‘Inspired’ to Run with Mizuno’s New Collection (with Giveaway!)
June 10, 2011 by Jenn
Although, in my mind, Mizuno is one of those sports-apparel brands that the “real” runners wear (sort of how I feel about only Ironmen being cool enough to rock designer sport sunglasses—yet this could be just my inner-sports-fashion hangups projecting onto others), it turns out that they pretty much have apparel for any and all, no matter the fitness background (and 5K PR). We had the opportunity to try a few pieces from the company’s Inspired Collection, which includes the same super-technology driven design and features that you’d see in Mizuno’s elite line, only with more coverage for us everyday workouters!
Meridian Running Capri
I love running capris enough that I’d consider myself a connoisseur. They’re just the perfect length when you need to go from running to sit-ups (no flashing of anything, thank you!) or from running to the grocery store (short-shorts in the frozen section is chilly!). And if you’re someone who wants her capris with a little less tightness and a little more give, these are your capris. Hitting just below the knee, they aren’t baggy enough to get in your way, but they also aren’t tight enough to show every nook and cranny of your lower half. With a price tag of more than $50, you’re really paying for quality and design. Although, they do have a super-cute hem detail on them that’s bright pink and bright blue. So. Darling.
Nirvana Sleeveless Running
When it comes to running shirts, I ask two questions: Does it chafe and will it weigh me down? Basically I want something that wicks sweat, doesn’t rub me the wrong way (quite literally) and feels good. The best shirts make me feel like I’m wearing nothing at all—except the fact that I know I am, which takes away that whole naked-in-public panicked feeling you get in dreams. And this sleeveless running tee? It happily passes my two-question test. Smooth and comfortable, it takes care of sweat. Because I have broader shoulders than most girls, I’m always cautious with the sleeveless tees as the armholes have a tendency to irritate my underarms, but this one was generous enough to forgo that problem—without putting my sports bra on display from the side. I call that a victory worth the $35.99 price tag.
Ascend 2-IN-1 Running Shorts
This Mizuno short had me at “2-IN-1,” (I just love things that do double-duty!)—but unfortunately after a run I wasn’t nearly as jazzed about its fit as I was its concept. With a longer inseam, this short definitely gives you more coverage, which is great for those who aren’t ready to take a jaunt around the neighborhood in those itty-bitty running shorts. These shorts also feature an inner liner for additional coverage and sweat-wicking abilities. Although I get why the liner is there (see my comment about sit-ups above), wearing shorts with too long-ish layers just felt heavy to me. Granted, I tried these on a 90-degree day in the Midwest, so it’s obviously a bit of user error on my part, but these just weren’t my bag, baby. Again, though, the shorts are quality, and you’ll pay for it. A pair goes for just less than $50.
Want to try some of this gear yourself and conveniently wear a size medium? We have a full Mizuno running outfit (shorts and tee) just burning a hole in our proverbial pocket. To be entered to win, leave a comment telling us why your running wardrobe needs an upgrade, and we’ll select one random U.S. commenter in a week to win! The winner will be notified directly by email. Good luck, runners! —Jenn
I’m new to running and have been running in regular tees and shorts. Before I make the investment in running gear, it’d be nice to try out specialized clothing to experience the difference.
I love the longer shorts, even with the long insert. And the top is too cute! I just started training with Kansas City Express for a half marathon, and who doesn’t want to look cute for something like that?!
I’m a new runner and really need some clothing that will keep me cool but do what I need!
I wore all of my running clothes as maternity clothes, instead of buying maternity clothes. Needless to say, they are a little on the worn and stretched side now…
I’d love to win these! Thanks for all you gals do for us! What a great giveaway! Good luck everyone!!
My running outfit needs an update b/c I wear old ratty T shirts and sweatpants, I’ve never specifically gotten myself a cute running outfit! Ty for the giveaway
sswpss at yahoo dot com
I recently read “Long May You Run” and it inspired me. I am running the Spartan Sprint next Saturday and am toying with the idea of trying to train for a half marathon to work my way up to a marathon. I have a hard time sticking with things and am a serious excuse maker. If I could really get behind training and establish a great schedule, I think running a marathon would be a major accomplishment. It’d be cool to check it off my bucket list. New running gear certainly couldn’t hurt!
my running wear is usually what I wore to bed the previous night:)
Wow, would love to win a new running outfit. I have lost 60 pounds through hard work and money has been a bit too tight to outfit myself with some new workout clothes.
