Spring Running Gear Essentials
Active Gear Review is supported by its audience. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
After an unusual and inclement Winter season, Spring is finally here. The time of the year that really gets us excited to spend more time outdoors. Particularly running, and what better way to kick off the Spring running season than taking stock of your old running gear and adding some new goods. As it is said in Spring, “Out with the old in with the new.” After testing out the latest in Spring running products, we have narrowed down our top rated picks into this roundup to offer up some great recommendations to make the transition to the warmer weather a bit more endearing.
Tifosi Optics Amok Glasses
Be ready for anything in the do-it-all Tifosi Optics Amok sunglasses with Fototec lenses. These lenses adapt to your environment, transmitting less light to your eye when it’s more sunny and transmitting more light as the day becomes night, providing an ideal moment-to-moment tint. These shades are designed with a lightweight, aerodynamic frame for comfort on your face as you breeze past trees and fly down the single track, and paired with the well ventilated lenses that keep your vision fog-free while you run. Thanks to the Fototec lenses you can easily spot the trail obstacles on shady singletracks, and stay protected from the sun through open and scenic stretches. An adjustable nose piece and the hydrophilic rubber grip give these glasses a no slip fit, and the Grilamid T-90 frame is lightweight so you can wear it comfortably for hours during long runs. MSRP $69.95 tifosioptics.com
Helly Hansen Lifa Active Light SS
While Helly Hansen is no longer developing apparel specifically for the running category, they still have some great options that work to good to not be mentioned and included in this round up, one of them is the Helly Hansen Lifa Active Light SS. Too many hot runs are a forward slog waiting for that cooling breeze that just won’t come, but with the light and airy Lifa Active Light Shirt you won’t need it, this shirt is built to keep you cool. Made with the moisture moving Lifa fibers that wicks moisture efficiently to keep you comfortable while you run, and featuring flat lock seams the deliver that next to skin comfort when you’re working hard in warm conditions. HH Active Light apparel is super lightweight technical products ideal for outdoor activities in the spring/summer that offer superb moisture management and sun protection. MSRP $45 hellyhansen.com
Outdoor Research Echo Hoody
Before heading out on your next Spring run, pull on the Outdoor Research Echo Hoody for reliable lightweight comfort and coverage in the sunshine. This ultra lightweight hoody is built to keep you covered without driving up your core temperature. It accomplishes this with its AirVent fabric technology that wicks moisture, dries quickly, breathes incredibly well, and blocks out harmful UV rays. The Echo Hoody can also serve as a lightweight layering piece in cooler weather. The raglan sleeves offer uninhibited mobility, while the fold over mitt cuffs provide added convenience if the temps begin to drop. Because high exertion can bring the stink, this Hoody boasts ActiveFresh odor control technology that helps kill off odors for those times when you have errands during or right after runs, allowing you to remain fresh and funk free. Ideal for warm weather running, the Outdoor Research Echo Hoody delivers perfect versatile comfort in a super lightweight high performance top. MSRP $65 outdoorresearch.com
Adidas Outdoor Agravic Alpha Shield Hooded
Shield yourself from cool temps and strong headwinds with the Adidas Outdoor Agravic Alpha Shield Hooded. Delivering the perfect balance of wind protection, easy movement, and breathability, this jacket serves flawlessly as a go to in cooler to cold windy weather. Its hybrid design features the durable Pertex Quantum fabric as the outer layer, while the front is insulated with Polartec Alpha for warmth in colder temperatures. The burlier fabric up front blocks the wind, and the lightweight back renders breathability as you work up a sweat. A fixed hood keeps the head shielded in case you leave the running hat at home, while the elastic cuffed sleeves seal out the cold air. In addition, the jacket packs into itself for easy storage, and features two zip pockets for securing your belongings. MSRP $159 adidas.com
Helly Hansen Phantom Mesh 1/2 Zip Midlayer
Another gem from Helly Hansen that isn’t technically considered a running shirt, but works to good as one, to not mention it. The Helly Hansen Phantom Mesh 1/2 Zip Midlayer is a lightweight stretch fleece with mesh inserts and ventilation channels that provide excellent breathability. The Phantom Mesh was designed for comfortable, temperature regulating warmth while you move, and you’ll love layering it up for colder runs as much as you will rocking it alone for cool runs in the Spring. The fleece fabric keeps you warm but doesn’t overheat, and it offers an integrated stretch that’ll help you move how you need to through any season or activity. MSRP $90 hellyhansen.com
Arc’Teryx Incendo SL Jacket
