At a price of $194, the CW-X Revolution tights are in a price tier at the top of the market.  That puts the tights on par with the Opedix R1, and above 2XU’s most expensive offering.  The proof is in the pudding, however, and most runners who use the Revolutions are thoroughly impressed.  Even with the high price, the tights seem to gain a high degree of loyalty.  While it is an unscientific snapshot, distance runners especially seem enthusiastic about the tights and what they do for them.

Here are a few highlights from the Revolution tights, as reported by avid runners who tested them:

• Great knee support.  The knee support reported by runners was a key selling point, as many endurance racers report that they had less knee pain and more overall stability when using the Revolutions.  The lower-priced Stabilyx also offers great joint and skeletal support, and we have no way of scientifically proving that the Revolution is superior in this regard, but it is a good tight in the road tests.
• Design.  The design of the Revolution tights was one of the most admired characteristics, according to our runners.  While many brands take the minimalist “silver or white on black” approach, the CW-X Revolutions provides a healthy splash of color – nearly a reddish leopard print on the 2012 model.  The design might be a little much for some, but for those who want to stand out, this is an attractive pair of tights.
• Recovery benefits.  Perhaps the place where a runner gets the extra $50 worth, when paying for the Revolution over the Stabilyx, is in recovery.  Runners who used the tights primarily for post-workout recovery were very satisfying, noting that they were able to sneak in additional workouts as compared to times when they didn’t recover with the tight.  We suspect this is due to the tighter, more seamless construction which keeps constant pressure and blood flow live in the leg when wearing the tight.
• Warmth.  While the Revolution Tights are not a cold weather tight (CW-X as a line of thermal tights for that) they certainly keep a runner warmer down to temps of about 40 degrees.  For runners with leg issue that flare up in the cooler temps, using a tight like this can be what they need to avoid chronic issues from recurring.

We think that CW-X is a high-quality, pioneering brand of running tight.  We are happy with the more economical Stabilyx tights, but for those with a budget of $175 or more, the Revolution tights should be part of the potential shopping list.  The construction and appearance is excellent, and road reviews all came back with very high marks.

Mens CW-X Revolution Tights:  $195

Womens CW-X Revolution Tights:  $195

Recommended Shorts

The Zoot CompressRX short is a close relative of Zoot’s compression tights that we like so much.  It offers excellent compression, great moisture wicking action, and antimicrobial treatment to make sure they don’t stink after just a few uses.  The Compress RX goes for $100 to $125, while other, lower-end Zoot versions go for as low as $65.

The 2XU Elite Shorts are modeled off of the 2xu compression tights of the same name that we like so well.  They offer great support for the quads, glutes, and hamstrings, and we have always liked 2XU’s flatlock seams that ensure no chafing and long life for your shorts.  The Elite shorts sell for about $100, with the step-down 2XU shorts (not the Elite) selling with many of the same features for just $80.

If you are not looking for true compression technology but rather a good, supportive pair of next-to-skin shorts meant to be used as an undergarment, the Nike Pro Core compression shorts sell for just $30 and can offer comfort and basic support for athletic pursuits.

Why Compression?

Compression gear offers many benefits over regular workout gear.  First, compression gear increases blood flow for key muscle areas by providing constant tension on those areas.  This is important both for the actual workout as well as for the recovery period.  A good recovery for hardcore athletes often includes using compression gear while resting, and in some cases even while sleeping.

Second, good compression gear can help keep joints and limbs in proper alignment.  Good compression tights often support the knee and hip, while compression shorts focus more on the hip joint.  That support can be notable for people who have chronic hip problems or pain.

Finally, compression gear can be very effective in dressing up for various temperatures.  A good pair of compression shorts, for example, will keep you warmer and regulate your temperature better than a pair of loose shorts of the same length.  For that reason, many runners and cyclists who are active on cool mornings prefer to use compression gear over traditional shorts.

What Makes a Good Pair of Compression Shorts?

