These duds help shield you from whatever Mother Nature has in store--and look great while you’re at it
By: David L’Heureux and Mary Squillace
Finally, spring is in the air! Unfortunately, with the longer days comes an inevitable game of weather Russian roulette. Sure, the conditions could be sunny and 70, but they could be blustery and overcast, cool and rainy, or worse (we’ve seen at least one April blizzard in our lifetime). (Search: Average spring temperatures) When it comes to keeping up with your outdoor workouts, you have to be prepared for all of the above. Between providing protection from the wind and rain and offering easy adaptations for high or low temperatures, these eight items set you up for whatever weather comes your way this season.
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The sleeves of this wind-and-water shell attach to the body with magnets, which means the garment can go from jacket to vest and back in a matter of seconds. The magnets seem slightly unintuitive at first because it’s not obvious how they line up. But once you get the hang of them it’s a snap. Once off, the sleeves compress and store easily in the Versa’s rear pocket. Other nice touches include fleece lining on the inner collar, two drawstring cords for a custom fit, and an inner pocket to hold an MP3 and route ear bud wires internally up the front of the jacket. (Video: Let Music Pump Up Your Workout and Your Brain)
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Chances are, you have a pair of running or riding shorts or tights that you love. By adding these waterproof pants to your rotation, you can wear those favorite pieces through any conditions Mother Nature throws at you this spring. The reinforced knees and seat make these pants extra durable and Velcro straps around the ankles keep pant legs out of the drivetrain for cyclists.
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The super affordable jacket’s water-repellent finish protects against light rain. Mesh panels under the arms and at the wrists boost breathability. During exercise, stow your MP3 player in the side pocket, which is equipped with a media port that allows you to route your headphones through the back of the jacket and secure them at the collar. After your workout, pack the entire jacket in the roomy interior rear pocket for easy storage.
Spring Out of Your Gym
This rainy- and windy-weather companion is the brainchild of the cycling pros at Castelli and the water- and wind-proof fabric gurus at Gore. The stretchy fabric used to make the Gabba jersey feels and insulates much like a traditional soft shell, but performs more like a rain shell. The Gabba has additional fabric extending from the back of the jersey to keep bike wheel spray from soaking your backside and two zipper vents on the front for on-the-go temperature control.
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This incredibly lightweight jacket keeps moisture and wind out without causing you to overheat, which makes it the perfect outerwear for both chilly days and warmer ones. Plus, Velcro on the sleeves allows you to tighten or loosen the cuffs, depending on how much air you want to let in. Drawstrings at the waist allow make adjusting the fit easy.
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Layer this futuristic-looking vest over a short- or long-sleeved top to help maintain your body temperature in warm and cool weather. The down-filled piece is light as air and comes with its own packable bag, ideal for on-the-go types. Not to mention its high-tech sheen keeps wearers looking chic, whether they’re running, cycling, or just making their way to the gym.
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This do-it-all shell is ideal for rainy-season riding and running. A stretchy three-layer fabric helps accommodate riders of all sizes and shapes. It’s also extremely lightweight and breathable. It does a remarkable job of keeping water out and allowing your body’s perspiration to escape even during vigorous exercise on the wettest of days. A “one-handed” elastic waist cord helps provide a form fit with a single hand, and the snap-on, snap-off hood is handy for particularly inclement days.
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Looking for a solution for long runs that start off chilly and heat up as you knock out the miles? This new design from Brooks might be your answer. Slide on the ultra comfy warmers when you need them and then peel them off and stash them in your pocket when you get too warm.
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