Spring running gear with maximum comfort and performance

Whether you spend all your spare time running or, like many runners, prefer to add traditional gym workouts to your training, Smartwool’s Active Lined Shorts have got you covered. Constructed with a unique stretch-woven exterior fabric and a merino wool and Tencel Lyocell blend liner, the Active Lined Shorts deliver exceptional comfort and easy movement, whether you’re logging training miles on the road or lifting weights in the gym. This savvy fabric construction also avoids retaining odours (thank you, merino wool) and the Lyocell fibres help keep you cool in warm conditions. While the men’s and women’s versions feature different inseam lengths (7” versus 4”), they share a similar adjustable drawcord waist. Both shorts also have a zippered pocket for small essentials, while the men’s version also has two hand pockets, due to its longer length.

As the temperature and humidity increase, reach for Smartwool’s Active Mesh Racerback Tank. This stylish running top is packed with subtle design and construction features that make it perfect for spring and summer running. Starting with the fabric, Smartwool employs its tried-and-true blend of merino wool and Tencel Lyocell. This fabric combination resists retaining odours while ensuring runners stay cool in warm conditions. Smartwool also adds targeted mesh zones that provide additional breathability and comfort as the temperature or pace increases. Finally, the racerback design ensures easy movement and additional cooling while maintaining an appropriate degree of modesty.

You would be forgiven if, at first glance, you assumed the Smartwool Active Ultralite Short Sleeve is just another polyester running top. After all, it has the classic aesthetic of many popular running shirts. However, on closer inspection, you’ll notice that there is very little (in a good way) that’s conventional about this top. Starting with the fabric, Smartwool has spec’d a soft merino wool and Tencel Lyocell blend. This material not only has a softer hand than many synthetics, it also does a better job of not retaining odours and keeping you cool. The construction is similarly savvy, as can be seen in the offset shoulder and side seams. By moving the seams from their traditional location, Smartwool ensures runners are more comfortable, can move more easily and are unlikely to experience chafing–very smart. Why not get two and enjoy the spring and summer running season?

The Salomon Sense Aero 5″ shorts are the perfect addition to any runner’s spring wardrobe. Salomon has spec’d a classic 5″ inseam and mated it to their Active Fit construction and 4-way stretch fabric, ensuring unrestricted movement during long easy runs, as well as more spirited interval workouts. The shorts also feature Salomon’s micro-perforated Aerotech fabric, which offers superb breathability and comfort in warm conditions. For the waist, Salomon employs a low-profile elastic waistband that minimizes chafing and provides a secure fit. Finally, a simple, easy-to-access front pocket offers ideal storage for an energy gel, credit card or ID. These are great workhorse shorts at a very reasonable price and should be part of every runner’s clothing collection.

Constructed with a unique natural-fibre blended fabric (53 per cent merino wool and 47 per cent Lyocell), the Active Ultralite High Neck Tank is a perfect alternative to traditional synthetic warm-weather running tops. The ultralight fabric has a wonderfully soft hand, does a great job of managing moisture and is naturally odour-resistant, ensuring you can wear the top multiple times between washes. The stylish, relaxed-fit patterning also features highly functional details, such as offset shoulder and side seams to reduce chafing.

Runners seeking a lightweight and highly breathable top for warm spring running conditions will love the Salomon Sense Aero Graphic. Salomon uses a unique engineered fabric that features 37.5 Technology for exceptional thermoregulation and, in turn, comfort in warm weather. Runners will also appreciate the shirt’s minimalist, glued-seam construction, which reduces chafing during longer runs. Finally, Salomon adds an antimicrobial treatment that prevents odour build-up, allowing runners to wear the shirt multiple times between washes.

The Run Targeted Cushion Ankle Socks hit the sweet spot for most runners, providing additional ankle coverage when compared to lower-cut socks without the bulk associated with crew-height offerings. As with almost all Smartwool socks, these feature Indestructawool construction technology for exceptional durability, as well as Smartwool’s 4 Degree elite fit system for a foot-hugging fit. The addition of targeted cushioning zones and mesh panels ensures exceptional comfort and breathability during long runs.

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