The best type of winter footwear varies dramatically depending on the environment. But whether you’re trudging through feet of snow to collect firewood or simply walking your dog on a chilly afternoon, the right set of duds makes all the difference. Our test crew of six women and four men tried 38 pairs of boots, from thick, farm-ready mucks to fashion-forward Chelseas in foul winter weather across the country. These eight picks rose to the top.

At a Glance

• Best Overall: Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal Chelsea Boot ($265)
• Most Durable: L.L. Bean Shearling-Lined 8” Bean Boot ($289)
• Best Casual ˛Ńąđ˛Ô’s Boot: Bogs Arcata Urban Chelsea ($150)
• Best Casual °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Boot: Forsake Lucie Chelsea ($135)
• Best ˛Ńąđ˛Ô’s Boot for Outdoor Chores: Bogs Bozeman Tall Boots ($160)
• Best °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Boot for Outdoor Chores: Bogs Whiteout Faded Boots ($160)
• Best for Deep Snow: L.L. Bean Snow Boots ($149)
• Best Traction: Icebug Pace3 BUGrip GTX ($230)
• Other Products We Tested
• How to Choose a Winter Boot
• How We Test
• Meet Our Testers

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 Overall

Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal Chelsea Boot

Size Range: 4-13 (men’s), 6-11 (women’s)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Classic Chelsea boot style
⊕ Fully waterproof
⊕ Grippy Vibram soles
⊗ Tight fit around the heel
⊗ Hard to pull on and off

This winterized version of Blundstone’s classic Chelsea boot was an instant favorite. Several testers commented on how happily surprised they were that these boots are truly waterproof right out of the box thanks to a sealed latex seams and a special tanning process—not always the case with leather footwear.

Minnesota-based tester Stephanie Pearson wore these all winter through snow, ice, dirt, and slush. “They fare well in every condition I’ve tried them in short of deep snow,” said Pearson, adding that their sleekness was a welcome contrast to the bulky boots she usually needs for winters in Duluth. The grippy Vibram outsole provides adequate traction for moderately slippery conditions like fresh snow and icy patches.

A cozy, removable sheepskin footbed and Thinsulate lining made these comfortable in freezing temps. Our testers in Santa Fe agreed that these are versatile and rugged enough to wear almost every day from November through March. “If these boots weren’t so darn warm, I’d wear them year-round,” said one. And replacing the footbed with a regular insert extends the season through spring.

Most Durable

L.L. Bean Shearling-Lined 8” Bean Boot

Size Range: 7-14 (men’s), 5-11 (women’s)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Comfortable out of the box
⊕ Warm
⊕ Fully-gusseted tongue
⊕ Fully waterproof
⊗ Rubber sole is thin

“There are no boots I trust more,” said one of our testers, who has worn her pair of Bean Boots through nearly a decade of winters between Connecticut, California, Nevada, and New Mexico. We see these duds everywhere, thanks to multiple styles with different linings and shaft heights. The shearling-lined, 8-inch-tall variety—which hasn’t changed in years—is our choice for the most comfortable and rugged of the options.

The Bean Boots are easy to get on and off for mail runs, but comfortable and tough enough for hiking miles in snowy conditions. They require almost no break-in period, thanks to the plush and forgiving shearling lining inside, and the full-grain leather uppers get softer over time for even more comfort. The shearling does eventually pack down, making it less cushy, but we’ve found that takes several years to happen even with heavy use—and you can buy replacement insoles from L.L. Bean.

These boots are on the wide side, but the lacing system allows you to tie them down snugly, so most testers found they fit well regardless of foot shape.

Best Casual ˛Ńąđ˛Ô’s Boot

Bogs Arcata Urban Chelsea

Size Range: 7-13 (men’s)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Easy on and off
⊕ Classic Chelsea style
⊕ Relatively eco-friendly
⊗ Not as warm or snug as others in test

These boots are longtime favorites for the aprés-ski crowd thanks to their combination of style, comfort, and practicality. The classic Chelsea aesthetic fits in on city streets and is easy to slip in and out of when you’re balancing on one foot to avoid the parking lot slush. Unlike other boots of this style, these are comfortable from the very first wear—no break-in period required—and have impeccable traction thanks to chunky rubber lugs, which kept us stable on ice and snow but didn’t hold onto mud. A fleece lining keeps feet warm, and the insoles are sweat-wicking, odor-fighting, and relatively eco-friendly thanks to algae-based EVA foam.

Best Casual °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Boot

Forsake Lucie Chelsea

Size Range: 5-11 (women’s)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Low-profile and lightweight
⊕ Sneaker-like comfort
⊕ Classic Chelsea style
⊗ Ankle too low for deep snow

This waterproof, full-grain leather and suede sneaker-boot is low key, classy, and easy to slip on and off. A cushioned EVA midsole and stable rubber outsole offer just enough traction to handle slippery sidewalks and snowbanks. The low profile, light weight, and thick rubber outsole on the Lucie made it comfortable to wear right out of the box. The upper looks fashionable and has an elastic gore for extra stretch around the ankle. And, despite the full leather upper and taped seams, the boots are breathable in warmer temps—I wear mine year-round in Santa Fe. Our testers favored these for everyday wear in mild conditions, especially when they knew they’d be walking far on dry ground since the ankle is too low to handle deep snow.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT BY PUBLIC LANDS
Timberland Men’s Britton Roads Mid Lace-Up Waterproof Boots ($189.99)

From shoveling the driveway and walking the dog to tailgating in the ski area parking lot, the Timberland Men’s Britton Roads Mid Lace-Up Waterproof Boots will be your go-to all season long. Stay dry thanks to the Waterproof Premium TimberlandÂŽ Leather upper and a TimberDry waterproof membrane. Keep feet comfortable with the TimberCush comfort system and OrthoLiteÂŽ Impressions memory foam footbed. And easily slip them on with the no-fuss, lace-up style. A ReBOTL fabric lining containing 50% recycled PET plastic and EVA midsole round out this durable, versatile boot.

Best ˛Ńąđ˛Ô’s Boot for Outdoor Chores

Bogs Bozeman Tall Boots

Size Range: 7-14 (men’s)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Durable
⊕ Extremely warm
⊕ Waterproof and breathable
⊕ Stretchy inner bootie
⊗ Overkill for casual wear

“Muck boots at their finest,” gushed naturalist and polar expedition guide Benjamin Shulman, who says these quickly replaced his previous go-to boots for working in deep snow, ice-cold water, or slushy mud. Shulman praised the way the stretchy inner liner and EVA footbed cupped his heels—“no blisters in sight!”—and provided comfortable, stable underfoot support for walking long distances. The thick rubber outsole kept testers safe from sharp rocks, ice, and water seepage. While this boot is rated to a somewhat untestable -72 degrees Fahrenheit, we can confirm happy toes at the zero-degree mark. And despite the thick, seven-millimeter neoprene shaft that goes all the way up the calves, they’re also easy to pull on and off thanks to handles at the top of the shaft.

Best °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Boot for Outdoor Chores

Bogs Whiteout Faded Boots

Size Range: 6-12 (women’s)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Extremely warm
⊕ Waterproof and breathable
⊕ Fleece lining for extra coziness
⊗ Overkill for casual wear

Like the Bozeman Tall, the Whiteout Faded is built with seven millimeters of waterproof insulation to reliably protect feet through deep snow, slush, and puddles. It has chunky lugs on the outsole for incredible grip and a comfortable, stable footbed. The fleece lining kept every inch—from our shins to the tips of our toes—toasty, and big pull loops made them simple to tug on and off. One of our New Mexico-based testers relied on them for farm chores and said: “Even though they were covered in goat poop and mud by the end of slush season, the rubber sole and foot made them easy to hose off, and now they’re as good as new.”

Best for Deep Snow

L.L. Bean Snow Boot

Size Range: 7-14 (men’s), 6-11 (women’s)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Cuff fits over snow pants
⊕ Fully gusseted tongue
⊕ Snow collar
⊕ Fits well out of the box
⊗ Rubber outsole is a bit thin
⊗ Not 100% waterproof

The Snow Boot reminded testers of the boots they wore on snow days as kids: secured with a classic lace-up system, reliable at keeping snow off of calves and away from our feet, and warm as heck thanks to its faux-fleece felt lining. “These were not the most attractive boots, but among the more functional,” said one Santa Fe tester, who added: “Given the shallow treads, the traction is impressive—these came on a winter hike or two and were a favorite at the ski resort.” That’s in large part due to the generous opening, which has space to tuck pants into and makes for easy on-and-off. The waterproof rubber outer wraps around the entire foot, like a duck boot, while the water-resistant nylon uppers (the women’s version comes in suede or leather) are durable, flexible, and wide enough to easily fasten over ski pants.

Best Traction

Icebug Pace3 BUGrip GTX

Size Range: 7-15 (men’s), 5.5-10.5 (women’s)

Pros and Cons
⊕ Studded
⊕ Secure laces
⊗ Can’t wear indoors

This mid-cut winter boot has 16 steel studs embedded in its partially recycled rubber sole that act like miniature crampons. The studs actually retract into the soft sole on hard surfaces like asphalt—similar to high-end snow tires—allowing for more stability while walking off of the snow and ice (but they’ll still destroy your floor.) The boot’s waterproof, breathable, and insulating Gore-Tex membrane kept our testers’ feet warm and dry during their messiest, longest winter hikes. “I can wear them in pretty low temps and my feet still stay warm—down to the teens,” added Minnesota-based tester Stephanie Pearson.

Other Products We Tested

• : Testers wore this goofy-looking boot more frequently than they thought they would, thanks to the grippy Vibram sole, light weight, and high ankle flexion. Plush shearling lining and a chunky midsole add tons of comfort, but the futuristic look of these boots was a major turnoff.
• ): “The price is insane, but I can’t deny the quality is there,” said one tester, who found these comfortable immediately out of the box. “It felt like slipping into the winter boot version of a classic Dansko clog, which is to say heavy as hell but also ergonomically supportive.” High quality or not, we can’t enthusiastically recommend these, given how clunky and expensive they are.
• : These didn’t make our final list because of the long break-in time—testers weren’t really comfortable in them until about a month of regular wear, which is asking too much for most consumers. The stiff inner boot, which is removable and can double as a house slipper, and Vibram Arctic Grip sole provide exceptional stability on slick hardpack, while the wool loden—a type of woven, boiled yarn—and suede outer naturally sheds water.
• :  These do-it-all boots are classics for a reason. Comfortable straight out of the box, perfect for hikes, snow, and dinner in town. They aren’t quite as warm as some of the other boots on our list, which is the only reason they didn’t rank higher.

