Navigating today's racks of überspecialized running gear ain't easy. So we took to the road, trail, and all paths in between to find the best shoes and apparel for every runner. Basically, we've left you with no excuses. Text by Steve Casimiro Photographs by Todd Williams
Road: His THE ROAD WARRIOR The Helly Hansen Viz Jacket ($100; www.hellyhansen.com) flips inside out to reveal reflective orange panels, while "fish scale" flaps on the Nike Sphere Macro React Long-Sleeve Top ($70; www.niketown.com) release moisture and heat. Tiny holes perforate the five-ounce (142-gram) Brooks HVAC Short ($44; www.brooksrunning.com) to keep you cool and dry.
Road: Hers THE PAVEMENT PERFORMER Windproof panels on the Adidas adiStar Gore Windstopper Jacket ($145; www.shopadidas.com) cut early season chill, while the supreme-wicking Nike Tempo short-sleeve top ($22; www.niketown.com) keeps you dry. A stretchy liner in The North Face Flight Trail shorts ($40; www.thenorthface.com) moves wherever you do.
Trail: His THE PATHFINDER A hidden zipper makes the Pearl Izumi Fly ($70; www.pearlizumi.com) more versatile than most three-ounce (85-gram) wonder jackets. The Helly Hansen Trailwizard Tank ($40; www.hellyhansen.com) pulls sweat away from skin, and the nylon New Balance Vega Shorts ($42; www.newbalance.com) feature a handy pocket and five-inch (13-centimeter) inseam.
Trail: Hers THE TREND SETTER The 2.5-ounce (71-gram) GoLite Wisp Wind Shirt ($50; www.golite.com) compresses to the size of a PowerBar but still slips easily over the Mizuno Filly VI Sport Tank ($36; www.mizunousa.com), which uses 10 percent spandex for stretch, support, and comfort. Supersoft nylon shorts line the fast-drying New Balance Bonita Run Skirt ($45; www.newbalance.com).
