As I worked on my 2024 goals back in December, I decided to divide the months into distinct quarters. January through March became my “foundation setting” period, a deliberate choice aimed at keeping myself grounded and avoiding the tendency to take on too much too quickly – a habit I’m prone to. I wanted to ease into the year with purpose, focusing on laying a solid groundwork for the months ahead.
As April rolled around, it felt as though Tracksmith had peeked into my planner, as I had labeled April through June as my “base building” phase. The idea was to take the foundation I had established over the first 90 days and gradually build upon it.
This is why the new Base Building collection from Tracksmith resonates deeply with me. It’s tailor-made for those springtime months when runners are looking to increase their workload slightly, aided by more favorable weather conditions. Having recently explored a few items from this collection, I can attest to its focus on supporting runners as they strive to progress along their journey. From enhanced performance gear to thoughtful design elements, the collection is geared towards keeping runners on a positive trajectory as they work towards their goals.
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Here’s a little bit about this collection:
For spring runners dedicated to building a solid foundation, their gear must reflect these enduring qualities – unassuming yet unwavering, resilient to the season’s fickle nature. Placing trust in these proven essentials, in both gear and training methods, guides us. Amid the ever-shifting backdrop of spring, they remind us that some things remain constant, reliable, and perfectly tailored for their purpose.
Harbor Vest
There was a time in my running journey when the idea of wearing a vest seemed superfluous. I stuck to either short or long sleeves, occasionally throwing on a jacket when the weather demanded it. Looking back, I can’t fathom why I limited myself in such a way. Over the past year or so, I’ve incorporated a vest from another running brand into my regular gear rotation, and it’s been a game-changer, particularly given Oregon’s unpredictable weather.
Now, with the release of Tracksmith’s new Harbor Vest, I’ve added another essential piece to my running arsenal, and I’m thoroughly impressed. While I usually recommend sizing up for much of Tracksmith’s gear, the sizing in this vest is designed for layering so a standard sizing should work. While not as thick as some other running vests on the market, this water-repellant top makes it the perfect choice for those in-between days when it’s not quite cold enough for a jacket but not warm enough for short sleeves. Thank the PrimaLoft Gold, a synthetic material built for thermal efficiency, for its ample warmth.
One standout feature is the fold on the back of the vest, designed to allow heat to escape while still providing protection from the elements—a thoughtful touch that enhances comfort during runs. I’m also very much here for the various pockets it has.
If you’re considering delving into the world of running vests, this is an excellent option to start with. While it may require a bit of an investment upfront, its quality construction ensures it will last for years to come, making it well worth the cost.
Construction:
- Body Fabric: 85% Nylon / 15% Elastane
- Insulation: 55% Polyester / 45% Recycled Polyester
Cotton Rugby
During my middle school years, rugby shirts somehow found their way into the realm of pop culture. It’s a memory that feels somewhat serendipitous, as if I stumbled upon this trend without much intention. Back then, I can’t say I was particularly concerned with being stylish. I recall requesting a couple of inexpensive pairs from my mom, and while wearing them, I mostly felt awkward and uncomfortable, yet strangely drawn to their overall aesthetic.
Now, over two decades later, Tracksmith has introduced a new rendition of the rugby shirt – the Cotton Rugby. The style, featuring a collared design on a thicker, more casual fabric, evokes nostalgia for those earlier days. Thankfully, Tracksmith has mastered the art of crafting quality apparel, making this iteration not only stylish but also remarkably comfortable to wear.
While it may not be the ideal choice for intense workouts, it’s become my go-to option for cooler winter months, perfect for throwing on before or after a run. The thicker material provides welcome warmth, while its versatility allows it to seamlessly transition from casual outings to semi-professional settings. In fact, I’ve even sported it during a few Zoom meetings (paired discreetly with sweatpants – shh, don’t tell anyone). This option has quickly become a favorite in my wardrobe, destined to see plenty of use in the days to come.
Construction:
- Body Fabric: 100% Cotton
- Rib Fabric: 99% Cotton / 1% Spandex