How to Choose a Winter Boot

If you expect to walk through lots of snow, look for a boot with a tall shaft measuring about eight or ten inches. A snow collar at the top is a bonus. For a more rainy winter climate, waterproofing details are key, whether rubber rands, neoprene liners, or good ol’ Gore-Tex. While “water-resistant” material may keep you dry enough for short periods in powdery snow, you need true waterproof membranes for wet conditions.

Avoid boots without fully gusseted tongues. Look to see if the tongue is attached directly to the upper from top to bottom. Also beware of perforations in the upper designed to make the boots more breathable—those holes could be a liability in deep water or snow.

When it comes to traction, look for widely spaced lugs on the outsole rather than wavy treads. For an example, look at the pattern on Vibram Arctic Grip soles. Note that no outsole can give you surefootedness on ice by itself; that’s what microspikes and studs are for.

Judging how comfortable a boot will be long-term is difficult at first glance, and pain points unique to your foot often won’t show up for the first few hours or days of wear. Unless you’re sure about the fit, don’t buy boots that can’t be returned after you’ve worn them a few times.

How We Test

• Products tested: 38
• Testers: 10
• Visits to ski resort parking lots: 117
• Miles walked in the snow: 500
• Number of falls on ice: 4

We began our process with an inventory of products that myself and lead tester Stephanie Pearson had reviewed for previous editions of the şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Winter Gear Guide for the past several years. We stacked those boots up against the personal favorites from our long-time testers, the latest and greatest winter boot releases, and popular picks from across the internet.

From December 2023 through April 2024, each tester rotated their test boots through regular winter activities: walking, driving, hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, schlepping kids to school, running errands, and outdoor chores. At the end of the testing period, each tester nominated their five favorite boots and assigned ratings for warmth, comfort, traction, and style on a scale of 1 to 5. From those lists and ratings, our category manager narrowed down and vetted the winners.

Meet Our Testers

Svati Kirsten Narula, a contributing editor at şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř and the digital editor of Dartmouth Alumni Magazine, is a writer and runner based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. When she’s not working, you’ll find her on the trails—often with one or all of her three dogs in tow.

Stephanie Pearson is a freelance writer for şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř and a former category manager for winter boots in the şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Gear Guide. She lives in Duluth, Minnesota, where she grew up nordic skiing and shoveling lots of snow.

Benjamin Shulman is a runner, skier, naturalist, and wildlife photographer based in Santa Fe, NM. He travels frequently to the polar regions working as a field guide on small-ship cruises with National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions.

The post The 8 Best Winter Boots for Men and Women appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

Sports bras are like brakes on a vehicle: no one gets excited about using them, but they’re absolutely necessary. We found a few that we actually enjoy wearing for their combination of comfort and versatile support.

Updated September 2024: We’ve replaced three bras, removed three, and added three new picks to our guide from Brooks, Icebreaker, and Nike.

At A Glance

• Best for Low Impact:
• Best for High Impact:
• Best for Large-chested Athletes:
• Best Adjustable:
• Best for Wearing on Its Own:
• Best for Wearing All Day:
• Best for Winter Sports:
• Best for Carrying a Phone on the Run:
• Best Value:
• How to Choose Sports Bras
• How We Tested
• Meet Our Lead Testers

Be sure to also check out our picks for the best women’s running shirts and tank tops.

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 for Low Impact

Title Nine Handful Bra

Sizes: łÝł§â€“L

Pros and Cons
⊕ Loose cup fabric is supremely comfortable
⊕ Flattering shaping
⊗ Adjustable straps can chafe

Testers were impressed by the combination of the compressive chest band and loose cups on this bra, which provided a balance of support and flexibility. We also liked that the thin straps and lower cut of this bra made it easy to wear under all sorts of tees and tanks. “I found myself reaching for it over and over,” said one tester, who liked that the shaping avoided the “uni-boob” effect. She also appreciated how it supported her as an active mom. “This bra was really comfortable for breastfeeding!” she reported. “Some of the more fitted bras made it tricky or impossible to pop a boob for a hungry baby.”

Best for High Impact

Rabbit UtiliBRA-vo

Sizes: łÝł§â€“Xł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Über-secure phone pocket
⊕ Classic racerback fit
⊗ Not the most breathable

If you love classic racerback bras, add a few of these to your underwear drawer. Chances are good they’ll fit and support you well, as one of our testers raved: “The fabric hits a sweet spot of compression that I think will please 85 percent of runners—not too much, not too little.” This bra also has the most secure back phone pocket we’ve ever used, without being over-designed. “Most phone pocket bras try to be all fancy and featured and space-agey,” another tester said. “This is the first one I’ve tried that’s basically just a regular old racerback, both in terms of fit and looks.” The polyester-spandex fabric is slightly thicker than the other favorites, making it a great choice for high-impact activities year-round.

Best for Large-chested Athletes

Brooks Convertible 2.0

Sizes: 32–40, B–DD

Pros and Cons
⊕ Provides ample support
⊕ Not hot or constrictive
⊗ Can be slightly uncomfortable in racerback mode

Our DDD tester reported that this bra proved “very supportive” for running and jumping without massive amounts of material, which other high-support bras tend to have. “I liked not being overly sweaty when I’m done working out,” she said. The bra straps convert to a racerback to fit under tanks, which all testers appreciated, though one reported slight irritation by the fastener clip when in criss-cross mode. However, this bra ranked high in comfort while in standard mode. “I could wear this all day,” said a tester. The adjustable chest band and shoulder straps add somewhat custom fitting.

Best Adjustable Fit

Tracksmith Allston Adjustable Bra

Sizes: łÝł§â€“L

Pros and Cons
⊕ Adjustable shoulder straps and chest strap
⊕ Convertible to racerback
⊗ Clip can be felt in racerback mode

This bra is adjustable three ways: the chest band has three clips for dialing size around the ribcage, the shoulder straps are length-adjustable, and the bra can convert to racerback via a clip in the middle of the back, which puts it in high-impact-support mode. The racerback clip can be switched back and forth during one workout. “I love the adjustability and the smooth fabric,” said a tester who wore the bra while hiking, biking, and running. “It’s a great bra for someone who might end up wearing a sports bra all day because of logistics, but who wants to ease off the intensity for aprés workout.” The Allston Adjustable is made of Tracksmith’s luxuriously smooth nylon-elastane blend, with interior cups lined with nylon-elastane powermesh, which enhances compressive support.

Best for Wearing on its Own

Janji Pace Sports Bra

Sizes: łÝłÝł§â€“XłÝłÝł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Best range of sizes among pull-over bras
⊕ Unique, flattering and supportive straps
⊗ Removable pads come out in wash

This seemingly simple sports bra has design details we fell in love with—a flattering neckline with double straps, positioned narrower than most, that weave between each other when they cross mid back. This bra proved supportive enough even for C- to D-cup testers doing high-impact activities like running and jumping. “Nice encapsulation and I love the cross back with support!” said one. “You don’t usually get ‘cute’ with ‘supportive.’” We wore this skate skiing, running, cycling, and, when a tester couldn’t find her bikini, at swim lessons with her son. This bra proved comfortable and up to the task for all activities.

Best for Wearing All Day

Patagonia Live Simply Everyday Bra

Sizes: XłÝł§â€“Xł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Minimal and versatile
⊕ Quick drying
⊗ Can fit a little loose in places

We’ve worn this bra hiking in 106˚ heat, working at a desk for hours then jumping into a weight-lifting session, and running in all sorts of conditions—including plunging into trailside lakes. This bra remained comfortable throughout all activities and even when sitting around casually. Its bonded seam construction lies flat and smooth with zero irritation, and the extremely lightweight, soft, 100 percent polyester tricot fabric dries ridiculously quickly. Since it doesn’t contain Spandex, the bra isn’t as supportive as some others, but it also doesn’t stretch as much. It’s best for low-impact for all cup sizes, or any activity for A to C cups. This bra also has the antimicrobial treatment HeiQ PURE to combat odor.

Best for Winter Sports

Icebreaker Merino Blend 125 ZoneKnit Racerback Bra

Sizes: łÝł§â€“Xł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Extremely soft against the skin
⊕ Comfortable fit
⊗ High maintenance washing: cold water, gentle cycle, like colors

Merino wool makes up 40 percent of this bra, and we love how it feels against the skin, especially on cold mornings. The other 60 percent—a blend of lyocell and elastane—help provide support while keeping the bra from stretching out and losing shape. Small perforations on the back aid breathability even during the sweatiest of winter activities (hello, Nordic skiing). And flatlock seams minimize irritation, even when worn under a backpack. This bra also has removable cups, for slight customization. “This bra is so good,” gushed a tester who wore it downhill and Nordic skiing, hiking, running, cycling, and casually. “It was my favorite of the entire test. “

Best for Carrying a Phone on the Run

Oiselle Flyout Bra

Sizes: 2–14

Pros and Cons
⊕ Perfectly placed and ventilated phone pocket
⊕ Padded cups stay in place
⊗ Wide shoulder straps show under some tops
⊗ Fabric is a little thick

Designed for trail runners who need soft, wide bra straps that lay flat under hydration packs, the Flyout Bra was a tester favorite for all sorts of high-impact activities, from running to Orangetheory Fitness classes. “It’s the only sports bra I have with padded cups that don’t fall out in the washing machine,” said a tester. We are all longtime fans of bras with phone pockets on the back, but the pocket on this bra exceeded expectations—it’s a cinch to reach, ventilates so your phone doesn’t get sweaty, and holds it in place so well you forget that it’s there.

Best Value

Nike Swoosh Medium Support

Sizes: łÝł§â€“XłÝł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Fixed cups mean no pads to lose
⊕ Durable, long-lasting comfort
⊗ Pads, if you’re not a fan of them

One tester has been wearing an earlier version of this sports bra for close to 20 years. “It’s been all over the world while keeping me comfortable running, cycling, hiking, Nordic skiing, etc.,” she says. The simple, pull-on style bra wicks sweat and remains comfortable for hours. The newest version of this do-anything, durable bra comes with light padding built in (no slipping, no losing the padding in the wash), and is made with sustainable, recycled polyester materials. Its $40 price point makes it among the least expensive sports bras out there, and while it’s classified as “medium support,” it can function as high support across a range of activities for smaller chest sizes. It also lasts for-e-ver.

