The tops we wear when we head out for a run or for a jog are super important. Running accessories for women and the tops we wear, make or break a run for me.
Being prepared is key.
This is what you need:
- know your layers
- know your materials
- keep the fastenings simple
- safety knowledge
- keep it colorful
know your layers
I learned early on in the game that I had to know how to layer up properly and how to be able to strip down easily again too. The layering has to be simple to put together and simple to remove.
In both hot and cold weather is this super important to figure out.
I basically work with 3 layers.
The layering is important because when you set out you tend to feel the cold. When I start running, I usually keep all the layers on for the first kilometer but from there on out, the layers get peeled away.
As you run, your body generates heat and you will want to be able to remove layers for the run. I usually can do this while running and then just tie the top around my waist and keep on running. I have found a simple system of using simple pieces of clothing to do this successfully.
After the run, when I am walking it off and cooling down before getting home, I usually put these layers back on because if it is cold outside you will get cold. I do not like to get cold! Ever!
I do not recommend fussy layers that make you stop to be able to undo anything. The simpler that I can keep it, the easier I find it to remove the clothing.
running accessories for women – tops for layer 1
I always have this layer on!
It is a vest, and it has an integrated bra in it too. On a side note, I also love to travel with this one! It makes any airport security check a breeze. Give it a try, it works!
I do not love having a sports bra and a sports t-shirt, they simply do not work for me. When I get dressed for the run it is quick and easy as the vest has two functions – one, a bra, and two, a vest. It’s also super easy to pack as well.
Many people use bras and a t-shirt and that works for them. I tend to sweat very easily and I find that I can’t tolerate the sweat factor better with a vest than I can with a t-shirt.
Try them out for yourself and let me know in the comments what works for you.
running accessories for women – tops for layer 2
This layer is optional in summer but is very needed in early autumn/fall and late spring. I use simple polyester long-sleeved tops. They tend to have round necks and no fancy zip opening or buttons.
I cannot use cotton on any layers and so none of these layers have any cotton in them.
I need fabric that keeps the sweat and moisture away from my skin. Polyester is fantastic for me for this. When I wash these tops, they dry very quickly too and that is important so that you can get them through the wash very quickly.
You also do not have to spend a ton of money here. You can, of course, but it is not necessary. The tops that I bought have lasted for about 5-10 years. I have bought some from a second-hand shop, some new from the local discount shop and some from a real sports shop.
To this day I can see no difference in durability and function. Spend what you can and get out of the door.
This is the only layer that I would consider doubling up on if it is really super cold. This is very rare though.
running accessories for women – tops for layer 3
This outer layer is mostly reserved and used in winter. I love having polar fleece on this layer. The tops that I have all have a zipper on and the zipper goes down the entire length of the top.
I have two thicknesses of polar fleece and I of course choose which one to wear according to the weather. The thinner ones are fine for most of the winter runs. The super thick one feels like it could protect me from anything and everything. I love them and they have survived with me for many many years.
Another fun side fact! I use one of the thinner ones quite often in the garden and also in the kitchen! I hate my clothes to smell like food and so I put on this thin polar fleece top and it protects what I have on underneath from any smells;)
This top often comes off when I run and mostly after the first kilometer. The zips are easy for me to navigate and then I tie the top off around my waist and carry on. I also put it back on really quickly if I have to walk for any reason. It can be pretty cold out there and it is best in winter not to run too far from home.
extra layer
I very occasionally wear a bright blue windbreaker. This protects me from wind and rain. I do not use it if it is in summer and the rain is warm, I just get wet and shower quickly when I get back home.
There are days when it is windy, cold, and blustery and this is when I use this windbreaker. The hood section is the most important part for me. It must cover my head properly and not constantly be pulling backward.
Try out any windbreaker before you buy it. I have toggles on the hood that help fasten the hood to my head. I feel well protected when I wear this jacket.
safety first and bright colors
It is always good to tell someone where you’ll be running anyway! This is true for any season and always go for a run with your mobile phone.
I once went running with my daughter and neither of us took our phones! We, of course, thought that we would just be trying out a new route! What were we thinking!
The sun was setting and we were getting lost. We eventually had to backtrack and thankfully got back home safely. Please don’t do that, it was not fun.
Make sure that your tops are brightly colored too. You need to be visible. This is not the time to blend in with the background. When you are running on a road, the motorists need to see you well before they are close to you. Keep it bright.
what material is best
Synthetic fabric is best because it keeps any moisture from your skin.
The second layer is usually a long-sleeved polyester top. Some tops have a hole in the cuff and this is for putting your thumb through and using it as a partial glove. This is very handy. Keep a lookout for these minor details when you buy your running gear.
Cotton absorbed water and you may find yourself getting really cold as the water does not evaporate away quickly with cotton.
Polar fleece is just a bit thicker and also wicks moisture away from your skin while keeping you nice and snug.
This is a very simple how I get myself out of the door. It does not require a lot of thought and so that means for me that it is easier to actually get going on a regular basis. What works for you? Let’s chat in the comments.