It’s not easy finding these items in your local multisport store, where most small box retailers don’t see the kind of foot traffic in “our” sizes to “justify” expanding the line.  I understand the concept of buying for the market, but it still smarts a bit when you find that you’re not quite a member of the club you know you’ve earned entry into.

So, with that in mind, welcome to the Plus Runner’s Third Annual Triathlon Apparel preview.  This is, largely, a web-based exercise.  There are rules for those of you who want to buy cute stuff in the right size, and it pays to keep them in mind:

1) Try to buy with enough time to return something if it doesn’t fit.

2) Look for technical quality if you’re going to spend some cash.  For us, that means: flat seams to reduce chafing, technical fabrics which dry quickly, and for tri shorts, silicone or similar leg grippers and multi-panel construction (multi-panel means the short is more likely to move with you – and not tear or rip if it’s overstressed.) 

3) If this is your first season, and you have a budget, buy things you will use again if you stay interested in one of the sports – but maybe not all three. That means rent a wetsuit if you can, and focus on sportsbras, shoes, and shorts which will be re-used if you’re cycling or running. 

So, for this season, a few old favorites and a few new finds.  My favorite manufacturers are, in no particular order, Danskin, Nike, and Pearl Izumi (which I actually haven’t featured here today).   Secondary favorites include Junonia and Athleta.  And finally, Aerotech Designs makes a plus-size tri short and suit which you can use, but reader feedback has been mixed (sizes are very large, and the pad can feel diaper-esque). 

Tri Shorts

Danskin makes two different shorts which tend to sell out rather quickly each year.  Offered in a Size XL and XXL, their sizing starts where Zoot ends.  Both a 5″ and 7″ inseam short are offered, and this season’s have (as always) a contrasting panel on the sides of the legs which looks super cute and coordinates with all of their other apparel.

Danskin has long been an advocate in the triathlon market for women becoming more active, and their size offerings reflect their commitment to the idea that plus-size women can use triathlon to be more fit.  They also sell a variety of shorts at Wal-Mart (though that line tends to be more “light active” with cotton, etc.)

Danskin’s Triathlon Short Blocked 5″ Print Style – compression style, flat seams, drawstring waist, mesh pockets, and silicone grippers.  Retails for $48, but some sale items at $24.    They also offer a 7″ inseam solid black style, (which is what I wear, and love).  Finally, for those who need more room than Danskin can provide, check out Aerotech’s tri shorts – up to Size 5X.

Danskin's 5" short

If you’re doing a short race and don’t need a chamois (and by short, I mean most sprint triathlons, where you will be on the bike for less than an hour) I would recommend purchasing a standard compression short.  These shorts can be used for anything you want to do that’s active – particularly walking and running – and you will wear them for years.  Moving Comfort offers, I think, the best short in this market right now for our size (even Nike only offers a longer walking short – which can be far too warm on the hottest days of summer). 

Moving Comfort for Women Compression Short – available in size 1X and 2X.  $38, flat seams, wide no elastic waistband, and 9″ length.  For larger sizes, I recommend Junonia’s compression short.

Finally, if you’re not thrilled with wearing compression shorts for an entire race, check out some of the great butt-covers on the market this year.  Athleta offers a CYA skrit in a 1X and 2X in both print and black; ($39) Terry offers its Wrapper ($50), and Danskin also offers one.

Terry Wrapper – $50, Good prints, and this stuffs in your bike bag for quick toss-on after a ride or workout. 

Tops

The top question plagues us all every year.  Working backwards from the run, many of us plus-size women can’t possibly complete a 3-26 mile run without a bra.  I mean, I like minimizing equipment, but this is one I can’t live without.  I’ve talked plenty about bras elsewhere in this site, so I’m not going to do it here, except to remind you to SKIP THE COTTON.  Oh, and BodyGlide all around for a triathlon.

