as regular, and Iā€™d concur. My usual menā€™s medium had ample room in the midsection, though the hem was slightly shorter than expected. ā€”Cory Smith

Softest Feel

Paka ²Ń±š²Ōā€™s Tee

Sizing: XS-XXL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Versatility
āŠ• Softness
āŠ• Sustainability
āŠ— Gets saturated in hot, humid weather

With the advent of technical fibers, most runners started shunning cotton apparel. This shirt, made of a blend of 85% organic pima cotton and 15% royal alpaca fiber, might make you reconsider. Itā€™s pleasingly soft against the skin, which led Nathan and I to use it for both running and daily life. Moisture management is excellent on easy runs in non-oppressive weather. The shirt doesnā€™t hug even after sweat starts to collect.

Because of the shirtā€™s versatility and Pakaā€™s sustainability efforts, Nathan picked this tee as the item heā€™s most likely to buy as a gift for other runners. ā€”Scott Douglas

Best Value

Under Armour Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve

Sizing: XS-5XL

Pros and Cons
āŠ• Affordable price
āŠ• Wide range of colors
āŠ• Excellent moisture management
āŠ— Loose fit can feel baggy

At less than half the cost of most running shirts, the Under Armour Tech 2.0 is an excellent option for budget-conscious runners seeking a lightweight, moisture-wicking top. Made from 100% polyester, this straightforward tee delivers exactly what you need in a breathable shirt with no extras, just reliable performance.

Though intended as a general-purpose workout tee, we found it perfectly suitable for running. The thin, partially transparent fabric provided excellent airflow and dried quickly when wet. The only drawback is that it fits a bit looser than typical running shirts, particularly in width.

The highlight? It comes in over 20 color options, including regular and tall sizes. While it may not be the most technical running shirt, with its simple polyester construction and lack of stretch, itā€™s budget-friendly enough to grab a few in different colors. ā€”Cory Smith

What to Look for in Summer Running Apparel

Dressing for summer running is straightforwardā€”you want pieces that breathe, wick moisture, move naturally, donā€™t stink, and donā€™t get in the way. Shirt choices come down to how much skin coverage you prefer, fit, and material.

Here are some quick tips on buying the best without going broke:

• Look for high-quality synthetic fibers. Yes, our top picks include a few items with natural fibers. But for the most part, specially designed varieties of polyester, polyamide, nylon, and the like can handle summer runningā€™s high sweat rates better than wool and cotton.

• Seek sun protection. Even if you run at dawn or dusk, or on trails, sun damage can be insidious. Many shorts and tops come with a UPF coating. Well-ventilated hats reduce squinting while shedding heat. Running tan lines arenā€™t something to be proud of.

• Check for chafing. If youā€™ve ever been rubbed raw by a rigid seam or sagging liner, you wonā€™t want to repeat the experience. Abrasion accelerates when youā€™re drenched in sweat. Look for flat seams, unobtrusive logos, and other elements of construction that will minimize chafing.

• Go with the flow. Our picks in this review strike the right balance between being loose enough to allow cooling air flow but not so billowy that they impede normal running form.

• Banish bacteria. Many high-quality summer running items incorporate an anti-bacterial treatment that greatly reduces nasty odors setting up shop. These pieces not only can be worn many more times before needing to be washed, but also lessen your chance of developing a funky skin situation.

• Invest in quality. It can be tempting to think, ā€œWhatever I run in is going to get soaked anyway, so Iā€™ll just buy the cheapest gear out there.ā€ Such reasoning quickly falls apart when, well, the item itself starts to fall apart because of constant exposure to sweat and frequent laundering. Fewer high-quality pieces that hold their form and donā€™t hold odors are better than more cheaply made gear that will start disintegrating in one summer.

How We Test

• Number of testers:Ģż10
• Number of products tested: 20+ singlets, 40+ short sleeve tees
• Number of brands tested: 45+
• Number of miles run in testing:Ģż4,500+
• Highest testing temperature: 101 Fahrenheit

Our testing team ranged across the U.S.ā€”from the California beach town of Santa Barbara to central Wisconsin and the high plains of Nebraska, to the urban bake sites of Chicago and Houston, and, for good measure, the running hub of Eugene, Oregon. All are dedicated runners with average weekly mileage ranging from low 20s to mid-70s over both roads and trails. Some have been running for 30 or more years and can compare todayā€™s running apparel to previous attempts to keep runners cool in the summer. We focused on a subjective combination of moisture management, comfort, versatility, and valueā€”and looked to answer a simple question: Of all the apparel you logged summer miles in, which would you be most likely to recommend to fellow runners?

Meet Our Lead Testers

Cory Smith

Cory Smith, a former Division One runner at Villanova University, has been running since the mid-1990s. With over a decade of experience testing and reviewing running apparel and shoes for publications like ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų and Runnerā€™s World, he continues to compete as a masters athlete, boasting a personal best of 4:31 in the mile. He consistently logs 30 to 40 miles per week over roads, trails and on the track.

A 13.25km trail race Cory Smith ran while testing the Adidas Adizero Running Singlet.

(Gaia GPS is owned by ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Inc.)

Scott Douglas

Iā€™ve run more than 130,000 miles since starting as a teen in the 1970s, and have always loved how daily runs undergird and elevate the rest of my life. As and a writer/editor about fitness, Iā€™m fortunate to have my personal and professional lives mesh. I sweat like crazy despite living in Maine. [Editor’s note: Scott managed testing and wrote the reviews for this guide through the spring of 2024]

A portion of the trails Scott Douglas ran on regularly while testing running shirts and singlets:

(Gaia GPS is owned by ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Inc.)

Other testers included:

• , a Nebraska resident who is a senior running gear editor for ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų and has also been running since the 1970s.
• , a doctor of physical therapy who founded the Pineries Running Lab in Wisconsin.

The post The Best Running Shirts for Men appeared first on ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Online.

Thereā€™s a problem with a lot of waterproof garmentsā€”they contain (PFAS). Also known as forever chemicals, PFAS are linked to cancer, liver and kidney damage, and other health problems.

But forever chemicalsā€™ time may be limited. bans the manufacture, sale, and distribution of textiles containing PFAS levels of more than 100 parts per million. Given that Californiaā€™s economy is the , the law will force apparel manufacturers to phase out PFAS. The California legislation does provide a reprieve until 2028 for ā€œoutdoor apparel for severe wet conditions,ā€ which presumably includes the subject of this article: running jackets. Still, expect companies to act sooner rather than later.

If youā€™re in the market for a waterproof PFAS-free running jacket, however, you donā€™t have to wait. There are many good options available now. Over the past few months Iā€™ve tested 16 PFAS-free jackets during more than 300 miles of running. I sought a just-right combination of water repellency, breathability, and ease of movement (neither so tight that my arm swing feels constricted nor so loose that the jacket billowed). Iā€™ve rounded up my top three jackets below. But first, a little more background on PFAS in apparel.

PFAS and Protection

Today, apparel with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating containing PFAS is, on average, more effective at moisture management then PFAS-free apparel, says Kevin Golovin, Ph.D., an assistant professor of mechanical and industrial engineering at the University of Toronto and a leading researcher in textile surface engineering.

ā€œAll surfaces have a characteristic energyā€”their ā€˜surface energyā€™ā€”and surfaces treated with PFAS can exhibit the lowest possible surface energy of any material,ā€ Golovin says. ā€œThis means for the same fabric construction, a textile treated with a PFAS-containing DWR will have greater resistance to getting wet than the same textile treated with a non-PFAS DWR.ā€

Also, as ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶųā€™s sustainability columnist, Kristin Hostetter, notes, PFAS-free running jackets require more frequent washing and re-treating to maintain top performance.

But neither of those factors should be a deal-breaker. ā€œIf youā€™re only considering water repellency, many of the PFAS-free DWRs on the market today already perform quite well,ā€ Golovin says. ā€œThe issue is really with soiling and oil repellency.ā€

After all, consider that runners donā€™t really need a jacket that will keep out all precipitation for, say, 10 hours at a time, like backpackers or industrial workers. Most of us just want to stay reasonably dry when running for 30 minutes to two hours in rain or snow. And we want that protection to be balanced with breathability and enough flexibility to not inhibit our running motion.

There are related considerations: How often will you wear any running jacket? And, at what temperature does a jacket become overkill, no matter how hard itā€™s raining? I, for example, wear jackets much more often than I used to when I first moved to Maine 20 years ago. Thatā€™s probably because of climate changeā€”what used to be snowy runs requiring only a merino wool outer layer are now rainy slogs in mid 30s to low 40s temperatures. Still, for me, a jacket becomes too hot around the high 40s, even the most breathable.

With that background, here are my top three out of the 15 PFAS-free running jackets I tested, from most to least expensive.

