The Case for Covering Up
Summer seems like the time to shed layers. East TN humidity will swiftly turn your cotton t-shirt into a wet rag and your shoes into puddles, and any piece of clothing can feel like a greenhouse for your skin. Ditching the layers also prepares you for any sprinklers, pools, or creeks that happen to be along your route: dip and dash, no problem.
But if you pay a little attention to summertime seasonal workers—lawn care, especially—you’ll notice a few things: sun hats, long sleeves, sunglasses, pants, even neck gaiters. In high school, my teammates and I would wear as as little as possible: split shorts for the guys, sports bras and shorts for the girls. I would gawk at the workers out mowing and trimming, assuming they only layered up for protection from grass clippings and stray rocks.
It wasn’t until I started my college summer gig, working for my city’s Parks & Recreation maintenance crew, that I quickly learned the appeal of coverage.
A lightweight, light colored, sweat wicking long sleeve tee will keep you just as cool as a short sleeve tee. Even dark colored shirts will absorb and disperse heat, and they can offer greater SPF protection.
A brimmed cap, sunglasses, and a lightweight gaiter can keep the most sensitive skin on your body shaded. Soak the gaiter in ice water and toss a couple ice cubes in your hat before setting out to give your body more time to adjust to the heat.
Covering isn’t necessarily a replacement for other protective methods. If you opt for lathering up, look for sport specific sunblocks. They’ll handle sweat better, and often come without some of the extra gunk in regular sunblocks. Best of all, opt for running at times when the sun’s strength is lowest—early morning and late evening. If you have to run midday, look for shaded paths. Summer is a great time to hit the trails, where you’ll stay much cooler. Combine sunblock, shade, and the right gear, and there’s no need for hot and humid weather to keep you from summer miles.
Summer Essentials to Keep You Moving
By Brittany Katz
Hot weather is coming; Longer days, blazing sun, and lots of sweat. As runners, walkers, and people who want to be generally active, we have to adapt to the hot southern summer. Here are some of our favorite summer essentials to keep you moving, even on the hottest of days!
Body Glide: No matter where chafing happens, you can use Body Glide. Toes, heals, arms, thighs, chest; you name it, Body Glide can help! Body Glide products help prevent rubbing that causes irritation, rash, chafing, blisters and raw skin. They are non-oily, invisible and blend into your skin. They stand up to sweat, humidity and water, and your skin breathes even as perspiration escapes. We have tiny tubes, great for that tiny pocket in your shorts, or a whole stick that will last you all summer and beyond.
Run’s Done car seat cover: Save your vehicle’s seats from post-workout sweat with the Run’s Done seat cover. Blue, red, or grey, these covers are easy to use, the non-slip drops on the back stick to your seat, and they’re washable. Nothing is worse than getting back in your car dripping with sweat. Cover your seat and ride without worries.
Headsweats running hat: Our white, blue, and green classic running hat are a staple for any summer warrior! These performance hats are so lightweight you’ll forget you have it on. The visor protects your face and eyes from the sun. They’re quick drying with an adjustable strap in the back for a universal fit. Click HERE to purchase.
Goodr sunglasses: These sunglasses are THE best. At $25 and $35 depending on the size, these polarized glasses are made for being active in the sun. They don’t bounce and won’t move around even when you’re running! At this price, you can afford to get 2 or 3 pairs for your car, your runs, and your night out with friends.
What are your favorite summertime accessories? Comment below and let us know!