A good compression short will provide a few key things you should look for:

• General comfort.  The short should feel snug, but comfortable.  You should feel as if the shorts are hugging your thigh but not cutting off circulation.  Compression shorts need to be snug, but not so tight they hinder your movement.
• Good seams.  Well-made seams do two things.  First, they make the shorts last a lot longer.  Second, they prevent chafing.  A poorly-made seam can dig in to your skin, making it both annoying and painful.
• Support.  In a good compression short, your hamstring and your quad should both feel as if they are being support, almost as if in a sling.  If either of these major muscles feels loose or unsupported, you didn’t get a high-quality short.
• Gripping.  The elastic gripping along the bottom of the short should be tight enough so that the shorts do not ride up, but made of fabric that doesn’t cinch or dig into your skin.  After the seams, these elastic bands are often the first to go, so make sure they are good quality.  The more you spend, the more you should expect that the leg grips can snap back time after time, all without causing any discomfort on the skin around your thighs.

2XU is an Australian company with a large North American presence.  Australia is home to some of the best triathlon technology, and that is where 2XU has firmly planted itself.  2XU is a maker of higher-end triathlon gear, including wetsuits, tri suits, cycling gear, and running tights.  Its following is loyal, as is often the case with tri gear makers.

The 2XU Elite running tight enters the market at a price point of $140 to $150.  At this price, it places itself toward the upper end of the compression tight range compared to some other tights on the market, but we feel 2XU is justified in doing so.  Their compression technology is arguably the most advanced at this point in time, along with that of makers such as Opedix and CW-X.  In addition to having excellent compression technology, the tights are attractive.  The trademark ‘X’ marking on black tights creates an elegant aesthetic and an easily identifiable brand presence.  Experience runners will know you invested in a high quality tight with just a glance.

Performance

The 2XU Elite tights perform very well in testing.  Runners report that the support provided by the tights to the entire leg – particularly the hamstrings, glutes, and knee – is excellent.  In comparison to competing tights in the $100 to $150 range, the Elite seemed to provide slightly better musco skeletal support, thus justifying its price point at the higher end of that range. 

2XU advertises the Elite as a “graduated” tight, meaning that the pressure applied by the tights are increased at the extremities to maximize the benefits of compression.  For example, the pressure at the ankle of the tights will be about twice as much as on other parts of the leg, allowing for circulation where you need it and pressure where it is most beneficial.

One thing we are intrigued by at 2XU is their approach to making garments as sweat-free as possible.  We learned about 2XU’s climate-controlled chamber tests, which include a “sweating mannequin” that simulates a runner perspiring or heating up in various climates.  Such testing helps them create workout clothing that stays drier, something important in hot weather but also in colder weather.  Wet clothing on a long winter run can induce chills and even hypothermia in extreme cases.

Temperatures

The 2XU Elite is intended to be a versatile compression tight, to be used in a wide array of temperatures.  Most runners reported that they were most comfortable from about 40 on the low end to 70 to 75 on the high end.  They are not intended to be a winter thermal tight – for that, 2XU offers the Thermal line which doesn’t have quite the compression qualities of the Elite but instead offers warmth for colder weather runners.  When we first put these tights on, we were struck by how thin they were.  Even with the thin temp, however, they performed well on our cooler temperature runs.

While the ¾ length tight, or Capri, may be a good option for those who want to use the tights in warmer weather, they are really meant for runners who feel they don’t need or want the calf and shin support of the full-length tight.  For those looking to routinely run in temps above 70 or 75 degrees, we would recommend looking at compression shorts from 2XU or comparable makers instead. 

Road Tests Give the Elite an ‘A’

Runners testing the 2XU Elite had great things to say about the tight.  They were comfortable from the start for most runners, something that is not always the case with compression tights.  Many tights require a few wears and a couple washings before they really start to feel good.

