Upgrade Your Running Kit with This Stylish Gear
Because running doesn’t have to be dorky
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It’s time to ditch those free race T-shirts and upgrade your running kit. Apparel companies are taking a stylish approach to run gear these days, which means you can look good while you’re putting in the miles. Here are some of our favorite picks.
Roka Phantom Sunglasses ($260)
Aviator running glasses? Yep. Roka makes super-stylish shades for high performance. The Phantom takes the classic aviator style and gives it a titanium frame with a crazy strength-to-weight ratio, fingerprint-resistant lenses, and sticky nose and temple pads that absolutely won’t slip when the going gets sweaty. All in, the glasses weigh half an ounce and look good enough to wear on date night.
Myles Apparel Switchback Shorts ($68)
Myles made waves with its Everyday shorts, built for all kinds of activities, but with the Switchback it’s focusing on runners. These shorts are made of a light, fast-wicking polyester with four-way stretch and a perforated waistband and leg cuffs for added breathability. The built-in liner is soft and comfy, and there’s an elastic stash pocket for keys and a zippered pocket big enough to house a phone.
On Cloud Shoes ($130)
The Cloud, from Swiss brand On, might look like a casual boat shoe, but it has serious running chops. The outsole is structured to provide a fluid ride and soft landing, while the built-in sock liner and V-molded heel provide a soft, snug fit, and the elastic “speed laces” mean you can slip them on without tying. They’re everyday runners that look good even when you’re not moving quickly.
Tracksmith Van Cortlandt Singlet ($65)
Tracksmith makes stylish running togs with a retro edge. If The Royal Tenenbaums had a track club, they’d wear Tracksmith. The Van Cortlandt is built from performance mesh for ultimate breathability and a barely-there feel. Apparently that dramatic sash is inspired by an 1800s track-and-field team, but we think it just makes you look fast. If you want sleeves, go for the Van Cortlandt Tee ($68).
Brooks Canopy Jacket ($85)
Brooks slays the details with this breathable, water-resistant jacket. The stretchable cuffs have thumb holes to keep your sleeves in place, the hood stashes away when you’re not using it, and the front zipper pull even works to anchor your headphone chord. There’s also an internal stretchy stash pocket that holds a phone. And the whole thing packs into its own pocket and has an elastic band that allows you to wear it on your arm if you don’t need it.