The selection of men's running apparel for the French Days outfits the runner from head to toe: Adizero and Adi365 tank tops and t-shirts adidas, Craft t-shirts, split shorts or two-in-one, jackets and windbreakers, Odlo arm warmers, caps, and Sums merino socks. Technical pieces designed for Sunday outings as well as preparing for a half-marathon, at great prices during the event.
The outfit for sunny days, at a reduced price.
The top is first chosen according to the thermometer and the intensity of the session. The tank top, like the adidas Adizero Essentials, leaves the shoulders and armpits exposed, the areas that sweat the most: it is essential when the weather is mild and during intervals. The technical t-shirt, like the Craft Squad Go Function, offers a bit more protection for the shoulders from the sun and the rubbing of hydration pack straps. The long-sleeved Climacool Adi365 takes over in cool mornings. One rule guides the choice: accept to feel a bit cold at the start, as the body warms up quickly from the first kilometre.
The French Days running offers also include:
All offers are gathered on the running page.
Each fibre has its function. The Climacool from adidas combines a lightweight fabric with mesh zones placed where heat accumulates, on the back and sides, to allow air to circulate during running. The merino wool of the Sums Merino socks regulates temperature, retains some warmth even when damp, and limits odours over several outings. The Odlo Ceramicool sleeves have ceramic microparticles integrated into the fibre, with a cooling effect of about one degree on the skin while protecting the forearms from the sun. On the other hand, cotton retains sweat, becomes heavy and irritates: it has no place in running gear.
The bottom of the outfit depends on the length of the runs. The split shorts, like the Mizuno Tech Light Split, which are cut high on the sides, free up the stride and suit speed sessions as well as short races. The two-in-one shorts adidas Formotion layers a loose short over built-in tights: the latter supports the thighs and prevents chafing in the crotch after an hour of effort. The tights alone, fitting closer to the body, appeal to those looking for muscle support on long distances. Zippered pockets, present on many running shorts, keep a key or an energy gel without them bouncing with each step.
When the weather is uncertain, it is better to add a thin layer rather than a thick one. The sleeveless gilet Endurance Sindry blocks wind on the torso, which is most sensitive to the cold, while allowing the arms to ventilate; it can be rolled up and tucked at the waist as soon as you get warm. The waterproof jacket Elite Lab, lightweight, protects from a downpour without turning the outing into a sauna, and the adidas Adi365 Aspyre jacket is suitable for cool mornings. The five-panel cap adidas Climacool shields the face from the sun and stops sweat from dripping into the eyes. Choose a jacket that is loose enough to wear over a long-sleeve top.
Layer three layers: a long-sleeved technical top against the skin, a warm top and a windproof or waterproof jacket. A hat, thin gloves and long leggings protect the extremities and legs, which cool down first in cold weather.
A running top should fit close to the body without being tight, so the technical fabric can wick sweat away from the skin. Stick to your usual size; if between sizes, the larger one avoids chafing under the arms.
Wash them at thirty degrees, inside out, without fabric softener, which clogs the fibres and reduces their ability to wick sweat. Air drying maintains elasticity and reflective elements much better than using a tumble dryer.
On race day, only wear clothing you have already tested on a long run. A tank top or light top, shorts or seamless tights, and tried-and-tested socks will minimise chafing over forty-two kilometres.
Light-coloured clothing, reflective bands and a headlamp make the runner visible to motorists. Reflective elements placed on the arms and legs, which are always in motion, are spotted from further away than those fixed on the torso.