How to Choose Sports Bras

When shopping for sports bras, you need to consider three factors: comfort, support, and breathability.

Comfort

Comfort is personal. Nothing can replace trying on the bra to ensure it fits your body and the fabric feels good against your skin. Each brand sizes their bras differently, so be sure to try on a range of sizes.

Support

When it comes to support, different categories like “low impact” and “medium support” can be confusing because different brands define them in different ways. In general, bras marketed for low-impact activities like yoga or hiking will offer less support and technical features than those for high-impact activities, like running or HIIT classes. On the flip side, bras designed to offer higher support may be less breathable and more constricting

If you have a small cup size, you may find that low- and medium-support bras work perfectly well for high-impact activities, but women with larger cup sizes often need those “high support” bras even for some low-impact activities. Whatever you choose, know that the bra’s underband—the most important part for support—should fit securely but not so tightly that you can’t breathe. The straps should not dig into your skin or leave red marks when you take the bra off.

Breathability

Too much sweat accumulation on a bra is not only uncomfortable but unhygienic, trapping bacteria on your skin and back. Sport-specific fabric blends—often made with polyester, nylon, or merino wool—should have strong moisture-wicking properties, and bras made of thinner fabric will allow more heat and perspiration to pass through.

How We Tested

• Number of testers: 11
• Number of bras tested: 22
• Hours working out in test bras: 500
• Toughest testing conditions: Two-plus hours whitewater paddling and then hiking from the bottom of the Grand Canyon to the South Rim while carrying a full backpack full of gear. Close second: Downhill skiing with a toddler.

We wore these bras for running, cycling, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, yoga, hiking, dog walking, camping, and working at a desk. Every tester wears a different size, ranging from A to DDD cups. If at least two testers agreed that a bra was comfortable and functional, it made our short list. Then we narrowed down the contenders based on functionality for various sports, style, and price.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Svati Kirsten Narula is a writer and şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř contributing editor based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She tested all the bras in this review while running, doing yoga, hiking throughout northern New Mexico, and driving and flying long distances in between. She still hasn’t found a bra that she can run in and bear to wear for more than six hours after, but hey, six hours is pretty good.

Lisa Jhung lives and works in Boulder, Colorado, where she writes, edits, and tests gear by doing a variety of outdoor winter sports: running (road, trail, and full-on mountain), Nordic skiing, snowboarding, dog-walking, etc. She also does yoga and lifts weights, sometimes by carrying flagstones around her yard and doing overhead squats and chest presses with a digging bar. She likes to get sh** done while strength training.

The post The Best Sports Bras of 2024 appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

Summer running is both a joy and a challenge. The good news is you don’t have to bundle up and freeze until you work up a sweat—you can head out and be comfortable in your lightest, thinnest gear. The bad news is that, once you warm up, even the skimpiest clothes can feel clingy and oppressive. This is the season when we need running shirts that slip on effortlessly when we’re still half-asleep in the morning and float on our skin when we’re cramming in a tempo workout on a sticky afternoon. We searched for, and found, the best women’s running tops—t-shirts and tanks—that can handle the challenges of summer while making us look good and feel cool.

At a Glance

• Best All-Around Tank Top:
• Best Running/Casual Crossover Tank:
• Most Stylish+High Performance Tank:
• Best All-Around Tee:
• Most Comfortable Tee:
• 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.

Best All-Around Performance

Oiselle Flyout Trail Tank

Sizes: 2–24/26

Pros and Cons
⊕ Very lightweight
⊕ Cooling
⊕ Quick-drying
⊗ Light fabric feels somewhat fragile

If you can only buy one new running top this summer, make it this one. This polyester/tencel/spandex top was an instant hit with all four testers. New Mexico-based tester Abigail Wise calls it “the Goldilocks of running tanks.” Multiple testers praised the tank’s fit. ”It’s not too tight, not too loose,” said one. The stretchy, perforated fabric doesn’t hold onto sweat and doesn’t cling to the skin, making it feel nearly weightless on the run. And with wide shoulder straps, this tank is perfectly comfortable under a hydration pack. The shoulder and back coverage also make it suitable for wearing with any type of sports bra, not just racerback styles.

Best Running/Casual Crossover Tank

Stio Crester Tank

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Ample coverage
⊕ Multipurpose verasatility
⊕ Durable
⊗ Runs large

The Crester tank has wide shoulder straps, a high neckline, and a fully covered back, which means that you can wear a regular bra with it for non-running scenarios. Ultra-trail runner Anna Grace Tiede Hottinger says, “I was able to wear it to work with some nice pants —and then immediately hit the trails. A huge win.”

With its straight cut, this was among the baggiest of all the tops we tested, but we appreciated that extra room on days when we didn’t feel like showing off our midsections, or just wanted a more airy feel while on the run. Abigail ran in it multiple days in a row, and swears the polyester-spandex fabric never got stinky. The Stio Crester is for anyone who wants a durable, breathable, simple, and versatile tank that can stand up to sweat.

Most Stylish+High Performance Tank

Rabbit EZ Tank Perf

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Flattering style
⊕ Lightweight
⊕ Quick-drying
⊗ Straps too thin to wear under a hydration vest

This was the tank we reached for when we wanted to follow the maxim of “look good, feel good, run good.” Thin shoulder straps, a scoop neckline, and slightly flared bottom all lead to a tailored, flattering fit. The perforated poly-spandex blend is exceptionally soft and stretchy, feels light on your skin, and dries quickly. Lead tester Svati Narula found this out after a particularly sticky June run in Pittsburgh, where she was surprisingly comfortable and dry enough to sit in an air conditioned coffee shop immediately after sweating buckets in the sun. If you like classic racerback tanks that show a lot of skin around your chest, back, and shoulders, this is the coolest and softest version you’ll find.

Best All-Around Tee

Tracksmith Session Tee

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Versatile
⊕ Soft and Stretchy
⊕ Sturdy
⊗ Runs slightly large

Svati used this as an all-day tee, taking it from morning hikes to her desk to evening runs. Abigail occasionally slept in it, which makes sense given its super-soft fabric and slightly baggy fit. Made of 84 percent polyester and 16 percent spandex, the tee is exceptionally stretchy. It’s also finished with an odor-repelling treatment that seems to work—Svati wore it for multiple runs between washes. “You can just tell how well made it is,” avid runner Ellen Silva said of the sturdy knit fabric, adding, “It’s going to last forever.” The Session Tee comes in a variety of colors and can be worked into your workout wardrobe year-round.

Most Comfortable Tee

Nathan Sprinter Short Sleeve Shirt

Sizes: XS-XL

Pros and Cons
⊕ Extremely breathable
⊕ Good skin coverage
⊕ Comfortable tailoring
⊗ One tester found it “a bit plain”

What this semi-fitted tee lacks in style it makes up for in absolute comfort, even on the hottest days. Anna Grace says the polyester-elastane mesh fabric was super breathable on her most humid runs, while Abigail and Ellen both liked the small v-shaped cutout on the back of the shirt, which helps it lay flat over curvy hips. All appreciated the thin reflective stripe on the back, too, for safety on pre-sunrise runs. Don’t let the high neckline scare you—we barely felt it (or the rest of the shirt) while wearing it.

How To Choose a Running Top

When it comes to summer running clothes, look for breathability, moisture-wicking, and a chafe-free fit.

Materials

Sweat-wicking and quick-drying materials are essential. These are usually made of polyester or wool blends and have a wide variety of proprietary names and textures. Polyester weaves tend to be the most breathable and highly durable, while wool resists odors and has a natural feel next-to-skin. Try on as many options as you can to find the ones that are both soft against your skin and feel cool and airy.

Fit

The fabric should not restrict your arm movement or be so tight as to interfere with your breathing at all. When trying on garments, do some dynamic stretching such as lunges, arm swings, and arm circles to experience your body’s whole range of motion in the apparel.

Tanks vs Tees

T-shirts provide more coverage and therefore more sun protection, and they can also deliver more of a cooling effect, depending on the fabric and fit. Tank tops are typically less restricting and more breathable, because of their lack of sleeves. That doesn’t mean all tank tops have freedom of movement. Some are tighter than others, providing a more secure fit, while others are looser and airier. In addition to fit, consider how much skin exposure and coverage you’re comfortable with, and how the tank interacts with your bra and running vest, if you’ll be wearing one. And consider all the settings where you’ll want to wear the top, both athletic and casual.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 4
• Number of products tested: 25
• Number of miles logged while testing: 2,500
• Most extreme temperature experienced during a run: 100 degrees (paired with 90 percent humidity) on a 40-mile-run in Minnesota in August
• Most elevation gained during a run: 3,500 feet while pacing a 25-mile stretch of the High Lonesome 100 race in Colorado

We tested as many different shorts, tanks, tees, and other kinds of summer apparel (like sun shirts and crop tops) as we could get our hands on between June and October 2023, with an eye toward products that would be new to consumers in 2024. Our four testers ranged in age from 20 to 40, each with more than a decade of running experience and at least one ultramarathon under their belt. We evaluated products by comfort first, followed by style, utility (ability to carry phones and keys or multitask as casual wear was a big plus), and durability.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Svati Kirsten Narula is a writer and şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř contributing editor based in Santa Fe, NM. Svati ran her first cross country race 19 years ago and has been a dedicated distance runner ever since. To test this summer’s gear, she logged miles on dirt paths, singletrack trails, paved roads, and even a few sidewalks—mostly in New Mexico, with some additional test runs in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Colorado.

One of Svati Narula’s go-to routes for testing running gear:

(Gaia GPS is owned by şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Inc.)

Ellen Silva is a Clinical Dietitian in Santa Fe, NM who has been running since 2009. She is an “any distance, any surface” type of runner and enjoys bringing down her road 5k time as much as training for mountain 100-milers and pacing friends in ultras. Her dog Finn accompanies her on short easy runs. They love living and training in the high desert, but this summer she enjoyed getting to test gear while in Hawaii, Maine, Arizona, Colorado, and New Hampshire.