Several of the testers began as skeptics; many do when a running tight costs as much as $150 or more.  It is reasonable that one has high standards for a garment in that price range.  Consistently, however, reviews came back indicating that the tights provided excellent support, alleviated some chronic issues, and kept muscles in place firmly, which allowed for longer and faster runs.  It is safe to say that nearly all of the skeptics were ultimately converted.

While the tights are marketing primarily to runners, cyclists who used the Elite also tended to be very happy with them.  They don’t have cycling pads in the crotch and seat, so cyclists using the Elite are recommended to wear them over a very lightweight cycling short (which 2XU also makes). 

The test of time is also important for any high-end compression running tight:  how to they hold up after many runs and washings.  The 2XU Elite has proven to be good in this respect so far, with little flagging around the knees (a common first symptom of material fatigue) and no major construction issues.

Fit

Like most high-end running tight makers, 2XU alters its design for a male and female fit.  This is done to accommodate different body types and fit needs.  There was no discernable difference in fit satisfaction between males and females – both reported similar, positive reviews.

The one area where the Elite caused some problems was on runners who had short, thick limbs.  This is not unique to the Elite, however, as many good compression tights are meant for typical or even running builds, with lean, longer limbs.  The tights tended to ride town a bit, as the thickness of the quads pulled the top of the tights down from the ideal position.  This is not to say the Elite doesn’t work for shorter runners – it performs very well.  But if you are have a bodybuilder build, you may want to be sure you balance the waist thickness with the leg length on the Elite. 

Alternatives

While the Elite is an excellent tight, 2XU makes a couple other models that might be good for runners which specific needs.  The 2XU Thermal Tights, priced at $120, don’t have all the latest compression technology of the Elite but are a good choice for runners in climates where they will often run in temps below 40 degrees.  Likewise, the 2XU Track Pants at $90 can be a good choice for those who specifically do not want the snugness and support of a compression tight but are still looking for 2XU’s comfort and fit.

Summary

We want to remain impartial and not claim a true winner until we have tried all the tights out there, but the 2XU Elite is an excellent tight that is among the best offered on the market today, in terms of overall support and performance.  We are highly confident that serious runners will be pleased with their purchased and will get many good runs out of these tights. 

They are available through our trusted partner in the following models:

Mens Full Length Tight — $149

Womens Full Length Tight — $149

Temperature.  Most people think of cold weather as being low temps.  That is only part of the equation.  We generally start to think about slightly layering up at temps lower than 55, and go into all out winter gear at about 30 degrees, but there is more to it as you will see in the following points.

Wind.  Wind has a huge effect on cold weather running comfort.  A 30 degree day can be very comfortable if there is no wind, but very chilly if you have a moist breeze blowing.  Having a lightweight shell available can allow you to throw on wind protection whenever you need it without significantly adding weight or changing your heat level.  In general, dress for the windchill, not the temperature.

Precipitation.  Obviously, precip makes a huge difference on your comfort outside, even in warm temperatures. In many cases, your wind protection layer can double as rain or snow gear, but only to a point.  In our opinion, running in cold, pouring rain is not always worth it, but running in a nice mist can actually feel great.  In particular, protect your feet when running in wet conditions – it is a prime condition or introducing blisters, even in warm weather, and is often overlooked.  Snow, on the other hand, is often easier and less dangerous to run in than rain, especially with colder, drier snow, as the flakes will simply slide off of you as you run.

Traction.  Your footing cannot be overlooked when running in cold weather.  Icy conditions can persist when temps are below freezing, creating a workout hazard.  This can be mitigated by taking short, more sure strides, and by wearing more rugged footwear, but there is no absolute solution for ice.  Some of the most annoying conditions are just above the freezing point, especially after snow.  Large puddles can form in very inopportune places, and clay or gravel trails can sometimes turn into a sticky muck that can clog your shoe treads.  Again, rugged footwear can help but there are some days that you just can’t get around the issue.

So you are ready to run outside and have gone through the gear considerations.  It is time to select your running gear.

Two rules:  Layers are good, and cotton is bad.

