Reader Question: Running Wardrobe

Briana writes: "I started running in the spring, so I don't have many active clothes in my wardrobe. I appreciate that you guys are budget-conscious. What things, minimum, do I need for running year-round (I live in WI -- it gets cold in winter!). Also: Where do you find the best deals of your workout clothes?"

I've always heard that running is the least expensive sport. All you need is a pair of shorts, a shirt, and shoes. And if you're into barefooting, you don't even need those. But those of us who have been in the sport for years know that it isn't quite as simple as that.

Not only does the weather dictate what's best to wear and when . . . but the selection is continually increasing. You can really go crazy with apparel. You don't need too much, but if you're running 4 to 6 days a week, it's good to have a solid selection to choose from, especially in the tricky fall and spring months.

Here's what I would consider essential:

• 2 good sports bras 
• 1 to 2 tanks w/ shelf bra 
• 1 to 2 sleeveless or short-sleeve, loose shirts 
• 1 to 2 long sleeve shirts 
• 1 to 2 breathable jackets or hoodies
• 1 fleece vest
• 1 to 2 pairs of cold weather tights 
• 1 pair of 3/4 length tights 
• 2 pairs of shorts 
• 1 hat or fleece headband 
• Socks (several of you mentioned in the comments). I'm weird, though, I don't often wear socks unless it's below 0!

It might seem like a lot, but -- really, it isn't. You don't want to do laundry every single day, and I think this list means you can go 3 days without doing a load. The key for the cooler months is layering. I use my sports bras a lot during the summer, but tend to wear tanks layered with a shirt and jacket or vest in the winter.

But the more I think about it, clothing choices are certainly personal based on your own preferences and climate. For example, you may not want a vest at all. I just happen to like them for layering over a jacket because it very cold here in the winter. I suspect, Briana, that it might be chilly in your area, too! However, you might also want gloves, whereas I don't like wearing them.


As for where I find the best deals:

• I buy most of my tops and bottoms at discount stores like TJ Max and Burlington Coat Factory. You'd be surprised with the high quality items I've found! Usually at least 40% off what I find at retail stores like Dick's Sporting Goods.
• Target's selection of sports bras (among other running gear and stretchy yoga threads) has increased in recent years and is especially good for the small-busted athlete. Plus, their latest line of colorful Lululemon-esque stuff is cute, but is only a fraction of the cost.
• Ever since I started my jobs as Deals Editor at Wise Bread, I've found a whole new world of savings. I hunt around at stores like Running Warehouse (where our runners club membership earns us a 15% discount) and Road Runner Sports. For example, today on Amazon.com, there's up to 50% off Under Armour gear -- I never used to take time to seek out those kinds of savings.
• I have bought a few items at thrift and consignment stores. I don't usually find much there -- slim pickings -- and the integrity of what's there isn't always the best for long-term wear. Still, I shop for a lot of my regular clothes there, so I usually take a look around.
• I also deal with what I have and wait for gift cards or holidays to add to my collection. For example, Stephen bought me the top and shorts above for my birthday, which is Saturday -- he gave me the gift early -- this year! (He also used lot of coupons!)

Start small and add as necessary. I have had many runs made or broken by the weather, so suiting up the right way is important. Just shop smart, and -- over time -- you can amass what you need. The good part: I have had a large majority of my workout clothes for over 5 years . . . and 8 years in some cases. The stuff lasts if you treat it right. (Psst: Here are some tips we wrote up on Washing Your Workout Clothes.)

Is there anything you consider essential that I missed on my list? And what are your tips for saving money on workout clothes? It's worth the investment in tech fabrics for comfort and not all brands are created equally. Still, without attention, the $$$ can get out of hand . . . fast!

And today on Writing Chapter Three we have a video of Ada saying her first word. Maybe. You tell me!

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Sweet Smelling Sneaks

We have a bit of a dirty secret to share with you today. But I'm not ashamed to admit it because I think it's something a lot of runners deal with. After months upon months of running through the rain, sleet, snow, and heat in the same Vibrams (Stephen) and Nike Frees (Ashley), our shoes STINK.

But it isn't time to buy new just yet.

It's so bad that we actually keep our sneaks outdoors when we're not wearing 'em. I'm a bit worried, though, that doing so only compounds the problem.

It doesn't help that neither of us wears socks. Not when we're running . . . not EVER.


The problem: STINKY SHOES

The solution(s):

a.) Hope the stench goes away on its own. (Tried. Doesn't happen.)
b.) Burn them and buy new. (Too expensive. Potential fire code violation.)
c.) Spray with perfume. (Will only mask and make worse.)
d.) Wash them.


Of course washing them is the only practical choice. But HOW? It's something we struggled with for a while before coming up with a good system. First, I never knew you COULD wash sneakers in the machine. Then I didn't know what suds would be best to get rid of odors (while also being safe for the performance rubbers and other materials). Last, the drying part. To dry in the machine or not? What works best?

Here's what we do -- about once a month -- to keep our sneaks (or toe gloves, in Stephen's case) smelling sweet.

