This post is in response to Elle, who responded to our "ask a fit guru post", on her quest to find a great tank and sports bra that she can wear for her first half marathon.
Alright Elle, I heard you loud and clear and have called in my friend Hollis, the Assistant Manager in La Jolla, a serious runner with countless half marathons under her belt and a full marathon on deck in June.
She is built very similarly to how you described yourself. She is 5'5, a size 4, and a C cup. She too wants things to be supportive and flattering, so I asked her to show me her favourite run outfit, particularly for a half marathon. These are a few of her favorite things and her biggest piece of advice for you Don't wear anything on the day of your race you have not already ran in and are comfortable with!
On brisk days Hollis prefers wearing an extremely lightweight long sleeve tank so that her body stays warm, but will not over heat. She currently loves the Run:Team Spirit Long Sleeve, but covets her closet full of Run:Swiftly Techs (short and long sleeve).
It is no surprise that her favourite run tank is the Run:Swiftly Racerback. This running tank is all things you asked for; long in length, lightweight, wicks your sweat really quickly, and is very flattering.
Having a full bust, Hollis' favourite bra to run in is the All Sport Bra, a cross training bra with thick straps, and tremendous support. Although Hollis typically wears a 4 in all of our tops and bras, she prefers a 6 in this bra because the straps are wide and strong.
Although you had mentioned you would be wearing shorts, Hollis prefers wearing crops, as she likes the supports they give her legs, and also for chafe prevention. She has literally been living in the Run:Team Spirit Crops, and brags about their super quick wicking abilities. This is a personal choice, so Hollis instructs to run a few long runs in shorts, as well as crops and see how you feel.
Last but not least don't forget about your feet! I myself made the mistake of running my first half marathon in big thick socks, with big thick seams, and by mile 10 and had big thick blisters! Seamless, moisture wicking socks are to die for when running long distance. Hollis and I both love the Ultimate Run Sock.
These socks are fitted, but not too tight, so they won't move around on you in full stride on mile 9. They also are built with compression around your arch for more support, so pay attention to the Left and Right markings.
Hollis and I wish you all the best with your race! Thank you for your questions Elle, we hope this helps!
Namaste, Whitney
Do you have any burning questions about the fit & function of our products? Any questions about activity specific gear? Shout em out and we'll give you the scoop!
Hollis' Favourite Run Gear:
Run: Swiftly Racerback (available in store and online)
All Sport Bra (available in store and online)
Run:Swiftly Tech SS (available in store and online)
Run:Team Spirit Crops (available in store and online)
W Ultimate Run Sock (available in store and online)
Run:Team Spirit Long Sleeve (available in store or through the Guest Education Centre 1.877.263.9300)
And I still have yet to find a sports bra that only requires me to wear one, and eliminates all movement (from any brand!) Any ideas?