Best PFAS-Free Running Jackets, Reviewed

Very Best: Ciele FLR Jacket ($400)

You know those days when the weather is so bad that you leave a towel and dry clothes right by the door for your return? I wore this jacket on one such day, when heavy rain fell throughout my 70-minute run. My tights and socks were wring-out wet when I got home (actually, they were sopping long before that), but the shirt I wore under this Ciele shell was as dry as when I headed out.

Unlike many of the jackets I tested, the FLR delivered this performance while being super light but also plenty warm. As an experiment, I wore it over just a short sleeve tee on an hour run in hard rain and temperatures in the mid 30s. I was comfortable (and dry) the whole time. The FLR is also highly breathable, thanks in part to a back vent. On a dry, sunny day with temps in the mid 40sā€”a scorcher by Maine winter standardsā€”I wore this shell over a heavy long sleeve merino top to see when I would start to overheat. I never did while out for almost 90 minutes.

All of this performance comes at a cost. The FLR was the second most expensive jacket I tested. If you regularly run in cold precipitation and can shoulder the cost, this jacket is for you. You might also justify the price if, like me, you value top-quality running gear thatā€™s stylish enough to wear when youā€™re not running.

Bottom line: Premium protection and breathability, with a price tag to match

Ģż

Runner-Up: Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket 2.0 ($198)

This jacket was the second-best I tested for that sweet spot of keeping precipitation out, letting sweat vent, and not interfering with my form. Pretty impressive for its approachable price, costing $100-$200 less than many of the jackets it outperformed.

Its 100% ripstop nylon fabric is wind- and waterproof, breathable, and light. On one two-hour run in steady cold rain, I stayed warm up top wearing it over a short-sleeve tee. When I finished, the shirt was dry except for a small section near my sternum. It performs equally well as an outer layer in dry weather. I stayed warm but not overheated wearing it over a short-sleeve shirt in the mid 30s to mid 40s, and similarly comfortable in the high teens to low 20s with it layered over a medium-weight long-sleeve top.

I also value the sensory aspects of wearing the Rainrunnerā€”unlike many jackets with a DWR treatment, this one is quiet and smooth, not crinkly, against the skin. The cuffs, which stay in place while allowing easy watch peeking, were obviously designed by runners. The slim-but-not-constraining fit worked well for my slight frame, especially on windy runs.

Bottom line: Exceptional performance for the price, in an athletic fit

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Also Good: Outdoor Research Shadow Wind Hoodie ($129)

Outdoor Research says this new offering ā€œprovides light water resistance.ā€ Theyā€™re being too modest. I wore the Shadow Wind Hoodie in a high-30s downpour just to see how long it would keep me dry. After 75 minutes, Iā€™d had enough of such weather for the morning, but the jacket hadnā€™t. The little bit of moisture on the long-sleeve top I wore underneath was only from sweat, because I had pampered myself with too warm of a shirt. Also, there was a clear demarcation between the dry upper few inches of my tights that the jacket covered, and the wet remainder below.

The Shadow Wind Hoodie was also top-notch on dry runs. When worn over a light to medium long-sleeve top, it kept me comfortable down to temperatures in the low 20s. As with the Goldwin jacket, itā€™s more generously sized than some running-specific jackets. I never felt constrained by its slightly long, loose drape. That fit, along with a good rendering of details like the pocketing (two hand, one chest) and the stowable hood, make it a good choice for non-running activities as well.

Bottom line: A surprisingly protective shell at a bargain price

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Meet Our Tester

Scott Douglas

I started running as a middle schooler in 1979 and have done more than 125,000 miles since. I was pretty good decades agoā€”30:48 10K, 68:40 half marathonā€”but have always run primarily because I love it. I run every day unless Iā€™m injured, and I always run outside, either despite or because of living in Maine. Even a slippery, sloppy, snowy run is more enjoyable to me than waiting out the time on a treadmill. Now in my late 50s, I run about 3,000 miles a year and am most drawn to trail ultras these days. Iā€™m fortunate to be able to combine my love of running with my professional life. Iā€™ve held senior editorial positions at Runnerā€™s World and elsewhere, and have written or co-written several popular running books, including .

Correction March 7, 2024: An earlier version of this article incorrectly named the Goldwin Pertex Shield Air Mountaineering Jacket as PFAS-free. The current version is not PFAS-free, but the company says that all of its products will be PFAS-free by 2025.

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Over the past year, Iā€™ve run more than 3,000 miles while testing more than 300 pieces of apparel from more than 50 brands. Temperatures during this testing have ranged from negative-15 to the low 90s with high humidity. I also ran regularly in rain, snow, and sleet of varying intensity. Itā€™s fair to say that few people have recently done more widespread run-apparel testing.

One of my main focuses while testing has been value. By ā€œvalueā€ I donā€™t mean ā€œas inexpensive as possible.ā€ Runners who skimp on apparel often pay the price in terms of unnecessary discomfort and having to frequently replace cheaply made items. I think of value as a subjective assessment of performance, quality of construction, durability, versatility, and looks in relation to price. Itā€™s with that standard in mind that Iā€™ve pulled together this list of some of the best current values in running apparel, from head to toe. Because my testing has mostly been for menā€™s apparel reviews, apologies in advance for the two items below that arenā€™t offered in a womenā€™s version.

Tracksmith Prospect Beanie ($42)

Iā€™ve gifted this hat to a few friends, all of whom have said some version of, ā€œItā€™s too nice to wear running.ā€ The thing is, you donā€™t have to choose. The ribbed, two-ply design feels and looks great in daily life whenever a hat is warranted. But itā€™s also my top headwear pick for runs in temperatures in the 30s and below. The fit is snug and cozy without feeling too tight. And thanks to its 100% merino construction, it doesnā€™t absorb sweat odors until after several runs, meaning that you can resume wearing it for less intense pursuits as soon as itā€™s dry.

Path Projects Andes AD Tank Top ($42)

The Andes is one of the best singlets Iā€™ve ever owned, but it costs no more than ho-hum tank tops. Its 90% polyester/10% spandex fabric has an interior texture and ventilating holes that keep it breathing even when itā€™s saturated with sweat. The fit is close but not tight, thereby eliminating both clinging and billowing. The wide shoulder straps provide a little extra sun cover on road runs and protection from brush snags and bug bites on trail outings. (²Ń±š²Ōā€™s only)

Walter Sky Short Sleeve ($75)

How can a $75 short sleeve tee be a good value? Well, no other shirt Iā€™ve tested matches this oneā€™s combo of year-round performance, comfort, and versatility. I run in it as a standalone for almost half the year and under a pullover shell or over long sleeves in the other months. I wear it in daily life at least as much, whether on its own in the summer or under an overshirt or sweater when it is cooler. Innovative Nuyarn construction (70% merino wool/30% nylon) means more merino fibers are exposed to air than in conventionally made merino tops, leading to less moisture buildup, better wicking and breathability, greater durability, and a superior warmth-to-weight ratio. Itā€™s also softer than any other tee I own, which is why I often sleep in it. (²Ń±š²Ōā€™s only)

Janji Waffleloft Long Sleeve ($88)

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Hereā€™s another top thatā€™s great on intense runs but also looks and feels good when worn during daily life. The waffled fabric (mostly recycled polyester with spandex and eco-friendly modal) keeps you warm but breathes and wicks when you need it to. The just-right fit accommodates multiple usesā€”on its own in mild conditions, over a short-sleeved tee in cooler temps, or under a jacket or pullover in true wintry weather. This is a shirt youā€™ll pack when you want to travel light but be ready for a range of conditions and uses.

Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Merino Hoodie ($85)

Iā€™ve found more uses for this hoodie than any other gear Iā€™ve tested over the past year. On a three-day trip to the Pacific Northwest, I wore it as an outer layer over long sleeves on a sub-freezing run, over a short sleeve tee on a hike in moist, low-50s conditions, to dinner in a pub, and as a blanket and pillow on the plane. I appreciate it on runs when I want to put up the hood and pull down the sleeves at the start but later need nothing more than a breathable long sleeve top. Itā€™s also a great single layer on summer hikes when the bugs are biting. These many uses stem from its thin, light (115 grams per square meter) merino/nylon fabric and a close but yielding fit.

Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket 2.0 ($198)

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This jacket outperforms many other much more expensive competitors. Its 100% ripstop nylon fabric is wind- and waterproof, breathable, and light, all while being free of PFAS (aka ā€œforever chemicalsā€). On one two-hour run in steady cold rain, I stayed warm up top wearing it over a short sleeve tee; when I finished, the shirt was dry except for a small section near my sternum. I also value the sensory aspects of wearing the Rainrunnerā€”unlike many jackets with a durable water repellency treatment, this one is quiet and smooth, not crinkly, against the skin. The cuffs, which stay in place while also allowing easy watch peeking, were obviously designed by runners.

Artilect Eldorado Gloves ($55)

These have become my go-to running gloves for several reasons. At 310 grams per square meter, they keep my hands plenty warm in temperatures down to the low teens, but thanks to the Nuyarn fabric they donā€™t overheat on runs that start in below-freezing temps and end in the low 40s. They have a felt-like feel thatā€™s comfortable for all the snot rocketing and mouth wiping that can accompany winter running. Perhaps best of all on the value front, theyā€™re the most durable merino gloves or mittens Iā€™ve ever owned. Iā€™m so confident in their hardiness that I also wear them while chopping firewood and doing other yard work.

Pressio Elite Shorts ($55 menā€™s, $50 womenā€™s)

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More runners should know about Pressio, which entered the U.S. market in 2023. These 100% recycled polyester shorts are a good example of how the brand combines sustainable manufacturing, high-performance gear, and reasonable pricing. Depending on where you live, you could wear the Elites for most of the yearā€”they breathe and ventilate well in hot, humid weather but are also sufficiently protective in cooler conditions. Seamless hems enhance comfort, while the rear zip pocket adds functionality. For $5 less than the longer versions, Pressio offers a 3ā€-inseam short for men and a 2ā€-inseam short for women.

Minus 33 Wool Flyless Running Tights ($85)

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These no-nonsense leggings were one of the best values in our winter 2024 menā€™s running apparel guide. For less than $100, you get as much quality, comfort, and performance as you would in bottoms costing twice as much. The 85% merino wool/13% nylon/2 % spandex weave is soft but sturdy. Iā€™ve stayed warm in them in sub-zero temperatures, yet havenā€™t overheated in high-40s temps when wearing them for easy runs. The fit of the menā€™s version is loose and comfortable, but not baggy, making the tights a good choice for winter activities other than running. The womenā€™s version is the same cozy-but-not-stifling 235 grams per square fabric, but in a high-waisted yoga leggings style.

Pinebury Mountain Merino Socks ($34)

Pinebury debuted a small collection of made-in-the-U.S. merino tops, socks, and arm warmers in the spring of 2023. Their midweight long-sleeve tee won best layer in our most recent menā€™s winter running guide. Their socks are also superb, and these, their thickest offerings, might be the best. The 70% merino/27% nylon/3% Lycra yarn is plush without negating good underfoot feel on the run. Theyā€™re toasty on cold runs but breathable in milder conditions. Bottom-of-the-calf height adds to their versatility since they work as well in daily life as they do on the run, upping their value, as with many items in this roundup. Adding to the appeal is that they seem indestructible.

The post The 10 Best Values in Running Apparel appeared first on ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Online.

Winter running demands adaptability, from you as well as your apparel. For you, that can mean shifting planned workouts to different days, limiting yourself to several small loops of plowed road, or even, heaven forbid, scratching your run entirely. For your apparel, that means performing well in frequently changing weather, whether thatā€™s day to day, week to week, or from the start to the last few miles of a run.

This winter running apparel guide accounts for all of those winter inevitabilities. Our team of testers put in almost 2,000 miles in every conceivable condition to determine the highest-quality, most versatile winter gear currently available. The 17 items below emerged as stellar in their category.

The Winners at a Glance:

• Editorā€™s Choice: Best Pants: Tracksmith Bislett Pants
• Best Base Layer Top: Pinebury Portland LS Performance Tee
• Best Top For Running and Everyday Life: Appalachian Gear Company 8020 Long Sleeve Tee
• MVP (Most Versatile Piece): Rabbit Cocoon 2.0
• Best Shell: Houdini The Orange Jacket
• Best Heavier Jacket: Fjallraven Keb Fleece Hoodie
• Best Underwear: Tracksmith Brighton Boxers Briefs
• Best Tights: SaySky Blaze+ Long Winter Tights
• Best Leggings: Minus 33 Woolverino Midweight Flyless Running Tights
• Best Thicker Socks: Walter Sky Merino Wool Athletic Sock
• Best Thinner Socks: On Performance High Sock
• Best Neck Gaiter: Skida Snow Tour
• Best Light Hat: Artilect Darkhorse Skully Beanie
• Best Heavy Hat: Ciele Athletics VNT Beanie
• Best Gloves: Soar Winter Gloves
• Best Mittens: Rab Xenon Mitt
• Best Gift: Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Merino Wool Hoodie

The Reviews: Best Winter Running Apparel

Editorā€™s Choice
Best Running Pants: Tracksmith Bislett Pants ($198)

Sizing: XS-XL

Sometimes the greatest isnā€™t the latest.

I bought the Bisletts when they first came out in 2014, and theyā€™ve been my main winter running bottoms since. Iā€™ve tried dozens of other pants and tights since thenā€”including the latest and greatestā€”but none are better. The only real difference between the OG version and the current Bisletts is a thicker drawstring in the newer offering. So, kudos to Tracksmith for not pointlessly tinkering with an already superb product.

Whatā€™s so great about the Bisletts? I consider them do-it-all winter running bottoms. They combine the performance of a tight with the comfort (and modesty) of pants. They have just the right amount of looseness and stretch throughout to move with me no matter the run, from recovery jogs to repeats at 800-meter race pace. The four-way stretch fabric (63 percent nylon/31 percent polyester/6 percent elastane) is soft, wicking, and water-repellant. Iā€™ve worn them comfortably up to temperatures in the mid 40s Fahrenheit, and I turn to them in sub-zero conditions. On brutally cold days, they easily accommodate a pair of briefs and half tights underneath.

I also appreciate the pantsā€™ practical details. The side seam pockets are stealth but are large enough to hold a car fob, credit card, or phone. The side zippers extend to the top of the calf, making it easy to remove or pull on the pants without taking off your shoes on cold days. Full-length lateral reflective piping adds utility.

Yes, the Bisletts are pricey. But consider this: After thousands of miles in all that Maine winters have thrown at them, my pair from 2014 is as good as the Bisletts I got almost a decade later. Thatā€™s my definition of a good value.ā€”Scott Douglas, category manager, lead tester

Best Base Layer Top: Pinebury Portland LS Performance Tee ($108)

Sizing: XS – XXL

If youā€™re a merino wool-lover who hasnā€™t yet experienced Nuyarn, hereā€™s the lowdown: Nuyarn is a two-ply strand of merino spun around a nylon core. Because the yarn isnā€™t twisted, as with standard merino/nylon knits, the merino fibers are better able to insulate and wick. The construction also leads to fabrics with five or more times the durability of conventional merino yarns. This U.S.-made shirt is a great example of what this new wool-nylon technology delivers. At 145 grams per square meter, the Portland Long Sleeve Tee is lighter than most midweight merino tops, but just as warm. The shirt hits at or just below the belt line, with a close but not clingy fit that enhances its breathability. We comfortably wore it as a base layer at temps below freezing and as a solo top into the low 50s Fahrenheit.

Bottom line: A soft but sturdy, light but warm, functional but fashionable staple

Best Top For Running and Everyday Life: Appalachian Gear Company 8020 Long Sleeve Tee ($102)

Sizing: Women’s XS-XL, Men’s S-XXL

No shirt we tested better straddled the divide between great performance on winter runs and comfort and good looks in everyday life. (Great colors!) Steve and I generally wore this top for a few days in our non-running hours, then used it for running for several days before washing. The all-natural-fiber mix of 80 percent alpaca wool and 20 percent Tencel has a slightly heavier feel than most midweight merino wool tops, yet remains soft and non-itchyā€”plus, like merino, it doesnā€™t absorb odors, even after several sweaty runs. The fit is snug enough for the top to work well on its own, but loose enough for it to be worn without constraint over a tighter base layer and to drape well as everyday wear. I watched in wonder on one snowy run as the flakes slowly melted on the shirtā€™s surface, but no external moisture reached my skin.

Bottom line: A true daily life/running hybrid thatā€™s warm, comfortable, and attractive

Sponsor Content
Seirus Men’s Mapped Base Layer Top ($129.99) and Bottom ($119.99)

Crafted with precision, this base layer uses three carefully selected high-performance fabrics to enhance your wear experience. It delivers targeted warmth precisely where you need it mostā€”all while maintaining exceptional breathability in heat-prone zones thanks to the strategically placed Max Wick fabric. To keep you feeling fresh, the Polygiene antimicrobial mesh is positioned in the highest vent areas to ensure breathability. What truly sets this base layer in a league of its own is our exclusive Heatwave heat-reflective technology, where heat reflection and amplification combine as an unmatched powerhouse. Experience the perfect fit and the power of performance on any adventure that comes your way.

MVP: Rabbit Cocoon 2.0 ($125)

Sizing: S-XL

Thatā€™s ā€œMVPā€ as in ā€œmost versatile piece.ā€ If this top were on a track team, it would be the guy whoā€™s not a star in any one event but can run a good 800 meters, hold his own in any relay race, and score a point or two in a field event. The aptly named Cocoon has a soft, loose, built-in turtleneck that can be pulled into a hood, a face mask, or both. The body of the piece is 77 percent polyester/23 percent spandex with a fleece lining and semi-relaxed fit. It performed equally well whether worn as my only top in temperatures around freezing, as an outer layer when temps were in the teens, and as a mid layer on the most bracing Maine mornings.