Anna Grace Tiede Hottinger is a public policy professional and dog mom in northern MN. She has been running for just about her entire life, primarily as a method of fun and spending time outside. She tested her apparel on many runs, both short and long, while training for a 100-miler. Much of the apparel saw many hours in the woods, and experienced extreme heat, chilly rain and endured lots of mud!

Abigail Wise is an editor based in northern New Mexico. She’s retired from training for ultras but still logs a lot of miles between exercising her four dogs and getting her toddler some fresh air. Most of this gear was tested on pre-dawn tempo runs before work and longer weekend runs in the high-desert mountain sun.

The post The Best Running Shirts and Tank Tops for Women appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

After shoes, running shorts are the most important and personal piece of a runner’s kit. The right shorts will disappear on the run and comfortably carry everything you need; the wrong ones will chafe, cling, bounce, sag, ride up, and generally make your run miserable, especially in heat and humidity. We searched for, and found, shorts that can handle the challenges of summer while making you look good, feel cool, and run free.

At a Glance

• Best for Going Long:
• Best Running/Casual Crossover:
• Best for Hot, Humid Days:
• Most Comfortable:
• Most Durable:
• Softest Liner:
• 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.

Best for Going Long

Oiselle Toolbelt Roga Shorts

Sizes: 2–24/26

Pros and Cons
⊕ Plenty of pockets for storage
⊕ Universally-flattering length
⊕ Comfortable, stretchy fabric
⊗ Built-in liner is tight for some testers’ thighs

All our testers instantly fell for the cute styling of these shorts. Their love was cemented by the whopping five well-placed pockets—four mesh ones built into the 4-inch, compressive waistband (that stays put, even when the pockets are full), plus a zippered one in the back, perfect for holding a phone. New Mexico-based tester Abigail Wise relied on these shorts for long weekend runs in the mountains, stashing lip balm, sunscreen, keys, snacks, and cash in the pockets.

The polyester/spandex blend throughout is incredibly stretchy and has a “just right” feeling that’s not too thin or thick, making these shorts suitable for cooler runs in the spring and fall as well as hot summer days. Ultrarunner Ellen Silva says, “I want them in every color,” and raves that they still look brand new even after hundreds of miles of wear.

Best Running/Casual Crossover

Rabbit Summit Chasers Shorts

Sizes: łÝł§â€“Xł˘, 2.5” and 4” inseam options

Pros and Cons
⊕ Flattering fit
⊕ Comfy, wide waistband
⊕ Durable fabric
⊗ Sizing was off for some testers

This was the most flattering pair of shorts in our test—lead tester Svati Narula paired them with everything from flowy tank tops to baggy sweatshirts and always felt cute. Lightweight and quick-drying, they have a semi-relaxed fit thanks to a wide, compressive waistband paired with loose fabric around the thighs and a loose interior liner. Svati found the ripstop polyester/spandex durable enough to withstand thorny bushes and many heavy-duty washes after several incidents with glucose gels and tree sap.

Two deep side pockets, two internal waistband pockets, plus a zippered diagonal back pocket give lots of storage options—perfect for shorter trail runs when you don’t want to carry a pack or long dog walks. Ellen pointed out that finding the right size can be tricky: “These mediums were too big, but I’ve tried on smalls and they’re way too small. I need a small and a half.” If they fit you, however, you’ll reach for them for more than just running.

Best for Hot, Humid Days

The North Face Summer LT Shorts

Sizes: łÝł§â€“XłÝł˘, available in both 2.5” and 4” inseams

Pros and Cons
⊕ Comfortable, classic fit
⊕ Superb at handling sweat
⊕ Water-repellent seat
⊗ Pockets too small for carrying a phone

These are as close to sweatproof running shorts as you can get, perfect for those who run in especially humid climes or just drip a lot. The North Face’s proprietary polyester blend wicked moisture extremely well and took a long time to get stinky, enough that trail-runner tester Anna Grace Tiede Hottinger would often head straight to social events after running in these without worrying about sweat-wet shorts. Three mesh pockets on the back of the waistband provide storage for items smaller than a phone, and the back of the shorts also have a PFC-free durable water repellent finish, in case you find yourself seated on a soggy bench pre- or post-run.

Abigail also loved their silhouette. “A simple, flared short that’s baggy without hiding too much of my shape, the Summer LTs give me 1990s vibes in the best possible way,” she says.

Most Comfortable (and Colorful)

ChicknLegs °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s 1.5″ Split Shorts

Sizes: XłÝł§â€“Xł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Extremely light and breathable
⊕ Attention-grabbing patterns
⊕ Affordable
⊗ Inseam too short for some testers’ comfort

Runners who don’t take themselves too seriously and want the comfiness of pajama bottoms coupled with high-performance features will love these silly shorts. When Svati first saw the cartoon dinosaur print on these shorts, she was skeptical of their technical chops. But then she tried them on, slipped her iPhone into the back zippered pocket, and went to a group run. Not only did she receive multiple comments on how cute they were, but they also felt amazing—or rather, like nothing. She didn’t feel the fabric touch her thighs, the weight of her phone pulling on the elastic waistband, or any sweat on her bum at the end of the 45-minute run in 80-degree weather. Despite print patterns that include flamingos, cows, lightning bolts, and pickles, these are serious performance shorts.

Most Durable

Ciele Athletics W TRNShort 4’’ Briefs

Sizes: łÝł§â€“Xł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Ideal inseam length
⊕ Comfortable tailoring
⊕ Durable
⊗ Pricey

These shorts aren’t particularly flashy: they have a straight 4-inch inseam, simple mesh interior liner, and a three-inch interlock knit waistband with an internal drawstring. But Svati and Anna Grace were both impressed with how easy they were to wear, especially for their longest and hottest runs. “I wore these for a 40-miler and had zero issues,” says Anna Grace, who loved the mid-thigh length and said the mid-rise waistband was particularly comfortable.

Ciele’s high pricepoint is partly justified by the durability of its products: these shorts showed no signs of wear during our weeks of testing and we expect the recycled, 40-denier polyester/70-denier spandex fabric to hold up for many years, many washes, and thousands of miles. A stretchy rear pocket can hold a phone or credit cards, and a small interior waist pocket is good for a key.

Softest Liner

Ibex Springbok Shorts

Sizes: łÝł§â€“Xł˘

Pros and Cons
⊕ Soft, natural fiber liner
⊕ Odor resistant
⊕ Goldilocks length
⊗ Slim fit
⊗ Pricey

Nothing fancy here, just incredible comfort and a wide back zippered pocket that holds our essentials—phone, keys, glucose gel—perfectly. Ibex combined its signature merino wool with eucalyptus-based Tencel to make the liner on these shorts, which has the stinkproof breathability we love from merino plus extra softness, stretch, and durability. The outer short is a durable, slightly stretchy nylon-spandex blend. With a 3.5-inch inseam, these don’t feel too long or too short. We wish we had multiple pairs.

What to Look For

When it comes to summer running clothes, look for breathability, moisture-wicking, and a chafe-free fit.

Materials

Sweat-wicking and quick-drying materials are essential. These are usually made of polyester or wool blends and have a wide variety of proprietary names and textures. Polyester weaves tend to be the most breathable and highly durable, while wool resists odors and has a natural feel next-to-skin. Try on as many options as you can to find the ones that are both soft against your skin and feel cool and airy.

Fit

The fabric should not restrict your leg and arm movement or be so tight as to interfere with your breathing at all. When trying on garments, do some dynamic stretching such as leg swings, lunges, and running in place to experience your body’s whole range of motion in the apparel.

Shorts Style

Besides material and fit, there are a few key features to consider in running shorts: pockets, inseam, and waist height.

If you like to carry items like your phone, keys, sunscreen, water flask, gels, or snacks, you’ll need more pockets (if you don’t run with a vest). Make sure the pockets are large and robust enough to fit and secure what you’re carrying, and located in spots where they won’t bounce or irritate. When you’re trying on shorts with pockets, test how they feel when the pockets are full—especially if you intend to carry something heavy like a cell phone, which can drastically change the way a pair of shorts fits and rides.

Consider whether you prefer shorts with a longer inseam—like four to six inches—for more coverage and to avoid chafing, or ones with a shorter inseam that show a little more leg and feel less restricted.

The rise is crucial to consider, too. While some runners prefer a higher waist to feel more secure, others prefer a waistband that hits right at their hip bones and doesn’t constrict.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 4
• Number of products tested: 20
• Number of miles logged while testing: 2,500
• Most extreme temperature experienced during a run: 100 degrees (paired with 90 percent humidity) on a 40-mile-run in Minnesota in August
• Most elevation gained during a run: 3,500 feet while pacing a 25-mile stretch of the High Lonesome 100 race in Colorado

We tested as many different shorts, tanks, tees, and other kinds of summer apparel (like sun shirts and crop tops) as we could get our hands on between June and October 2023, with an eye toward products that would be new to consumers in 2024. Our four testers ranged in age from 20 to 40, each with more than a decade of running experience and at least one ultramarathon under their belt. We evaluated products by comfort first, followed by style, utility (ability to carry phones and keys or multitask as casual wear was a big plus), and durability.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Svati Kirsten Narula is a writer and şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř contributing editor based in Santa Fe, NM. Svati ran her first cross country race 19 years ago and has been a dedicated distance runner ever since. To test this summer’s gear, she logged miles on dirt paths, singletrack trails, paved roads, and even a few sidewalks—mostly in New Mexico, with some additional test runs in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Colorado.

One of Svati Narula’s go-to routes for testing running gear:

Ellen Silva is a Clinical Dietitian in Santa Fe, NM who has been running since 2009. She is an “any distance, any surface” type of runner and enjoys bringing down her road 5k time as much as training for mountain 100-milers and pacing friends in ultras. Her dog Finn accompanies her on short easy runs. They love living and training in the high desert, but this summer she enjoyed getting to test gear while in Hawaii, Maine, Arizona, Colorado, and New Hampshire.

Anna Grace Tiede Hottinger is a public policy professional and dog mom in northern MN. She has been running for just about her entire life, primarily as a method of fun and spending time outside. She tested her apparel on many runs, both short and long, while training for a 100-miler. Much of the apparel saw many hours in the woods, and experienced extreme heat, chilly rain and endured lots of mud!

Abigail Wise is an editor based in northern New Mexico. She’s retired from training for ultras but still logs a lot of miles between exercising her four dogs and getting her toddler some fresh air. Most of this gear was tested on pre-dawn tempo runs before work and longer weekend runs in the high-desert mountain sun.

