After never wearing much sunscreen in my “invincible” teenager and young adult years, that all changed when my dad was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2011. Many things changed when that news came about, but a renewed focus on skin safety was definitely one of the impacts. To be honest, it wasn’t so much the act of using sunscreen that was the problem, it was the feeling of being greasy or, as a baseball player, the concern about sweaty sunscreen dripping into my eyes at inopportune moments.
I have since found a sunscreen that I appreciate but am always open to exploring different types in an effort to continue to have items in my arsenal that 1) keep me safe and 2) I actually don’t mind putting on. We were sent a few samples from Revive & Revel a company that creates a variety of different products that runners can appreciate – including their Sunshield sunscreen for runners.
Here are some of the benefits:
- SPF 50 Broad Spectrum
- Water and Sweat Resistant for up to 80 minutes
- No residue (perfect for those of us with beers)
- Reef Safe
One thing that I struggle with is keeping myself covered during the length of my entire medium-long runs. Revive & Revel claims that their Active Sunscreen can hold up to 80 minutes of water-resistant protection so it can cover a large majority of your runs. While I haven’t done any scientific testing on this (outside of long runs), I am taking it at face value. And it still seems like I am covered, so let’s go with that!
I really like the way that the sunscreen feels. It rubs in clear and leaves just a faint hint of greasiness (on my personal scale, it’s about a 2.5 out of 10 – so that’s great for me). Overall, I have been pleased with these and continue to use them as my lunch runs become hotter and sunnier. These are approved by me!
What about those times when your run is over, but you’re not headed straight to the shower? That’s when Sweat Slayer Body Wipes come in handy. These individually wrapped wipes (30 per box) are perfect for tossing in a running vest or stashing in your car—ideal for freshening up before meeting your partner for a casual dinner.
They’re also a game-changer for relay events like Cascade Lakes—your vanmates will definitely appreciate them. Plus, they’re biodegradable and infused with aloe and chamomile for a clean, refreshing scent.
Beyond sun protection, Revive and Revel has a few other items in their lineup that runners—and really anyone active—will appreciate. While their sunscreens and wipes focus on taking care of your skin, these other products are all about taking care of your gear.
First up is the Hydro Hater, a waterproofing spray designed to add a protective barrier against moisture. While it can be used on clothing, it’s particularly effective on shoes. For those who train through wet seasons, dodge puddles on the daily, or just hate the feeling of soaked socks, this spray is a simple way to keep your footwear drier and more comfortable. A quick treatment before a rainy run can go a long way.
Then there’s the Smell Slayer—an odor-neutralizing spray made for the gear that’s seen better (and less smelly) days. We all have that shirt, hat, or pair of shoes that still performs but carries a… distinct scent no matter how often it’s washed. Smell Slayer tackles that funk head-on.
It works on clothing, but really proves its value in places like gym bags, shoe interiors, hiking packs, or even snowboard boots. Basically, if it’s been through sweat and effort, this spray is a welcome reset.
Whether you’re keeping your feet dry or your gear tolerable to be around, these products show that Revive and Revel understands the needs of active folks well beyond the trail or track.
