It’s time for another entry to our “We Tried It” series, where we put gear to the test and let you know in quick summaries if it works as advertised.
This month, we have a mix of reviews from the gear testing team for things that might improve your spring training. We know the temps are all over the place, it’s time to start thinking about summer fueling and finding the pieces that will work best for you!
Who knows maybe we’ll cover something you’ve had your eye on but have been on the fence about.
Snowy Trails Companion – Adidas Terrex Agravic
This winter has been nothing but snowy and icy trails here in Colorado. Coach Stacey took the Adidas Terrex Agravic out for a few runs and even hikes to see how they handled different weather and even terrain.
While I love running on the treadmill, I also love running in the cold weather and snow. The Adidas Terrex Agravic are super lightweight and perfect if you’re hitting the trails for either a run or hike.
The 4.5mm lugs did great gripping on the uncleared paths and kept me upright on my feet and did not need to pull out any figure skating moves. When things got super icey hiking uphill, throwing on some crampons was necessary.
The upper mesh is warm but let’s just say not the greatest at keeping your feet super dry. Which may not be ideal for when the temps are in the single digits.
So if you’re starting to prep for some spring trail adventures, check ’em out. Bonus points because they come in some limited but fun colorways.
-Coach Stacey
Uniquely Flavored Electrolytes – Only Hydration Premium Electrolyte mix
Our tester, Kim is always on the lookout for new hydration mixes; using the same thing every time can get a little monotonous, especially when you’re deep into a training cycle. Here’s her honest thoughts on the Only Hydration mix.
I was excited to give Only Hydration a shot because they use natural ingredients with unique flavors that aren’t seen elsewhere in the market.
There are 4 flavors in their variety pack – Yuzu Citrus, Lychee, Asian Pear and White Peach. They even come in single-serving packets so you can use them on the go!
Overall, I found these a little too sweet, but I would definitely use the Yuzu Citrus again. I preferred this for my pre-run hydration as opposed to during, but that’s also a personal choice.
This does everything you need, with nothing extra and will keep you hydrated on the run.
A Pair of Shorts That Can Do It All – Korsa Cruise 7” Short
Whether deep into a Bulgarian split squat or fishing a gel from the zippered back pocket on the run, the Korsa Cruise 7” Short is a versatile, comfortable training short that can be used for runs, gym workouts, or making a trip to the store after a workout.
Our tester Tim, put them through their paces during his long run and a few strength sessions. Due to my short stocky thighs, longer shorts tend to interfere with movement.
For most adult men, a 7” inseam sits comfortably above the knee, but for me they sat below his patella tendon. The Cruise shorts comported themselves quite well during basic movements like squats and deadlifts, as well as some of the unconventional movements such as walking RDLs and box jumps.
The Korsa Cruise 7” Short is made from a lightweight moisture wicking polyester/spandex blend with a 100% polyester liner. The side slits help with increasing your range of movement.
You’ll have more than enough storage options for your keys, wallet, phone, gels, bus tickets, Starbucks Gift Card, etc. with the two zippered front pockets, a zippered rear pocket, and an elastic loop to stash a t-shirt or towel.
Simply put, the Korsa Cruise 7” Short is a versatile option for your gym and running workouts that will get the job done. As a man who likes to blast his quads out to the masses, the 7” inseam does initially seem cumbersome, but the side slits help to allow plenty of movement in just about any situation in which you’ll find yourself.
Snug Comfort – Comrad Compression Socks
There are so many different types of socks that you can throw on for a run or as part of your post-run recovery. Our tester Rebecca recently tried out a few different pairs of socks from the brand Comrad- knee-high compression socks and ankle compression socks.
I wore them while running, weight lifting, and resting at home. After my run workouts, I noticed I was slightly less sore and more energized. The ankle socks provide targeted arch support and would be perfect for sweaty summer runs.
The socks come in cheerful colors, patterns, and different lengths. If you like to put together fun matching outfits for runs and races these are going to be perfect because there’s something for everyone!
Have you ever tried to put on tall compression socks before? Oof, what a challenge.
Once you figure out the technique for putting on the Comrad compression socks, they are very comfortable, providing compression without feeling restrictive. Comrad even provides a video with helpful tips on how to get the socks on correctly!
Pro tip, make sure you pull the socks firmly onto the foot, otherwise, you may notice the seam at the toe while running.
The socks’ silver-infused cotton breathes well and should reduce foot odors. However, cotton, unlike wool, becomes cold when wet. On rainy days, muddy runs, or mountain runs, you want to opt for wool over cotton. Despite cotton’s limitations, Rebecca has already added these compression socks as an essential to her long run and race kits.
Between Seasons Jacket – KÜHL The One Hoody
If you’re experiencing that weird it’s still winter but some days it’s fake spring and you don’t want to pull out that heavier jacket, we’ve got an option for you. Coach Stacey gave this hoody jacket from KÜHL a test. And if you follow her online, you know she’s typically that runner who is wearing shorts during the cold temps but she’s seemed to embrace the layers this season.
I was so excited to give this jacket a try, especially because it just so happened to be one of my favorite colors. I took this jacket out for both runs and walks when it was windy and temps were in the 20-30s here in Colorado.
The One Hoody is super lightweight even though it has a fleece liner on the inside of the jacket. The fit was a little tapered but has a drawcord on the inside so that you can make it a more of a custom fit.
The jacket did an excellent job of keeping the wind from going right through and hitting my core. There’s also the hood with the brim for the days that it’s super windy or if it’s rainy/snowy providing a little extra face protection.
I thought that I would overheat during my runs but the jacket is made from temperature regulating AERO KNIT technology so it’s super breathable!
This is one that’s going to be great for runs, hiking adventures, snowshoeing or just going for a chilly walk. It’s stylish, lightweight and water-resistant!
Colorful & Lightweight Hats – Ciele GOCap SC
Looking for a hat to throw on when it’s super sunny or rainy or just to add some pizazz to your outfit? The search may be over with the Ciele GOCap SC. Let’s see what our tester Rebecca had to say.
I wear a hat on nearly every single run for sun and rain protection, and this lightweight GOCap SC with UPF +40 just became my new go-to for both road and trail. Right away, I liked the more squared shape of the top and the feel of the new SOFTcurve (SC) brim.
The shape and unique colorways for this model are more flattering than my current hat collection (and it’s quite the collection).
The 5 panel fit is comfortable and easily adjusted to any size, and the COOLmatic™ fabric is super soft. It also dries quicker and feels noticeably more breathable compared to Sprints hats.
I didn’t feel the need to adjust it at all during long runs, something I typically do the longer I’ve been sweating.
This is a hat you’ll plan to reach for from Spring to Fall and bonus points because can just throw it in the wash when needed!
Okay, we tried to give a good mix of winter and fake spring gear! Stay tuned for what we give a try next month.
Is there something 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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