Race Attire

It's time to start planning what you're going to wear on race day.  You know what will be on your feet--the shoes you've run countless miles in in the past several months--but what to wear on the rest of your body?  Should you go for comfort or style?

Being fashionable at the starting line is not the main objective--comfort is.  Most participants will have rolled out of bed, skipped the morning ritual of shower and makeup, and headed for the venue with eyes barely open.  Gals will have their hair in a ponytail and guys will skip the morning shave.  It's a rugged looking crowd, so don't worry about dressing to impress.  No one will be paying attention, unless you're wearing a tutu or dressed up as Elvis.

Think Minimal
Typically, races begin soon after sunrise, when daylight temperatures are at a low.  Although it can be chilly at the start, you'll want to wear as little as possible and still be comfortable (and legal).  Every extra ounce of weight and bulk you carry is going to drag you down, so forgo a sweatshirt if you can.  It's better to be cold at the start than to be carrying a heavy, sweat-soaked jacket over those last couple of miles.

Shorts
Shorts with some kind of pocket or ID pouch are ideal on race day.  You can stash your driver's license, credit card, car keys, and cash without having to carry a pack.  Be sure that the signature side of your credit card is facing away from your body--sweat obliterates ink.  Skip the long leggings and opt for the shortest shorts you have.  Once you get moving, your legs won't be cold.  If your thighs tend to chafe, wear spandex underneath your shorts or apply Body Glide.

Shirt
This is not the time to try out new gear.  If you're thinking of wearing a tank, take it for a test run first.  Tanks have a tendency to rub.  Nothing's worse than feeling a burn halfway through the course, knowing you're going to have raw, angry skin at the finish.  If temperatures make it such that you have to start with some kind of jacket, a lightweight, zip-up windbreaker can be easily removed and tied around your waist when temperatures rise.  A long sleeved t-shirt made out of tech fabric might be your best option.

Although, as I've already stated, fashion is not the main objective here, I will point out that bright colors photograph well.  Add a little pep to those race pics and throw in some color if you can.  Whatever you choose to wear, you'll look great at the end with a big smile on your face.

LACE UP and take that gear for a trial run!

Assignment for the day:  run 30 minutes