My running wardrobe is currently an old t-shirt and shorts! I don’t have any real running clothes, so I need this!
I need these clothes! Nothing like a new wardrobe to inspire you to kick it up a notch. With the Alabama heat settling in it is getting harder and harder to hit the pavement. Looking gorgeous would be a new incentive:-)
I’ve been running in capris and tees. Now that its getting hot I could really use some shorts and tanks! I need something cute and comfortable and that will also control the sweat!
wow,,,,what a fabulous running outfits…..i liked it…..this is also looking so stylish and fashionable…than to all..what a great giveaway……
I feel the same way about running tees! I’m very picky about the fit and I’d love a new shirt that doesn’t ride up and show my tummy to the world while I’m running.
I want to fee cute while I run!
Why woulnd’t you want to win this??!! I for one am a runner and I think am addicted to new running gear! I love to try out new brands and things-I just got into capris and skirts-now love them as much as my shorts!
Casey
Exactly! Love the running capris and a sleeve top replace one of my many worn out tops!
I need an upgrade on my Summer workout gear, it’s hot and I have some rips in the wrong places! yuck
I love work out clothes! I have alot of mismatched outfits! I’d love a matching outfit!
because of my running, my old clothes are getting too big for me. would love to have sometime in my size and way so cool.
Oh, you have no idea how badly I need an upgrade!! You how new clothes makes you feel good, new workout clothes motivates me!! I’ve goaled myself a half marathon this year and new running clothes are a great kick in the pants!!
Pick me!! Pick me
Me, Me, Me! I need some new workout clothes and it’s my 55th birthday this month. I do Zumba, Kickboxing, weights,treadmill etc. and these would jazz up my routine.
)
Thank you.
Nothing like new running clothes to inspire a new running route!!
I’ve dropped 3 sizes running and working out but I’ve been lazy lately. A new Mizuno outfit would really motivate me to get out the door, they are sooo cute!
My running attire needs some air…fresh air. I am training for the Monumental Marathon in Nov., Indianapolis. And at 51 y.o., I need all the help I can get!
I would love to win these pants! Awesome!
I would love to have some new running clothes. I have a few things, but not enough to get through the week without doing laundry!! Yuck, laundry!! Please pick me!!!
I am a mom to three girls, one headed off to college in the fall! I try to set a good example running and exercising for them. Would love to look good doing it!
I love my Mizuno sneakers and would really like to see if their clothing is just as good.
I totally need some new workout clothes because I’ve never really had any before – I just wore sweats or an old t-shirt. Thanks for the opportunity!
Love all these give aways! Can’t wait to win something! These would be great to have to train in for the Tough Mudder I’ll be running in October! I need all the help and encouragement for that!!
Went from a size 2X about 18 months ago to a medium now…would love some new workout gear!
I need to upgrade my wardrobe because I am working out more, getting faster and losing weight! I need new clothes so I have cute clothes to keep me motivated and replace my bigger clothes
This would be perfect for me because I’ve gone up a size since a knee injury took me off the road. I promise not to work my way out of a medium! (That was a lie
)
I love the capri’s and pink top! Would look smashing with my new Wave Prophecy shoes!!
I am new to running, just started training for a 5k in the Texas heat and woul love to have some breathable running clothes.
I LOVE Mizuno! I have pink Mizunos for running, and a girl must match! Pick me, pick me!
This would be so great.. I noticed the other morning..that I just took my running clothes out of the dryer..and well they were still STINKY…thinking I need an upgrade..same running shorts and bra for three years..YIKES! or should I say YUCKQ
A girl can never have too many cute running clothes! Call me crazy, but I love to wear matching tops and bottoms even when sweating my buns off!
Would LOVE to try these~~After 8 months of Zumba I am proud to say that I have lost 28 pounds, lowered my blood pressure and cholesterol, and for the 1st time in my 42 years I actually feel like nothing can stop me now!!! WOOHOO! Think this new workout gear would definately fit my new outlook on life!!
Terri
I don’t really HAVE any running outfits. I have some old t shirts (cotton) and a few ankle-length sweatpants that are a few years old. Nothing meant for running (save my shoes), and certainly nothing that makes me feel good after getting all sweaty.
dorkavecunespork at gmail dot com
third attempt to post. i have a great story but guess my phone wont let me type that long. i am running my first race july fourth to honor the troops. running has changed my life. please choose me.
These are adorable and just my size! I need some new gear that will allow my athletic thighs to breathe!