The North Face GTD capri tights

These capri tights are the perfect thing to wear for a cool spring day or a nice fall run.  I found they were snug without being too tight and felt almost like a second skin—nice and light and well-ventilated.  I also found them very supportive due to the compression fit, while still retaining a great deal of flexibility which I appreciated as some compression wear can feel restrictive.  I found running in them I barely noticed I had anything on!

I did find that they kept me cool and dried quickly.  I liked the pocket as well—a nice size for a couple gels and some salt tablets.  I like that it has a zipper as I have a hard time getting things in and out of the pockets that simply secure items by using an overlapping fabric design (actually one of my pet peeves).  Other nice features of these tights were the reflective piping and mesh panels which actually did make a big difference as I never felt sweaty despite putting in a hard effort.

Women’s GTD short-sleeve

This running shirt is extremely lightweight and comfortable.  It moves easily, and I liked the sleeves which are short but not restrictive as I have found some of the other “women’s cap sleeves”.  I felt that the shirt did indeed dry quickly and didn’t hold onto moisture, due to Vaporwick technology.  I ran 10 km on a very warm morning and still found it felt like I had just put it on.  It also has a high degree of breathability, something which has seemed to reduce odour just as North Face claims.  I think this top would be perfect to run in from spring to mid-fall and I highly recommend adding it to your racing arsenal.

It comes in a variety of colours although my favorite is the one I have—a two-toned blue, with reflective highlights.  UV protection is always an added bonus, particularly when running great distances where one is unable to reapply sunscreen on sweaty skin.

    Joanne Schmidt is The North Face ambassador for Alberta