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Introduction
It’s that time of year again – dreaded January. The highs of Christmas and New Year are over, as well as the weeks of gorging mountains of food and alcohol. With January inevitably comes New Year’s resolutions, and for many of us these will follow a familiar pattern; the same old promises being made to ourselves year after year.
Drink less, be smarter with money and try harder at work are all common goals, however, the old favourite has to be: “to work out more”. If you’re anything like me, the idea of going to the gym will not fill you with much excitement, and often the next best thing is starting running. It’s free, it’s relatively easy and best of all, you can kid yourself into believing you have had a productive evening (of course that 15 minute run will help burn off the curry you had last night).
There are obviously downsides. At the top of my (vain) list is the aesthetic issue – we don’t exactly look our best when we’re running, what with all the red-faced sweatiness and all. But fear not, there are ways to combat this, and the answer is a sartorial one: by wearing decent gear that still performs, you can go some way towards looking good whilst running, thereby turning a negative into a positive. Everybody wins.
Men’s Running Wear
Over the past couple of years, as a huge interest in men’s fashion has become apparent, brands are starting to realise that many men are crying out for, nay demanding, technical sportswear that looks just as good as the rest of their wardrobe.
The idea that you keep your tired, worn out clothes for the gym is no longer relevant to the majority, who have begun to curate a stylish lifestyle that incorporates everything from how their home is presented to how they carry themselves. Our obsession has gone beyond just dressing well for an occasion.
Castor has already touched upon the importance of performance wear and whether it is the future of the industry, and traditional sports brands continue to lead the revolution, with the likes of Nike, Puma and Adidas collaborating with fashion labels in order to finally provide us with clothes that are both practical and stylish.
Technical/Performance Lookbook
Key Consideration: Footwear
Of course, not everyone feels the need to look impeccable whilst running (you are supposed to be working hard after all) so your first consideration should be style vs. function, and how you want to balance this.
The obvious foundation for your outfit will be your trainers, which should be designed for running. Fortunately, these styles have become very popular in mainstream fashion due to the increased influence of sports luxe; and brands such as Adidas, New Balance and Saucony have created new styles that are both fully functional and aesthetically pleasing.
For those of you who prefer road running, you should be aware that these trainers are going to take a battering the first time you step out of your house. Mud, rain, snow and the like will help ruin a great pair of suede running shoes in an instant, so always consider your materials and how much you are willing to spend on trainers that may not last longer than a year.
For those that like to stick to the confines of a gym, you have the potential of utilising your running trainers as a daytime option – if you look after them properly – although I like to keep a spare pair specifically for working out.
- Nike Flyknit Racer
- Nike Mens Free Trail Sneaker
- Adidas Originals Tech Super
- Saucony X White Mountaineering Jazz Original Sneakers
- Adidas Originals Dragon
- New Balance 420
- Puma Zdc82 Running Trainers
- Nike Free Powerlines + Nrg Black
- Adidas Originals Adizero Primeknit Olympics Blue Running Trainers
Key Clothing Pieces
In terms of clothing, there is now a large choice of technical garments that are designed with sport and fitness in mind, such as running gear that is both light and insulating for cold weather work outs, and water-resistant outerwear that is thin and light enough to be suitable for a run. Luckily, many brands have embraced this concept and designed pieces that are also great looking – Christopher Raeburn is one such designer, who has become renowned for his boundary-pushing outerwear.
Of course, technical fabrics are not a necessary requirement for working out, especially if you are more of a casual runner. A sweater and hoody can be just as effective, depending on the air temperature and your personal preferences. That being said, there are still fashionable options to choose from to ensure you steer clear of the ‘yob chic’ look that the youth of today seem so keen on. Topman and ASOS have affordable yet stylish options, whilst Mr Porter’s range really does put the ‘luxe’ in ‘sports luxe’.
As for bottoms, you obviously have the choice between shorts or trousers, dependent on preference, weather and location. We touched upon the resurgence of men’s sweatpants last week on site, and the comfort and freedom they provide is perfect for working out. Not only that, they are now a legitimate wardrobe consideration for modern males, who are choosing to integrate them into casual daytime outfits which play with shape, silhouette and formality.
Of course, there are also technical options for those that are serious about pushing themselves and achieving personal bests. Running tights and lightweight trousers are available, with Nike currently producing some of the best performing versions on the market.
