Sometimes I go months without buying anything, and then I go crazy on a shopping spree. I’ve bought so many running-related things in the last couple of weeks. In order to ease my guilt be informative, I’ve listed my purchases with mini-reviews. Hope you find this useful and/or entertaining!
Nathan Trek Waistpack
I got this as a belated Christmas gift from my wonderful sister JS. I wanted a bigger bottle than my current 12 oz Amphipod handheld, as well as a bigger pouch to accommodate my phone and extra fuel for longer runs out on the trails. I’m happy to say that this pack fits the bill fairly well. I’ve taken it on 2 runs so far. At first, the belt took a bit of adjusting to get it to fit right. The extra weight on my back also took some getting used to, but I really like the water bottle a lot (easy to open and close, doesn’t leak), and the pouch is very roomy. I probably look super dorky with it, but since I’ve worn it out in the middle of nowhere, I don’t really mind.
Oiselle Long Roga Shorts
I wish I could say this was me, but alas, it is not.
I’ve heard lots of bloggers rave about these shorts, but since they retail at $49, it made the bargain hunter in me scoff. $49 for shorts? Give me a break! So imagine my delight when I saw that they were on close-out at Running Warehouse for $34.99 PLUS free 2-day shipping PLUS 15% discount code. I just couldn’t pass that up, especially since there are a number of shorts that I always hate wearing and have been meaning to throw in the donation pile for years.
The funny thing about these shorts is that the “long” version has a 6″ inseam — not that long, really. The short version has a 3″ inseam… which I *might* be comfortable with in race situations, but not for your average training run. I’ve worn these shorts twice, and so far, so good. Why are these shorts so expensive, you ask? I can think of several reasons: One, the fabric is soft and comfortable — more cotton-like and less synthetic, but still quick dry. Second, the flat front and yoga pant-inspired waistband are more flattering than your usual running shorts. Third, the pockets are great! Why can’t women’s shorts have more pockets? These have 2 zippered pockets and a mini one inside. I do like the shorts quite a lot, though I can’t say that I love them just yet. I’m definitely happy with the fact that I paid ~$30 for them!
Brooks Glycerin Printed Sports Bra
My friends Laura and Kate held a Team in Training fundraiser this past Sunday at See Jane Run. All purchases were 10% off, while Laura and Kate would also receive 10% of the value of our purchases. Win-win! A few of my sports bras are really old and losing their shape, so I was in the market for a new sports bra. I tried on a bunch and came away with this cute Brooks printed bra. It’s also padded, which is a first for me! I’ve worn it once and there was no chafing. It was also pretty enough that I didn’t feel weird about taking off my sweaty shirt and driving around in just my sports bra. Yay!
Brooks Versatile 5″ Woven Shorts
I’ve been in love with these shorts since I got a pair last year. When I saw them on close-out on Running Warehouse, I knew I had to get a 2nd pair. The waistline never creeps up and they are very comfortable. I also like that they say they are “Built with equilibrium technology.” I always joke with the Gypsy Runner that I feel very equilibrated when I wear these shorts.
Merrell Pace Glove
New shoes, meet my old shoes.
I really need to write an full review of these shoes soon. But until then, here’s what I have to say about them. The Pace Gloves have been my go-to shoe for almost a year. Merrell is coming out with a new version this spring, and since I have no idea whether I’ll like the new version or not, I decided to play it safe and buy another pair of the originals. It’s the first time in my life that I’ve been so paranoid about running shoes. I just took the new pair out for a spin today, and they feel good! I’m hoping to break them in enough to wear them at the Oakland Half in 2.5 weeks.
Well, I think that does it – for running purchases, anyway. 
Anyone else out there have new item(s) that they’re excited about?
Filed under: Gear, random Tagged: clothing, gear review, shoes, shopping, shorts, sports bra, water bottle