• If your shoes are particularly muddy or cruddy, pre-rinse with your outdoor hose. The more loose dirt you can get off the better.
• We wash our shoes one pair at a time. I don't know if it matters, and I imagine two pairs might be OK, but a smaller load -- we believe -- works best.
• Set your washing machine to small load. Regular cycle. With COLD water only. If you have the option, we set ours to wash for a longer cycle. 14 minutes versus the usual 10-12.
• Before tossing your shoes in the machine, take out the inserts. You'll wash them, too (go ahead and throw them in) -- just not while they're in the shoes.
• Note: You may wish to remove your shoe laces. We haven't had a problem, but there is a potential they could get snagged in the machine. If you're concerned, play it safe.
• Toss in 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of vinegar. Let the washing begin. Maybe make some peanut butter-chocolate chip cookie dough.
• We have used detergent on occasion -- but I've read mixed reviews on that. The only kind I feel "safe" using is this kind we bought at our local sporting goods store.
• TO DRY: Don't -- I repeat -- DON'T -- place your shoes in your dryer. Let air dry. The best way is in the sun on a hot day. Otherwise, a fan can help. Maybe even some newspaper crumbled up to absorb the moisture.

This process will get them looking almost new. Notice, though, that my dirty hippie feet still leave their mark on my inserts.


How do you keep your active feet smelling sweet? Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

And if you're looking for tips on how to keep the rest of your workout gear fresh, check out our Take the Stink Out of Your Workout Gear post.

Remember that giveaway we promised you last week? We'll be posting it later today, so don't forget to check back!

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Reader Question: Getting into Gear?

Bridget writes:

"I'm a new runner and just started a 5K program. I feel like now that I'm running more miles and more days every week, I need to invest in better shoes, clothes, and other gear. My problem is that since I'm still so new, I don't know what to get and what to pass on. I went to look at shoes this past weekend (those are what I'm most concerned about) and the wall of choices overwhelmed me."

"I don't have a huge amount of money to spend, so I want to spend what I do have wisely. Please help!"


Bridget. Thank you for writing us! Your issue is common . . . and I'm happy to have the opportunity to write about this topic. One of the reasons I love running (versus biking and other expensive gear-heavy sports) is because all you really need to participate is a good pair of running shoes. We'll get back to what a "good" pair means in just a moment.

But first . . . I want to impress upon you that what I just wrote really is true. Running is simply putting one foot in front of the other. In theory, you don't need any gear to run. Especially with the new barefoot running craze. There are, of course, a MILLION (or more) different items that can help make your journey to the start line more comfortable. And a ton of stuff you might just just like to have. The way to pick is really up to your priorities and, of course, your budget.


1.) Shoes, at least in my opinion, are where you should focus the majority of your hard-earned dollars. We've all read that a good pair of shoes should last you between 300 and 500 miles. What does this mean exactly? Well, where you fall in this range depends on factors like your weight, the type of surface you're running on, the type of shoe (cushioned versus racing flat, etc.), and possibly your foot strike.

It's confusing, but you can usually feel when your shoes are, well, dead.

I advise you to -- if possible -- visit a running-specific store and chat with the staff about what kind of shoe you might need for your foot. Whoever helps you will likely ask about your running history (miles per week, goals, injuries, etc.) and maybe even watch you run a bit to see what kind of shoe is right for you.

Running shoes are divided into a variety of types, including:

• Cushioned (high arch)
• Motion-Control (low arch)
• Stability (medium arch)
• Trail
• Racing

If you'd like the basics on each type, Runner's World has a down 'n dirty guide. Now, read carefully for a moment: What is so very important to note is that the most expensive shoe is not always the shoe that's the best for you (or the best in general). People are smitten with the Kayano (by Asics). But unless you need high-mileage stability help, all that extra cash (and, seriously, they cost like $140) is going toward features you don't need. Beware getting sucked into the "more expensive is better" mentality.


In reality, it may take you several shoe brands and models until you find a perfect pair. For example: I started running in Adidas trail shoes. I kept with that model for a while, but when they changed the design. Much to my dismay, it no longer felt right. I then switched for several years to Mizunos -- Wave Creation and Wave Riders. After a while, I craved more cushioning, so I -- again -- switched. I was a fan of Gel Nimbus (Asics) for a long time, but then I developed a foot issue, and no matter how much I tried, I just didn't like the fit. At the suggestion of a running store clerk, I tried out a pair of Glycerins (Brooks), and they felt the best a shoe has ever felt.

However, they also recently changed the model . . . and the new pair simply don't fit well. I was lucky enough to find an older version online, but don't know what I'll do when this pair is kicked. I'm also experimenting with Vibrams, as many of you already know. I love them for runs under the 10 mile distance.


Bottom line: Shoes are where to invest. They keep your feet happy. And unless your feet cooperate, you won't be happy running. Let the experts help and don't shy from less expensive models. As well, do price-comparison shopping online. You may want to hit up a store to get the best fit . . . and then Google it for the best price.

*** However, keep in mind that different models often have different fits. Stick with what you know works, but keep an open mind as your needs change.


