Top Fashion Gear for Runners in 2018: Where Style and Practicality Rule

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Running as a sport has really gained popularity in recent years, not surprisingly, as more evidence backed by science shows that it’s not only good for physical health, but mental health as well. The mental boost a runner gets, known as the runner’s high, is real – it is the result of endorphins being released from the body during the activity. These brain chemicals trigger positive feelings of well being and reduced pain in the body. As more athletes take on the sport in pursuit of mental and physical wellness, running gear and fashion are also evolving with a steadily increasing demand.

An entire selection of running styles, colors, and accessories allow runners to make a statement about personal style while also offering practical enhancements to interval training, speedwork and even brick workouts.  Here are some of the latest and greatest innovations in running fashion that will really get your endorphins pumping:

Compression Wear

Brands like Second Skin offer a line of compression sleeves that come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns. However, the magic in this line of running gear goes deeper than just style.  Compression wear uses high tech fabrics to support a runner’s muscles while providing the utmost in comfort. A snug fit provides the best support for the athlete looking to reach his or her full potential. While numerous field studies differ in variability, individual assessment research has shown a distinct level of benefit with consistent regularity. Competitors find that compression wear will a keep the body warm in cold temps, improve circulation, and aid in recovery after a workout or race, with less soreness reported.

Running Skirts   

Running skirts are the innovative answer to the all too revealing compression shorts, as well as those baggy 70’s style nylon shorts. Running skirts come in a variety of cuts, lengths, and styles that do not ride up or reveal too much. Usually designed with a blend of polyester and spandex, they are lightweight and provide moisture management. They are available in most athletic stores in just about any brand name. Some standouts include the ASICS Interval Running Skort and the New Balance Casino Skort.

“Safety First” Gear

Day Glo hued athletic gear allows runners to glow in the dark and has made the biggest color trend to be all about fluorescents. Everything including tank tops, shoes, headbands, and jackets are being stamped with the brightest pinks, greens, yellows and oranges. Night runners don’t have to worry about visibility with the variety of fashionable accessories they can now choose from to get noticed.

The North Face Isotherm jacket  is a reflective, water repellant, warm, breathable, three layer running jacket that provides visibility as well as protection from a wide range of outdoor elements. Runners will enjoy comfort and improved performance, as they remain drier and more comfortable when training for the next race. The New Balance Fuel Core Sonic Viz Pack Running Shoes feature BOA no-tie technology, which adds a measure of safety as the mid foot canopy is anchored by New Balance’s unique lace free engineering. This design delivers a strong connection to the shoe platform – an extraordinary find!

Customized Footwear 

Be on the look out for athletic shoe companies to put their best foot forward this year, as they harness cutting edge technology to make every runner’s dream shoe come true. Salomon did just that late last year when the company launched MESH, a totally customizable running shoe made specifically for the individual purchasing them.

These bespoke shoes are created based on foot shape, running style, and typical terrain. Made to order, these running shoes don’t come cheap at $300, but most items made expertly by hand don’t. Using a 3D scan of the runner’s foot that measures length, width, and bone irregularities, these shoes are crafted with the runner’s choice between two foam densities of EVA foam, as well as three track options available – an impressive option for runners who want a truly customized experience!

Recovery Shoes

Reduce soreness in your feet, joints, knees, and back with recovery shoes like OOFOS  flip flops and athletic shoes. Recovery shoes are designed to assist runners in their recovery right after a workout or a race in ways that typical footwear cannot. Biomechanically designed, OOFOS shoes flex with the foot as well as the ground, encouraging more natural movement. The revolutionary foam in every pair absorbs 37% more shock with every step compared to traditional footwear foam. Recover faster and achieve deeper relief so that you will be ready to go hard again tomorrow. So light, these shoes even float. OOFOS shoes are also engineered to be moisture resistant and are machine washable.

Put your best running foot forward in the latest fashion trends mentioned here, and check back for more of the latest in running gear and fashion as this sport continues to reach new heights in 2018!

Have a favorite running gear product you can’t live without? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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RunSmart is your one-stop spot to train smarter, run faster, and enjoy running more. Unlock Physical Therapist-designed training with a 14-day free trial today.

Start your RunSmart Journey with a 14-day Free Trial.

RunSmart is your one-stop spot to train smarter, run faster, and enjoy running more. Unlock Physical Therapist-designed training with a 14-day free trial today.