Just when you think summer can’t get any more unpleasant, August arrives.
It usually brings with it extra humidity, too-warm swimming holes, and the ever-pleasant horsefly – but don’t worry, because we’ve tested out some gear that will make stepping out for your run feel like the best part of your day.
If you’ve tried something we’ve featured, we’d love to hear your feedback. It helps us keep going and decide what to try out next.
Tailwind Nutrition Rapid Hydration
As a sports dietitian, I’m always trying different fuel and hydration products, and I was stoked to spend a couple of weeks testing out the new Tailwind Rapid Hydration.
Some basics first.
Unlike Tailwind’s Endurance Fuel line, Rapid Hydration is an electrolyte mix, not a sports drink.
While it does contain some carbs – 12 grams – these are intended mainly to support sodium absorption and aren’t enough to fuel a run on their own.
Rapid Hydration is best used to meet daily electrolyte needs (which are probably higher than usual in the summer heat) or to supplement a lower-sodium sports drink during exercise.
I tend to be picky with my electrolytes but Rapid Hydration passed the test! It’s lightly sweetened with cane sugar so there’s no funky stevia aftertaste.
The subtle flavor makes it extremely easy to sip on throughout the day without being overwhelmed by sweetness. I’m a moderately salty sweater, so I don’t need the high amount of sodium sported by other popular electrolyte mixes.
Rapid Hydration strikes that just-right Goldilocks balance – not too sweet, not too salty… just right.
- Available in 5 flavors, or a combo pack
- Grab some at Tailwindnutrition.com starting at $19
- Use code TREADLIGHTLY20 for a discount on your purchase!
–Alyssa, Gear Tester
Uncommon Runner Gear
I’m always excited to try new gear! There have been so many innovations over the past few years, I’m always curious to see if a new product is sticking with the current trend or pushing a current trend in a different direction. This is a new brand, so I had no expectations or hopes outside of it fitting.
“Uncommon runner” plays to the notion, that we all have this idea in our head of what a runner is, how fast a runner runs, and what a runner looks like; when in reality none us are the same. We are all “uncommon.”
The gear is super soft to the touch, and also does a really nice job of compression on the run.
The sports crop does not include bra pads, which I don’t know if I like or don’t like, but since it’s black peek a boo nipples aren’t a problem.
There’s an elastic band on the inside of the crop, around the breastbone, which made for chest expansion during breathing (and taking the bra off) so easy!
Moving on to the shorts, I love the ties on the waist, but what I really love are the pockets. There’s a back zipper pocket right on the back of the hip, and two side pockets. The side pockets might be the best side pocket design I’ve seen in shorts. The pockets are deep and form an almost shark fin shape (best way to describe it). 
I have way too many side pocket shorts that either aren’t deep enough or are so loose my phone/keys end up bobbing around. I also appreciate the rubber grip on the inside of the bottom of the shorts. It does an excellent job of keeping the shorts in place
All in all, I like the concept. It fell flat for me with multiple logo placements, but I would keep it, as it gets the job done.
Strata Crop Tank
- Available in 1 color
- Fits true to size
- Available in sizes XS-XL
- Check it out at Uncommonrunner.com for $74
Shift-5 Shorts
- Available in 1 color
- 3 Pockets- dual side-leg and rear zip
- Available in sizes XS-XL
- Check it out at Uncommonrunner.com for $89
–Alison, Gear Tester
Farm to Feet Greensboro Crew Socks
My ten-year-old self would have scoffed at the thought of testing socks – and having favorites. But after 20 years of running, I know that socks are an important piece of the puzzle to keep your feet happy and healthy.
When it comes to comfort and blister prevention, the Farm to Feet Greensboro ¼ Crew gets an A+.
Made from 100% merino wool, these socks are odor-resistant, anti-microbial, durable, comfortable, and sustainable. When you wear the Farm to Feet Greensboro ¼ Crew, your heart and your feet can feel good.
Farm to Feet’s entire supply chain is domestic; socks are made using wool from American sheep that is processed into yarn and then made into socks in the Carolinas.
They are committed to conservation through partnerships with the Conservation Alliance (co-founded by Patagonia in 1989), the Appalachian Trail Coalition, Pacific Crest Trail Association, and Continental Divide Trail Coalition.
In addition, they have adopted sustainability practices including reducing packaging materials, recycling textile waste, and supporting animal welfare.
If you want a sock that makes you feel like you are standing on a cloud, look no further! Despite the light cushion claim, the Greensboro is soft and comfortable – a great balance when pounding pavement.
I have noticed that my feet get pretty toasty in these socks – but despite this, I have not gotten a single blister while wearing them.
- Available in 4 colors
- Sizes S-XL *they do run large, so you may want to size down
- Check these out at Farmtofeet.com for $19
–Alyssa, Gear Tester
HydraPak SkyFlask
Meet my emotional support water bottle, the HydraPak SkyFlask. This handheld bottle comes along on nearly every run, no matter the season.
This is the insulated version, which is a lifesaver on hot summer days when you want your hydration to actually stay cold.
Refilling mid-run is easy too, the top flips open quickly, so there’s no need to wrestle off the entire lid…or risk dropping in the dirt. 
The side strap and thumb loop make it surprisingly comfortable to carry, and the super lightweight material means some days I barely even notice it’s in my hand.
My favorite part (or at least my husband’s) is that cleaning the bottle is so easy. The top comes apart completely, so there’s zero chance of mold hiding in any tricky spots.
If you’ve been looking for a handheld to use for an upcoming marathon, I highly recommend giving this a try!
- Available in 350ml and 500ml
- Insulated and non-insulated
- Check it out from Amazon.com starting at $31
-Stacey, RTTF Coach and Gear Tester
Realand Nutrition Protein Powder
It’s been a while since I have added protein powders into the mix, as I am pretty particular as to the ingredients, flavors, and, honestly, the story behind the brand.
With that being said, I love that Realand was established by farmers and outdoor athletes. It’s totally my vibe, and I was excited to give this one a try!
Realand seeks a connection with nature. They create products that enrich the body. They source ingredients from progressive farms. For me, this was an easy yes.
But let’s talk about taste, because that’s also VERY important! It’s GOOD!
I recently made a protein-packed berry bowl with yogurt, a scoop of the Realand Nutrition Chocolate, mixed berries, and a heaping spoonful of crunch PB.
It mixed well. It was ready in 5 minutes. It was perfect after my workout. And it tastes DELISH!
- Simple and high quality ingredients
- Packed with 22grams of protein
- Available in chocolate or unflavored
- Grab a bag from Amazom.com for $48
–Kathleen, Gear Tester
PAKA Essentials Bikini Brief
The alpaca wool material makes these cute undies great for any and all outdoor activities, due to its thermoregulating features. But honestly, this has become my go to travel set.
Wool is anti-bacterial and never holds a smell, so when the trip is long and you don’t always get to wash clothes as often as you’d like WINNER. I wouldn’t wear this sports bra for heavy support, but great for travel days.
They dry quickly and feel extremely light and thin, thanks to the natural air pockets in alpaca fibers. Similar to Merino wool, this material is also odor-resistant, which is always a plus on garments that go “down there.”
- Available in 4 colors
- Sizes XS-XXL
- Machine washable
- Available individually or packs
- Check them out at Pakaapparel.com starting at $29
— Amanda
Is there a piece of gear you’ve been dying to know about or an area you’d love to see us focus on? You know the drill, drop a note below and we’ll be happy to get the team on it if we can!
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