Layers are a great way to customize your running outfit to the exact conditions of the day.  Remember, this is about function, not form.  Do not care how you look – care only about how comfortable you are and how well you can run.  A 35 degree day with sun and no wind might simply warrant a medium-weight base layer and nothing else.  A blustery 25 degree day might call for that same base layer with an entire wind protection layer on top, and even a few optional pieces like a neck gator or partial mask.  Take a page from skiers, who have scalable outfits for nearly every condition.  Some of the most relied upon cold weather running outfits are simple two-layer combos:  A base layer for warmth, and a shell layer for window or precip protection.

Cotton is bad because it holds moisture and has poor insulation qualities.  It might feel good against your body when dry, but as soon as you begin to sweat it does two things:  Adds to your chill, and gets heavy.  Have you ever had a wet cotton shirt on, even on a comfortable summer day?  It can quickly get cold, making you clammy.  Better options are good, old fashioned wool, which can often absorb 1/3 of its weight in water without feeling wet, or synthetics, which are often specifically designed for sport conditions and can do an incredible job of keeping moisture away.

Think About Quality

You may often find that you will need to pay more – many times more – for a good synthetic base layer at an outdoor store than for an inferior base layer at a discount store.  It is probably worth it.  Remember the old rule of junk in – junk out.  You might go through a half dozen cheap base layers in the time that would take to wear out one high quality garment.  On the higher quality cold weather gear, the stitching tends to be better, the fabric tougher, the garment holds its shape and color better after many washings, and better fabrics tend to not hold the “stink” that can make itself at home in a cheaper garment after a few uses.  Higher-end garments often have seams that will never chafe, better materials that will snap back into shape time after time, and antibacterial treatment to keep odors away.

From Head to Toe:  A Guide to Cold Weather Running Gear

The best approach is to avoid going out and buying one coordinated exercise suit like you might have in the 80’s.  Instead, evaluate every piece on its own merits and by the best-of-breed for every part of your body.  Here are a few tips:

• Head:  A lightweight synthetic hat or “skull-cap” can often be comfortable, and is thin enough to let you wear other gear such as headphones or a helmet if you happen to be cycling.  Wool hats are also effective but tend to be bulkier.  Be sure to cover your ears — caps intended for skiers work great in this respect.
• Face:  If you need face protection, as many do in, say, sub 15 degree or windy days, you have a few options.  A full balaclava will cover everything but your eyes and is right for the most extreme conditions.  It is often too much for days that aren’t intensely cold or windy.  A partial mask can cover your face but probably not your nose or even your mouth – right for cold days that aren’t as extreme.  A simple neck gator can be used to pull up over your chin and mouth if you don’t think you need a mask.
• Neck:  A neck gator, like those used in skiing, can often be a useful garment for both your neck and your lower face.  Otherwise, try to either get a turtleneck-styled base layer, or an outer layer that has a collar that zips up to your chin.
• Torso:  This is where you have many options, but you will typically want a synthetic long-sleeved base layer, an optional heavier-weight warmth layer made of wool or synthetics, and an optional shell layer that can protect you from wind or light precipitation.  Sometimes two of these layers come in the same garment.  This is alright, as one of our favorite torso garments is a medium-weight warmth layer that has a light coating to it for light wind.  But going the combo route will probably result in more overall pieces in your closet, so be sure to buy according to your common conditions.  Old fashioned sweatshirts are sometimes OK for a warmth layer, but they are often made of cotton so are ineffective and even a liability once they get wet.
• Underwear:  But don’t I just wear my underwear, you might ask?  No.  If you haven’t discovered synthetic underwear designed for active people, buy some.  They are a big improvement over the pieces you would typically wear under regular clothing.  Another great option are compression shorts, meant to be worn next to skin, can can offer many benefits other than warmth, such as stability and recovery assistance for your muscles.
• Legs:  You have a multitude of options for your legs in cold weather running.  In our opinion, there is no substitute for compression tights or thermal compression tights.  These garments provide physiological benefits in addition to warmth, but come at a price — upwards of $150 for some of the higher-end brands.  In addition to compression gear, some of the best overall leg garments we know of were actually developed by the bike industry – they provide enough warm for comfort but also have enough of a light outer coating to stop wind.  Other options include old-fashioned running tights, either alone or under an outer layer, or wool leggings.  Wool leggings can be nice because they often come in different weights, so can be purchased according to your common conditions.  Old-fashioned sweatpants are no longer best-of-breed because they are so much bulkier and heavier than products that have been developed over the past decade, and really aren’t comfortable compared to more advanced garments — plus they are miserable if they get wet.  If you have knee problems or are over 35, consider some knee warmers — something you wear under your legwear but can keep the important knee tendons and ligaments nice and warm.
• Socks:  Don’t forget about socks in cold weather, as the right sock can keep your foot warm enough so you can wear your normal running shoe – always a good thing.  Be sure to buy sock that go above your ankle, so your leg wear and sock and overlap, reducing any exposed skin.  Some of the best socks in the market are made for outdoor hiking by brands such as LL Bean or Filson.  They often come in low, medium, and heavy weights, and we can attest that the heavy weight socks are often too hot even for cold conditions.  A good pair of medium-weight socks from any outdoor gear manufacturer will usually feel great down to relatively low temps.
• Shoes:  Many shoes have hit the market that are branded as cross country or rugged footwear, intended for running and other activities.  If you plan to run on unstable surfaces or paths that tend to be icy, you may want to consider such products.  For most runners, however, your normal running shoe with the sock underneath will be fine on dry trails, even if the mercury drops.  A rugged running shoe probably also means that it is less knee-friendly, so we advise to run with your normal shoe if at all possible.

