La Sportiva has a Bold Kit for the Miles Ahead

If you spend any time on running websites or scrolling through social media, it’s clear that footwear dominates the conversation. Rightfully so—shoes are where the bulk of innovation happens, and considering running is a foot-focused activity, it makes sense. We’re guilty of contributing to that emphasis ourselves.

But that hyper-focus often pushes other important pieces of gear to the sidelines. While running apparel may not get the same spotlight as the latest carbon-plated shoe, it’s no less critical to a good run—especially when you’re logging serious miles on Oregon’s muddy trails or tackling varied terrain in unpredictable weather.

Which brings us to this La Sportiva review—not about their shoes (though we’ve covered those recently too)—but instead about a running kit that deserves attention: the Men’s Comp T-Shirt and Ultra Distance Shorts.

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Comp T-Shirt: 

Despite my personal preference for bold colors and unique styles, I often find myself surrounded by neutral tones when I open my running gear drawer. Blacks, greys, and earth tones dominate. So, when something visually striking comes along, it gets noticed.

The Comp T-Shirt from La Sportiva is exactly that—a standout. Visually, it brings a BMX-inspired flair, with bold logo placement, geometric crosshatching, and a vibrant color palette that’s a departure from the usual. It adds a layer of personality.

Performance-wise, it covers all the bases you’d expect: breathable, moisture-wicking, lightweight. These qualities are nearly standard at this point, but it’s the design that makes this shirt fun to wear—especially for runners who like a little style in their stride.

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Ultra Distance Shorts

When it comes to running shorts, I typically lean toward brief liners. I find them more breathable and less bulky. But trail running is a different animal—and that’s where the Ultra Distance Shorts shine.

These are clearly built with rugged miles and long efforts in mind. The liner is longer than I usually wear, but it makes perfect sense here. The added coverage offers protection on rough trails, and silicone grippers at the hems help keep everything in place—no shifting, bunching, or riding up mid-run.

Storage is another area where these shorts excel. The waistband includes multiple stretchy stash pockets that can hold gels, a soft flask, or other essentials, and a secure zip pocket on the rear offers a place for keys or a card. Despite the functionality, the fit remains comfortable and unrestrictive. The material is breathable and flexible enough to move with you, not against you—even when fully loaded.

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Final Thoughts

The La Sportiva Men’s Comp T-Shirt and Ultra Distance Shorts make a strong case for giving your running kit the same attention you give your shoes. Both pieces are well-designed for performance, but with an extra dose of style that helps them stand out.

 

Whether you’re hitting singletrack at Oxbow Regional Park or heading out for an all-day adventure in the Cascades, this kit delivers on looks, comfort, and trail-readiness. If you’re an Oregon runner—or just someone who appreciates bold, capable gear—this is a duo worth considering.