The Arc’Teryx Incendo SL Jacket breaks the norm with its specially designed zonal material mapping, providing wind protection on the front and high air permeability on the back. The front and collar use a durable and windproof Canim polyester ripstop fabric, while the back is constructed from a breathable Permeair 20 fabric. Using the combination of these advanced materials and innovation in construction the Incendo SL furnishes ideal thermal regulation in an featherweight agile package. Weighing only 80 grams for men’s Incendo SL medium, it is an incredibly light jacket that opens the door to ultra lightweight packable protection. MSRP $129 arcteryx.com
Adidas Outdoor Stockhorn Fleece Jacket
When you are heading out for a run throw on the Adidas Outdoor Stockhorn Fleece Jacket when the temperatures are scheduled to be less than comfortably cool. Made with the stretchy durable Pontetorto Technostretch fabric and 37.5 activated carbon fleece for moisture release and temperature control, this softshell keeps you comfortable and warm on just about any cool weather adventure. The jacket’s performance fabrics help retain body heat to keep you prepared for anything you might encounter on the trail ahead. The design offers the perfect blend of stretch for freedom of movement, while its breathability and moisture wicking performance keeps the body comfortable when you work up a sweat. The Adidas Outdoor Stockhorn Fleece Jacket moves effortlessly during trail runs, while it’s athletic fit trims bulk and maximizes the fabrics sweat wicking powers during long runs. Additionally, the zippered pockets at the hips and on the sleeve store ID, cash, phone, or whatever else you might need when you’re facing cooler weather. MSRP $135 adidas.com
Under Armour Outrun the Storm Jacket
Designed with dedicated runners in mind, the Under Armour Outrun the Storm Jacket brings you lightweight, water resistant protection to get your daily miles in, regardless of the weather. The UA Storm technology does its part to deflect precipitation while also pulling sweat away from your skin for dry comfort, and the runner specific hood delivers coverage that won’t restrict your field of vision out on the road. UA placed reflective details on the jacket that help boost visibility for after dark runs. Additionally, this jacket has antimicrobial properties that promote freshness, and ample pocket storage to secure small items. MSRP $89.99 underarmour.com
Inov-8 Softshell Thermal HZ Jacket
There’s a storm brewing but that won’t bother you, if you throw on the Inov-8 Softshell Thermal HZ Jacket to log some blustery training miles. Thanks to the water and windproof 3-layer softshell that shields the front of the body and shoulders from the elements, this jacket fights off wind and rain, while the air permeable shell enables airflow across the back and under the arms to dump heat while crushing intervals or cruising up a steep trail. A large zippered map size kangaroo pocket on the front of the jacket holds essentials and the hood can be cinched down to keep the wind out and hood in position. The Softshell thermal jacket delivers zoned wind and weather protection, air permeable comfort and complete freedom of movement, making it a truly innovative piece that earned our Editor’s Choice Award. MSRP $135 inov-8.com
Brooks Go To 5″ Short
When you’re hitting the roads for an early morning run, make sure you’ve got the Brooks Go To 5″ Short. Built with the breathability and movement you need to go farther and faster the Go To 5″ is a reliable high-performance running short for long training runs, speedy races, and quick jogs around the block. It’s made with a lightweight, quick-drying stretch fabric that not only moves with you in all directions as you run, but also delivers breathable airflow to keep your temperature regulated during strenuous runs. A mesh brief liner offers enhanced support and wicking performance, while a zipper side pocket offers enough storage for your phone, keys and other running essentials. MSRP $38 brooksrunning.com
Under Armour Speedpocket Shorts
The Under Armour Speedpocket Short is built to hold your phone without the bounce. Its lightweight stretch woven fabric is highly breathable and quick drying for comfort through the miles. The four way stretch fabric moves with you through road runs and trail runs alike while an anti-odor technology prevents the growth of odor-causing microbes during your long run days. Mesh hands pockets accommodate your lighter run essentials and the front waist Speedpocket provides a stable water-resistant phone carry for up to 6″ x 3” sized phones. MSRP $44.99 underarmour.com
Arc’Teryx Cormac Short
The Arc’Teryx Cormac Short will keep you cool and comfortable on long trail and road runs. Its lightweight Diem fabric gives stretch performance and exceptional airflow over many miles. The lightweight fabric comfortably stretches to allow for unimpeded range of motion when you’re on the trail, while also wicking sweat and drying quickly to keep you light on your feet. A DWR treatment on the fabric helps to keep you protected from light showers that you may encounter on your trail runs. For added comfort, the short is equipped with an inner boxer liner that avoids chafe and helps keep the short in place while you run. The patterning of the short eliminates the inseam, reducing fabric bulk and any irritation, while laminated hems further eliminate seams. Finally, a back zippered pocket securely accommodates small running essentials. MSRP $75 arcteryx.com
Outdoor Research Windward Short