The post The Best Running Shorts for Women appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

Working at a magazine called şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř, we are obviously big fans of fresh air—spending hours in a gym just isn’t as fun and fulfilling as hours on a mountain, in the woods, or on the water. We approached this set of gear testing with that in mind; we looked for small pieces of equipment that could easily fit into your existing at-home workout setup and would complement your outdoor exercise and adventures. After a season of testing, this is the home gym equipment we fell in love with.

The Reviews: The Best Home Gym Gear of 2024

Apple Fitness+ ($10/month or $80 annually)

We were impressed by the breadth of guided workouts Apple offers in the Fitness+ app. We cherry-picked from more than 4,000 different episodes—ranging from five to 45 minutes— focused on weight lifting, yoga, pilates, HIIT workouts, dance, cycling, running, kickboxing, rowing, and even walking and meditation. Classes are conveniently arranged into programs designed to increase your fitness over multiple weeks, grouped in themes, from “Travel-Friendly Workouts” to “Totally 80s Cycling.” I was particularly fond of the episodes tied to the Apple TV+ show Ted Lasso, which included appearances from two of the show’s main actors.

Fitness+ episodes are designed to be like virtually stepping inside a trendy fitness studio with a diverse, inclusive, and polished set of instructors. Each session is led by multiple instructors demonstrating three ways moves can be modified—making almost every workout suitable for both beginners and advanced athletes—with the lead instructor incorporating American Sign Language. Is that worth ponying up the cost of an Apple device plus the subscription fee? We say yes. (Note, you can only subscribe to the app if you have an iPhone, and it works best—providing real-time metrics—when paired with an Apple Watch).

Bottom Line: This robust library of studio-style fitness classes truly offers something for everyone.

Bala Bangles ($55–$65 depending on weight)

These sleek weights ranging from a half-pound to two upped the intensity of whatever we were doing in our home gym when we wore them on our ankles or wrists. Made of steel wrapped in soft silicone, they provided extra resistance to strength workouts without any discomfort (besides the muscle burn): The elastic hook-and-loop fasteners are much softer to the touch than any other velcro straps we’ve worn, so there’s no itchiness when putting these on or taking them off.

Bottom Line: A comfortable way to add a little extra difficulty to your workout.

Roll Recovery R4 Body Roller ($60)

I can’t live without a foam roller, and found this one to be a satisfying upgrade thanks to its centered groove that aligns with the spine and neck—allowing those body parts to stay relaxed while rolling out knots in your back. That groove is also great for working on the achilles tendon and your IT band. The roller is dense, moderately firm, and wide—its six-inch diameter at least a half inch larger than other rollers we’ve tried, creating a broader massage surface.

Bottom Line: A versatile roller that is easy to grip and neither too hard nor too soft.

TRX HexGrip Medicine Ball ($70–$150 depending on size)

Medicine balls are versatile workhorses for at-home training, but their traditional rubber exteriors tend to get slippery. This durable option with a tacky, easy-grip surface removes worries about slips and lets you focus on maximizing your medicine ball exercises. Offered at weights from four to 50 pounds and diameters of 10 or 14 inches, it has low bounce and a fantastic hand-feel. “It’s grippy without being excessively abrasive,” said one tester, who particularly appreciated the touch when catching and throwing the ball.

Bottom Line: This high-quality medicine ball feels luxurious and is built to withstand abuse.

Alo Yoga Warrior Mat ($128)

This mat is extra long (6.2 feet), extra comfortable (it’s 5mm thick), and extra grippy (the top layer of polyurethane stayed matte and dry no matter how hard we sweated). It’s the first mat my always-too-sweaty hands and feet didn’t slip around on, which motivated me to start doing more vigorous yoga sessions. One gripe: the matte surface, which isn’t the easiest to clean, is beginning to show signs of wear and tear after about 10 months of frequent use.

Bottom Line: In size and comfort, this is a major upgrade to the standard yoga mat.

How to Buy

Home gym equipment leans toward expensive, so it’s worth figuring out what fitness goals you’re prioritizing before you start spending. It’s also important to know your existing routine and abilities and be honest about what kind of gear will end up collecting dust.

Speaking of dust, consider where you plan to keep your gear and how easy it will be to clean. A foam roller that attracts dog hair or yoga mat that looks grimy after just a few workouts can get annoying fast.

Finally, look closely at product warranties and return policies before you buy, so you know what to do if something breaks or if the material turns out to not feel good when you hold it with sweaty hands.

Meet the Lead Tester

Svati Kirsten Narula is a writer and editor in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She primarily hikes and runs for exercise, but will happily stretch out on a yoga mat indoors for short strength workouts or foam rolling sessions.

How We Tested

When it comes to home gym equipment, the best products are ones you’re motivated to actually use on a regular basis. We selected items that were either the easiest to incorporate into our existing workout routines, or that successfully pushed us to try something new. We (a group of fitness enthusiasts ranging from regular weight-lifters to occasional yoga-doers) tested everything in our homes—mostly in living rooms.

The post The Best Home Gym Gear of 2024 appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

Soft, warm, and protective: these are the qualities we want from our winter running apparel. Logging miles in freezing temps isn’t supposed to be easy, but the right gear can and should help us out. These picks kept us dry and safe—and in some cases, delightfully cozy—over hundreds of miles on roads and trails.

The Winners at a Glance

• La Sportiva Trail Gloves
• Outdoor Vitals Vario Jacket
• On Running Pants
• Houdini Pace Flow Houdi
• Brooks Run Visible Thermal Hoodie
• Oiselle Flyout Wool Long Sleeve
• Eddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř High-Rise Legging
• Rabbit EZ Tights
• Ultimate Direction Ultra jacket
• Nathan Navigator Hybrid Vest

The Review: The Best °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Winter Running Gear 2024

La Sportiva Trail Gloves ($59)

Sizing: XS-L

These lightweight gloves, made mostly of polyester, were an instant and enduring favorite with all our testers. Topping the list of features: a nylon mitten shield covers the stretchy, breathable glove fabric, acting as a fantastic windbreaker for fingers when needed and folding into the cuff when not. Testers also found the high-conductivity microfiber on the fingertips was much more effective than similar tech on other gloves and really did make it easy to use their phones without removing the gloves. “I have literally worn these every day since they came, whether to walk the dog or run,” Ellen gushed. “Because of the wind guard mitten option they have worked for temps from 15 to 50 degrees. They also fit me perfectly and have survived three trips through the washer/dryer so far.” Abby was equally infatuated: “I’ll keep wearing them long after this test wraps up.”

Bottom line: Durable gloves that worked for every tester in every winter condition

Outdoor Vitals Vario Jacket ($210)

Sizing: XS-XXL

We couldn’t believe how often we reached for this jacket—both for freezing early morning runs and other adventures all day long. The 20 Denier ripstop nylon fabric is soft but tough, and the stretchy, lofty, 50-percent-recycled synthetic insulation (which lines the jacket’s hood, too) kept us toasty. We never got too hot, though, thanks to large armpit vents. Two zippered pockets, thumb loops, and DWR treatment seal the deal. Abby never washed hers after at least 10 uses and says it’s still stink-free (we credit the armpit vents for that), while Stefanie said her jacket has held up beautifully after many washes (necessary after “spilled applesauce during hike breaks, mud from rainy park visits, and plenty of snot from daycare pickups”).

Bottom line: If you run cold and have always wanted to run in a warm puffy but were afraid it would be too hot, this is your jacket.

On Running Pants ($170)

Sizing: XS-XL

We may not have picked these unusual-looking hybrid pants off the shelf at a store, but we were so happy to be wearing them on windy days. A swishy, loose, ripstop nylon covers a thin layer of mesh from the front of the waist to the knees, with a soft, tighter-fitting polyester on the calves—combining to create, in Abby’s words: “a serious track pant on the top and stretchy, comfy legging on the bottom.” We loved the relaxed fit up top, a welcome change from most of our warm winter running bottoms, while the more streamlined lower-leg fit kept our calves and ankles warm without extra fabric swooshing around. Zippered pockets hold essentials, while vents around the knees move hot air out without sacrificing protection from the elements.

Bottom line: A high-performance hybrid for those who prefer pants over leggings or often run in the wind

Sponsor Content
Seirus °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s All Season Top ($79.99) and Bottom ($74.99)

Experience all-season comfort with this versatile base layer, powered by featherweight Heatwave technology. This essential piece masterfully balances kinetic and reflective warmth, all while offering rapid moisture-wicking breathability, ensuring your comfort in the face of changing temperatures. Whether you’re going for a run, engaging in outdoor sports, or simply seeking dependable comfort during daily activities, this base layer is your unwavering ally through all the transitional seasons, eliminating the need for constant wardrobe adjustments.

Houdini Pace Flow Houdi ($200)

Sizes: XXS-XL

We appreciated this simple but incredibly breathable midlayer thanks to its versatile Polartec Power Dry mesh. This super-light fabric promises to insulate while venting every bit of excess heat or moisture. We found the promise held true—the hoodie kept us both warm and dry (from our sweat, that is) when worn alone in moderate to brisk temperatures. And when the weather turned colder, we layered a vest or windbreaker on top of it and stayed toasty. The chest pocket is perfect for stashing keys, and the hood is nice and roomy.

Bottom line: A light, versatile midlayer that excels at heat management at a wide range of temperatures.

Brooks Run Visible Thermal Hoodie ($120)

Sizing: XS-XXL

“This is consistently the item I hunt for when looking for something versatile for misty 40- to 50-degree runs in the Pacific Northwest,” said Stef. I wore it for plenty of dry 30- to 40-degree afternoons in Santa Fe, enjoying the cotton sweatshirt-like feel that reminded me of high school cross country practices. The Brooks hoodie is a major upgrade, however: We found the stretchy recycled polyester breathable enough to keep on for several miles without feeling too warm, and felt safely visible in the dark thanks to the 3M Scotchlite reflective stripes across the shoulders, chest, sleeves, and bottom hem. Brooks has an entire Run Visible collection that is worth checking out for runners who regularly log miles in the dark.

Bottom line: Feel cozy and be seen in this thick, sweatshirt-like midlayer.