Bottom line: Versatile top that might be worn in three ways within a week

Best Shell: Houdini The Orange Jacket ($300)

Sizing: XXS – XXL

A $300 jacket from a company named Houdini better have magical qualities, and this one does. Itā€™s soft, breathable, waterproof, and incredibly light (a menā€™s large weighs less than 7 ounces). I returned from one Maine run in heavy snow to find the shirt I had on under the jacket was completely dry. Conversely, on a dry day with temps in the 20s, I could see the sweat that had been wicked to the jacketā€™s exterior, but not feel it inside. The fit is generous enough to accommodate two layers beneath, but close enough to keep the jacket from billowing. This was also the quietest weather-resistant jacket in the test, with weather-resistant exterior treatments. (FYI: The name comes from the jacketā€™s ability to tuck into itself to citrus-fruit size, not from its color. You can also buy The Orange Jacket in black or blue.)

Bottom line: A highly-functional, superlight shell that will make you feel invincible to the weather

Best Heavier Jacket: Fjallraven Keb Fleece Hoodie ($210)

Sizing: XS-XXL

What Fjallraven calls a mid layer for trekking, we call a surprisingly awesome outer layer for winter running. The polyester/wool/elastane blend is warm and breathable without being heavy. The fit is snug but allows full range of motion. The brushed interior provides just the right touch of coddling in the cold. The hood slid perfectly over a hat for the opening minutes of especially cold runs, and stayed put once I flipped it back. Because of the wool, snow melted on the exterior, rather than permeated the tight weave. I wore the Keb comfortably over a light merino long sleeve in single-digit temps. I even got a little toasty on one below-zero-windchill 90-minute run with this as my outer layer. Bonus: It became a staple of my non-running wardrobe once wintry weather receded thanks to its warmth-to-weight ratio and sleek good looks.

Bottom line: A warm zip-up that youā€™ll also want to wear for less strenuous activities in warmer months

Best Underwear: Tracksmith Brighton Boxer Briefs ($48)

Sizing: S-XL

Take it from someone who has endured frostnip down there: Nothing is more important than a good pair of underwear when running in particularly harsh winter weather. Merino wool is a no-brainer for warmth, comfort, and moisture management, but that should be the starting point. Where these Tracksmith boxers shine is the attention to detail. Seamless construction greatly reduces the chances of being rubbed raw and holes developing. Durability is enhanced by the merino/nylon/elastane blend. ā€œThey contour everything really well, nothing feels restricted, but everything feels secure,ā€ Nathan said. I even became a boxers convert, because thereā€™s just the right amount of give in the thigh to provide extra coverage without being constraining. Nathan and I wore these almost daily, from sub-zero temps up into the low 40s.

Bottom line: Supremely comfortable guard against the worst kind of frostbite

Best Tights: SaySky Blaze+ Winter Tights ($156)

Sizing: XS to XL

Of the nearly 15 classic-profile tights we tested, these Danish ones most often hit the Goldilocks just-right mark. Theyā€™re snug but not uncomfortably so, and warm into single-digit temps, but not too hot in the mid 30s. Jonathan noted that, ā€œdespite the thicker weave, the tights didnā€™t affect mobility, breathed nicely when I got sweaty, and provided some comfortable compression. Plus, the soft and warm feel of the interior against my skin helped me get out the door in blizzard conditions.ā€ The external side pockets are great for stashing a hat or gaiter mid-run.

Bottom line: Protective but not restrictive tights that perform well in a wide range of conditions and paces

Best Leggings: Minus 33 Woolverino Midweight Flyless Running Tights ($85)

Sizing: S-XXL

These no-nonsense leggings are one of the best values of any item we tested. For less than $100, you get as much quality, comfort, and performance as you would in bottoms costing twice as much. The 85 percent merino wool/13 percent nylon/2 percent spandex weave is soft but sturdy. ā€œThe fit is loose and comfortable, but not baggy,ā€ Jonathan said. ā€œThey never got in the way, but my legs didnā€™t feel like constrained sausages like they can in tights.ā€ As for performance, I wore them comfortably on the coldest day of our testing, when the windchill wasā€”wait for itā€”minus 33. Yet Jonathan also found them to be breathable up to 50 degrees if not working too hard. Our main wish for improvement is an outer pocket for stashing gloves, a hat, or phone. (Thereā€™s a small internal pocket that can accommodate a credit card or car fob.) But at this price point, itā€™s hard to complain.

Bottom line: Top performance and comfort at a moderate price

Best Thicker Socks: Walter Sky Merino Wool Athletic Sock ($23)

Sizing: Men’s 6-10, Men’s 11-13

It can be tricky to find the right socks for running on really cold days. Your inclination might be to wear the thickest socks you have. But those donā€™t always fit comfortably inside your running shoes. These Nuyarn socks (40 percent merino/20 percent nylon/40 percent Lycra) solve the problem: Extra cushioning in the heel and ball of the foot is offset by a lighter mesh elsewhere to produce a medium-thick fit with an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio. The mid-calf length stays in place throughout runs. These were my go-to socks on the many single-digit-temp-or-colder days of a Maine winter.

Bottom line: Warm enough for the coldest days without confining your feet

Best Thinner Socks: On Performance High Sock ($25)

Sizing: S-XXL

Even when temps arenā€™t bitingly cold, most winter runners appreciate a little extra coverage from their socks. These beauties from On, made of a snug but uber-comfortable 90 percent recycled polyester weave, extend just over the bottom of your calves. They were our top choice for workout days, given that many racing shoes and performance trainers have a closer fit than standard running shoes. They kept our feet plenty warm down into temperatures in the teens. Finally, these are simply great-looking socks, with fun patterns and nice color combos, and we enjoyed showing them off when it came time to run in shorts.

Bottom line: A stay-put, partial-calf-covering sock youā€™ll want to wear year-round

Best Neck Gaiter: Skida Snow Tour ($24)

Sizing: One size

A good gaiter is a godsend. It keeps your neck warm, of course (and therefore the rest of you, thanks to the carotid artery). It can also cover your lower face on especially brutal days, and can convert to a headband or open-top hat on mild days. Skidaā€™s heaviest version is 92 percent polyester/8 percent spandex, with a brushed interior to prevent chafing. We happily wore it in every conceivable way throughout the winter. We also appreciated its UPF 50+ rating and that itā€™s made in Vermont.

Bottom line: Versatile neck chute that can fill many roles over the course of a winter

Best Light Hat: Artilect Darkhorse Skully Beanie ($35)

Sizing: One size

Many runners donā€™t need (or want) a thick, heavy hat for their winter miles. Even those in harsh climes like to have a lighter alternative on moderate days. This beanie kept us comfy in temps to the low 20s, but didnā€™t overheat us on sunny, above-freezing late-winter runs. The fit is dialed inā€”snug, but with just enough give that it doesnā€™t feel like a skull cap. The merino wool/nylon yarn is soft and smooth, quickly moved sweat to the surface for evaporation, and didnā€™t smell even when worn often enough to form salt lines.

Bottom line: Great fit, comfort, and warmth-to-weight ratio in a lightweight lid

Best Heavy Hat: Ciele Athletics VNT Beanie ($75)

Sizing: One size

ā€œThe Ciele thick-ribbed beanie was wonderful,ā€ Nicholas said, after wearing it through a Montana winter. I agree! Made of a 90 percent merino wool/10 percent silk knit, the hat is form-fitting, not bulky, and oh so soft. Nicholas and I felt invincible wearing it in temperatures in the teens and lower. The rib-knit construction has sewn-in vents that kept our heads from getting too hot and sweaty during harder runs. Nicholas described it as ā€œone of the best hybrid items,ā€ that ā€œcan work both as performance wear and something to take to the cafĆ©.ā€ Once again, I agree.

Bottom line: Great-looking, warm watchmanā€™s cap thatā€™s snug without being confining

Best Gloves: Soar Winter Gloves ($50)

Sizing: S, M, L

If your winter running doesnā€™t merit mittens, these might be the only gloves youā€™ll need. The Soar Winter Running Glove has a fleece lining, breathable outer layer, cuffs that extend about an inch past the wrist, and touch screen compatibility. Theyā€™re plenty warm into temps in the low teens, but also not hot into the low 40s. ā€œThe fit is really dialed inā€”yes, even for a gloveā€”and the material is a great match between stretch and soft,ā€ Nathan said. ā€œThey felt like performance gloves and stayed out of the way while keeping my hands warm.ā€

Bottom line: A versatile glove for runners in moderate climates

Best Mittens: Rab Xenon Mitt ($55)

Sizing: XS-XL

These are the best mittens Iā€™ve ever run in. Others that kept my hands warm enough were too bulky for normal arm action, bumping against my hips with each swing, and sometimes got too hot. Those that didnā€™t interfere with my form didnā€™t keep my hands much warmer than gloves would have. The Xenons are the best of both worlds in single-digit-and-below temps. PrimaLoft insulation is covered on the back by a weather-resistant Pertex shield. The smooth, palm-side fabric doesnā€™t irritate when you wipe your face with it. The mittens are pliable enough they can be packed into themselves, and conform comfortably to your hands when you run in them. I also appreciated how the elastic cinch at the wrist seals in warmth while making it easy to pull the remaining inch-plus of the cuff over garments or to peel the cuff back to check my watch.

