I claim to be kikay when it comes to what I look like on race day, but I’ll be the first to admit that the original Kikay Runner is none other than Ms. Tessa Prieto-Valdes.
You gotta love her.
My clothing style is functional with less frills, but that doesn’t mean I pay any less attention to my appearance.
So, as Kara requested, I’m writing about what I wear on runs, from head to foot. Ü
Cap
I have never run a race without wearing a cap. It keeps my hair from falling into my eyes, wicks away sweat from my forehead, and keeps my head protected from the elements whether it be sunshine or rain drops.
I have two caps from Penshoppe that I alternate. They’re washable so I toss them into the laundry, just to avoid salt build-up from the sweat. (As Kikay Runner, I try not to stink up my clothes when I run. I bathe before my runs so I smell fresh, and hit the showers as soon as possible after. *wink*)
Nike sport sunglasses
These are a hand-me-down from my mom, who’s graduated to Ray-Ban wayfarers. I started wearing these on my runs when I realized my eyelids couldn’t quite keep up with the dirt or flying insects that fly into my eyes. Ouch! These glasses are also handy in cutting glare from sunlight, so I can keep my eyes open even while running with the sunrise in front of me.
Race for Life singlet
I bought this singlet before the Race for Life last October (the kit provided only a finisher’s shirt). Although it’s a bit short for a singlet, its zip-up neckline helps keep me cool, while the zippered pocket in the back allows me to take on my runs vital items like my car key, an ID, and cash.
I kind of consider this singlet my luckiest one because I got a podium finish and broke my 10K PR twice while wearing it.
Fuel Belt hydration belt
I don’t take this belt with me during a race itself because I rely on water stations along the way. However, since I bought these last December (Christmas present for myself), I’ve never had to return to my car for a drink of water in the middle of a training run. I can run longer and farther without taking a break now, which really helps in building up my stamina, mileage, and mental toughness.
Nike Women cropped tights
I bought these tights with my prize gift certificates from Race For Life, and they have been a Godsend. Ample support for upper leg muscles, mesh vents wherever needed to keep me cool, and a zippered back pocket make these the only bottom I wear for races.
Nike Air Span +6
When I realized I needed to buy a running-specific shoe, this was what I ended up with. Funny thing is, now that they’ve covered more than 100 kilometers, they feel much better than when they were brand-new.
I don’t use the Nike Plus functionality that comes with them (because I don’t have the chip and the band), so most probably when I buy a new pair I’ll go for something more simple.
This is my usual outfit for now. As the running year begins for me and I find other stuff to wear, some of my favorites will probably change.
How about you? What do you usually wear on runs?
Nike should be paying you for this! :)Awesome advice on running gear, even for a dude. Especially for a newbie like me. Thanks for the tips!
Hi Alvin! I know, right? Well, the sunglasses were a hand-me-down, and for shoes I could have gotten New Balance but my size was out of stock. It's kind of difficult to find running tights these days (unless you're willing to pay for CWX) and Nike's was the cheapest when I canvassed. I recently got Speedo Thermodry tights on sale so I'm going to test that out this week.
how about accessories? like pedometers? timers? gps watch? mp3 players? would you consider those when you're running?
Calvin, gadgets should have their own post, if I had any. I own a simple Casio digital watch that has a stopwatch and timer, and that's about it. My music player is from CD-R King and isn't really blog-worthy; I'm shopping around for something to replace it.
You lent me your running shorts one time, and I think I'm gonna keep borrowing that!
Marielle, I don't use them for running. 😛 But for you, they're perfect!