But, working backwards, if you need to wear a bra, you’re likely going to have to also swim in that bra – because there’s no point in losing 10 minutes trying to delicately put it on in Transition (wet. in a hurry. Yeah, right?).  So, assume you’re going to be in a bra.  Then, if you’re going to be in a wetsuit, you need to have on the lightest tank you can get your hands on.  Typically, these are second-skin, swimsuit-type tops for the skinny and regular size girls out there. 

If you want to wear a more body-hugging tank (either alone without a wetsuit or underneath one) you can buy the Danskin top featured below.  I have never worn this only becuase I’m a bit conscious of the winter survival pack which I wear around the midsection which somehow always seems to last through the summer (see tire, spare.)  But if you’re not body-conscious, or you just don’t care (something I advocate but in this case can’t do myself), try this:

Danskin’s Tri Top $52, mesh inserts, shelf bra, flat seams, back stash pocket for your Gu.

New Balance Lightweight Tank (up to 2X)

New Balance has offered quite a selection lately because of its affiliation with the Susan G Komen and Avon 3 Day programs, and we’re better for it.  Though the sizes only cover up to a 2XL, their lightweight tank is a good option if you’re looking for something to throw on after the swim – or even wear in the water.  It’s much lighter, for example, than the Nike counterpart.  There are several more to choose from if you don’t like this style – simply do your own apparel search at New Balance in your size.

Junonia’s Quick Wick Tank – less body-fitting, very cute, and would be great for yoga. Not sure of the fabric weight – looks heavy to me. 

Nike’s Border Tennis Tank  – $45

This is a tank that will have plenty of room, wick well, and look good.  I’ve now got three of the Nike tops and I love their weight and look.  They’ll be a bit bulky on the swim, so if you’re going for this one, assume you’re swimming in just your sportsbra.  For a closer fit, check out the Dedication Long Top, which you could wear in the water.

And for now, kids, that’s it for this preview.  Let me know what you think – do you want more options? More color? More sizes?  What are you wearing this summer?  Let me know – and get moving!

See you on the path…

I’ve never done a special report on underwear before, but with Christiane Amanpour busy in Egypt, I raised my hand for this opportunity to investigate a recent incident that made me wonder: am I making the right choices to protect my lady parts (and myself from sheer mortification)?

The incident: during boot camp, a very nice lady displayed what we commonly refer to as ‘whale tale’—that prolific view of someone’s thong riding high above his or her (usually, her) pants. Now, I’m not going to bash thongs in general, just in particular: unless you’re paying homage to Jacques Cousteau, the only whale watching your platonic workout partner wants to do is on a boat off Cape Cod. Besides that, WHY??!! I just don’t get it. You say ‘it really wicks!’ but I have greater faith in the laws of geometry, gravity and the almighty breathable gusset. (Though if you must, please tattoo a spout on your lower back so we may all at least get a good chuckle.)

But I’m getting cheeky and a little ahead of myself: to preserve blogalicious integrity (cough), I performed some primary ‘research’ to get to the bottom of what y’all are wearing under your gear.

The Results: gained through wildly anecdotal evidence, these surprised me because I’m a less-is-more kind of girl, i.e. a girl that runs outdoors, doesn’t go to a gym, hop on a shared machine following Mr. Schweddy Balls, or spread ‘em for a trainer. Sorry to give away the punch line, but for all the ladies wearing underwear while working out, you’d expect Victoria’s Secret to be sponsoring races. (Nascar doesn’t count.)

Here’s what I learned:

• According to some online polls asking ‘to wear or not to wear?’ of the women that responded, most said they ‘always’ wear underwear when working out
• Of the reasons cited for wearing underwear, the most frequently mentioned were straddling germy gym machines, reducing sweat, and because they can’t ‘imagine’ doing otherwise—it’s practically un-American (maybe this is just locker room mentality?)
• Yet, after speaking with sales reps at popular retailers Athleta and Lululemon, they confirmed their products come with breathable gussets, designed to perform alone
• Although Oprah would not take my call, we know she loves her some undergarments; yet, she hasn’t told us how to think about the bottom-half of workout wear, true?
• My recent race experiences support these findings; it’s hard to avoid noticing red-striped bikini bottoms under see-through lycra (although if you’re going for this look, might as well be bold or charge for advertising).
• Almost everyone seems to know to avoid cotton….right? (If it’s not good enough for your feet….)
• Fave brands of undies, particularly for plus sizes: REI, Ex-Officio, Lands End, Body by Victoria
• Least fave styles: thongs, boy shorts, seamless/panty-line free without enough elastic to stay up for long distances

Okay. I kind of can get there with some of these reasons. Kind of.