Bottom line: A light but super-warm, comfortable mitten that allows normal running form

Best Gift: Outdoor Vitals Tern Ultralight Merino Wool Hoodie ($85)

Sizing: ³Ż³§ā€“3³Ż³¢

Our criteria for this category: Something you might not consider a core piece but that, once you have it, you find yourself wearing again and again. This thin, light (115 grams per square meter) Nuyarn top is made of a soft, 58-percent merino wool/42-percent nylon blend. It fits closely but not tightly. Itā€™s great for running, either on its own on mild days or over a long-sleeve top on cooler ones. I also wore it often for daily life, both indoors in the winter or as a light pullover on warm spring days. Whether you gift it to someone else or yourself is up to you.

Bottom line: Who wouldnā€™t love to receive a versatile, high-performing, attractive merino hoodie?

How to Buy

Dressing for winter running can be tricky because of the great range of conditions you can face. Here are some tips on how to focus your wardrobe-gathering efforts.

Love the layers: Think in terms of layers of clothing that will wick sweat (base layer), keep you warm (mid layer), and keep exterior moisture from reaching your skin or block the wind (outer layer). Adjust as necessary for the dayā€™s conditions. Hereā€™s a detailed tutorial on layering.

Shop to your local norms: When I lived in Maryland, I focused on having a good collection of light- to medium-weight tops, and few thick, insulated shirts or jackets. I figured I could cobble together an adequate outfit on the handful of bitterly cold days. Apply that principle to whatever is typical for your winter running weather, rather than, for example, getting a blizzard-ready jacket or superlight gloves that youā€™ll wear only a few times a year.

Invest in quality: If possible, be willing to spend more up front for top-quality construction and fabrics. Ultimately, youā€™ll save money by having apparel thatā€™s as good as new after several years instead of frequently buying replacements because more cheaply made ones keep developing holes or falling apart at the seams. Also, higher-quality materials will feel and perform better, and isnā€™t your running worth that?

Consider your colors: Many winter running pieces are dark, in part because they better absorb the warmth from weak sunlight. Dark colors also help you stand out in areas with months of roadside snow. But winter running can also mean more miles in the dark. If thatā€™s what your schedule requires, look for apparel with reflective elements.

And once youā€™ve shopped: Dress for how warm youā€™ll be 15 minutes into your run. Itā€™s better to be a little chilly for a little while than too warm for too long. An exception: If youā€™re planning to run for less than half an hour on a miserable weather day, pamper yourself and overdress if thatā€™s what it takes to get out the door.

How We Tested

• Number of testers: 7
• Number of brands tested: 44
• Number of items tested: 135
• Number of testing miles: 1905
• Lowest testing temperature: -15 Fahrenheit
• Lowest testing wind chill: -33 Fahrenheit

We assembled a band of dedicated runners spread over a wide range of winter climatesā€”Chicago, Seattle, coastal Maine, the mountains of Montana, the high plains of Nebraska, upper Minnesota, and the middle of Maryland. (Sorry to our comrades in New Orleans, but ā€œThis might be one of the five days a year I need long sleevesā€ wasnā€™t the testing weather we were looking for.)

Our testers had a simple charge: Do as much of your running outside in this gear as possible. Be willing to get cold, wet, iced-over, and windblown. Report back on which pieces kept you the most comfortable while not interfering with your running form.

Versatility and durability were focal points. The items below performed exceptionally well in a great range of conditions and showed little to no signs of wear, which means you can wear them more often and have to buy fewer pieces.

While this is a running-focused review, many of our winners are great for non-running activities. Whether that non-running use comes in intense winter activities like skiing or climbing, or for more leisurely pursuits, every new use adds chits in the value and versatility score of the apparel.

Meet the Testers

Scott Douglas, Lead Tester:

I started running as a middle schooler in 1979 and have done more than 125,000 miles since. I was pretty good decades agoā€”30:48 10K, 68:40 half marathonā€”but have always run primarily because I love it. I run every day unless Iā€™m injured, and I always run outside, either despite of or because of living in Maine. Even a slippery, sloppy, snowy run is more enjoyable to me than waiting out the time on a treadmill. In my late 50s, I run about 3,000 miles a year and am now most drawn to trail ultras.

Iā€™m fortunate to be able to combine my love of running with my professional life. Iā€™ve held senior editorial positions at Runnerā€™s World and elsewhere, and have written or co-written several popular running books, including Advanced Marathoning, Meb for Mortals, Running is My Therapy, and Strong Minds.

Our Other Testers Were:

Jonathan Beverly: Senior running gear editor for ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų, 40+ years running, lives in western Nebraska

Nathan Brown: Doctor of physical therapy and head of Pineries Running Lab, lives in Wisconsin

Greg Crowther: College instructor in anatomy and physiology, winner of JFK 50-miler and other ultras, lives in Washington

Steve Kartalia: Two-time Olympic Trials qualifier, 40+ years running, lives in Maryland

Matt Krecun: Marathoner since the 1990s, 3:31 at 2023 Boston at age 51, lives in Illinois

Nicholas Triolo: Senior editor for ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų and Trail Runner, lived in Montana during winter testing

The post The Best ²Ń±š²Ōā€™s Winter Running Apparel 2024 appeared first on ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Online.

Runners have many ways to reduce their environmental impact, including racing locally, , and wearing gear until itā€™s no longer functional. When itā€™s time to buy new apparel, common advice is to seek sustainable materials like merino wool and bamboo. But thereā€™s another, increasingly available optionā€”running clothes made primarily of recycled materials.

Recycled-material running apparel is mostly made from recycled polyester. According to the , which compares the environmental impact of different materials, recycled polyester produces 76% less emissions and uses 82% less water per kilogram than virgin polyester, on average. The constituents of recycled polyester can vary. For example, the Goldwin shirt I tested is made of , a material created from used polyester fiber waste and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles. The recycled polyester in the Brooks singlet is made solely from recycled PET bottles (six of them). The Patagonia shorts are made almost entirely of plastic bottles before they wash into the ocean.

How We Tested

To see how these offerings work for warm-weather running, I did more than 600 miles in them over the past few months. My selection filter was that each tested piece needed to be made of at least a majority of recycled materials. My testing filter was both more subjective and more exacting: Is this gear worth running in regardless of its save-the-world credentials? After all, there are a growing number of running shoes with recycled or plant-based materials. But theyā€™re inferior to ā€œnormalā€ running shoes, and few runners are willing to sacrifice performance and comfort just to accommodate greener materials. So I was curious whether mostly recycled shirts, singlets, and shorts perform, fit, feel and measure up to non-recycled summer running gear.

Of the 35 items I tested, I kept returning to 11. Others didnā€™t make the cut because of turn-offs such as feeling too rubbery, not wicking well, or clinging too much even when dry. (Donā€™t worry, Iā€™ve donated, not discarded, these pieces.) Here are my brief thoughts on the 11 pieces that are at least as good as the rest of my warm-weather running attire.

Short-Sleeve Shirts

Goldwin Quick Dry Tee ($105)

Material: 100% recycled polyester

This is an accurately named shirtā€”on running clothes laundry day, itā€™s always the first piece to dry. Because I sweat heavily, I was dubious that the shirtā€™s double-faced construction would work for me on warm runs. But it wicks well, and the inner polyester layer doesnā€™t cling. The antibacterial properties of the interior material also seem legit. After three consecutive sweaty runs, I could still pull it on without shuddering at the odor.

Helly Hansen Lifa Active Solen Tee ($60)

Material: 60% recycled polyester/40% polypropylene

Thereā€™s a lot going on in this seemingly plain-looking shirt. The two-ply construction includes an interior of Lifa, one of the first patented wicking materials. Used coffee grounds are infused into the fabric to provide chemical-free UPF 50+ protection. The shirtā€™s softness and wicking had me reaching for this shirt when I should have been testing others. Its fit, weight, sun protection, and appearance make it a good crossover shirt for other outdoor summer activities.

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Rabbit Jog Tee ($50)

Material: 94% recycled polyester/6% spandex

Donā€™t let the name deter you if you are averse to the ā€œJā€ word. The Jog Tee can handle long, hard runs as well as most other high-quality shirts. The fit is tailored, but the shirt still flows and breathes once you start sweating. The fabric is thin and airy enough to see through if you hold it up to the light. I also appreciated its looksā€“the thin horizontal stripes and subdued colors of the style I tested donā€™t scream ā€œrunning nerd.ā€

SaySky Clean Combat Tee ($62)

Material: 100% recycled polyester

Danish brand SaySky continues to impress me with its apparel made by runners for runners. This is a workhorse shirt, soft and comfortable on easy runs in cooler weather and great at moisture management on longer and harder outings. Wicking is enhanced by an interior mini-waffle pattern. It stretches enough to not cling but not so much that it flops or hangs too low. SaySky offers a singlet of the same constitution and heft.