Oiselle Flyout Wool Long Sleeve ($92)

Sizing: 2-24/26

The polyester-wool blend of this top dried fast, kept us warm while still feeling lightweight, and didn’t stink even after multiple runs in a row. Testers appreciated the extra-long cuffs, soft feel, and thumb holes, but our favorite feature was the “watch window”—a special cut-out on the wrist to easily view your metrics on the run. The technical details didn’t get in the way of fashion, however. Abby said, “This piece is so cute, with its darker cuffs and collar, that I wore it both on the trails and at the office.”

Bottom line: A warm base layer that stands out for its sophisticated style, comfort, and thoughtful details

Eddie Bauer Crossover Winter Trail şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř High-Rise Leggings ($99)

Sizing: XS-3XL, plus Petite and Tall

These high-rise polyester/spandex tights are among the warmest we’ve tested, thanks to a brushed fleece interior lining. But they don’t feel suffocating; the thick yet breathable fabric has just the right amount of stretch throughout so there’s no pinching at the waist or mobility constriction around the knees. We also loved the storage options: two drop-in cargo pockets plus a vertical zippered one made it easy to stash a phone, keys, and even snacks. “I wore them on a lot of runs below 30 degrees,” said Ellen, who also noted: “I found them to be a good length for me where a lot of the tights I received were too short.”

Bottom line: These warm, thick, leggings fit everyone well, and carry everything you’d want on a run.

Rabbit EZ Tights ($88)

Sizing: XS-XL

“Rabbit has made the SNUGGLIEST leggings,” Stef raved about the EZ tights. “They are so soft, I don’t want to take them off after a run.” The rest of us agreed. These thin polyester/spandex tights don’t have a lot of bells and whistles—just two small internal pockets on the waistband, too small for a phone—but they boast a buttery soft touch that you’re guaranteed to fall in love with. They’re versatile—we wore them in temps from 25 to 55 degrees—and durable: “I’ve put them through the ringer—hitting the trails, pounding the pavement and chasing my little one around the children’s museum,” Stef said.

Bottom line: You’ll never want to take these snuggly tights off—so buy more than one pair.

Ultimate Direction Ultra Jacket ($200)

Sizing: XS-XL

This nylon jacket provides the most running-friendly protection from precipitation we’ve worn. It’s 100 percent waterproof, but incredibly breathable—boasting a 30,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours moisture vapor transmission rate, which is as good as it gets. I wore this for a 30-minute tempo run in a rainstorm and stayed completely dry from moisture inside and out. Two design features stood out: integrated mittens that flip out from the sleeve to protect your hands, and a magic hood that stayed on even in a headwind—Ultimate Direction calls it a Tunnel Effect hood—plus is ventilated for comfort. Underarm vents provide extra airflow when needed.

Bottom line: A jacket that will keep you dry from both external and internal moisture —better than whatever you’re currently wearing

Nathan Navigator Hybrid Vest ($125)

Sizing: XS-L

The synthetically insulated, polyester front panel on this vest is water resistant and windproof while the back is light and airy with a thin four-way stretch fabric, making it perfect for days when you need just a little bit of extra protection from a headwind. I liked it for speedwork in just-below-freezing temperatures. It has a flattering cut, reflective details, a soft chin guard made of soft woven ripstop fabric so you don’t get scratched when fully zipped up, and three zippered pockets for essentials.

Bottom line: A basic but well-designed, functional vest for cold, windy runs

How to Buy

When it comes to winter running clothes, your goal is to balance warmth, breathability, and mobility. Layering is helpful, but how heavy you want your base fabric to be versus how much warmth you want from outerwear is a personal decision that takes trial and error to determine.

Materials

Sweat-wicking and quick-drying materials are essential. These are usually made of polyester or wool blends and have a wide variety of names and textures. Polyester weaves tend to be the most breathable and often highly durable, while wool resists odors and has a soft feel against the skin.

Fit

The fabric should not restrict your leg and arm movement or be so tight as to interfere with your breathing at all. When trying on garments, do some dynamic stretching such as leg swings, lunges, and arm circles to experience your body’s whole range of motion in the apparel. If you’re trying on a piece with pockets, make sure you test how it feels when the pockets are full—especially if you intend on carrying something heavy like a cell phone, which can drastically change the way a pair of leggings fits and rides.

Details

It’s the little details that ultimately make a big difference. Since winter running may necessitate more miles under dark skies, look for clothing and accessories with reflective details to make you more visible to others. Thumbholes and vent zips can make or break a garment, but again, it takes a few test runs before you can really figure out what has the biggest impact for you.

How We Test

• Number of testers: 4
• Number of products tested: 50+
• Total miles: 600+
• Coldest run: An hour on frozen, snowy trails just after dawn in Santa Fe—starting temperature was 11 degrees F.

We asked a wide array of brands to send our testers samples of new products throughout the winter and we incorporated them into our respective running routines as they arrived (and weather allowed). First impressions were huge: the way a piece performed during an initial run of just a few miles often determined how much more testing we put it through. Once we confirmed initial comfort and utility, we looked for a range of weather conditions that a piece was best suited for; then evaluated stink resistance and durability in the washing machine.

Meet the Lead Testers

Svati Kirsten Narula

Svati Kirsten Narula is a writer and şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř contributing editor based in Santa Fe. She loves training and racing on trails but tries her best to attend her local running group’s weekly track workouts in Santa Fe for the sake of “mixing it up” and “working on speed.” She’s also been trying to become a morning runner for more than a decade, but appreciates that in the depths of winter it’s perfectly practical to log miles at lunchtime.

Abigail Wise

Abigail Wise is a writer and former şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř editor who lives on a veggie farm north of Santa Fe, New Mexico. She spent her twenties running half-marathons and ultras in the mountains and deserts of the West but now logs most of her miles behind a stroller on the gravel roads near her home. Her four good dogs provide plenty of running motivation on the mornings she’s tempted to hit the snooze button.

Ellen Silva

Ellen Silva is a clinical dietitian in Santa Fe, NM. She is an “any distance, any surface” type of runner and enjoys bringing down her road 5k time as much as training for mountain 100 milers and pacing friends in ultras. She’s attempting to train her young dog to do easy runs with her but they usually end up stopping often to sniff or chasing rabbits down the road.

Stefanie Hausner

Stefanie Hausner is a working parent in Redmond, Washington. On ambitious days, she carves out time between work and daycare pick-up to hit the trails (paved or otherwise) and enjoy fresh air, and she is no stranger to a nursing break while on a stroller run.

The post The Best °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Winter Running Gear 2024 appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

Most little luxuries feel good after a long day on the mountain, from a cold beer to a toasty seat warmer. But nothing compares to the sweet relief of taking off our clammy ski boots and stepping into lighter, comfier footwear. These bundles of warmth are so cozy that you’ll want to wear them around the house long after your feet have recovered.

Winners at a Glance

• Allbirds Wool Runner Fluffs
• BOGS Arcata Urban Leather Chelsea
• Rossignol Chalet Slippers
• Oofos OOMG Boot
• Forsake Whitetail Mid

The Reviews: The Best Après Shoes of 2024

Allbirds Wool Runner Fluffs ($120)

Size: ˛Ńąđ˛Ô’s 7-14, °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s 5-11

These fuzzy sneakers made one of our testers break her “no shoes on in the house” rule—after wearing them out to dinner and the movies, she came home and didn’t want to take them off. Regeneratively-sourced ZQ Merino wool, cut and fluffed so it feels like shearling, makes up the bulk of these shoes. More eco-cred? The cushy midsoles and bouncy outsoles are made of a proprietary sugarcane-based material called SweetFoam rather than the usual EVA. The Fluffs represent a significant commitment to sustainability—a consistent theme for Allbirds—while keeping your feet snug and Muppet-cute all winter long. Beware, though, that one wrong step in slushy snow will require a footwear change.

Bottom Line: Casual, eco-friendly shoes that feel as cozy as they look

BOGS Arcata Urban Leather Chelsea ($160)

Size: ˛Ńąđ˛Ô’s 7-14, °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s 6-12

Our testers praised these boots as the most versatile and stylish they tried this winter. The classic Chelsea aesthetic fits in on city streets and is easy to slip in and out of when you’re balancing on one foot to avoid the parking lot slush. But unlike other Chelsea boots we’ve tested in the past, these are comfortable from the very first wear—no break-in period required—and have impeccable traction thanks to chunky rubber lugs, which kept us stable on ice and snow but didn’t hold onto mud. A fleece lining keeps feet warm, and the insoles are sweat-wicking, odor-fighting, and eco-friendly thanks to algae-based EVA and wood-based fiber.

Bottom Line: A stylish Chelsea boot for all situations

Rossignol Chalet Slippers ($99)

Size: °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s 5-9.5, ˛Ńąđ˛Ô’s 7-12

These are easy to slip on and off like a pair of camp slippers, but feel more like structured shoes in terms of stability and support. One tester said, “these felt like recovery shoes without looking super bulky or conspicuous.” Our sore, post-skiing arches appreciated the EVA padding throughout the rockered midsoles, while the rest of our feet enjoyed the cozy-but-not-too-heavy upper insulation and a wool-like synthetic lining. The outsoles, made with 30 percent recycled rubber, have a tight lug pattern that was just deep enough to keep us safe on slushy driveways, while the DWR-coated nylon upper repelled light rain and snow.

Bottom Line: Recovery shoes wearing a plush disguise

HOKA Restore TC ($110)

Size: Unisex, 4-14

Unsurprisingly, the running brand known best known for its over-the-top comfort did not disappoint with its first recovery-oriented shoe. Technically, these sneakers were designed for the feet of runners after pounding hot summer pavement, but we couldn’t resist wearing them after a day on the slopes all the same. (Since they offer little insulation and no waterproofing, this pair is best with thick socks, on sunny days, or when you’re safely in the car.) At 11.3 ounces, these bouncy slip-ons come with a stretchy, lightweight polyester knit upper that makes them easy to pull on and off. Testers loved the cushy sugarcane-based EVA midsole, and while the EVA-based outsole is grooved enough to provide basic traction in various conditions—we’ve scrambled over slick boulders while wearing these just as successfully as we ferried ski gear to and from the car.

Bottom Line: A light, sustainable recovery shoe for dry conditions.

