The Running Kilt

I haven’t talked much about my races lately. I’ve run a 10K, a half marathon, a one miler, a 5K, and another half marathon. The last three on the same day. And all five wearing this:

That’s the JWalking Designs running kilt. I was one of a couple of runners who approached entrepreneur Alison O’Brien and asked for a running kilt. She was already making some pretty sweet running gear for the ladies. Not knowing a thing about it, I decided that a kilt was not that far off from a running skirt, so why not show the fellas some love? Alison agreed, and the rest is history.

Ok, so that picture above isn’t great… here’s a better one. Click to enlarge:

In this photo I’m hauling as fast as I can to finish the Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Half Marathon. The race itself wasn’t great, but the kilt? The kilt is awesome.

Having worn it for 6.2 miles, then 13.1 miles, and finally, the trifecta which added up to 17.2, I have to say I’m a fan. Even in hot, muggy weather, the combination of recycled materials and spandex stays light and flows easily. When I’m running at top speed, as in this photo, the fabric moves freely and doesn’t slow me down.

My biggest concern getting into the kilt was whether or not it would get wet and stick to my legs. What better test than a few long summer New England races. Hot, humid, and no problems whatsoever from the fabric.

It’s not that a kilt hinders you less than running shorts, but this one does not add any resistance that I can tell… Plus, it’s gotta be the most fashionable piece in my running wardrobe. Let’s face it, where there is an abundance of amazing selection for the ladies, men’s running apparel is boring. Not so with the running kilt. Lightweight and fashionable, it’s a compliment magnet every time I wear it. It’s quickly become my race-day garment of choice.

Let’s talk comfort. An elastic band at the waist and we’re off and running. No bunching or pinching, if you know what I mean. The kilt is not lined, so you can wear it “traditional” or supplement with your support extra of choice. Also, it has a nice, big pocket suitable for ID and a key (or some Sport Beans / Cliff Blocks if you’re more into carrying some grubbage).

The running kilt is available here. Try it out – you won’t be sorry!