Compression Tights.  Starting with the high-end of the market, compression tights are a class of athletic tights that offer multiple benefits, and that serious athletes swear by.  Compression tights have been around for several years, but hit the market in a big way in the past decade, and for good reason.  Compression tights basically are tights that (as the name would imply) provide pressure to an athlete’s legs, creating stability as well as encouraging blood flow.  The increased stability allows runners to use their muscle motion for running instead of balance or joint alignment, making for a better workout.  The best way to describe how it feels when running with a compression tight is as if it was “spring loaded”, pushing your legs back in to proper alignment with each stride.  The increased blood flow assists in recovery between workouts, as muscle soreness really is due to many tiny bleeds or tears, and a compression tight basically acts as a turnicate to encourage tissue repair.  A good compression tight also has its place as a cold-weather garment, as many makers such as Skins and CW-X provide materials that is sensitive to colder temps and provides warmth to relatively cold conditions.

Many people buy compression tights for their activities – running, cycling, skiing – but also for recovery.  Some athletes use the tights for several hours after a hard run or while they sleep to encourage muscle recovery.  In fact, some brands produce specialized “recovery tights” that are a type of compression tight and useful for hardcore athletes who need to make the most of their recovery time.

The technology of a compression tight doesn’t come cheaply – they often cost $150 or more – but considering that it is in investment in your skeleton, muscles, and recovery, we think it can be money well spent.  Especially for athletes focused on frequent training or longer endurance races, the tights can essentially be a running tight, knee brace, and post-workout massage all-in-one.

Examples:  Skins A400 Compression Tight for $145 or the Opedix R1 Compression Tight at $190.

Thermal Tights.  A thermal tight is built for one purpose – to keep you warm.  While a compression tight can keep you warm in some temps, perhaps down to about 30 degrees, a thermal tight is built for warmth and doesn’t offer the benefits of compression.  For someone who will routinely be working out in temperatures below about 40 degrees, however, having a good thermal tight in the closet is an important garment that will extend your running season.

