Running Stuff I've Tried Lately!

Over the past couple months, I've either received or bought a lot of running related stuff.  I thought it would be nice to give a quick review to some of it.  I hope this post doesn't bore the crap out of you.  If it does, tell me, and I won't do it again.=)  Also, I'd love to hear about any awesome running gear you've tried out lately in the comments!

I want to be as transparent and honest as I can be about what I got for free and what I purchased.   So, a "*" means it was sent to me.    

Running-wise, everything is going ok.  My legs are still recovering from Eugene/Ragnar and I've done a couple very relaxed speed sessions.  I also signed up for a 10k in three weeks, but I'm unsure of whether I'll be ready for it.  I don't want to disappoint myself by setting expectations that are too high, but it would also be fun to run a shorter race.  Guess I'll see what my legs decide in the next couple weeks!

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Running Gear 


Run Pretty Far Tank* ($36)

What I Like:  This tank is pretty awesome.  It fits really well and the rest of the girls on the relay team agreed that it was very flattering.  The fabric is light and skims the body.   I also like that it isn't too tight fitting (I have a small), strappy or low cut.
What I'd Change: As cute as the saying "j'adore hardcore" is, I'm just not one for words on my shirts.
Bottom Line: 8/10. A cute and unique running shirt that could be worn casually as well.  A buy.  

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Mizuno Rider Tee* (On sale for $20, regularly $40)

What I Like:  This is a good staple running shirt with simple styling and a flattering fit (especially if you are curvy because it definitely comes in at the waist!).
What I'd Change:  While this is a good basic and does everything you'd want in a sport shirt, the styling is almost too simple for me.
Bottom Line: 7/10 A good addition if you're looking for running basics. 

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Mizuno Maverick Split Short* ($15 - $36)

What I Like: This is a really great racing short (I wore it for Eugene).  The 2" inseam, the slight split, and the light fabric makes it perfect for me.  I also like that it doesn't come up on the sides as much as other shorts (like Nike Tempos), which is way more flattering on my hips.
What I'd Change: More pockets.  The little key one is not enough.
Bottom Line: 9/10. Favorite shorts for racing.




Lululemon TaTa Tamer Sports Bra ($58)

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What I Like: Keeps you in place even if you are endowed and is really cute.  I don't care too much about padding and separation and stuff, but let me say this bra might make you look like you have fake boobs.  If that's your goal, this is a must have.
What I'd Change: Not a fan of the clasps in back or the absurd price ($58).
Bottom Line: 7.5/10. Cute and very functional but be prepared to pay 2x of a normal sports bra price.




Lululemon Recognition Pant ($98)

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What I Like: Um pretty much everything.  The little top and bottom ties make it so that this pant is actually the right length on me.  There are front seams that look nice.  It's also ridiculously flattering on athletic legs.
What I'd Change: The absurd Lululemon price.  More pockets.
Bottom Line: 9.5/10.  I am convinced this is the best offering at Lululemon, period.  If you only buy one thing, get these.




Compression Gear


ProCompression Socks (and shorties)* ($50)

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What I Like: There are a lot of crappy compression socks out there on the market (like random tube socks), and these are the real deal.  Good for taller and bigger runners due to the length of the sock.  There are cute argyle designs as well!
What I'd Change:  I felt like the socks should be a little tighter on me, and I had an XS.
Bottom Line: 7.5/10.  A great compression sock, especially if there's a a coupon out there (sometimes there are!) and if you're tall.

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SL3S Compression Socks ($60)

What I like: The butterfly design option is honestly what sold me.  They also have a legit compression feeling that is great for me.
What I'd Change: The price is pretty high unless there is a discount. They can get uncomfortable if you wear them all day.
Bottom Line:  8/10.  Tight fit, feels nice, cute butterflies.


Aspaeris Compression Shorts* ($60)

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What I Like: These are great for lounging around in post race.  They really make it easier for me to walk when I'm super sore. Guess the shorts are holding something in right. (technical, I know).  I enjoy sitting in them more than running in them.
What I'd Change: The design.  I'm not sure why, but I don't look that cute in them.   Also, they don't hold up well in the drier.
Bottom Line:  6.5/10. Great if you're looking for a reasonably priced compression short for recovery (compression is expensive!).  





Food

Click Coffee Protein Drink* (~$3 per serving)


What I Like: The nutrition facts.  I'm a huge fan of stuff with protein and caffeine.  Sounds like a good way to start the day not hungry.
What I'd Change:  This review is a bit unfair because I don't like powdered drinks much or sweet coffee.  That said, the drink is kind of clumpy and too sweet for me.
Bottom Line: 5.5/10.  Good if you're looking for a quick pick-me-up that's better than 5-hour energy.




Honey Stinger Energy Chews ($2.19 per packet)

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What I Like: I could eat these as candy.  They seem more natural/organic than many other energy foods on the market.
What I Don't:  The price point is a little higher than other comparables.  The 160 calorie mark is sort of awkward for me (is this one gel or two?).   
Bottom Line: 9/10.  My favorite energy food out there.  Perfect if you like honey and fruit flavors.


Accessories 

 

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Bic Bands* ($10-$12 each,I got a couple sent to me and I've already purchased more!)

What I Like:  There are a lot of no-slip headbands on the market and Bic Bands are my favorite. There's a huge selection of colors and designs, the price point is relatively low, and they donate a lot to charities.   There're also some reflective headbands that I love.
What I Don't:  There's not a whole lot they could improve, in my opinion.  
Bottom Line:  10/10.  These don't slip, are cute, and the company gives to great causes. 


RoadRunner Sports The Stick($22+ depending on size)

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What I Like:  This stick changed my world after Ragnar Ultra.  It feels great and gets the knots out of muscles. Everyone I've talked to likes it better than a foam roller.
What I Don't: I'm not convinced I actually recover faster using this.  Also, if you try to carry it on a plane, the TSA might not let you.
Bottom Line: 8.5/10.  A better investment than getting a massage.