Gaining Speed with Under Armour Running
When was the last time you thought about speed? Full-throttle, all-out, gut-wrenching speed. If you are thinking about it, props to you. If you are not, chances are you may have gotten stuck on a speed-bump, much like I did a few months ago.
It's easy to lose sight of speed and just run for the fun of it. There is really nothing wrong with this, unless you want to improve. Runners for the most part are a competitive breed. Speed workouts and track sessions are common place. As for gear? We are always looking for clothing or shoes that will help make us faster.
Under Armour, a fast rising sport apparel brand, has recently entered the world of running in a big way. Now sponsoring elite athletes and focusing on running tech (MapMyRun), running clothing and shoes. When the opportunity to try their gear through a partnership with W3Move came about I quickly agreed.
Under Armour Speedform Slingshot
The shoes - built for speed
These running shoes are stylish from first glance. As for tech - the shoe is lightweight and seamless. Even the insole is knit into the shoes. They honestly feel a lot like a sock on my foot. I found myself wearing them for more than just running.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Cushioned
- Excellent on flat terrain
- Stylish
Cons
- Toes slide forward on downhills and when stopping quickly because of the loose knit
- Attracts dirt & stains easily - I learned the hard way on a day at the beach
Apparel that breeds fast
It's winter here in Northern California. While I am sure we have nothing on some of the East Coast states, it does get chilly here. What you wear and layer up with can make a huge difference in your run. Performance fabrics need to be made to stand up against sweat, cold, wind and rain. They also need to be fairly form fitting and not so bulky as to weigh me down.
I was thrilled to get a pair of windproof leggings. I am not a fan of wind and don't have any pants that block the cold. These Aerial Speed leggings are perfect. Just the right amount of thickness and still flexible. You can unzip the reflective ankle to allow in extra airflow if you get hot. The pocket on the side is perfect to stash a music player, money, key or fuel for your long run.
They were a little short on my long legs, but overall, great coverage. I'm sure if you are Under 5'11" you will appreciate the length.
UA Charged Wool Long-Sleeve T-shirt
I love wool for running. It's warm, breathable and wicks sweat away from my skin. I was so pleased with this shirt. The Under Armour women's running team thought of all the details. I loved the small pocket on the arm for a music player or your house key - perfect location. It also boasts a reflective taping on the pocket for visibility on the road. The shirt itself is fitted to a woman's body shape and is longer in length to cover all your ass-ets, if you know what I mean :)
This running kit from Under Armour will be making it's way into my weekly rotation and will keep me warm, dry and focusing on my speed in the next few months. I highly recommend you check out these pieces if you are looking for winter apparel and a lightweight running shoe.
Always remember to #RunWithFight!