A good thermal tight will fit somewhat snugly but with not nearly as much pressure as a compression tight.  Some thermal tights can feel a bit bulky (but not even close to how a pair of sweats feels), while others are relatively thin and sleek.  Our favorite models combine insulating materials on the inside, with a slight coating or “sheen” on the outside to keep wind and moisture out.  Many thermal tights are made for cycling by cycling gear manufacturers, but crossover very well as running tights.

Examples:  Louis Garneau Oslo Tight for $70 or the Pearl Izumi Select Thermal Tights for $70.

Spandex / Lycra Tights.  The old-school spandex or lycra tights are reminiscent of what many runners used to wear in the 80’s and 90’s.  Technology has come a long way, however, and today these thin tights are comparable in your gear drawer to what a plain white t-shirt is in your dresser.  They certainly have their place, for example as a base layer under something else on very cold days, or as a thin outer layer on a breezy 55 degree day when you want just a bit more warmth than shorts.

The plain spandex or lycra tights offer limited warmth on cold days, and offer none of the muscular or structural benefits that you would get in a compression tight.  The upside is that they cost a fraction of other tights, but for someone who needs to invest in cold weather gear or muscle stability or recovery tights, you’ll want more than basic spandex.

Example:  Asics Myles Running Tight ($30)

Skins A400 are compression tights that really work. Testers report that they have a major impact on post-workout soreness, and more specifically they feel tendon pain and knee aches lessen. Skins A400 are compression tights that are much tighter than the usual tights available in the market. They can make a lot of difference to your muscles and legs, taking the ache out of them. The stitching inside is of the flat-lock type, which is very comfortable to wear without any chaffing. It compresses in all directions without any loose bits. Your skin can also feel cooler when you wear the Skins A400. They breathe very well and can be used comfortably for the most demanding leg workout. You will be amazed at the difference these compression tights can make to leg muscles and fatigue. While they are not inexpensive, the Skins fall into the category that we hold a few other models in that they are a worthwhile investment because of the leg health benefits.

Skins made a pretty major product change before the start of last season, and runners now report a better overall fit, and very importantly, a longer-lasting shape to the tights.  Skins also modified their sizing, to fit multiple body types.  They essentially have models for thin, lean runners as well as muscular or thicker runners.  This sizing is innovative to the market and we think will create more perfect fits with customers.

 The Skins A400advantages can be seen in several areas:

• Superb fit. The fit is very comfortable and precise and provides a great range of lengths and also different body shapes for women.
• UV protection. A UV protection of 50+ is provided, so that you can even go and train in the hot sun without worrying about being affected by overheating risks.
• Ease of maintenance. Washing is easy and they dry quickly by just hanging them. They are very cool and breathe very well.
• Warp knit. The compression tights are very well made and none of the seams dig into your skin, in spite of the tightness. They have no natural stretch and produces specific elasticity and compression that are perfectly controlled.
• Use as underwear. You can wear them under your jeans for a big event or games in the winter.
• Dynamic gradient compression. This results in less muscle soreness after exercise.

Constant and controlled compression is provided by the Memory MX fabric that is present on the spine and the scapula.

• Muscle focus. Movement is unrestricted so that there is no muscle damage. It wraps and supports the key muscle groups in a unique way, so that there is less vibration in the muscles. You will not experience any soreness after the exercise and there is less damage to soft tissues.
• Moisture management. Fast wicking technology has been used enabling to remove the moisture away from your skin, thereby regulating the body temperature.
• Odor and stink/stench free. You can obtain full protection from the antimicrobial treatment. Normal Lycra wear produces odor, but the antimicrobial treatment that is permanently provided in skins A400 compression tights absorbs the odor causing substances through ions. These techniques are built-in the fabric itself and will not go away despite repeated washing.
• The shirt is kept in place with these compressor tights with the help of a hem gripper

Alternatives to the A400

The A400 is the standard-bearer for Skins line of compression tights, but they make a couple additional models as well.  For those who want to spend a little less, the A200 at $110 is a good compression tight that can offer many of the support and circulation benefits of the A400.  What you give up is some of the “memory” in the fabric that helps keep the tights in original shape and likely extends the life of the garment (although we have not yet done a long-term test on them) and some of the advanced design in the crotch area.  Skins also makes an intriguing recovery tight, the RY400 for about $140, which is specifically designed to be worn for several hours after hard workouts or races.  It replaces some of the support with more pressure, allowing for improved circulation and recovery, and are intended to be a sleeping tight as well.  We have not yet tested them, but given Skins’ excellent reputation and other products, we are intrigued to try them.

