Playing It Close to the Vest - 4 Functional Vests for Women Runners

Yesterday we had our first truly cold morning here in LA. All you Traxees on the East Coast try to muffle your snickers – it was about 48 degrees when I went out for my morning run on Sunday.

Typically when the temperature drops below 70 around here people start donning hats and scarves. I’m not that bad OK? I mean, I did live in a place where there is a “real” winter for nearly 13 years. However, when I can see my breath in the air I always reach for a little extra warmth – especially if I am going to be running outside for more than an hour.

One of the best ways to add some warmth without a lot of bulk is by grabbing a vest, which still leaves you plenty of ventilation but allows free movement and very little noise. I have my favorite, sure – an old fluffy lightweight fleece zip-up job that I have had forever. But there a lot of really good options these days when you’re looking for a great running vest that will keep your core warm, stop wind and stow the things you need to carry along for the ride.

I’ve been doing a little research and here are 4 favorites that provide both function and style for women runners:

Patagonia Women’s Classic Retro-X Vest
(The updated version of my old favorite)

·       7.5-oz 100% 1/4"-pile polyester (86% recycled) fleece. Lining: 100% polyester brushed mesh with a breathable/windproof barrier.

·       Quilted Supplex® nylon panels on sides and collar-stand reduce bulk

·       Zippered hand warmer pockets lined with brushed, moisture-wicking polyester mesh.

·       Nylon spandex at armhole opening and hem

·       Recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program

·       345 g (12.2 oz)

·       $149 See more

Women’s Lily Thermal Vest – The North Face

·       Fabric: shell - 52% nylon, 48% polyester

·       Lining: embossed taffeta

·       Insulation: 120 g Heatseeker Eco

·       Wind resistant, breathable

·       Handwarmer zip pockets

·       Internal media security pocket

·       Adjustable hem system

·       $99.00 See more

Women’s Mizuno Gila Vest
     Best for wind!

·   100% Windlite: Water and wind resistant, breathable shell

·   Lightweight, ultra soft

·   MP3 hidden pocket on chest

·   2 side zipper pockets

·   Back zipper storage pouch

·   $65 See more

Brooks Essential Run Vest

·   Semi-fitted

·   Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating

·   Front/back 3M™ Scotchlite™ retroreflectivity for increased visibility

·   Full front zip with inner storm guard and zipper garage

·   Adjustable drawstring waist

·   Back vent for added breathability

·   Internal moisture-proof media pocket

·   Two side zip pockets

·   $55 See more

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