Hit the trail running with the comfortable design of the Outdoor Research Windward Short. Crafted from a Movement-Mirroring performance stretch fabric, this running short keeps up with fast paced endeavors in lightweight, moisture wicking comfort. A light compression inner “Bike Short” liner brings along the support you need and wicks sweat from your skin, while the reflective logo and trim boosts your visibility to motorists when you’re out in low light conditions. MSRP $59 outdoorresearch.com
Brooks Sherpa 7″ 2 in 1 Short
Whether you’re going for a warm 3 mile run or 4 hour trail adventure, the Brooks Sherpa 7″ 2 in 1 Shorts can take the heat. With a mesh boxer short built-in, you’ll find enhanced moisture transfer as sweat is wicked away from your body, keeping you cool and dry. Larger mesh side paneling allow your legs to experience increased airflow and excellent temperature control throughout your run. The Sherpa 2 in 1’s are built with ample storage options, this short will hold your small running essentials, and thanks to the flatlock seams, your skin won’t chafe. MSRP $56 brooksrunning.com
Le Bent Trail Light Micro Sock
Show your feet some appreciation for carrying you through all those miles by slipping on the Le Bent Trail Light Micro Sock for your next run. These socks do everything they can to help eliminate blisters. Its Definitive Fit System hugs the midfoot keeping it secure while targeted light-cushioning on the forefoot and heel provide shock absorption where you need it most. A Ghost Seam for the toes removes any hot spots and the optimal cushioning helps with impact resistance for a softer stride. All together, the Trail Light Micro Sock offers a comfortable, cushioned ride for your feet as you continue to log those miles. MSRP $18 lebent.com
Wicked Audio Arq True Wireless Earbuds
When you want to get in the truly wireless earbud game, but are unwilling to drop two Benjamin Franklin’s on a set of earbuds, the Wicked Audio Arq True Wireless Earbuds are a sensible option that offer high quality audio and a comfortable and secure design. They’re sweat-resistant to keep up with you through speedy workouts and long Spring runs, and feature a one button control that supports powering on/off, play/pause of music, and answer/hang up of calls. Provided with three size options in cushioned ear tips, finding the right size is easy to get a secure and comfortable fit. The Arq True Wireless Earbuds will let you run truly wireless without breaking the bank. MSRP $79.99 wickedaudio.com
UA Sport Wireless Flash Earbuds
Designed specifically for the needs of runners, the UA Sport Wireless Flash Earbuds bring immersive, high-fidelity audio to your daily run, all without worrying about tangled and catchy wires. Delivering the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and performance, you will want these truly wireless earbuds to accompany you during all of your outdoor adventures. They’ve got a full five hours of playtime, and come complete with a compact charging case that offers an additional 20 hours for easy charging on the go, ensuring that you can stay ready for both short and extended runs. The Flashes were made for the most heart pumping and strenuous pursuits, due in part to their IPX7 waterproof rated UA Stormproof technology delivering the ultimate water and sweat protection during the toughest workouts. Included are interchangeable fins and tips to suit your activity level, which facilitate a supremely comfortable and secure fit. But all this talk about functionality wouldn’t mean much if the sound quality wasn’t up to par and thanks to JBL’s dominant audio technology, music produced by these earbuds deliver a powerful bass that attacks your ears with warm, natural vocals and precision highs. MSRP $169 jbl.com
Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra
While most of you likely have clear, but muddy trails, there are some of us that still have ice on our shady backwoods and higher elevation trails. To combat those slick icy surfaces strap on the Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra. This spike laden flexible rubber crampon slips over your shoe and provides ice biting traction thanks to its 18 high strength stainless steel spikes. The flexible Elastomerr harness conforms to your shoe without hindering your natural step, and Hillsound also added a Velcro strap to keep the foot securely locked in. When you get to the end of your icy section, the Trail Crampon packs up small and light in it’s included carrying bag until it’s time to head back onto the ice. MSRP $69.95 hillsound.com
Nathan VaporKrar 4L 2.0
For those long runs when you need to conveniently carry water, your smartphone, trail snacks and an extra layer, put on the Nathan VaporKrar 4L 2.0 Hydration Vest to comfortably carry those running essentials. Depending on the length of the run the VaporKrar 2.0 offers many different hydration carrying options, the main two ones are the included 20 oz soft flasks, made by HydraPak, and the ability to add your own 1.5 liter hydration bladder for those longer adventures.The soft flasks come with extended straw tubes so you can sip without removing them from their pockets. The VaporKrar design provides a breathable, compression shirt like fit that doesn’t slosh or bounce and with pockets aplenty, the VaporKrar carries everything you need without adding needless weight or bulk to your running kit. MSRP $164.99 nathansports.com
CamelBak Ultra Pro Vest 34 oz.