Summary

Skins A400 compression tights have great benefits as the recovery after long runs is very quick. They are certainly worth the initial investment, and rank right up there with some of the best tights we’ve seen on the market. Skins has long been a quality maker of compression wear, and they are endorsed by the Australian Physiotherapy Association. The tights seem to be equally suited for the workout and the recovery afterward. We like the gradient compression, the thoughtfulness of the fit in key areas (such as knees and crotch) and the A400 seams tend to be less noticeable than some other tights.

Skins A400 Compression Tight – $145

Gradual training

The first thing that you need to understand is that more isn’t always better when in comes to running.  If you “overtrain” by running too many miles too fast, you run the risk of injuries.  It is important to create a running schedule that is safe for you at your level.  Start off slow and build up gradually over time.  Also, be careful to increase the intensity level gradually as well. Keep in mind that if you are new to running, gradual training is not only for your muscles and joints, but important for easing your heart and lungs into the new regimen as well.

Use quality running shoes and gear

Another important key to avoiding running injuries is to understand the importance of good running shoes.  If you wear the wrong type of running shoe, your risk of injury increases.  You may find yourself struggling with sore feet, knees, or legs with the wrong type of shoes.

If you are not familiar with running shoes, go to your local specialty sports or running store and ask a professional for help. They will size you up and guide you toward the right type of running shoe for the type of runs that you will perform.  Your best running shoe is also dependent on your foot shape and your gait, so having a pro help you choose is wise.  Experts also advice runners to replace their running shoes every 400 – 500 miles, so don’t try to cut corners in this area.  Make the investment for good, quality shoes, and don’t skimp.  Once you find the right brand and model, you can buy the same shoe over and over.

Other running gear is largely dependent on the conditions you run in.  If you tend to run in hot weather, some great moisture-wicking gear can be very useful (we like Sugoi products in this category).  For those who run in the winter, investing in some good cold weather running gear can have an excellent payoff in terms of comfort and injury-prevention.

Stretch and stretch some more

I’m sure you’ve heard it many times that stretching is vital to avoiding running injuries.  I assure you that it is.  Stretching is key to loosening your muscles and is extremely important if you are running in cold weather.  Don’t try to cut corners here either.  Commit to a stretching program and perform stretches before and after your run.  You will reduce your chances of injuries and help keep your muscles in optimal running condition.

Run on soft surfaces

Running experts agree that running on concrete ought to be avoided.  The concrete does not absorb shock, so it is your legs that are absorbing the running shock, which is not good for your legs.

Try to run on softer surfaces, such as a dirt trail or grass.  If you have to run on asphalt because you have no alternative due to snow or ice, be sure to wear the proper running shoes.  You will want shoes that can absorb much of the shock to spare your feet and legs.  Running on the side of the road, or the dirt, is much better than actually running on the road, as long as the surface is smooth and without holes or rocks that could cause you to twist an ankle or worse.

Follow these tips for optimal running performance and lessen your chances of injury.  Running is a wonderful way to stay in shape physically and mentally, so take the time and effort to learn about how to safely enjoy it for the long haul. You’ll be glad you did!

Manzella Windstopper Gloves

Sugoi Versa Running Jacket

Pearl IZUMi Select Thermal Tighs

Opedix R1 Compression Tights

Garmin 405 Forerunner Watch

Retail Price

Our Price

Rating

Summary

Who It Is Best For

Good in Cold Weather?

 ✔

Gender Neutral?

 ✔

Stocking Stuffer?