Finally, for those looking to put a fashion slant on their workout clothing, try these previously published FashionBeans articles:
- The Resurgence Of Men’s Sweatpants
- Men’s Sports Luxe Trend: AW12 Update
- Men’s Sports Luxe Fashion Trend
- Men’s Sportswear Trend: The Key Pieces
Modern Running Fashion Lookbook
Below are a collection of images that have been taken from a variety of brand campaigns and lookbooks over recent seasons. All are more focused on a sports inspired aesthetic, proving the range of options that are available to you when dressing for a run or workout:
Jackets
- K Way Claude Nylon Jacket
- Size? Thompson Jacket
- Lyle & Scott Nylon Hooded Windbreaker – Size? Exclusive
- Nike Gyakusou Mens Lightweight Thermal Hooded Jacket
- Burton Crosshatch Grey Windcheater Jacket
- Christopher Raeburn Lightweight Parachute Jacket
- Easy Jacket
- Nike Cyclone Mens Running Jacket
- Nike Element Shield Mens Running Jacket
Hoodies & Sweatshirts
- Asos Sweatshirt With Short Sleeves
- Denim 73 Acid Wash Sweater
- Topman Black Raglan Sweatshirt Sleeve Bomber
- American Apparel Salt And Pepper Zip Hoodie
- Orlebar Brown Carter Hooded Sweatshirt
- Christopher Kane Mens Flock Panel Hooded Top
- Adidas X Opening Ceremony Mens Contrast Crewneck Sweatshirt
- Asos Black X Puma Panel Sweat
- Kolor Cotton-jersey And Satin Sweatshirt
Bottoms
- Topman Grey Jersey Shorts
- American Apparel Classic Sweatshort
- James Perse Cotton-jersey Shorts
- Adidas Originals Firebird Shorts
- Nike Phenom Two-in-one 28cm Mens Running Shorts
- Nike Filament 20cm Mens Running Shorts
- Gucci Tapered Jersey Sweatpants
- Naturally From Derek Rose Toby Cotton-blend Lounge Trousers
- Topman Camouflage Jogging Bottoms
- Nike Element Shield Mens Running Tights
- Nike Stretch Woven Mens Running Trousers
- Nike Gyakusou Mens Mesh Lined Long Pant
Accessories & Technology
Other important options to consider when choosing running gear are accessories and technology. From heart rate monitors to pedometers and fuel bands, gadgets can not only enhance your running experience but also improve your results by allowing you to more accurately monitor your performance and stamina etc.
Nike are again proving why they have such a huge market share, with items such as their popular Nike+ Fuel Band allowing users to track their burned calories and steps taken, as well as set fitness goals with the help of their iPhone app. The Fuel Band also doubles up as a digital watch for everyday use, and looks great.
A decent pair of headphones is a necessity, as we have all experienced the motivational aspect of music (Rocky theme anyone?). The tech market is another that has been heavily influenced by an increasing interest in menswear, with brands like Beats By Dre, Urban Ears and Grado managing to find the perfect balance between performance and looks.
As consumers, we now have every style, type and colour of headphone imaginable available to us – whether you choose an earplug or headset is up to you.
- Denon Exercise Freak Wireless Fitness In-ear Headphones
- Beats By Dr. Dre Powerbeats In-ear Headphones
- Urbanears Plattan Headphones
- Nike+ Fuelband
- Apple Nike And Ipod Sport Kit
- Nike+ Running Sportband
- Nike Mens Elite Storm Fit Tech Running Gloves
- Adidas Adizero Tempo Glasses
- Griffin Trainer Armband For Iphone 4 & 4s
Final Word
So there you have it, for those looking to make a fresh start this year, or simply lead a more stylish total lifestyle, you can now look the part whilst still performing to your maximum potential.
Now we want to hear your views:
- How important is it for you to look good whilst training?
- Do you lean towards performance or style when purchasing workout clothing?
- How many of you are on a journey to curate a total stylish lifestyle?
- How many of you made the New Year’s resolution to get fit?
Let us know in the comments section…
The Non-Essential Menswear List
Style Inspiration: Berlin Grunge
Spring/Summer Essential Fabrics – Part 3: Madras & Tropical Wools
Spring/Summer Essential Fabrics – Part 2: Seersucker
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I dont mean to sound too critical. love the site.
Although you mentioned the weather and the trainers, they aren’t correct running shoes and over an extended length of time would do damage to your Knees and ankles when road running.
Personally i think asics make the best running shoes, because of the cushioning and science that goes into it. I used to have a pair of the blue Adidas and certainly wouldn’t recommend them for running in.
I think you are completely right. Obviously as a fashion site we placed more emphasis on the ‘style’ aspect and how running gear (and sportswear as a whole) has come a long way over the past few years.
The trainer selection was more of a mix between styles that are suitable for working out purely within the confines of a gym (so they have equipment such as cross-trainers, incline runners etc. that take pressure off the joints) and those that would be suitable for general road running.
Of course, there are plenty of superb true running trainer brands out there which aren’t household names, other than to those that take their training seriously and maybe even run competitively.
If this applies, then you should definitely check out running forums etc. for recommended styles and brands.
For those of you who are keen runners, perhaps you can share your personal recommendations in the comments like Liam.
I love this site but this article doesn’t add up to me. Sartorial elegance should be the last thing on your mind when buying gym stuff. It’s purely about function and if you go running in Topman camo jogging bottoms, you deserve to get run over!
That is partly what this article is all about – with an increase in the interest in men’s fashion, do men now care about how they look when exercising? The brands seem to think so (or at least would like to try and persuade you to think so) and I know for a fact some men do, based on what I see down my gym, but for many it is still all about function rather than fashion.