But why are we spending so much on gear that is supposed to protect our assets and then shelling out more for these pricey layers? If a $98+ pair of running pants isn’t enough to keep you covered, it should at least have the decency to buy you dinner, take out the trash and massage your feet before and after each run, no? So, if you want to save some coin, join the revolution!

Cardinal rules of going commando:

• Ladies only, please.
• Do the see-through test. Get a trusted friend. Put on your pants. Go outside at noon. Touch your toes.  Need underwear = need new pants.
• If you don’t like your assets in spandex, skirt the issue with a skort or skirted capri. Way more comfortable and flattering.
• Not too tight and not too loose is just right. Groom accordingly. (Leave the camels at home with the whales.)

Now that I’ve bared my true feelings on this matter, what say you?

Off to give that friend a call, lucky girl.

Danskin 7″ Triathlon Short – $48, available up to a Size 22 (essentially)

Just got a call from the most excellent client service representative at Danskin (Gina, thank you!) who has informed me that they’ve just received a shipment of their super-functional, wicking, great-fitting 7″ triathlon short. 

They have a limited stock, but there are about 150 of them in currently in a Size XXL, and another 300+ in an XL, so if you are looking for a short, check this one out.   REI, which previously had them in stock in an XXL and XL, is out of stock in this 7″ model, but still has the 5″ model in.

Click here to access the page on Danskin’s site (you cannot navigate there from the main site – there is a problem with the indexing on the online catalog, which is tech speak for “no one connected this short to the main page”).

A few quick notes here, and then I’m punting you over to Plus Athlete for the Little Red report!

I was lucky enough to spend this weekend in Utah, taking part in the Little Red Riding Hood Ride with fellow blogger Diane, and riding friends and all around cool women Jeannie, Kym, Karen, and others.  The weekend was a total hit, but I wanted to share a few key finds that might help you ride this summer!

First, serious props go out to my LBS (local bike shop) On The Route here in Chicago.  They packed and shipped my baby Trek without problem, and the folks in Logan who put her back together at Sunrise Cyclery rock, too.  If you’re looking for the epitome of great technicians with a flair for the helpful, these are your guys. 

Second, I had the good luck to run into the reps from Born Fit (based in Denver) who make maternity AND general fitness clothing.  They were displaying at Little Red, and shared the really good news that they’re now producing running, walking, and general fitness apparel up to a size XXL.  I can’t say this enough: their stuff is cute, it’s functional, and it works for pregnant women, so I’m pretty sure they’re going to do just find in the Plus market!  Take care to watch the size charts, but if you’re looking, I would recommend checking out their lines, especially their capris and short sleeved tops for summer.

Finally, good news from Chicago – the weather’s been so good, the lake temp is up to a balmy 65 degrees, which means this week, you should expect a report from me on triathlon training – and my first open water swim of the season.  I’ll keep you posted on whether I lose feeling (or, I should say, when.)

See you on the path!

I spoke with a rep from Danskin today, and they are not going to have new stock in, and available online, until at least July.  (They’ll call and let me know when it’s live). In the meantime, GOOD NEWS.  REI is stocking the 7″ Triathlon short in a Size XXL online ($48) , and you can order it now.   It comes in plain black, or, if you prefer a shorter inseam (5″), you can get it in a Black/Aqua combo in an XL or XXL as well.

If you are planning a later season race, I would suggest that you purchase your shorts now if you can.  These are fantastic training shorts, and they can usually fit up to a Size 20/22 (depending on where you carry your weight.)  The folks at Danskin let me know that REI is the only group carrying this stock, so if you want in, you’ll have to go to REI to get it.