Our Review

 Read Review

 Read Review

 Read Review

 Read Review

 Read Review

How to Buy

 Buy Now

 Buy Now

 Buy Now

 Buy Now

 Buy Now

Not feeling like stretching before a run is not a good excuse for not stretching. There really is no good excuse. Stretching is very important for loosening your muscles, especially if you are running in cold weather. Stretching consistently also helps strengthen muscles for the long haul.

Before we actually get out there to run, our muscles are fairly stiff, so we need to loosen them up. If your muscles are not loose, your chances of injury increase. Experts state that stretching before running significantly reduces your chance of sprains and tears. It also helps optimize your run.

Stretching after a run is important as well, as lactic acid tends to build up in your muscles while you are running. By stretching afterwards, you are relieving some of that lactic acid and will experience less soreness the next day.

It is important to have a basic set of stretching exercises to perform before running, whether it be in hot or cold weather. The more stretches you can do, the better, as tight muscles need to be loosened and stretched for optimal performance.

The following stretches will stretch your calf and thigh muscles. You should perform these stretches before and after your run and can even do them on your off running days to maintain flexibility.

Hold the stretches for about 30 seconds, relax for 10 seconds, and then hold the stretch for another 30 seconds. Stretching should not hurt, so if you are hurting as you stretch, ease up a little until you feel just the right amount of pressure.

Calf stretch:

A favorite way of stretching the calf is to stand next to a wall, place your hands on the wall, put your foot up on the wall and lean in to stretch my calf muscle. If you are not near a wall, you can always lean your foot up against a pole, a car tire, a tree, or anything else you can find.

Thigh stretching:

Standing straight up and then touching your toes is a great way to stretch your hamstrings. You can also sit down with your legs out like a “V” and stretch your hamstrings that way. To stretch your quads, simply pull your foot up to your buttocks and hold.

These are very simple stretches that will help you avoid injuries while running. There are plenty more stretching exercises that you can do.

Features: The Sugoi Versa jacket is a great runner’s jacket, which features Sugoi’s innovative magnetic sleeve attachment so runners can easily remove sleeves when temps begin to climb.   Essentially, this jacket can be used as both a running vest and a cold weather jacket.  The jacket also has plenty of ventilation options, varying pockets, and several colors to choose from.  The jacket is best for temps from about 20 up to 50, or colder if used as an outer layer over a fleece. 

Functionality:  In testing, this jacket works great on the trail.  It blocks moderate wind with its Argon exterior material and the choices of ventilation are great for those on longer runs who may find themselves warming up after a few miles.  The magnetic sleeves work well, and sizing appears to be true for most body types.  Some testers reported that sizing ran large, so when in doubt, order the smaller size.  The large pocket in the back is a nice bonus for those who may pack accessories on their workouts.

Design:  As with all Sugoi products, design is attractive.  The Versa comes in many colors, including black, gray, white, blue, navy, and red (of course, Sugoi renames these colors with exotic names like “gunmetal”.)  Color design is subtle but includes a couple variations on the tone.  Testers appreciated that the jacket provides some visibility when running in low-light or darker conditions, and safety should always be a consideration.  Others report that the white has been known to stain over time, so you may want to opt for one of the deeper color options. 

Value:  At up to $120, this is not inexpensive, but the Versa is a good quality purchase.  It will fit the niche between the heavy, middle-of-winter outer layer and the long-sleeved thermal that you may use on a crisp day when the wind is low.  For most runners in typical American climates, this jacket will be used many times throughout the year.  When factoring the price-to-usage ratio, the jacket can provide a good value for the money.  It will quickly become a go-to piece for your running stable.

 Overall:  We are big fans of most of Sugoi’s products, and the Versa is no exception.  For those looking for a lightweight, wind-breaking jacket for fall and warmer winter days, it should definately be a strong consideration.  An alternate choice might be the CW-X Elementx jacket, but we don’t think a runner will go wrong with the Versa.  Find the Sugoi Versa here now!