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Singlets

Brooks Atmosphere Singlet 2.0 ($40)

Material: 76% recycled polyester/15% polyester/9% elastane

A trait of a good piece of running apparel is that you donā€™t think about it while getting in your miles. That was my experience with the Atmosphere 2.0. Itā€™s a classic non-mesh singlet that just happens to be made primarily of recycled materials. The fit hits a nice middle ground between snug and loose. The fabric feels soft and does a decent job of wicking. Bonus: It has a UPF 50+ coating.

La Sportiva Tracer Tank ($45)

Material: 100% recycled polyester

The Tracer is a true tank top, with holes cut close to the armpits. If youā€™re not a particularly heavy sweater, that shouldnā€™t be a problem on hot, muggy days. If you, like me, lose a few pounds just stepping out the door on a hot day, you might find the relative lack of upper-body ventilation a drawback in such conditions. The fabric has an almost silk-like comfortable feel. I enjoyed the Tracer most on easy runs in low humidity and temperatures below 80 Fahrenheit.

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Saucony Elevate Sleeveless ($35 men’s/$45 women’s)

Material: 100% recycled polyester

This was the best singlet I tested for super sweaty days. It has a mesh construction throughout, with the back mesh holes being much bigger than that in the front, that greatly aids sweat evaporation. The singlet drapes loosely without billowing, which adds to performance and comfort on hot, humid runs. (Despite the ā€œsleevelessā€ name implying its akin to a muscle tee, the arm openings are wide, as you would expect from a traditional singlet.) This piece is an excellent bargain.

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Shorts

Janji AFO Middle Short ($64)

Material: 88% recycled polyester/12% elastane

Janjiā€™s bestselling short is full of features but has a barely-there feel on the run. A micromesh waistband with exterior ties sits atop the light, breathable body. The rear zip pocket has a convenient pull string and is large enough to hold most phones (if thatā€™s your thing). Thereā€™s also a small, secure pocket in the front top of the liner, good for stashing a car key fob. Overall, these are an exemplar of a modern everyday running short.

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Patagonia Strider Pro 5ā€ short ($79 womenā€™s/$85 menā€™s)

Material: 90% recycled polyester/10% elastane

These are one of the best shorts Iā€™ve worn in my 44 years of running. So itā€™s great that theyā€™re eco-friendly because Iā€™d be raving about them regardless. Everything about them hits a Goldilocks, just-right noteā€”the weight and feel of the shell fabric, the fit, weight, length, and comfort of the liner brief, and even the pocketing (one rear central zip, and a stealth slot on each back hip). Only when the dew point was above 70 Fahrenheit did the outer layer get saturated enough to cling.

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Pressio Elite 3ā€ short ($50)

Material: 100% recycled polyester

U.K.-based Pressio entered the U.S. market earlier this year. It aims to combine sustainable manufacturing with high-performance gear. Iā€™ve run in several of their winter and summer pieces and have been impressed with all of them, including these shorts. Theyā€™re the lightest ones I tested. The length, ventilation, and breathability made them my go-to for hard workouts and, on particularly humid days, long runs, when I valued less material clinging to my thighs.

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Salomon Cross 7ā€ short ($45)

Material: 100% recycled polyester

These shorts made me reconsider my 5-inch-inseam cap. Unlike most longer shorts Iā€™ve tried, the Cross 7ā€s have a reasonable thigh circumference and a pleasingly light body. A thin, separate band of material atop the waistband helps to anchor the shorts and relieve abdominal pressure. The micromesh liner helps to keep things cool. The length also makes these shorts a good choice for trails, if you tend to favor more coverage in that environment.

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Itā€™s often said that running shoes are specialized tools. The best ones for racing a 5K probably arenā€™t also great for exploring trails or doing an easy long run on the roads. ā€œThe right tool for the jobā€ has certainly been my shoe-selection method for the 125,000 miles Iā€™ve run over the last 40-plus years.

While there isnā€™t one shoe that handles every situation perfectly, thereā€™s something to be said for do-it-all shoesā€”ones that work well at nearly all paces and on nearly all surfaces. Maybe you canā€™t afford to buy three pairs of shoes at once. Maybe youā€™re a minimalist who wants to keep your gear shed simple. Or maybe youā€™re about to go on vacation for a week and donā€™t want to pack four pairs of running shoes.

Even those of us who own a variety of models value a shoe that feels good on several surfaces and at different paces. After all, most of us donā€™t regularly drive to parks to run, or have trails out our back door. Similarly, as access to tracks gets increasingly scarce, we appreciate a shoe thatā€™s responsive enough to wear for hard workouts on roads or bike paths, but protective enough for the warm-ups and cooldowns that sandwich those workouts.

Over the past year, I tested 10 shoes with potential as standout do-it-all models. These shoes arenā€™t marketed as one-stop-shopping, crossover models; their versatility is an added-value bonus. Four showed enough promise that I put in at least 200 miles on each. I wore them for every type of run on every type of surface available to me: asphalt, dirt roads, New England forest trails full of roots and rocks, crushed gravel paths, packed snow, and outdoor tracks. Here are my picks for the best do-it-all shoes, in descending order of preference on my admittedly subjective scale.

Brooks Hyperion Max ($170)

This was a clear overall winner in my test because of its ability to do everything well. I enjoyed it more than any of the others for every type of run and on every surface.

Disregard the ā€œmaxā€ part of this shoeā€™s name if you associate that word with copious amounts of cushioning. With stack heights of 34 millimeters in the heel and 26 millimeters in the forefoot, this is a medium-height shoe by current standards. Brooks markets it as a lightweight trainer (6.7 ounces in a womenā€™s size 8, 7.5 ounces in a menā€™s size 9) for fast road running. It certainly shines in that regard. But itā€™s also great for, well, pretty much everything. I enjoyed it on workaday hour-long ā€œnormalā€ runs, short hill repeats, two-hour trail outings, tempo runs, and short recovery jogs.

The nitrogen-infused midsole is firm but not harsh (and after 300 miles feels the same as it did after 30). The rockered geometry encourages good turnover but doesnā€™t force you into an unfamiliar rhythm or gait. The woven upper combines with the rest of the shoe to provide a surprisingly stable platform on even muddy trails. Iā€™ll keep buying this shoe as long as Brooks makes it. (Which means, with my luck, it will be discontinued next month.)

Ģż

Skechers Razor 4 ($135)

It should no longer be surprising that Skechers makes top-quality running shoes; theyā€™ve been doing so since 2011. This shoeā€™s predecessor, the Razor 3, was an all-time favorite: I used it for everything, even though it was billed as a lightweight trainer/racer hybrid. Its one shortcoming? Its outsole lasted less than 200 miles.

The Razor 4 has significantly better durability, and while I find running in it a little less fun than I did the Razor 3, itā€™s still excellent. Itā€™s also a better do-it-all option for most runners. At 6.4 ounces in a womenā€™s size 8 and 8 ounces in a menā€™s size 9, itā€™s still light, but less minimal than the Razor 3 (which weighed less than 7 ounces in most menā€™s sizes). The stack heights (30 millimeters in the heel, 26 millimeters in the forefoot) are a little higher. Perhaps most significantly, the midsole, made from treated TPU beads, is softer and springier, making it more forgiving for daily use, and it doesnā€™t feel stiffer when temperatures are in the teens or colder.

For me, the Razor 4ā€™s ride is enjoyable at everyday pace, excellent at tempo-run pace, and acceptable down to 5K pace. Once I go much faster than that, the midsoleā€™s bounciness detracts from an efficient turn-over. Still, itā€™s more than adequate for short bouts of faster running, such as striders. The Razor 4 is also a great choice for long runs. I experienced no shoe-related fatigue, and the midsole and structure worked with my form to keep me moving well as I tired. That was true on road-only long runs as well as ones with lots of trail sections, where the small forefoot lugs in the Goodyear rubber outsole provided surprisingly good traction.

Ģż

Puma Velocity Nitro 2 ($120)

This Puma model is an underappreciated value. Iā€™ve had two pairs that each lasted for more than 500 miles. I retired the first pair only because the left heel counter had lost too much structure; the midsole and outsole were still in top form.

On foot, they donā€™t feel as heavy as the listed weights (8.1 ounces in a womenā€™s size 8, 9.2 ounces in a menā€™s size 9). Pumaā€™s nitrogen-infused midsole material sits atop a firmer bed of EVA for balanced cushioning. The lighter-than-expected feel and the adaptable midsole configuration combine with moderate stack heights (34 millimeters in the heel, 24 millimeters in the forefoot) to make a true do-it-all trainer. Thereā€™s plenty of cushioning for long runs (Iā€™ve gone up to 34 miles in them) but enough pop for tempo runs and end-of-run pickups. For me, theyā€™re fine for short segments at 5K pace, but after more than two minutes at that effort I start thinking too much about the shoes.