There are times when carrying enough water can be harder than you think, with the newly designed CamelBak Ultra Pro Vest 34 oz. hydration carry is made a lot easier and more comfortable. Now with additional features and lighter than ever before, the Ultra Pro Vest is even better for long distance training and racing. Available in multiple sizes and equipped with two Quick Stow flasks, the Ultra Pro puts comfort above all else. Made with the new 3D micro-mesh, the updated Ultra Pro offers increased comfort and ventilation, additional front and back reflectivity, simplified dual sternum strap adjustability and a removable safely whistle. It also includes more front cargo storage for easy access to fuel and a secure zippered pocket for your phone. The stretch overflow pockets have also been updated for easier access to extra layers and essentials and it can accommodate a 1.5L reservoir for longer self-supported runs. MSRP $120 camelbak.com
Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2 in 1 Vest
The Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 2 in 1 Vest offers a bounce-free, secure, and one pack does it all design for everything from daily training runs to ultra races. This versatile race vest offers a 2 in 1 design that has a convenient detachable 10-litre pocket, allowing the pack to be used both as a pocketed all day ultra vest with increased storage capacity or stripped down to a minimal race vest, depending on how many run essentials you need to carry. The pack includes 2 x 500 ml inov-8 flasks with removable hydration tubes which can be shortened to preference, as well as an inov-8 speed cup for those cup free races. The Ultra Pro 2 in 1 is designed to hold up to a 2 liter bladder in the back and is fully customizable with adjustable straps that provided a bounce free comfortable fit. A breathable mesh back panel helps regulate temperature, while the 4-way stretch nylon and mesh pockets expand to distribute weight and bulk evenly. This ultralight versatile running pack has multiple storage options for bottles, poles and kit that will get you through everything, from short training runs, ultra marathons and even multi-day adventure races. MSRP $185 inov-8.com
Ultimate Direction Halo Vest
The Ultimate Direction Halo Vest features the Comfort Cinch 2.0 system fit technology and is one of the lightest weight-to-volume ratios in its class. Offering 11 liters of storage capacity between the front and back pockets, providing enough room for an extra layer, gels, gloves, and the few other essential running pieces that you might need for an all-day adventure. For hydration, two flasks can be placed in the front chest pockets for quick access, while a bladder sleeve in the back can accommodate up to a 2 liter hydration reservoir. Once your pack is fully loaded with running gear, Ultimate Direction’s Comfort Cinch system allows the fit to be adjusted on-the-fly for a snug, secure fit that prevents that unwanted bounce. MSRP $169.95 ultimatedirection.com
HydroFlask 21 oz Std. Mouth with Sports Cap
Tired of your water getting disgustingly warm by the time you’re done with your run? Keep your liquid hydration cold for hours with the HydroFlask 21 oz Std. Mouth with Sports Cap bottle. The durable 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel construction is BPA and Phthalate-Free, which means no weird taste, and it prevents condensation on the outside of the bottle, all while keeping drinks cold for up to 24 hours. In addition, the Sport Cap offers easy one-handed drinking, and the integrated loop handle makes it easy to attach the bottle to a carabiner clip. The HydroFlask stashes easily in a car cup holder, bag’s side pocket, or clipped to a backpack and holds enough liquid to keep you efficiently hydrated after a run. MSRP $35.95 hydroflask.com
OOfos Sport Slide
After a long run, give yourself the gift of plush comfort and support with the OOfos Sport Slide Sandal. Designed to give your feet some tender love and care, the OOahh Sport Slide features revolutionary OOfoam technology that absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials to relieve, reinvigorate, cradle, and provide incredibly plush comfort. The OOfoam technology helps aid in the run recovery process and creates an extremely cozy sandal that you can wear anywhere. MSRP $59.95 oofos.com