Forsake Whitetail Mid ($170)

Size: ˛Ńąđ˛Ô’s 8-14

Our male-identifying testers fell hard for the rugged—in both looks and durability—combination of full-grain leather, suede, and 200-gram Thinsulate insulation on these boots. These mids look stylish enough for an apres session on the patio of the Four Seasons at Vail, but still appropriate to wear around the office. They’re more hiking boot than slipper, with molded rubber on the heel and toe for extra protection and durability. They’re also waterproof for true winter protection. “These are extremely comfortable given the amount of support and stability provided,” quipped one tester, who had to be prodded to give equal testing time to the other shoes in this lineup after he started wearing the Whitetail Mids almost every day.

Bottom Line: The do-it-all function and look of a leather boot, with the warm and coziness of a winter shoe

How to Buy

The most important factor when it comes to aprés footwear is comfort, which is largely subjective. Beyond trying on shoes in-person and wearing them around the store before buying, you should also think about how you’ll be using them: Will you wear them mostly indoors or outdoors? Will they sit on a muddy boot rack to dry between wears or do you plan to stuff them into a duffel bag? Does it rain more than it snows where you live? Are they mostly going to be seeing slushy parking lots or bougie hotel patios? These are the questions to ask as you consider how much warmth, weight, waterproofing, and traction you need in a pair of aprés shoes.

When it comes to warmth, pay attention to how the shoes are insulated. Winter linings like synthetic Thinsulate or shearling wool provide warmth and some degree of breathability, whereas down or synthetic lofted insulation can quickly overheat your feet with active use, but provide superior warmth. Remember that brand temperature ratings for winter boots are almost never verified by a third party—don’t assume your feet will be warm down to negative 40 simply because the label says so.

How We Tested:

• Number of testers: 5
• Number of products tested: 16
• Number of test states: 4
• Number of beers spilled: 5 (that we’ll admit to, anyway)
• Number of falls in ski resort parking lots: 2

We wore these slippers, boots, and puffs just about everywhere. From early morning errands to late-night dinner parties, we walked these shoes over icy sidewalks, puddle-filled parking lots, muddy yards, and snowy trails. We also paid close attention to our emotional reaction when taking them off or putting them on (seriously). The pairs that brought us the most joy, looked the best, and proved most useful for all manner of après activities made this list.

Meet Our Testers

Svati Kirsten Narula

Sante Fe-based Svati Kirsten Narula is a writer and şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř contributing editor. She enjoys skinning up the local ski hill with her dogs when the lifts aren’t running, either before or after work—which means her après shoes really have to work as all-day shoes.

Aleta Burchyski

Aleta Burchyski is a writer and former şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř editor in Santa Fe. Years of dance, hiking, and nordic skiing have taken a toll on her feet, so she’s always in the market for a good après-nordic and recovery shoe. This year she was thrilled (not) to find that her feet grew a quarter of a size since the birth of her second son, and particularly appreciated finding winter shoes that run wide in the toe box.

Eric Ward

Eric Ward is a tech enthusiast, knuckle-dragging snowboarder, and reluctant trail runner. He appreciates a minimalist running shoe (a la “Born to Run”) but yearns for cloud-like comfort when it comes to après footwear.

The post The Best Après Shoes of 2024 appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

On a June morning in Santa Fe, New Mexico, 26 children are jogging on the city’s paved river trail. From kindergarteners to high schoolers, some of them look more at ease than others. That’s just how jogging goes on a hot summer day, especially for beginners. Their teenage chaperones lead them to the grassy field of Alto Park, where they’re free to sit in the shade, drink water, and stretch before getting up again and playing ball games. Bagged lunches are waiting for them in coolers on picnic tables.

This is a Wings of America summer running and fitness camp, where every attendee and staff member is a member of a Native Tribe and the goal is to encourage self-care through an active lifestyle, with a particular focus on running. The camps are completely free, supported by grants and donations to Wings of America, the sole beneficiary of the nonprofit Earth Circle Foundation of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Based in Santa Fe, “Wings” hosts dozens of running and fitness camps for Native youth each year, plus endurance and coaching clinics for teens and adults. The organization also partners with the Boston Athletic Association each year to take promising high school runners to Boston Marathon weekend, and its flagship program, the Wings National Team, selects and trains high school runners to compete at the USATF Cross Country Championships. to college running scholarships and other expansive opportunities for Native teenagers.

The Sante Fe youth summer camp is primarily funded by proceeds from the annual Big Tesuque Trail Run, held the first weekend of October on the Aspen Vista Trail in Santa Fe. Wings executive director Dustin Martin’s first week on the job coincided with the 2011 Big Tesuque Trail Run, and since 2012 he has run the race every year but one (winning six times). The Santa Fe Striders running club, which directs the event, donates 100 percent of proceeds to Wings and also asks registrants to pledge their own donations .

Martin finds more connection between the race and the camp than just funding. “This camp in particular is so significant because the water is running in the Santa Fe river just next to us. That water comes directly from the watershed that is ‘The Big T’ race,” he says, noting the Big Tesuque Trail Run’s location along Big Tesuque Creek. “For me, the race is an opportunity to pray for a good winter of moisture, and to be up there as you see the leaves turn, you can almost taste the change in the dewpoint in the air at that time of year.” He adds: “The water and its significance to our existence is just very apparent to me at that time, so during the race I think good thoughts for the mountain and all that it will provide for everyone.”

Months ahead of this year’s race, in the mountain’s watershed valley, young runners are blossoming. “First and foremost, we hope that they have a lot of fun moving,” says Martin, looking on as some campers and counselors start running back and forth in a game that looks like tag. “We encourage them to move by having staff members that they can look up to and can see themselves in, and that play just as vigorously as any camper is expected to,” he adds.

After the campers eat lunch, it’s time for a presentation from one of the counselors—Wings prefers to call them “facilitators,” and Martin takes pride in how the organization selects and trains them. Facilitators are trusted to mentor the youth at more than 20 different camps throughout the summer, and Martin says they’ve all “proven that they really love and can share running in a healing way.”

The post-lunch presentations at these camps cover topics in Native American history, teaching campers about everything from messenger runners in the pre-colonial era to modern luminaries like Olympic gold medal winner Billy Mills— “to let them know that they come from a tradition of strength and a very strong lineage of runners, and they should be proud of that,” says Martin. Other presentations focus on wellness and nutrition, “to remind them that movement was crucial in the ways we gained our sustenance and harvested our crops prior to refrigeration and all these other [modern] tools.”

“Hopefully what they’re teaching will stick with these kids for many years to come,” says Nancy Davis Roybal, director of Native American Student Services at Santa Fe Public Schools. SFPS has a month-long slate of summer programming for Native students, which the Wings camps get folded into rather seamlessly. In other parts of New Mexico, Wings has to get creative when it comes to recruiting campers and getting the word out about its programs—not so in Santa Fe.

“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” Roybal says as she watches the campers on the grass at Alto Park. “It just brings a smile to my face because the kids are having fun and they’re learning. It’s an outdoor classroom all along the river.”

Far upstream, this year’s 37th Annual Big Tesuque Trail Run will be held on Saturday, October 7. The challenging route climbs six miles and 2000 feet to the summit of Tesuque Peak in the Santa Fe National Forest and then returns to the start, for a round-trip total of 12 miles.

The top competitors finish in about one and a half hours, but the race is as much about taking part as it is about winning. “We’ve designed the race with an early start and a main start, to welcome runners of all abilities,” says race director Don Brown. “We’re just as excited to see people finish who didn’t think they could, as much as we are excited to see the fast men and women at the front of the field competing for top honors.”

Starting as a small, local event, the field has grown to more than 200 from all over the region. “We’d like to continue to grow the race to our permitted limit of 250, while trying to keep the old-school charm of the race – trail running for the love of running,” Brown says.

And the Santa Fe Striders plan to continue their successful association with the Wings of America youth program, connecting with those who lived here before them, and building bridges between “people who love a good challenge and the peace you feel when running in the mountains,” Brown says. “We are truly blessed to have this race, this mountain, and this beautiful setting as the aspens turn to gold.”

You can sign up for the October 7 Big T race , and to the Wings of America programs (whether or not you run the race).

The post A River Runs from a Mountain Race to Strong Native Youth appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

Summer running is a challenge. Getting up early to put in miles before the sun gets too high and too hot is one thing; dodging evening thunderstorms is another. This is the season when we need running clothes to inspire us—like shorts and tops that slip on effortlessly when we’re still half-asleep in the morning and float on our skin when we’re cramming in a tempo workout on a sticky afternoon. We searched for, and found, gear that can handle the challenges of summer while making us look good and feel cool.

The Winners At a Glance

Shorts

Mountain Hardwear Shade Lite Shorts

Tracksmith Run Cannonball Run Short Tights

Nathan Interval Bike Shorts

Ibex Springbok Short

Tops

Craft Pro Hypervent Singlet

Brooks Distance Short Sleeve 2.0

Rabbit EZ Tee Cropped

Rabbit Seabreeze Tank

How We Test

Number of Testers: 4
Number of Products Tested: 72
Total miles: 500+

Over 12 weeks, we tested more than 70 pieces of women’s summer running apparel from 20 brands. Our team included four runners of varying sizes and fitness—one of us spent the summer training for her second ultramarathon while another was just getting back into running after having her first child. We tested sizes Small to Large, from New Mexico to New Hampshire, on all types of runs: speedy track workouts, early morning road miles, and multi-hour trail races. Every product recommended here was worn and liked by at least two of us. Everything we tested was functional, but the shorts and tops that rose above the rest scored high on comfort and style. Comfort was the priority: No matter how many useful pockets a pair of shorts has or how flattering a tank top looks, we aren’t willing to compromise on fit. The pieces on our final list weren’t too tight or too loose, and didn’t need adjustment on the run.

Meet Our Lead Testers

Svati Kirsten Narula is a writer and editor in Santa Fe. She has been a competitive runner for 17 years, and tested all the apparel on this page while training for a 50k trail race. Her favorite runs were the extra slow ones with lots of elevation gain in the mountains above Santa Fe—in the company of her dog, Cabot. But she also enjoyed putting gear to the test in the humidity and salt air of the New England coast.

Anna Morenz is a primary care internist in Seattle. An avid climber, she fell in love with trail running and skate skiing after moving to the northwest four years ago and spends as much time in the mountains as possible. For this review, Anna tested 10 tops and eight shorts on more than 40 runs, including her favorite Seattle summer special: a divine two-for-one combining a trail run in the arboretum with a swim in Lake Washington.