The Velocity Nitro 2 is fantastic for road/trail mash-ups, thanks in part to a surprisingly grippy outsole that keeps you moving over and around trail obstacles but doesnā€™t interfere with good road mechanics. Of the four shoes I tested, itā€™s also simply the most comfortable on the run.

Ģż

Tracksmith Eliot Runner ($198)

Tracksmithā€™s first running shoe is in line with its New England retro prep-inspired clothing line. Thereā€™s nothing flashy about it, just top-quality craftsmanship and materials in an understated aesthetic. The last is fairly straight and tapered. Thereā€™s no dramatic lateral heel bevel, rocker, or adoption of any other current design norms to encourage quicker roll through the gait cycle. At 9.2 ounces in a menā€™s size 9/womenā€™s size 10.5, itā€™s neither superlight nor off-puttingly heavy. The stack heights (33.5 millimeters in the heel, 24.5 in the forefoot) give good ground feel without dipping into minimalist shoe territory. These elements result in a classic daily trainer feel.

The Pebax midsole is on the firm side; the ride is definitely not super bouncy, as you might have come to expect from the super-foam. The removable insole is also made of Pebax, but tuned a little softer. As with much else about the Eliot Runner, the effect is a middle-ground experience, neither too coddling nor too severe. I found the shoe most enjoyable at normal training pace. As with the Puma Velocity Nitro 2, it was fine on tempos and striders, but the weight and structure started to announce themselves more on something like 800-meter repeats at 5K pace.

The full-contact, slightly lugged rubber outsole works well on every surface. My only wish on trails was for a slightly wider platform to absorb lateral movements. The Eliot Runner was superb on packed snow. The thicker-than-average mesh upper is also a winner in winter: It kept my feet warm even in sub-zero temperatures.

Finally, the price. Weā€™re used to more bells and whistles for $200 shoes. A counter-argument is that, if it lasts substantially longer than a $150 model, itā€™s eventually a decent value. As of this writing, I have almost 300 miles on my Eliot Runners. The uppers and overall structure are as good as new, the midsole feels the same, and I have less outsole wear than usual for that many miles. I would be surprised if things rapidly deteriorated over the next couple hundred miles.

The post Four Great Do-It-All Running Shoes for Every Terrain and Workout appeared first on ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Online.

Apparel made of 100 percent merino wool is great for winter activityā€”until it isnā€™t. It insulates, wicks, and dries admirably, as well as mitigates odorsā€”up to the day your fingers pop through the tops of gloves. Or shirts and leggings develop random holes and start opening at the seams. Even your favorite hat might sprout unwanted ventilation spots. Those wardrobe malfunctions can happen suddenly, and often too soon after purchasing.

But now that weā€™re several years into merino gone mainstream, brands have found creative methods to make it more robust. For the last three months Iā€™ve been running, hiking, canoeing, and doing yardwork in cold-weather gear that combines merino with other fabrics to increase durability. Here are five keepers.

Ibex Woolies Tech Long Sleeve 1/4 Zip ($135)

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A key way to improve merinoā€™s durability is to wrap merino fibers around a nylon core. Doing so can increase abrasion resistance by 30 percent or more while maintaining merinoā€™s moisture-wicking magic.

Ibexā€™s quarter-zip baselayer topā€”made of 81 percent merino, 12 percent nylon, and seven percent elastaneā€”is an exemplar of this approach. At 180 grams per square meter (gsm), itā€™s light enough for warmish fall and spring days, but heavy enough to wear throughout the winter. The fit is close, but not so tight that I couldnā€™t wear it as a midlayer over a tee shirt.

Kora Yushu Leggings ($130)

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These super-soft and toasty (230 gsm) leggings blend merino (40 percent) with yak wool (60 percent). The latter has an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio, while merino shoulders the moisture-management work. High-wear areas, such as the crotch, are made stronger by merino thatā€™s spun around a nylon core. The seams, while double-stitched to enhance durability, are flatā€”I experienced no irksome irritations when running in the leggings.

Kora garments fit close to the skin, seemingly no matter how skinny you are. (Iā€™m 5ā€™9ā€, 128 pounds.) They also tend to be long. With a 30-inch inseam, I had a couple of extra inches of leggings to account for, which I rolled up from the bottom.

Tracksmith Brighton Briefs ($48)

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This is my 19th winter as a Maine runner who doesnā€™t do treadmills. Translation: If thereā€™s one piece of non-negotiable, gotta-be-merino apparel for me, itā€™s running underwear. Unfortunately, merino is especially vulnerable to developing tears at seams. All previous briefs Iā€™ve worn for this purpose have quickly disintegrated. I have three pairs ofĢż100 percent merino briefs that are almost literally hanging by a thread from the waistband.

These Tracksmith briefs avoid that drawback with a seamless construction. Durability is also enhanced by the 66 percent merino, 32 percent nylon, two percent elastane blend. Iā€™ve run as long as 34 miles in them and can pay them the ultimate compliment: I forgot I had them on.Tracksmith also makes a boxer version for men.

Artilect Eldorado Gloves ($55) and Walrus Beanie ($40)

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I became a Nuyarn devotee over the summer, when I learned how this innovative merino construction performs so much better in heat than conventional merino. Now that itā€™s winter, Iā€™m appreciating other Nuyarn attributes, including its warmth-to-weight ratio and durability.

Nuyarn is an ingredient brand a la Gore-Tex fabric or BOA lacing systems. As with many other blends, Nuyarn consists of merino fibers spun around a nylon core. But thereā€™s a crucial difference: In most treatments, single-ply merino fibers are twisted into a rope-like structure. But because merino fibers arenā€™t of uniform length, they donā€™t always align perfectly. This can lead to thin areas that are susceptible to abrasion. In contrast, Nuyarn is a two-ply yarn that isnā€™t twisted. In abrasion tests that simulate repeated wear, Nuyarn fabrics have had five or more times the durability of conventional merino yarns.

Over the years, merino gloves and mittens have frustrated me even more than merino underwear. Few have survived even one winter of snot rocketing, drip catching, mouth wiping, wet-mid-run-removal tugging, and all the other abuse that accompanies hours outside in the cold. Artilectā€™s Eldorado gloves, which Iā€™ve also used for extensive yardwork, appear up to the durability challenge. And they also perform fantastically in temperature management. My hands have stayed warm when temps were in the teens, thanks to the gloves being a hardy 310 gsm, yet didnā€™t overheat when I wore them on runs where the temperature climbed into the high 40s.

Merino hats are also frequently underwhelming. Iā€™m a heavy sweater whose hats can get soaked even in sub-freezing weather; a few errant tugs can lead to moist merino ripping. Iā€™ve had no such issues with this 250-gsm, waffleknit beanie. As with Artilectā€™s gloves, it quickly dissipates perspiration and remains comfortable in a huge temperature range.

The post I Finally Found Merino Winter Gear That Doesnā€™t Fall Apart in a Year appeared first on ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Online.

Iā€™ve been a merino wool evangelizer for more than 20 years. You simply canā€™t beat the fiberā€™s combination of warmth to weight, moisture management, comfort, odor resistance, and sustainabilityĢżfor most outdoor activities during most of the yearā€”but not all of the year, for me.

Iā€™m a runner who sweats like crazy. I can lose five of my 130 pounds on an easy hour-long summer run, leave puddles when I wring out socks and singlets, and endure squishy-foot as I log miles. (If you have to ask, this is when your shoes are so soaked each foot strike is audible. And if you have to ask, ignorance is bliss).

When you sweat this much, merino isnā€™t a viable hot-weather option. The fibers saturate quickly, and your top just clings to you, eliminating the breathability thatā€™s usually a top merino attribute.

Or so I thought. For the past two months Iā€™ve been running almost exclusively in short-sleeve shirts made with , an innovative merino fabric from New Zealand that hit the market in 2014 and overcomes that sopping, sagging cling. Iā€™ve stayed as or more comfortable than I would have been running in polyester shirts, while enjoying merinoā€™s other significant virtues. Bonus: Tops that perform so well on summer runs are obvious candidates for less sweaty ventures such as hiking, cycling, canoeing, and chopping wood for next winter.

What makes Nuyarn special?

The yarn in a conventional merino shirt is created using whatā€™s known as ring spinning. This process twists the wool fibers into a single-ply rope-like structure. As a result, only a small fraction of the wool is exposed to air and able to work merinoā€™s moisture-management magic. By way of analogy, picture how much less effectively a paper towel twisted into a rope can mop up liquid, compared to one spread out flat.ĢżRing spinning also makes the fabric vulnerable to holesā€”a frequent frustration for merino fans who have paid a premium for their gearā€”and limits how light it can be. A conventional merino top meant for hot weather has a weight of 150 grams per square meter (gsm).

