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Spring Into A New Training Wardrobe
Cregg Weinmann
Issue 11 (May 2005)
Colorado Runner

adidas Men's Supernova For Motion Long Sleeve Half Zip ($60)
Fabric: polyester, Texture: waffle knit, Sizes: S-XL, Key Features: varying weight inserts, half zip placket
Supernova apparel exhibits the essential features for performance running. The For Motion Long Sleeve top has panels of varying weight to accommodate the thermal patterns of the body. The areas of high perspiration have a mesh which allows better transfer of heat away from the body. A tester said, "The tailoring is evident. On a hanger, it doesn't hang flat. It is perfect when running, you don't notice it at all."

adidas Men's Supernova For Motion Pocket Short ($45)
Fabric: 86% polyester microfiber, 14% spandex; X-Static brief: polyester 98%, nylon 2%
Texture: smooth stretch woven, Sizes: S-XL, Key Features: mesh notch inserts, zippered pockets, stretch fabric

The adidas For Motion concept revolves around comfort and performance for running. The Supernova Pocket Short takes the features which make a quality pair of shorts, and goes a bit better. A tester found, "The stretch in these shorts make them fit better than any I've tried, and they really perform well."

ASICS Men's Reflect Long Sleeve Run Shirt ($48)
Fabric: polyester, Texture: smooth knit, Sizes: S-XL, Key Features: UV protection, reflective accents
ASICS has developed functional running apparel to manage moisture, increase visibility, and provide protection from the sun's rays. The reflective accents of the Reflect Run Shirt are prominent stripes and triangles positioned to improve visibility when headlights shine on the garment in dark conditions. Testers commented, "Good comfort, great visibility."

ASICS Men's Reflect Short ($44)
Fabric: polyester microfiber, Texture: silky weave, Sizes: S- XL
Key Features: 4 inch inseam, reflective accents, seamless liner.

The Reflect short is a requisite microfiber short with a longer profile. The soft fabric combines with the seamless liner for effective comfort and easy care. The addition of high visibility reflective accents makes the functionality of the Reflective Short appropriate for all lighting conditions. Tester comments included: "Light, no chafing, easy to care for."

New Balance Men's Valve Tee ($40)
Fabric: polyester, Texture: smooth mesh and closed knit, Sizes: S-XL, Key Features: engineered knit
New Balance has steadily improved their performance products made from technical fabrics. The Valve Tee provides lightweight, effective moisture managing polyester, called Lightening Dry, engineered for lightness and cooling.

New Balance Men's Veto Short ($35)
Fabric: polyester microfiber, Texture: silky dobby weave, smooth mesh knit inserts, Sizes: S-XL
Key Features: 5" inseam, mesh inserts, Phantom waistband, internal key pocket

Running shorts have features that are most noticeable when they do not perform well. New Balance has addressed each possible problem to ensure that the Veto Short performs. The waist and liner are incorporated (Phantom waistband) to reduce seams, mesh inserts allow the evacuation of heat and moisture, and microfiber provides its smooth contribution to guarantee that there is nothing to notice. Testers noticed, "Really comfortable. Light, look good, and no friction anywhere."

InSport Women's Vapor LS Tee ($38)
Fabric: 100% polyester, Texture: micro-textured knit, Sizes: S-XL
Key Features: lightweight, gusseted for layering, made in USA

InSport has zeroed in on the important factors needed for springtime comfort. The Malden Mills Silkweight Polartec Power Dry provides a measure of warmth without overdoing it. Adaptability is achieved by layering for colder conditions. One tester said, "Light but warm. Looks and feels good."

InSport Women's Competitor Mid-Tight ($40)
Fabric: microfiber polyester, X-Static gusset, Texture: smooth stretch knit, Sizes: S-XL
Key Features: Mid-calf length, zippered pocket, made in USA
The versatility of Capri's is warmth, fashion, support, and modest coverage. The Competitor Mid-Tight utilizes stretch microfiber to improve the fit. Well suited to cool conditions, tester comments included "I liked the looks and durability." and "Very supportive and well designed."

Nike Women's Race Day Short Sleeve Top ($50)
Fabric: 92% polyester, 8% spandex plain jersey, Texture: smooth stretch knit, Sizes: XS-XL
Key Features: zip neck, mesh inserts, stretch fit
Nike puts the "fun" in functional with the Race Day Short Sleeve Top. The stretchy, supportive fit and carefully placed seams are designed to increase comfort, and minimize moisture by allowing evaporation in the areas of greatest cooling. Our tester thought, "Cute style, comfortable stretchy feel. Worked well for me."

Nike Women's Race Day Knit Short ($40)
Fabric: 92% polyester, 8% spandex plain jersey, Texture: smooth stretch knit, Sizes: XS-XL
Key Features: 3" inseam, gusset liner, stretch fit

The transmutation of fitness shorts continues to evolve. Nike focuses on styling with the Race Day Knit Short which is good to see. The Dri-FIT fabric is predictably technical, allowing the runner to concentrate on running. The stretch knit is streamlined to minimize irritation, while affording wicking moisture management. Tester comments included: "Fit well, supportive, comfortable. Half of my new favorite outfit."


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