Dress the Part: Picking out a Running Costume!

Running costumes can be fun AND functional! (source)

Throughout the course of the year, there are many opportunities for runners to choose special outfits for their races. From careful considerations concerning climate, season or even race theme, choosing special race day attire is a personal decision made by each runner – and this comes into play even more at this time of year with Halloween and costumed races! Some even have costume contests!

Of course, when picking pieces for a running costume, it is important to consider the same things as when picking standard running gear. Although it may be tempting to purchase a ready-made costume from the Halloween store, when choosing a running costume, it’s important to consider the all-important question: will you be able to run in it? By using the following guidelines, you should be on the road to costumed trailblazing in no time!

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• Choose technical fabrics - Halloween costumes are often constructed of constricting or non-breathable materials – why not pull on your thinking cap and check out items that will keep you dry and comfortable? Raw Threads (as pictured in the “Evil Queen” image above) markets a performance blend of organic cotton and bamboo! Also recommended: wicking tees (great options by Target’s C9 brand) and lightweight pieces.
• Avoid masks / dangerous headgear - Whether your race is in the light of day, or the spooky shade of night, it’s important that you can SEE the course in front of you! Be sure to keep your line of sight unobstructed and limit headgear to non-distracting eyewear (such as sunglasses) and/or a comfortable hat.
• “Test run” your pieces – While you might not be brave enough to test a run in full costume before your event, it is a good idea to know how your major pieces will feel on race day. If your costume features a skirt, for example – and you’re not used to running in one, it could throw you off. While looking good is always a bonus, feeling good should always be a requirement.
• Have fun! Deciding to dress up for a race is a not for everyone…but if it is for you, have a blast while doing it! Once you’ve assembled your ideal running costume, don’t be afraid to play it up to the nth degree with some character! Dress up like Jessi from Toy Story – yell out, “Hey Howdy Hey” or yodel when high-fiving your adoring fans! Running as a swashbuckler? “How about a P-ARRRGHHH!??” Be the fairest runner of all as Snow White…whatever you do, just have a blast!
  

  Costumes for running (source)

With the correct elements, your running costume will not get in the way of your racing priorities, whether that’s a PR, or simply a good time.

What is the craziest thing you’ve worn in a race? What’s the most memorable outfit you’ve ever seen? What will you be this year? Please share in the comment section below.

Author Bio: Krissy is a running enthusiast who was bitten by the racing bug in 2011 at the Walt Disney World Half Marathon…and hasn’t looked back since! A self-proclaimed military brat, Krissy has bounced around the world her whole life and currently resides in Charlottesville, VA with her husband, Eric. Find out more about Krissy here and follow her on Twitter.