Nuyarn, in contrast, is a two-ply yarn in which merino fibers are spun around a filament, primarily virgin nylon. (The company is experimenting with using recycled nylon.) The resulting yarn isnā€™t twisted and leaves far more wool exposed to the air.

ā€œIn doing that, we significantly accelerate moisture absorption and dry time, at a lighter weight with higher degrees of elasticity,ā€ says Nuyarn CEO Andy Wynne. Nuyarnā€™s advertising touts the results of independent tests performed in 2020 by , which found that Nuyarn dries five times faster, has 35 percentĢżmore elasticity, provides 35 percent more insulation, and is 50 percentĢżstronger than conventional merino.

Nuyarn merino, according to Wynne, is also more durable than conventionally spun merino. He says that on a , which simulates repeated wear over a fabric, a 180 gsm traditional merino fabric will develop a hole after about 14,000 abrasions, compared to 70,000 for a typical Nuyarn product, and as high as 114,000 for the Artilect shirt found below, even though the Nuyarn samples are all much lighter than 180 gsm. ā€œFor us, durability equals sustainability,ā€ Wynne says.

Nuyarn is an ingredient brand, akin to Gore-Tex fabric or BOA lacing systems, rather than one that sells its own apparel. Wynne says he wants the company to stick to its core competencies rather than do it all and have to deal with, say, marketing and warehousing a bunch of shirts for next spring.

Sweat Testing

I wore five shirts made of Nuyarn during two hot months, putting in between four and 25 running hours in each, and was continually astounded by the ability they gave me to run comfortably in merino tee shirts in summery weather.

Yes, if it was hot and/or humid enough, the shirts would get what Artilect founder Trent Bush calls ā€œoverloadedā€ (I call it ā€œwring-out-while-running wet.ā€)ĢżBut the same would have been true in my usual polyester singlets. And, unlike conventional merino tops, the Nuyarn shirts didnā€™t cling when soaked. They still breathed and flowed; the sweat I produced could achieve its purpose of cooling me. I also appreciated the extra protection from the sun and biting flies that shirts gave me compared to singlets.

There was a limit to my experiments, though. Above 85 degreesā€”at least East Coast humid 85 degreesā€”I valued extra airflow enough to don a polyester singlet. Note to brands: Produce a featherweight Nuyarn singlet with wide armholes, and Iā€™ll be your customer for life.

I canā€™t yet report on durability, but the shirts I tested lived up to their promised quick drying times and odor resistance. I ran in one every day for a week and washed it only because I needed to flesh out a laundry load. It bore no olfactory evidence of my having sweated heavily in it for more than 10 hours. The shirts dried in about half the time my polyester singlets did after soaked-through-and-through runs.

The tops below are all fantastic at keeping you cool. All are 100% Nuyarn fabric, which is always a mix of merino and nylon. Their construction varies in terms of what that merino/nylon balance is, as well as their gsm weight. Hereā€™s a little more detail on each.

Artilect Sprint Tee

At 115 gsm, this wasnā€™t the lightest shirt I tested, but for the purpose of running in heat, it was my favorite. The overall combination of weight, feel, fit, and elasticity was perfect for me. Also, Iā€™m shallow, and give extra points for the fabulous A/CID yellow color of the one I ran in. Its cut is on the slim side, but nothing like a body-hugging Under Armour top. Reflective piping adds to its utility.

Black Diamond Rhythm Tee

This is the lightest widely available Nuyarn top. Its 95 gsm is a little more than half the weight of a standard merino shirt, making it an obvious choice if ā€œas light as possibleā€ is your primary criterion. It has a barely there feel against the skin and can be seen through when held up to light, but stood up to wear without snagging or losing its shape.

Kuiu Ultra Crew Tee

Kuiu is primarily a hunting brand, but you wouldnā€™t know it by how well this 120 gsm top performed on muggy runs. Thatā€™s not surprising: In 2014, Kuiu was the first brand to sell apparel made of Nuyarn. This shirt is a good candidate for a do-it-all, unflashy base layer.

Trew Lightweight Pocket Tee

This was the longest and widest shirt I tested, making it a good choice for taller, more muscular body types than mine. Itā€™s a light 120 gsm with 70 percent merino, 30 percent nylon. Thereā€™s also a pocketless version.

Wuru Merino Short Sleeve Tee

Of the shirts I tested, this one feels most like traditional merino top, while lighter at 125 gsm with 85 percent merino, 15Ģżpercent nylon. It hits just below the waist, a comfortable length many people prefer for running and other high-output activities. Itā€™s the only one I tested thatā€™s made in the United States (using, of course, imported Nuyarn fabric).

The post I Finally Found Merino Shirts I Can Run in When Itā€™s Hot and Humid appeared first on ŗŚĮĻ³Ō¹ĻĶų Online.

Puma Liberate Nitro Review

If you need more evidence that weā€™re in a golden age of running shoes, look no farther than the Puma Liberate Nitro. The lightweight trainer in Pumaā€™s welcome return to performance running offers soft but responsive cushioning, great ground feel and traction, and excellent durability, and it does so for $20 to $40 less than most comparable models.

The Stats

The Good Stuff

As of this writing, Iā€™ve put 180 miles on the Liberate. Not once did I find myself a few miles into a run wishing Iā€™d chosen otherwise. For those of us who gravitate toward lightweight trainers, the Liberate is an exemplar of the form. Itā€™s light and low enough that you feel the ground, and the next-gen midsole foam has good pop.

But that midsole also provides plenty of bouncy cushion. This isnā€™t a shoe that asks you to trade protection for performance. The midsole foam is soft to the touch, and nicely accommodates heel landings at any pace. The ride firms up as you transition to toe-off. One result is that the 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop isnā€™t as noticeable as is the case in many other models with a similar construction.

Despite lacking a traditional heel counter, the Liberate is acceptably stable. Thereā€™s a small, unobtrusive TPU bar that juts out parallel to the ground from the back bottom of the heel; Puma says this is for added stability. The low-to-the-ground construction, nearly full-length outsole, and lack of a rocker also contribute to stability throughout the gait cycle without introducing rigidity.

Fit:

The monomesh upper is pretty far along the performance end of the spectrum (read “snug”) ā€” this is definitely not an Altra or Topo foot-shaped construction. That said, my wide forefeet never found the fit constraining or pinching. The taper at the front of the shoe happens after where most peopleā€™s metatarsals will sit inside the shoe. I was always able to get a good lockdown with my normal runnerā€™s-knot lacing.

The upper also deserves praise for performing well in a wide range of conditions, from humid and 90Ā°FĢżto unseasonably cool and damp to hard rain. It neither trapped heat nor retained moisture, whether that moisture came from my feet, the sky, or puddles on trails.

Versatility:

Puma presents the Liberate as best for tempos, races, and short runs. I think theyā€™re underselling. Iā€™ve worn the Liberate pleasurably on two-hour runs, track workouts, short recovery jogs, road tempos, and workaday hour outings. I took only the Liberate on a long weekend getaway that featured consecutive days of 10 miles on asphalt with 40 minutes of tempo intervals, 90 minutes easy on forest trails, and 10 miles steady on a crushed-gravel rail-trail. The shoes were equally effective and enjoyable at these different efforts on varying terrain.

If you prefer to wear slightly more sturdy shoes on your easy days and long runs, the Liberate can still handle everything else. Theyā€™re a great example of a shoe that can be worn for the warm-ups and cooldowns that sandwich harder efforts. At 6.3 ounces in a menā€™s size 9, theyā€™re as light as many racing flats, while still providing protection and an outsole that corners exceptionally.

Durability:

The photo above shows the Liberateā€™s outsole after 180 miles. Thereā€™s slight wear on the lateral heel where I make contact, and even slighter wear up front where I toe off. Otherwise, the outsole, midsole, and upper look and feel exactly as they did on my first run in the shoes. The Liberate appears to have well-above-average durability, making them that much more of a deal for the relatively modest $110 price tag.

Room For Improvement

I can think of little negative to say about the Liberate (not counting the love-it-or-hate-it fire truck red of the ones I tested). For runners who are used to lightweight trainers, perhaps the biggest drawback is that some will want a little more heel/ankle stability. Because of the flexibility of the materials in the area, the Liberate is going to have some looseness around the top of the heel/ankle collar, no matter how tightly you tie the laces. This wasnā€™t really a problem for me, but could be if you have a fair amount of heel pronation and/or exceptionally thin ankles.

The biggest issue with the Liberate could have nothing to do with the shoe itself. Puma has entered and left the performance running market a few times in the past 30 years. The Liberate and the are as good as any other brandā€™s current offerings. Hereā€™s hoping Puma keeps them around long enough for the shoes to gain the following they deserve ā€” they’ve said they are back in with both feet, and if the quality of their product is any indication, we believe them.Ģż

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