I’m not someone who likes overly tight clothes. In fact, I really prefer my clothes to feel nice and baggy, nothing tugging or sticking into my waist. That’s why I prefer bibs to bike shorts, and often suggest people size slightly up with cycling jerseys. While this is good advice for cyclists, it’s not ideal for runners, as I’m slowly learning. For instance, what I wore for the 80-kilometer La Cloche trail:
It looks OK at a glance, but look closer. Even in an action shot, you can see how much extra (sweat drenched) material there is in both my top and my shorts. When we finished, the shirt that started out as loose but not too loose had turned into one that could fit Peter and I both inside of it at once, because as it got wet with sweat, it started to sag. A lot.
But when I wear tighter shirts, the poorly fitting ones will ride up immediately, leaving me with an exposed stomach. Fine if that’s the goal, not ideal if it’s not.
Now, I’m trying to be a lot pickier when I buy new running clothes. Here are the new rules for fit and material that I’m sticking with, and it’s led to some much smarter buying decisions, and a few returns in the process!
The goals when trying any running clothes on:
- Tight, but not so tight that you struggle to put it on. But consider how it will feel at mile 10 when you’re soaked and it’s stretched out a bit. Will it still be OK if it’s stretched by 10%?
- Minimal flapping and extra fabric anywhere
- Easy breathing (especially when talking about sports bra shopping!)
- Comfortable underarms (especially the seam. Underarm fit can make or break a run top!)
- No seams hitting inner thighs
- Won’t ride up in first steps! (for shirts or shorts!)
For men, these considerations may change, but not by much. If you wear longer shorts, like Peter does, you still want them to be a slim fit rather than a more basketball style of fit. You still want to be aware of where seams are hitting your skin. The same tightness rules apply.
Material-wise, look for:
- Polyester or merino wool
- NOT cotton
- Features like ‘sweat wicking’
I know that it sucks to try to find good running gear, trust me. No matter what size or shape you are, there will be issues. And yes, even those who look like they have ideal runner bodies are struggling—you just may not realize that they have issues with things like nipple (or heck, even labia) chafing. Yep, those are real things. And they’re more common than you might think, so if you still haven’t found your magical perfect fit clothing, don’t panic. It’s out there.
Want more on choosing the right gear for you? Check outour book, Becoming A Consummate Athlete, right here:
FAQs
With tight running pants, it's important that they are breathable, fit snuggly and do not move; otherwise, they may chafe the skin. The same applies to underwear. If your running clothes rub against damp skin, sore spots can appear.
How should I dress for running? ›
What to Wear Running. As with any aerobic activity, running becomes more comfortable when you have clothing that keeps you properly ventilated or—in cold and wet conditions—lightly insulated and dry. Running clothing options include, pants, tights, shorts, shirts, vests and jackets.
Is it better to run in loose or tight clothes? ›
In addition, with tight-fitting clothing you can better control your movements and prevent clothing from chafing or rubbing. However, if you're uncomfortable in tight clothing or don't like wearing tight clothing, loose clothing is a good alternative.
How to make sure clothes fit properly? ›
Try on clothes before you buy them.
This one may sound like a given, but a lot of us skip the fitting room line and head straight for the cash register. No matter how long the line is, Vazzana recommends trying on items before heading out of the store to make sure they're a perfect fit.
How should a running best fit? ›
When you're first trying on your running shoes in the store or at home, look for the following: Proper toe fit: You want a thumb's width of space between your toe and the end of the shoe. Midfoot and heel fit: You should have a snug (but not tight) fit at the midfoot and heel.
How tight should running pants be? ›
One of the most important things is to choose a pair of running tights with the right fit. Your running tights should fit close and feel almost like a second skin.
Is it better to run in leggings or shorts? ›
A good pair of leggings are made of a stretch and breathable fabric that provides a great range of motion; however, shorts provide the best range of movement and ventilation for runners. If you are looking for the lightest garment, shorts are also the best choice especially the short lengths with less material.
Do you sweat more with tight or loose clothes? ›
It sounds like a no-brainer but staying hydrated can help regulate your body's temperature. Wear light, breathable clothing. “People who are layering and wearing tight clothing are going to be more apt to sweating,” says Holtz. Opt for items made out of cotton and that are loose and allow for good airflow.
Is it better to run in a hoodie? ›
As you exercise, your body generates heat. Wearing a hoodie can help retain some of this heat, keeping your muscles from becoming stiff, resulting in better blood circulation. This can lead to improved performance, especially during the initial stages of your workout.
Is it better to buy bigger or smaller clothes? ›
Getting clothes slightly bigger gives enough room, ensuring that the garments will last longer. This is particularly useful for items like winter coats or fancy outfits that may not be worn frequently, but should fit nicely when they are needed.
Clothes that are ill-fitting are too big or too small — or maybe too big in some places, and too small in others. Your ill-fitting pants may require a belt to keep them from falling down. An ill-fitting dress might be too short and too tight in the arms, and an ill-fitting suit might be big enough to fit two of you.
How do I stop being insecure about my clothes? ›
Dress for Yourself
Try stepping outside of your comfort zone and allow yourself to have fun while trying different styles. Remember, fashion is about expressing your individuality and feeling comfortable in your own skin. You don't have to leave the house in your newly styled outfit right away!
Should you size up or down in runners? ›
The further you run the more your foot will naturally expand. This means it's wise to have just a little extra room (about a thumb's width) between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. With this in mind, your running shoe should be around a half size larger than the shoe size you usually get.
Should you size up in on running? ›
On's high performance running footwear generally fits true to your usual size. On themselves, however, recommend that with their acclaimed waterproof range that you go up one on your usual size.
Should workout clothes be tight or loose? ›
Your waist, hips and stomach need to feel comfortable. It should feel like a second skin, not like a suffocation. To ensure your gym clothing isn't too tight, ensure you have full range of motion when moving and stretching; you want to feel snug, without limitations.
How tight should running runners be? ›
A properly fitting running shoe should feel snug in the heel and midfoot, with wiggle room around the toes. While standing, press your thumb down next to the ball of your foot and around the toes. A good fit should allow for half to a full thumb's width of space.