The camo joggers were simply there to show that trends and traditional ‘sports’ pieces are even being collided now – I hope that no-one would wear them road running!
I think footwear is the only piece where i would make no compromise on performance. The other pieces like outerwear are okay as there are many thin, well insulated coats out there, i just tend to wear a bin bag in between my t shirt and outerwear for added perspiration so warmth isn’t a problem. As for bottoms i would either suggest tracksuit bottoms or shorts, preferably in technical fabrics simply because ventilation is too important to miss out on when it comes to legs, and jersey bottoms are too thick and retain water like anything.
Well thats my opinion and ive been running since i was eleven but you dont have to take my word for it, just go for a long run (10 k or more) and you will feel what you need by the end of it: Whether it be better trainers, clothes or accessories (or less).
in the good ol’ days i used to go running at St Andrews east sands in bare feet …
I Love this site and style, I’m also a Personal Trainer. I would say I like to look good in a gym (by that I mean not scruffy) but i would also say it cost’s a fair amount of time and money to keep your wardroble well groomed without the added expensive of stylish gym wear.
Adidas and Nike all do great ranges which look good without having to push onto another level of expense.
Also most gym’s now are of the budget variety and if you turned up in half of the above clothes you would be looked at like somethig from outta space, however I have started to see lads training in Tom’s and dropped crotch joggers of late this look makes me cry tears of anger! Horrible!!
Keep up the good work guys!
Tom
Following on from the footwear discussion… different makes of shoe come in different shapes. you need to try a few pairs on to see which ones fit best – everyone has different shaped feet afterall.
Different makes also come with different feeling – asics and nike can be softer, brookes and mzuno harder. the general trend over the last few years is for a softer ride, but that might not be the best for you as a soft shoes might not be a supporting shoe, especially for those of us over 80kg…
Finally, running shoes specfifcally are disposable items. They’re there to degrade so your knees dont. It’s a concrete world and it’s very very unforgiving.
Agreeing with the comments posted previously, footwear is something I am not willing to compromise if I’m going running. As for the gym, I do more workouts using the human trainer which allows me to choose a more “styled” shoe.
In regards to the rest of the body, I have more of an issue with fitting. I would suggest gear that compliments your shape if you intend to style yourself whilst exercising. I only wear vests within the gym, Jack Wills being my most recent addition to my collection. It allows more freedom for my arms and shoulders but also allows me to inspect which muscle is being used in the mirrors a.k.a. being vain.
I wear shorts for both the gym and running despite the weather as I find it more comfortable but also prevents the bagginess of tracksuit bottoms.
An interesting article though. Sets quite a good challenge.
Hey guys, great article.
I think when it comes to fashion when training look no further than CrossFit. It’s following has a strong sense of style. Reebok dominates the CrossFit world (but is very expensive) with people also sporting Nike and Adidas gear.
Leggings are very popular for both women and men, with Skins being a very popular brand. Minimal trainers such as the New Balance minimus look awesome with ankle socks and feel great in the gym.
I think a well fitted t shirt, some long shorts, a pair of leggings and some minimal trainers are a great look. Check out some videos of the CrossFit Games on YouTube to get a sense of what athletes are going for!
Hope i’ve been of some help guys! :)
For runwear I can suggest nothing better that Icebreaker, esp. during the cold months. Among the finest quality merino wool I have ever seen, comfortable, warm, yet breathable. It is also decent looking for day-to-day wear, and they have recently started a non sports-wear line and have always stocked top-notch coats. (By the way, thought it may sound like it I don’t actually work for them, I’m just a fan.)
Guys, when it comes to running and gym work, you want to be comfortable and practical, and also not turn off those around you with sweat flying everywhere! The dri-fit fabric t-shirts, singlets and shorts (both running shorts and 3/4 gym shorts) now come in great colours and fits and help absorb the sweat so that you maintain a degree of freshness and class. If it is cloder then there are long sleeve tops and jackets as well as tights or jogging pants. The ridiculous space suits and get ups pictured in some of the shots above make you look like an attention seeking poser who goes to the gym twice a year and gets out for one run every three months. That get up seriously puts off REAL gym goers and jrunners and esepcially female gym goers and is a reason why there are many female only gyms! Most men and women aren’t there to look and assess your fashion and if they are do you want that sort of persons attention!? In my opinion, if you look somewhat hygenic and put out an image of discipline and a strong work ethic you will be stylish in many peoples eyes around you.
Gym gear should be light, sweat wicking fabrics. Designed to help minimise sweat and keep you comfortable when exercising, that’s it. I don’t think running t-shirts, shorts or even standard running trainers look bad at all, no one pays attention, you’re working out and the clothes you are wearing are there to serve a purpose. The guys in the gym that spend more time worrying about what they look like when they’re there, flexing in the mirrors, styling their hair are complete tossers IMHO. Always see loads of guys in the gym, drop crotch joggers, high tops, nipple vests and snapbacks – please! Exercise is there to enjoy and to keep your body looking good for the clothes you wear outside of the gym.