I know you’re thinking “Wow, do I really have to spend $48 for a pair of shorts?”  The short answer is no, you don’t.  But your life will be much easier if you do.  You can wear these puppies in the swim, on the bike, and on the run, and you never have to change clothes. The legs have silicone grippers, so they’ll stay put.  The fabric is quick dry with flat seams, and is comparable to what you’d get with the Big Boys, Zoot and Tyr.  And the 7″ inseam is modest without being crazy long.

You may also notice that REI is stocking the Skirt Sports Tri short in an XXL as well.  My professional (er, non-professional) opinion is that the Danskin short is a better fabric, construction, and all around better short than the Skirt Sports option.  SkirtSports is trying valiantly to serve the larger market, but unfortunately, their materials and design just aren’t up to my standards.   Simply put, you’re not getting $60 worth of shorts with their design.

As for Danskin, I’m a big supporter of these shorts.  After years of trying to wear Men’s TYR shorts and looking for something with a better fit, I found these.  I wore them last year and am a Raving Fan about how well they work.  So if you need shorts, go get em.

See you on the path!

UPDATE!!!!  As of 7/7, Danskin has received their shipment!  Check here for details!

But fear not, readers! I was wandering the lunch web today and found a couple of steal-of-a-deal-deals you need to know about if you’re racing this summer.

The All-in-One Women’s Tri Top (Zoot! In Sizes That Fit!)

First, REI Outlet has listed a Women’s 09 Tri Top (impossible to come by during the season) in an XXL (which equates to a Size 14-16, measurements of 43-45 bust, 37-40 waist, and 44.5-47.5 hips). Rather than assume you know if you’re a “14″ or a “16″, grab the tape measure and see if this MIGHT fit you, because if it does, it’s a PERFECT addition to the tri wardrobe. It will solve all your problems as a “one stop top” you can wear in the water, on the bike, and on the run.  Keep in mind, it’s going to be “slimmer” but it will be worth it in the water and on the bike. 

You don’t have to be an REI member to shop there (though I recommend the one time joining fee because they have some of the best clothes out there for larger men and women). AND you can ship free to a store in your area, but right now, they’re also offering free shipping.

Zoot TriFit Tank Top ($44.95 down from $70.00). Sizes XS-XXL.

The Tri Shorts You’ll Want All Summer

For the guys, Zoot is offering their Tri Zoot 8″ triathlon short in a Size XXL for a SUPER steal, too, at $42.00. They include the leg grippers of silicone (but not those sexy quad muscles pictured below).  Also, a couple of stash pockets for your gu’s, and a nice, “it’s not really a chammy” chamois to give you just a stitch of comfort on the bike.  If you don’t own a tri short, and are wondering if you should buy one before you start training, the answer is yes.  Buy these, because this is the best price you’ll see all year.

This is last year’s model, so you’re getting a break on the price (these are normally $72.00). Click here, or on the picture below to link to Zoot’s site for purchase.  Measurements: Fits 38-40 Waist (I would think you could probably stretch that an extra inch or two, but don’t hold me to that…)

For more apparel guidance, check out the “most frequently read posts” at right, or on the “what to wear” page above.

Danskin is having a sale – they’re moving warehouses and are offering 30% off any order over $100, so if you’re looking to stock up on your summer triathlon apparel, this is the time to do it.  Reader favorites include:

Danskin 7″ Triathlon short (Sale, $41, Sizes L and XL remain).  XL will fit up to 45″ hip measurement!

I wore this short last year and can vouch for its technical creds. It’s got leg grippers that don’t hurt (but won’t let your leg ride up), quick drying fabric, and most important, it’s not a Zoot short designed to fit a pre-pubescent girl   The 7″ length works well for us larger girls, though there is a 5″ available here, which is offered up to an XXL.   

The short has a drawstring waist but lays flat, and the black goes with everything.  The chammy is barely there, but provides just the right amount of comfort for a 12 or 26 mile ride at your next (or first) race.  It also has what I like to call the “BCO” (Butt Crack Optional) additional piece of fabric that runs up the, uh, back of the short, keeping in mind that sometimes the stretch is a bit tooooo much, if you get my drift…..no free peeks here.

