By Jenny Willden
You’re a competitor, and when it comes to performing your best, what you wear is just as important as your training regiment. While I can’t promise these feature-packed items will help you set a PR in your next race, they certainly can’t hurt. Want extra gear picks? See even more of our favorites at sportsguidemag.com.
Cycling
WOMEN
1. REI Verita Biking Jacket
This buzzworthy jacket can combat any weather Mother Nature throws at you. It’s made from uber-breathable eVent fabric that allows sweat vapor to escape to prevent overheating. Windproof to 60 mph with taped seams and waterproof zippers to keep moisture out. For men and women. $129–$159 rei.com
2. Icebreaker Rhythm Jersey
This jersey is as pretty as cycling gets. Made from Merino wool, it features a beautiful print, spacious rear pockets and a gripper hem. $130 icebreaker.com
3. SkirtSports Multisport Bottoms
Designed to be worn alone or under a SkirtSports skirt, these race day bottoms have handy slug pockets on the thighs for gels or chapstick. Silicone grippers on the waist and legs hold them in place and a barely-there, breathable chamois, makes them a dynamite choice for triathlons! $55 skirtsports.com
4. Icebreaker Halo Bike Shorts
Have you met Halo? She’s your new favorite pair of road biking shorts. Made from 84% Merino wool with Lycra for a contoured fit, temperature regulation and quick dry time. Plus, the gender-specific chamois has ergonomic padding for enhanced comfort. No more saddle sores! Available for men as the Cadence. $160 icebreaker.com
5. Smartwool Arm and Knee Warmers
Keep exposed areas toasty at the starting line with these Merino wool arm and knee warmers. Once you’ve warmed up, stuff these breathable sleeves in a pocket or pack and get moving! $30 smartwool.com
MEN
6. Icebreaker SS Circuit Jersey
You wear Icebreaker skiing and around town…so why not try it on your bike? This new line of cycling jerseys is made from pure Merino wool for an itch- and odor-free ride. Consider this purchase an investment in your cycling comfort. $130 icebreaker.com
7. Camelbak VeloBak Cycling Jersey
Not all jerseys are created equal! This Camelbak jersey goes above and beyond by adding an insulated reservoir to its back. You’ll stay hydrated on bike rides—without a backpack! Rear pockets store gels and gripper tape keep it from riding up. For men and women. $129.95 camelbak.com
8. Craft Elite Bib Shorts
This bib fits perfectly and stays in place during any ride thanks to its silcone grippers. It moves and stretches for maximum comfort when switching from standing up to positioned over the bars. The seamless gel chamois is chafe-free and well-cushioned, without feeling like a diaper. $179.99 craft-usa.com
9. ePulse2 Heart Rate Monitor
A strapless heart rate monitor that actually works? It’s true! This rechargeable armband keeps track of calories burned and your continuous heart rate with no fussy strap. Also features target heart rate zones and stop watch. $149 impactsports.com
10. Sock Guys Channel Air Socks
Five channels of padding support your foot and prevent blisters while mesh channels increase air flow. This reduces weight and bulk for a perfect fit. $10.95 sockguy.com
Running
WOMEN
11. SkirtSports Skirt Breaker Jacket
Be ready for any racing weather in this windproof, water-resistant, semi-transparent jacket. Features underarm ventilation and reflective details in a lightweight package that travels easily. $110 skirtsports.com
12. Brooks Sports Equilibrium Racerback
Made from Silc Lite, a super soft blend of moisture-transfer polyester and spandex jersey, this tank is sure to become your constant running partner. $34 brooksrunning.com
13. Suunto M4 Heart Rate Monitor
Sleek, simple and stylish. This affordable heart rate monitor provides customized workout plans to help you quickly achieve your goals. $149 suunto.com
14. Moving Comfort Momentum Shorts
The best running shorts for long distances—hands down! Chafe-free fabric, side stash pockets for gels and a wicking liner brief make these a race day must. $36 movingcomfort.com
15. Icebreaker Swift Capri
Wool running apparel: Historically, this oxymoron could go on a list with sanitary landfill, jumbo shrimp and friendly argument. Icebreaker’s new line of wool running gear defies stereotypes and will forever change the way you think about wool. These Merino capris are light, breathable, stink-free and not itchy at all! Short version available for men. $90 icebreaker.com
16. Point6 Ultralight Running Socks
No one likes stinky feet. Keep yours odor- and itch-free in these Merino wool socks. This soft fabric is organic and biodegradable, making it an earth-conscious choice. $14.95 point6.com
MEN
17. Headsweats Ultralite Hat
Keep the sun out of your eyes and sweat off your face with this hat made from wicking fabric with a COOLMAX® terry inner headband. $20 headsweats.com
18. Brooks Sports Essential Run Jacket
Utah’s weather can be fickle, making a water-resistant running jacket essential. Made from DWR-treated fabric with an inner storm guard, back vent for breathability and a moisture-proof media pocket. Available for men and women. $70 brooksrunning.com
19. Helly Hansen Pace SS 1/2 Zip
Stay cool on seriously hot runs with this shirt made from advanced wicking fabrics. A chest zip and air circulation features further enhance its cooling benefits, so you’ll feel chill even after intense sweat-fests. $60 hellyhansen.com
20. Helly Hansen Pace Tights
You either wear running tights…or you don’t. If you do, these tights rock. Made in full or three-quarter length, they have a zippered pocket, reflective trim and high-performance, quick-dry fabric for maximum comfort. For men and women. $70 hellyhansen.com
21. Helly Hansen Pace Shorts
Helly’s first foray into the running market includes the launch of this lined athletic short with built-in brief and LIFA Stay Dry fabric. The length is quite a bit shorter than your standard basketball shorts, but on race day you’ll love them! $45 hellyhansen.com
Jenny is the Managing Editor of Outdoor Sports Guide and a self-proclaimed gear and grammar nut. She loves adventure and is most free when riding horses or snowboarding in Utah’s mountains.