2.) Clothing, too, is important because you may deal with chafing and other issues. There's nothing worse than coming back from a run with some awful pain like that. Keeping a few key pieces of tech fabric stuff (versus good old cotton!) will help with your overall comfort . . . and these items can last a long time. I'm still wearing the same cold weather tights I bought when I was a sophomore in college (GULP, that was like 8 years ago!).

As the weather becomes cooler, layering is your friend. We outline a good fall/winter running wardrobe in our How to Suit Up to Set Out post. Never underestimate the power of tech fabrics for cold weather. As you run in the cold, you will still sweat. If that sweat collects on cotton . . . and it will, trust me . . . gentle breezes can make your life a nightmare. It's just plain uncomfortable.


For those of you who regularly sweat gym-style, a couple pairs of shorts and sleeveless shirts work well. Just because you're around lots of people, you need not buy a new outfit for every visit of the week. Mix and match . . . but seriously, most people are too busy finishing their own sessions to care about how you look.


Also: Sale rack stuff is just as good as the flashy new pieces. In fact, I buy the majority of my pieces on sale. Of course, when I'm looking to indulge (which isn't entirely as frequently as I'd like), I enjoy Lululemon.

And to keep those items clean and smelling fine, follow these suggestions from our Take the Stink Out of Your Workout Gear post.


3.) Everything else is up to you.

But as we mention above, you honestly don't NEED anything else to run. There are watches. Fuel belts. Hydration packs. Compression sleeves. iPods. You name it, it's sold for running. The following are some posts dedicated to other types of gear that may interest you. Again: You don't need this stuff to have a successful run.

Though, some of these things might make great additions to your Christmas, birthday, or other gift lists!

• Garmin Watch (FR60 versus the 405CX)
• Running Naked (Sans-Watch)
• Hydration Pack Versus Belt
• Vibrams: Those Funny 5-Fingered Shoes
• Lululemon Fit-Style
• Running Skirts
• Minimalist Running Shoe: ProGrid Kinvara (Saucony)

I more-often-than-not use my old fashioned digital watch to time my runs. Though I have a hydration pack, it really only helped me a handful of times this past summer. I'd rather spend money on entering races than having the most up-to-date gear. And I'm thinking many of you out there would agree with me. It's the feeling I get from running that matters, not looking cool and having all the latest accessories.

Do you have any advice for Bridget? Any great gear that we forgot to mention . . . or that you simply can't live without? We'd love your input! Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.

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Fit Style: Lululemon

I have a new obsession. It's with my workout clothing. For the longest time, I'd shop around the area trying to find comfortable, pretty running and yoga tops, bottoms, and etc. But I never sniffed out anything that impressed me particularly much. And then I found Lululemon -- a Canadian-based company specializing in gorgeous, high-performance workout clothing and gear.



I could go on for days about how much I love this company. From their outreach and community efforts (promoting healthy living through exercise and self-love at any size), to their blog and twitter-ing (their staff responds to tweets in a snap -- it's awesome!). They're just nice people. And they even give the "gift of yoga" to patrons at their showrooms and storefronts. But what it all boils down to is this: their clothes rock my world.


Let's check out my loot for a moment, shall we? As you see above, I received my packages last night when I returned home from work -- but those bags you see in the photos. I didn't order them. My order came INSIDE these pretty, reusable bags . . . and that impressed me from the very start. And that's just the packaging!

What exactly did I order?

• Run Empower Crop II (in black)
• Cool Racerback (in passion)
• Define Jacket (in coal/heathered coal wee stripe)

You may be thinking: "That's a lot of $$$ on workout gear!" And you're probably right. But I've been freelancing a bit, so I decided I deserved a treat. Not only that, in all the money I waste on running and yoga clothes that I dislike, I'm going to save because a few, excellent-quality pieces from Lululemon will last me years. It's like my Under-Armor cold weather running tights. I've had the same pair since I was a sophomore in college -- and that was, well, over 8 years ago (woah). They're going strong.


Back to Lululemon. Last night, I took my stuff for a test run (and stretch) -- running a quick 5.6 mile run in about 46 minutes. The temps were in the mid-70s, which is pretty warm for these parts (no, not my parts, Upstate NY). I was most impressed by the feel of the running crops. They're lightweight, and it almost feels like you're wearing nothing at all. And, then again, they're holding everything in the right place (I'm well-endowed in the glutes-region, and my jiggle was at bay). Another favorite: I absolutely love how long the racerback tank is. I have a long torso, an no naked belly was showing. Nice.


I had to christen them my doing my favorite yoga pose: Natarajasana. I'm hooked. So, if you haven't already, go check out Lululemon. You'll be happy you did! I can't wait to find a store somewhere near me so I can check out the rest of their stock.


ALSO check out this month's Blog Love Fest. It's a special edition because we're not only sharing the links in a list this month. We're creating a categorized blogLOVEroll. For all the gooey details, just visit the BLF post.

Like what you just read? You can subscribe to the feed of these posts or follow us on Twitter or Facebook to be the first to know what the (never home)makers are up to. And we’ll love you forever!

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