Trust me when I tell you this is the best short in the business if you’re not wearing standard, name-brand apparel. Danskin has done their homework, and if you’re preparing for a race this summer, this is the short you want.

Terry Wrapper Plus (1X-4X)

Terry makes great clothes for women who like to bike, and if you need apparel right now, EVERYTHING is on sale.  One of my favorite ideas is this little wrapper skirt – because let’s be honest, we like to wear the bike shorts, but we don’t always want the world to see the tushum. 

The Wrapper Plus is just that – a quick little wrap skirt to throw on after a ride. It fits in your bike bag, and you can wear it riding too…it’s great if you want to cover up on race day for your run, or whatever. 

Price: $30.00 – regularly $60.  You can find it (and many other GREAT summer cycling apparel deals) here.

Road Runner Sports: Men’s Asics Ready-Set T

Believe it or not, the PlusRunner has some male fans, too! And I’ve been searching for good apparel for them ever since my friend Demiah (a new member of the Nike Running Club in Chicago) alerted me to their plight.  Well, turns out that they have trouble finding clothes too.

Alas, Road Runner Sports does a good job of listing out the apparel for guys up to a Size XXXL.  This tee, from Asics, is a great staple, and runs up to an XXL (50″ chest) and comes in at a light $19.99. 

Price: $19.99.  You can find it (and many other men’s larger shirts) here.

That’s it for today – I’ll be back later this week with some thoughts on getting ready for spring, and will share with you the race calendar for the season!

See you on the path…

Maybe you’re starting to train for a Spring half marathon or your first 5k and would like to do it outside. Or you’ve taken up the goal of walking a few days a week with friends, but Mister Cold is nipping at your heels.  Enter moi, with a few deals for you.

Mile Marker Sports carries a full line of Sporthill clothes.  Designed for three temperature zones, (including what we call “beyond reasonably cold”) Sporthill is also one of the few brands who for years has designed quality, technical clothing for plus-sized women.  As you might imagine, I like them because of that. 

In November, flush with cash and entering the winter running season, I purchased this top at full price.   For you, dear readers, I give you The Sale.

Sporthill Infuzion Top:

1/2 zip top, fleece-lined, windproof outer shell, side arm zip pocket (great for nano) and back zip pocket (great for Gu, keys, etc.). 

Original Price: $119

Sale Price: $64

Available in blue and black, sizes left include 2X and 4X (check website for measurements and sizes).

I cannot say it enough – I LOVE this top. I’ll be wearing it tomorrow as I snowshoe in Palos Park, and I wear it running and walking down to about 20 degrees with a couple of shirts on underneath it.  Without overstating it, this is the best half zip winter technical top on the market for plus size women who do aerobic activity in cold weather climates.   And trust me, at $64, it’s probably the cheapest we’ll see all season.

I’ve wear-tested two other tops in comparison: REI’s Power Stretch 1/2 Zip Top is warm, but don’t bother wearing it on a sweat-producing run in cold weather – it’s too bulky, and doesn’t block the wind at all.   And Moving Comfort’s No Chill 1/2 Zip top lacks the windblocking technology (or, in the alternative, the thermal weight) to truly take out on a winter day.

But the Sporthill people have it down.  You can hike, run, bike, kayak, snowshoe, walk, cross-country ski, etc. etc. etc. in this puppy.  So if you haven’t bought a reliable top yet, give it a go.  And if you don’t happen to be plus-sized but are looking for a great top to add to your wardrobe, Sporthill makes the same top in regular sizes, too.  The men’s top can be found up to an XXL here.

What about pants? 

