Mother’s Day gifts for your running mom

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 the risk of chafing.

The Run Zero Cushion Low Ankle Socks are perfect for training in warm conditions. The socks feature many of Smartwool’s proprietary construction technologies, including Indestructawool, 4 Degree elite fit system, Shred Shield and strategically positioned mesh zones, resulting in exceptional durability, fit and breathability. Where they deviate from other Smartwool offerings is with their Zero Cushion construction that eliminates excess material underfoot, resulting in a sleeker, cooler fit. The socks’ low ankle height also contributes to their airy feel, again making them ideal for warmer conditions.

The Salomon Cross 5″ shorts are the perfect addition to any runner’s summer wardrobe. Salomon has spec’d a classic 5″ inseam and mated it to their Active fit construction, ensuring unrestricted movement during long easy runs, as well as more spirited interval workouts. The shorts use a smart internal waist adjustment, which provides a secure and comfortable fit while minimizing the risk of irritation and chafing. At the centre back of the shorts, there is a small zippered pocket that’s the perfect size 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.

Runners seeking a lightweight and highly breathable top for hot summer 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 minimal, glued-seam construction, which reduces the chance of 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 Bobcat features a unique hybrid shape that provides goggle-like coverage without compromising airflow and low weight. The result is a pair of glasses that deliver exceptional sun protection while remaining light and airy enough for serious (and even semi-serious) summer runs. Smith specs their ChromaPop lens, which offers excellent optics and detail, whether you’re running on the road or on trails. Like many high-end sport glasses, the Bobcat allows for easy lens changes and comes with a clear lens that’s suitable for running in low light conditions. Finally, the Bobcat is built on a smaller frame and is, therefore, more likely to fit women with smaller faces.

Staying hydrated during long training runs has never been easier, thanks to Nathan’s Quick Squeeze Insulated Handheld Bottle. This handy bit of kit features a unique and highly adjustable hand harness that securely holds the 18-oz water bottle. The harness has a large stretch-woven pocket (perfectly sized for most phones), as well as a smaller zippered stash pocket for carrying keys, ID, or a credit card. The harness’s open foam and wicking mesh construction prevent excessive hand sweating, and the insulated water bottle ensures runners can enjoy cool fluids when training in warm conditions.

The Swiftwick Aspire One is a great addition to every runner’s kit. With their sophisticated construction, these socks provide the mild compression, cushioning and moisture management necessary to keep your feet comfortable when running. Swiftwick employs its unique AnkleLock technology and GripDry fibres to prevent the socks from shifting and sagging during long runs. Grab a couple of pairs and treat your feet!

With its new Fresh Foam X midsole compound, the 1080 v13 delivers the plush cushioning runners have come to expect from this neutral shoe. The new midsole also provides improved response and reduced weight when compared to previous compounds. New Balance has also updated the midsole geometry by reducing the drop from 8 mm to 6 mm. The result is smoother transitions and improved toe-off, both of which will be appreciated by faster runners. For the upper, New Balance employs a new stretchy mesh textile that delivers exceptional breathability and comfort, while also providing critical support in strategic areas. The shoe’s midsole has also been improved. The sole now consists of the same highly durable NDurance rubber compound, but New Balance has reduced the coverage and thickness to help shed more weight.

Constructed with a lightweight and fast-drying COOLmatic fabric, the ALZCap provides UPF +40 sun protection while maintaining the breathability, style, and performance runners demand. The hat’s breathable side panels provide ventilation, while the pliable brim does an admirable job of keeping the sun out of your eyes. Throw in a number of stylish colour combinations and you have a great-looking running-specific hat for summer training.

Brooks’ commitment to manufacturing sophisticated, functional and stylish running bras can be seen in the Crossback 2.0 sports bra. Unlike some sports bras, the Crossback 2.0 is designed with lab-proven engineering to provide appropriate motion reduction for high-impact activities like running. The bra features built-in moulded polyester cups that comfortably reduce movement. With the 2.0 version, Brooks has lengthened and strengthened the bottom band for increased durability, security and support. For additional comfort, Brooks employs soft fabrics and nearly seamless construction to minimize chafing. The bra’s wide, carefully contoured shoulder straps reduce pressure points while the carefully positioned perforations deliver additional venting.

The Peak hydration waist belt is perfect for runners logging longer runs in warm conditions. Consisting of a highly sculpted, body-hugging belt, the Peak delivers a bounce-free fit that allows runners to focus on running rather than adjusting the fit of their hydration belt. On the left side, the belt features an expandable zippered pocket for storing food, a phone, ID or other small essentials. On the right, Nathan adds an adjustable-drawcord lashing system that securely holds gels and allows runners easy access to their energy source without fumbling with zippers or Velcro. Smack in the middle of the belt is an angled insulated bottle holder housing the 18-oz. water bottle that can be easily retrieved and holstered, even when running.

Products reviewed in this article: