Now that fall has arrived and "winter is coming,” it’s time to wrap ourselves in cozy functional fabrics made just for hitting the gym, the road, or the track. Our very own Holabird Sports Creative Team recently got a sneak peak at three of the hottest fall running collections just released and this was what we had to say.
UNDER ARMOUR
Our hometown favorite Under Armour brings us premium looks that exude a casual cool vibe with technical attributes that perform just as hard as you do. One of my favorites for this season are the Under Armour Accelerate Engineered Leggings. These compression style tights create smooth lines and feature an eye-catching pattern in classic black and white for a totally on-trend look. The elastic waistband stays put without ever feeling uncomfortable and the HeatGear® enhanced fabric helps control sweat while you work. These are ideal to wear in the gym, the studio, or out on the road for a run.
Our next pick for the upcoming cold weather running season is the Under Armour Layered Up Jacket. Featured in a classy black with reflective accent, the shorter cut and a trendy elastic cinching waist at the back provide a flattering silhouette. The Storm 1 technology on this ultra-lightweight jacket repels water to help keep you dry in wet weather conditions. This jacket is the perfect layering piece to keep your favorite duds dry when you're out and about. The sporty-chic look of this jacket makes it perfect for pairing with your favorite leggings or a pair of jeans.
Another essential for my winter weather wardrobe is the Under Armour Threadbourne Run True 1/2 Zip Top. This is another excellent layering piece, but that can also be worn on its own for a polished look. My favorite part of this top is the super soft touch of the stretchy brushed fabric. You also get the benefits of Under Armour Storm 1 technology for this top, so you'll stay warm and dry if you get caught out in the rain or snow on your run. We also love the technical features like the reflective accents, hidden back zip pocket, and comfy thumb holes for added coverage.
ASICS
For guys, ASICS brings back the ASICS Storm Shelter Jacket that's been a real crowd-pleaser. This jacket features superior wet and windy weather protection from a Durable Water Repellent treatment so its wearer stays warm and dry during their activity. Runners get the best in technical aspects with reflective elements, separate media pockets, and a mesh liner that keeps you from overheating. The trendy look and lightweight feel of this jacket makes it perfect for your daily winter runs or for trips out on the town. Dustin, our photographer, was surprised at how warm the Storm Shelter Jacket was since it was so lightweight. He also liked the flexible, self fabric sleeve cuff on the inside of the jacket that ensures warmth stays in and the cold stays out. A perfect partner to the Storm Shelter Jacket is the ASICS Storm Shelter Pant providing a head to toe, cold weather outfit. With the same Durable Water Repellent treatment from the jacket, you'll stay dry and warm, no matter the weather.
The ASICS Lite-Show® Long Sleeve top is another piece that's just perfect for your cold morning or afternoon run. A classic crew neck style is enhanced with ASICS' Lite-Show® 360° reflective technology to make sure you're seen during activities in low-light conditions. The soft-touch fabric is comfortable and never restrictive while built-in thumb holes provide a little extra coverage for your hands.
Don't forget about your hands! The ASICS Windblock Gloves offer a ton of toasty warmth for your hands while keeping you connected to your favorite devices. With touchscreen-friendly finger tips and gel dots for grip, you can operate your music player or phone easily without ever taking these gloves off. During the coldest days, your nose will love the soft, nose-wipe material at the thumb.
SAUCONY
This fall and winter, Saucony brings us their super soft Run Strong Sportop to wear alone or as a layering piece. The trendy 1/2 zip style features a heather pattern on a lightweight and windproof brushed material for ultimate warmth. Reflective detailing throughout this top provides optimal visibility for those running at the darker times of the day. Curtis, our graphic designer, loved how soft and cozy this top felt as soon as he put it on.
Another of our favorite products for cold weather running is the versatile Saucony Ulti-Mitt. This convertible glove allows for wearing as a mitten style or as a full fingered style by storing the mitten covering conveniently in the back of the glove. With this Ulti-Mitt, you'll still have full access to your phone whenever you need it. This new version is complete with built-in soft, fleece wipes for cold and runny noses.
Last but not least, we have the Saucony Omni Pant for guys. With the fit of a warm-up pant and the flexibility of a running tight, guys can move with comfort and confidence during their activities. Thermal fabrics help to keep heat inside so the cold and windy weather won't be a problem for runners. Convenient zippered pockets offer secure storage of essentials while you're out and about.
These great pieces are just a few of our favorites from brand new apparel released for fall and winter. We love these because they not only make us look good, but they feature the most advanced performance technologies to keep us warm, dry, and focused on our training. What's not to love?!
Just In: Hottest Functional Fashion for fall/winter 2016
