Sportswear and Weather
Sticky, sweaty sportswear’s out. If you’re engaging in high-impact exercise, check out sportswear made of synthetic, wicking material like polypropylene instead of traditional cotton. These fabrics usher perspiration away from the body and allow it to evaporate quickly. It is essential sportswear for all kinds of weather: freezing cold (when trapped, sweat can give you a chill), sweltering heat and even rain. In the rain, try sportswear like a shelled jacket with inner wicking material and an outer microfiber layer that forces sweat away while keeping the weather out. On cold winter days, wear a warm inner polypropylene top along with an absorbent cotton outer layer. Top it off with wicking socks, hat and gloves. Remember — the dryer you are, the lighter you and your sportswear will be, positively effecting both comfort and performance.
Sportswear for Your Activity
Depending on your chosen activity, you’ll need specific sportswear that allows for full range of motion and prevents discomfort.
- Bikers require sportswear such as padded, wicking Lycra shorts that don’t constrict movement and prevent chafing in certain — ahem — areas. Lightweight biking gloves are a must, as are goggles to protect the eyes from gravel, insects and other visual hazards.
- Bikers aren’t the only athletes who need to worry about chafing sportswear. Slightly baggy running sportswear — especially shorts — can cause considerable pain after the miles start adding up. Some runners prefer to wear Lycra-blend tights to avoid that possibility, but properly fitted shorts shouldn’t cause damage. Sportswear tops should include fitted tanks or tees, and lightweight jackets for changing weather.
- Basketball sportswear should provide full range of motion, particularly on top. Tank tops and tank top jerseys are great for preventing constriction, and shorts, of course, are the norm.
- Unless you’re speed walking, low-impact workouts don’t require sportswear with wicking or anti-chafing ability. However, range of motion is just as crucial — if not more so — to activities such as yoga or Pilates. Choose loose-fitting, drawstring bottoms that don’t cinch at the waist, and a stretchy, flexible top that doesn’t constrict movement. Fitted tank tops are perfect. If you’re a woman and larger-busted, be sure to wear a sports bra.
Support
That said, every woman requires some extra support from her sportswear during mid- to high-intensity exercise. Sports bras come in two versions: compression and encapsulation styles. Compression bras flatten the breasts to restrict movement, and are therefore best for women who wear about an A or B bra size. Women who fit a C or larger should go for the encapsulated sportswear, which consists of two sturdy cups that deal separately with each breast. Either way, choose a seamless style to avoid more of that bothersome chafing.
Men, of course, need some sportswear support of their own. Running shorts often have lightweight, built-in briefs for athletic support. With very high-impact activity, most men prefer to go the traditional route and invest in an actual jock.
Shoes
Sportswear such as new athletic shoes can be just the thing to renew your motivation. And like any other piece of sportswear, the right kind of athletic shoes are crucial to your comfort and performance. Runners should be very fussy about the fit of their shoes to avoid blisters and ensure proper support. Try on shoes at the end of the day, when feet are at their largest, and wear a pair of sportswear socks comparable to those you’ll be running in. Be sure that the shoe you choose provides a finger’s width of room at the toe and plenty of cushioning for shock absorption. For ankle support, find a shoe with a slight rise at the heel. Last, always lace your shoes tightly enough to avoid either pronation or supination (excessive stress on the inner or outer arch), and toss your shoes when you’ve run 350 to 550 miles. (And pat yourself on the back, friend!)
Sportswear for basketball and tennis players, on the other hand, should include light shoes with plenty of support to protect the ankles during lateral motion. To prevent ankle from rolling or spraining during basketball, go with a higher top and avoid excessive cushioning unless you make a lot of jumpers.
Aerobics shoes should have good cushioning at the ball of the foot with plenty of arch support. If you’re doing yoga or Pilates, you’ll go barefoot, so congratulate yourself on the spared expense. Speaking of value, cross trainers are good sportswear for just about any activity, high- or low-impact. If you’re unsure of what kind of shoe is best for you, try these. If you find yourself in pain, go to a sportswear store and let a professional diagnose your needs.
By Nicole Zillmer