The Best °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Summer Running Shorts of 2023

Mountain Hardwear Shade Lite Shorts ($59)

Sizes: XS-XL
Pros: Comfortable and flattering for most body types
Cons: Just one tiny pocket

These all-purpose shorts were an instant favorite because of their comfortable and flattering fit. One tester described them as, “loose enough that they make you feel like you’re in loungewear, but snug enough in the waist that they don’t fall down, and not so much extra fabric that they chafe.” After wearing the Shadelite shorts for a trail half-marathon, Anna praised them for being “light and breezy.” That’s thanks to the stretchy, quick-drying 100% polyester fabric shell and interior mesh brief. An adjustable drawstring waistband secures the fit just above the hips, and the five-inch-long inseam, slightly longer than usual for running shorts, was the perfect length for several testers. It’s also available with a three-inch inseam for those who prefer less leg coverage.

Tracksmith Run Cannonball Run Short Tights ($88)

Sizes: XS-L
Pros: Exceptionally capable at wicking water and sweat
Cons: Slim fit

Wearing these shorts, Anna loved jumping into Puget Sound in the middle of runs and sometimes she hopped on a bike before or after. Svati took them on 3-mile runs to and from swims in the Atlantic Ocean while on vacation—a summer routine that usually causes chafing in other shorts. A sleek zippered back pocket is perfect for carrying a credit card or keys. The nylon-elastane fabric has just the right amount of stretch and dries shockingly quickly; it’s also cool to the touch, so you don’t need to take a dip to feel comfortable in the heat. Like all Tracksmith apparel, these shorts run slightly small so we recommend sizing up, but once you find the right fit you’ll reach for them over and over all summer.

Nathan Interval Bike Shorts ($65–70)

Sizes: XS-XL
Pros: Support, comfort, and they don’t budge
Cons: Not light or breezy

These nylon-elastane compression shorts got the job done on days when we wanted to feel sleek and supported. The wide waistband didn’t dig in or fold over, and it held the shorts up even when we had a heavy phone in the back pocket. Testers also noted that these are comfortable enough to run errands in before or after running, which isn’t always the case with such skin-hugging fabric. Available in both a 6-inch and 3-inch inseam.

Ibex Springbok Short ($100)

Sizes: XS-XL
Pros: The softest interior liner we’ve ever felt on running shorts
Cons: Slim fit

Nothing fancy here, just incredible comfort and a wide back zippered pocket that holds our essentials—phone, keys, glucose gel—perfectly. Ibex combined its signature merino wool with eucalyptus-based Tencel to make the liner on these shorts, which has the stinkproof breathability we love from merino plus extra softness, stretch, and durability. The outer short is a durable, slightly stretchy nylon-spandex blend. With a 3.5-inch inseam, these don’t feel too long or too short. We wish we had multiple pairs.

The Best °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Summer Running Tops of 2023

Craft Pro Hypervent Singlet ($60)

Sizes: XS-XL
Pros: Incredibly light and durable
Cons: Slim fit

This whisper of a polyester mesh tank was an instant favorite among our higher-mileage trail runners. The racerback design and soft flatlock seams around the neck and armpits made the singlet feel invisible when we were wearing it. Anna noted that this piece held up particularly well to dirt, looking fresh even after her dustiest trail runs.

Brooks Distance Short Sleeve 2.0 ($36)

Sizes: XS-XXL
Pros: Classic, flattering, and versatile
Cons: Not the most sweat-wicking

This tee is for the runners who still love the soft, old-school feeling of cotton shirts. (We know you’re out there.) Brooks made it with its proprietary DriLayer fabric, a 50-50 mix of cotton and recycled polyester that’s surprisingly good at wicking moisture. Smooth seams and a slightly tapered fit around the waist keep it flattering and comfy, and it comes in 11 colors, some with fun graphic designs.

Rabbit EZ Tee Cropped ($48)

Sizes: XS-XL
Pros: Delightfully silky fabric, cute colors
Cons: Cropped style may feel awkward for those with longer torsos

We fell in love with the silky feel of this polyester-spandex top. The cut is relaxed but not boxy, and it falls just above the hips for a shorter fit than most running tees or tanks in our rotation. Multiple testers found themselves sporting this one around town in addition to wearing it on runs. The cropped cut didn’t get in the way of layering this tee under a light jacket on chilly evenings.

Rabbit Seabreeze Tank ($50)

Sizes: XS-XL
Pros: Perfect for showing off glistening shoulders on the hottest days
Cons: The high neckline wasn’t loved by all

We found ourselves reaching for this barely-there tank on the hottest days because it felt like it disappeared into thin air once we put it on. With a high neckline and square racerback, this polyester-lyocell tank fit smoothly over even the bulkiest sports bras, and it never showed signs of sweat.

How to Buy

Look for apparel that’s intentionally designed for running. Fit and feel are incredibly important: running clothes should not restrict your leg and arm movement or be so tight as to interfere with your breathing at all. Watch out for how many seams are on the fabric and where they are placed, as they can cause chafing. When trying on garments, do some dynamic stretching such as leg swings, lunges, and arm circles to experience your body’s whole range of motion in the apparel. If you’re trying on a piece with pockets, make sure you test how it feels when the pockets are full—especially if you intend on carrying something heavy like a cell phone which can drastically change the way a pair of shorts fits and rides.

For summer running, sweat-wicking and quick-drying materials are essential. These are usually made of polyester or wool blends and have a wide variety of names and textures. Polyester weaves tend to be the most breathable and often highly durable, while wool resists odors and has a soft feel against the skin. The final choice is personal: find a fabric that makes you feel cool and comfortable, even when working up a sweat.

When it’s time to upgrade your gear, don’t let the old stuff go to waste–donate it for a good cause and divert it from the landfill. our partner, Gear Fix, will repair and resell your stuff for free! Just box up your retired items, , and send them off. We’ll donate 100 percent of the proceeds to .

The post The Best °Â´Çłžąđ˛Ô’s Summer Running Tops and Shorts of 2023 appeared first on şÚÁĎłÔšĎÍř Online.

Willi Unsoeld was not yet an American climbing legend when he first saw the Himalayan peak called Nanda Devi. Known to locals as the mountain of the bliss-giving goddess, it rises to 25,645 feet, forbiddingly guarded by a ring of lesser peaks in the northeastern corner of India, near the border with Nepal. Reaching the foot of Nanda Devi involves a steep journey up the gorge of the Rishi Ganga River and then a trip through treacherous terrain at 14,000 feet. Unsoeld couldn’t see those obstacles as he gazed at the summit from far away, but for the rest of his life he would recall his thought at that moment: “I was so struck by its beauty that I realized I needed to get married to have a daughter that I hoped would be beautiful enough to name after Nanda Devi.” The year was 1949. Unsoeld was a 22-year-old college student, traipsing through India on the first of what would be many lengthy explorations abroad.

By 1974, the daughter he’d dreamed of that day, the second-oldest of four children, was a 20-year-old with plenty of international travel under her own belt. She’d been named after the mountain, and she decided she was going to go climb it.

Nanda Devi Unsoeld was all that her father had hoped she’d be, a dreamy and vibrant girl who went by Devi. That year, on her way back from Nepal to her parents’ home in Olympia, Washington, she and her younger brother, Krag, had stopped in Milton, Massachusetts, to visit the mountaineer Ad Carter, an Unsoeld family friend.

Carter had been on the British-American expedition that put the first climbers atop Nanda Devi, in 1936. He taught foreign languages at Milton Academy, an exclusive private school outside Boston, and he often took students on climbing trips in the nearby White Mountains of New Hampshire, where he and his wife, Ann, had a second home in Jefferson. It was there, on a November night in 1974, after a day of climbing with some Milton students, that Devi and Krag talked Carter into planning what would become the joint Indo-American Nanda Devi Expedition of 1976. The three pored over a new photograph of Nanda Devi’s north face. Ultimately, they decided that taking on this side of the mountain, which no one had tried yet, would be a grand way to mark the 40th anniversary of its first ascent. The siblings would be part of the climbing team, which they wanted their father to co-lead with Carter.

Willi said yes without hesitation. As Krag recalls, he and Devi envisioned “a family-based pilgrimage to a holy place,” but Carter, he says, “wanted to make sure that we had a ‘real’ expedition,” with substantial experience, which would require recruiting fresh blood. He invited a handful of Americans who had recently undertaken a successful climb of another difficult Himalayan peak, 26,795-foot Dhaulagiri, to join them.

In late September of 1975, at the Unsoeld home in Olympia, Willi met with 26-year-old John Roskelley, another very accomplished American alpinist, putting plans in motion. They were of different minds about leadership and climbing, and women, too—namely, whether they belonged on major expeditions with men. Roskelley tried to convince Willi not to invite a female climber named Marty Hoey to join the group. He believed that the presence of women could complicate things; he worried that emotions could get out of hand when the two sexes were put together in high-stakes, high-altitude situations.

It didn’t help that Hoey had been dating Peter Lev, another veteran of the Dhaulagiri expedition who they wanted on the team; Roskelley hated the idea of a couple’s quarrels bleeding into the team’s daily demands. He also assumed the climb would be a traditional, equipment-heavy effort, relying on multiple camps and fixed ropes, while Willi and Lev seemed intent on an alpine-style ascent, lighter on ropes and happening fast.

As they wrangled over the climb’s fundamentals, Devi herself burst in, glowing with sweat. She’d just biked seven miles home from a soccer game. Roskelley would later recall his first impression in his 1987 book, , saying that Devi “swept in like a small tornado after an obviously brutal game of soccer.”

In public speaking engagements for the next few years, Willi would sometimes describe this moment, too, including an extra detail about some of the first words out of Devi’s mouth that evening: “You’re Roskelley,” she said. “I understand you have trouble with women.”

“And old John had a little trouble getting over that one,” Willi would add with a laugh.

Roskelley knew that Devi was the instigator of this expedition—Louis Reichardt, his summit partner on Dhaulagiri and another recruit for the upcoming climb, had explained as much—but not until meeting her did he realize how much influence she exerted over those in her orbit. Devi had a captivating smile and a warm, inviting personality. She also had a calm, confident way of articulating her ideas that Roskelley found convincing, despite his sense that many of her opinions were based on emotions rather than experience.

That day in Olympia, Roskelley began to understand the optimism of this young woman, whose opinions would go on to dominate the expedition. He also got used to the idea of Hoey joining the team. Later that night, he phoned Hoey to assure her that, despite what she might have heard, she was welcome and wanted.

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