Summer is almost here and with the change of the seasons comes warmer temperatures (finally) and the sun (sometimes). This leads to a gradual shift in the running wardrobe, tending towards less coverage, lighter weight and less restriction. Of course, we all have varying sensitivities to temperature, but I tend to enjoy tank tops and shorts for training and running once it gets close to sixty-five degrees. We are very excited to be trying out a couple new items from Outdoor Research – the Echo Tank and Zendo Multi Shorts.
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Echo Tank
This tank comes in four cute colors, but the “Radiant” color scheme is absolutely a favorite from the line. My preference on running tops, especially in the warmer temperatures, is simplicity is key. A relatively simple colorway – bright enough to make the wearer obvious in traffic – is an ideal piece for functionality and safety conditions. It’s impossible not to be radiantly visible in this top. The OR logo is small and sits lower near the hip, so you don’t feel like a running billboard.
This tank is part of their newly upgraded Echo Collection and, though we haven’t tried previous versions of it, is self-described as having a better stretch, improved fit, as well as being more durable and softer. Again, while we don’t really have a point of comparison, I would echo that it does feel like it has all of those things. The arm and neck holes were the perfect size – I had no issues putting it on and chafing was nonexistent. Length was amenable to being left down or tied in a stomach knot.
It is super light and has all the features necessary for warmer-weather running – breathability, stink-blocking, and comfortable. Throw in the fact that it is made from 100% (yes 100!) recycled mesh fabric materials and you have a quality piece of running apparel. The material ensures it will keep you cool and dry even when temperatures climb.
Priced at $39 on the OR site, it is great for summer training and racing.
Zendo Multi Shorts
I have nothing but good things to say about these shorts I’ve been running in. As someone who has been particular about only running in lined shorts, I have been impressed that these have kept me in love. So much so that they have become one of my favorite go-tos over the past month or so.
The awesomeness is right there in the name – “Multi”. I have really enjoyed these when running, but they are also casual enough to operate in casual settings. With multiple kids to keep on task, I love clothing that has to be as multifunctional as is required of me. They have the qualities I need in my running wear – quick drying, breathability, stretch, and the ability to hold up to whatever life throws at me.
The addition of being water and wind resistant, having UPF 50+ protection, and an eco-friendly construction (94% recycled nylon!) are solid bonuses. As any running/active short worth its weight should, they have a rear zippered pocket, and also two mesh pockets.
These also look super cute too. They somehow look like running/active shorts – but also somehow don’t. They come in 4 colorways, including a “Moth Print” that is already in my cart.
These two new items from OR really have made my transition from the wet spring into somewhat dryer temperatures (and beyond!) have really been welcome. Both items are constructed amazingly well and I love putting these on all the time. They are also pretty affordable for clothing that will get a lot of wear. Highly recommended!
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Products & Price:
- Echo Tank | $39
- 70% organic cotton, 27% nylon, 3% elastane
- Zendo Multi Shorts | $59
- 100% Recycled Polyester
Thank you to Outdoor Research for providing us with test items Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