These cold temperatures may have you reaching for your “outdoor pants” only to find they don’t really cut it right now.   As my friend Lisa noted this morning on our run (my walk), when it’s under 20 degrees, the tuckus and the thighs tend to be pretty cold, long after you’ve come in from the run.  (As said tuckus and thighs tend to be reservoirs of “adipose tissue” - otherwise known as “FAT”.  Since FAT doesn’t get warm, you want to do your best to keep it toasty while you’re hauling it around.  Hence, a tight that is lined in fleece, tightly woven, and has wicked cool reflective stuff on it so people don’t hit you when you’re out enjoying a quiet night on the road. 

Sugoi’s Mid Zero Zap Tight below is my newest purchase for cold-weather running and walking and it’s, quite frankly, the best pair of tights I’ve worn in the winter running season in about 6 years. 

Gone are the days where my skin was freezing to the touch, red and angry after a run. Instead, the fleece interior here keeps my legs pretty toasty.  These are great tights down to 15 degrees, or about 5 below windchill with a windpant over top.

And, because I’m a genius, I’ve found them for you ON SALE.  The Zap tight isn’t available in an XXL anymore on the Sugoi site, or at Team Estrogen where I found them for $90.  Lucky for you, I’ve snagged them at another site for a mere $40.

(December, 2010 update: The sale is gone, but if you’re looking for the tight, I’ve located it on Sugoi’s site here.  It’s $90 and comes up to an XXL which fits up to a Size 20/22.)

Why buy them?  Well, let’s start with the 7 inch leg zippers which make putting on a compression tight simple.  Then let’s talk about the reflective piping for night or morning runs; the key holder for your ID and that indespensable $20; and don’t forget the baby-soft fleece interior with JUST the right amount of stretch to make these easy-on/easy-off.  And to finish, let’s finish with the fact that they support you where you need it thanks to a 6-panel construction that moves with your body.  You simply won’t find a better tight for cool and cold weather, and YES, the XXL will fit you if you’re up to a Size 22.  If you’re over a 22, I’d refer you to the Sporthill Traverse Pant (also available at Mile Marker) which can take you anywhere. 

Get the Mid-Zero Zap here at Bike Sport in Seattle for $40, down from $79.  This is a BARGAIN PEOPLE!!!  And if you find them anywhere else online, let me know so I can post. 

And with that, I’m off to recover from this morning’s 5 mile nordic walk on Lake Michigan, and rest up for tomorrow’s snowshoe in the park. 

See you on the path!

Whatever the situation, perhaps you’ve decided you’re turning over a new leaf. You’re going  to start walking for 30 minutes a day.  Or maybe (gasp!) you’re going to take The Plus Runner’s Gobble This challenge and you’re going to run or walk the Turkey Trot in your town on Thanksgiving day.  Whatever the case, you can start getting on the road whenever you feel like it. 

Or, you can treat yourself to some new clothes, to make you feel all Supah Motivated. 

So, because it’s fall, and because many of us ARE going to start taking advantage of the great weather outside, I’ve done some searching for tights, pants, long-sleeved shirts, and jackets. These are the foundation garments for any walker or runner who wants to hit the streets any day of the week, and not let the weather keep her inside.  Because I’m also vain, the clothes are kinda cute.   But maybe you’re also new to this, and don’t know what to wear, at what temp.  So to help, I’ve included some basic guidance on temperatures and clothing along with each piece, to help get us started.

How many layers should you wear for 50 degrees? 40? 30?

The general rule I use for running is to dress as if it’s 20 degrees warmer outside than the actual temperature.  This means when you leave your house, you might be a bit chilled, but if you’re running or run/walking, you’ll warm up in the first 5 minutes or so.

Keeping this in mind, when it’s 50, that means you dress as if it’s 70 – a big swing. When it’s 45, dress like it’s 65. 

For walking, I think the temperature swings are somewhat less.  Because it takes just a bit longer to get your body warm when you’re walking, I dress only as if it’s about 10 degrees warmer. And I make sure once it gets cooler that I have a jacket that will cut the wind – something that can really get to you if you’re out there walking.

So, tomorrow morning, when it’s going to be about 45, and I’m going for a walk, I will likely head out in a pair of wicking Capris, along with a long-sleeved shirt.  Lucky for you, there are some great sales going on now if you need some new stuff.  Below is a sample of some key pieces I’d recommend for this fall and winter, along with their prices, sizing, and when to wear them.

Nike Perfect Fit Capris: Up to size XXL. (Comfortably fits a 53 inch hip).  $24.99 at nike.com (click here for a direct link.)

I’ve worn the predecessor to these pants for about 3 years now, and if you’re remotely pear-shaped, these are the ones for you.  I have the capri and pant version, and they’re great – with one caveat. They will NOT hold you in – stomach or anywhere else. If you like a loose, non-body-hugging fit, these are great (keeping in mind that they have to be a little close to you in order to prevent chafing.)  They wick; they have a great, wide waistband that stays put, and they look great on.  Wear them down to about 35 degrees if you’re working up a sweat.

New Balance Tempo Long Sleeved Shirt: Up to Size 2X.  (Comfortably fits up to a 48″ chest).  $26.99 at nbwebexpress.com (click here for a direct link.)

New Balance has come out with some great clothing in the last year, up to a Size 2X.  I know, you’re thinking “but I can’t fit in a 2X!”  Wait – maybe you can.  Or, maybe you’re not sure about your sizing.  Don’t sweat it.  If you’re ordering online, just check the size charts, and give it a shot.  Trust me when I tell you that once you figure out your sizing, the online ordering will be the easiest thing you do to prep for a run or walk. 

This shirt is the same fabric and cut of the summer shirt that I recommended earlier this year. It’s long enough to cover your stomach and it is flared slightly over the hips, so it gives some extra room, and is flattering. Plus, NB gets that we like cute colors.  Pick your favorite, and go to town.  For $26, you might buy two – I promise you’ll wear these all winter long.

What about rain or wind? And should I have tights? 

Ah, yes, weather.  Living in Chicago, I can almost gaurantee that at least one day a week, I’ll be running in something unsavory.  I recommend a jacket that you can layer at least one, if not two pieces underneath – not extravagant, big fleece pieces – just a couple of t-shirts (polyester, of course) for when the temps drop.  For the first time, I’m excited to share that New Balance has some jackets out there for women up to a 2X.  For those who need a bigger jacket, I’m going to refer you to the Moving Comfort Jacket on the Weekly Gear Deal page – it’s the best deal going right now for a jacket in sizes 3X and 4X. 

If you are able to fit into a 2X (check the size recommendations here) there are three jackets to choose from for the fall.  Depending on your budget, climate, and routine, one of these three jackets will work for you.

Sequence Jacket: $50.99 .  Click here for more information.

I’d recommend this jacket with a long-sleeved shirt until about 30 degrees for running; with a long-sleeved and a thermal shirt until about 20 degrees.  It’s very lightweight, so it may feel like you’re not getting a lot – but I ran in a jacket just like this for about 5 years, and you’d be amazed at what a light windbreaker can do.  Plus: it’s relatively inexpensive for a windbreaker, and you won’t need to buy another one for about 5 years. Cons: It’s not waterproof, or even water resistant, so you’re looking at primarily a windbreaker.   And if you’re a walker, this may not help you much when it gets below 30 degrees.

Lightweight Convertible Jacket  $89.99.  Click here for more information.

If you want to invest in a jacket that has a bit more functionality, this is the one for you.  I often wished I had something like this when I was traveling for work – in a different city each week, I often found myself guessing about which clothes to pack for running on the road.  If you’re trying to get into a new fitness routine, this is a good investment.  The sleeves zip off, so if you’re dealing with a bit warmer conditions, you can lose them. If you’re in a cool climate, add them back.  Plus the coloring on this is darned cute – and flattering.  There are some nice perks, too – a pocket for your iPod, and keys, etc.  Wind and water resistant – which means if you’re not out there for more than an hour, you should be fine.  And there are thumbholes in the jacket sleeves, which means you won’t have to pack your gloves for those cool but not cold mornings. 

Location help: If you live in the South or Southwest, this is the most jacket you’ll ever need. For those in the North, this jacket, coupled with some good layers, might get you through the winter. 

X-Treme Jacket: $107.99 Click here for more information.

What’s the point in spending over $100 on a jacket?  It’s a fair question.  The answer depends on who you are.

Some people I know don’t run outside after October.  They hate the wind, and they’d prefer to be in a gym, inspired by their fellow half-naked runners, than on the path, looking at mummies all winter.  Me, I live in a city with a wonderful lakefront, and spend a lot of time surrounded by others. So when I get the chance to be outside, darnit, I’m outside.  That means I run or walk all year.  And I determined awhile ago that I’m more likely to keep working out if the clothes are up to the demands.

This jacket is truly an “investment piece.”  I don’t mean that in the Shopaholic sense.  I mean that in the “if you buy this, you won’t buy another jacket for at least 5 years – unless you see something cuter”  sense. It is waterproof in the front, breathable in the back (which is what you need).  It has vents in all the right places, thumbholes, and all the bells and whistles of an all-weather jacket.  It will block the wind, and preven the rain from doing you in on a run or walk.  It’s also the best jacket I can find for women up to a Size 2x who want to be outside and active all fall, winter and spring.  I’d wear this with a long-sleeved shirt down to 30 degrees; with two layers down to 20 degrees.

If you need a jacket to rely on this winter, this is probably your newest purchase.  For those of us in the North, upper MidWest, and NorthWest, this is the best we can do.

New Balance Control Tight  $51.99.  Click here to order.

Finally, we get to talk about tights.  As I mentioned above, I’ve been running in Nike’s Perfect Fit Capris and pants for awhile now, but when I first started running, I was in tights. Yes, tights.  Those curve-baring, spandex-clad things that only “real” runners wear. 

As time went on, I transitioned to the pants because they were cuter.  But I’ve also found that runners wear tights for a reason: they support your muscles, constrict the movement of bodily parts (i.e. that stomach I’m trying to slim down) and make sure that I don’t zig when I should zag.  So…I’m about to purchase a pair of tights for this fall’s running, to also help support my return from this injury.  And these are the tights I’ll probably buy.   Why these?  Well, to start, they have 10% spandex, which means they’ll hold when I need them to hold.  Second, they have leg zippers at the bottom.  Trust me, this helps when you’re having trouble touching your toes!  Tights without them can be your worst enemy.  Finally, these are really well constructed, with flatlock seams, good pockets, and a look I like.  Sold.

The New Balance tight will keep you warm up to about 30 degrees.  For an alternative that will keep you warm until about 20 degrees, plus some serious wind or rain, check out their X Treme Tight, here ($67).  Or pair these tights with a regular pair of wicking or windpants.

And that’s all I have for the fall running report!  Happy purchasing!  Later this week:  The Plus Runner’s Gobble This Challenge. 

I’m off to bed (and an early walk…).

See you all on the path!

http://clickserve.cc-dt.com/link/click?lid=41000000029054931

Right about now, you’re wishing you could show up to work out in something cute.  Am I right?

Or maybe you’ve discovered that those loose-fitting pants are becoming more of a chafing problem than you expected? 

The downside of waiting until mid-summer to buy plus-sized athletic apparel is that the manufacturers typically only order “so much” stock.  And if you don’t get in right when the stuff comes out, it’s gone.  Several of the Nike pieces I highlighted on “don’t run naked” are now out of stock; as are the skorts at Land’s End..

But some deals (and cute, functional clothing) remain.  If you’re in need of a multi-purpose run/walk outfit for under $60, this is my advice.  Wear a longer short, which will not creep up, and will keep chafing to a minimum.  Couple it with a breathable tank top which covers your shoulders and prevents you from getting sunburned, while allowing you to get used to the fact that your arms ARE worthy of being seen (and look much cuter without a farmer’s tan!). 

Nike Perfect Fit (or Dri Fit) Long Training Shorts:  $34.99 + Shipping. (Comes with a black or blue top waistband). 

Click here to order.

REI OXT Tank: $13.99 + Shipping.  Click here to order.