Best Summer Running Products 2011

Raise your hand if new gear motivates you. Did you know slipping into a new specially designed racing tank actually makes me go faster? Okay, it probably doesn't, but the boost of energy a functional fashion boost gives me is worth the price tag. Here are some of my coveted finds. I either own the items in the following list, or am using an item as a virtual carrot to keep me opening the front door every morning for a run. Once I meet a certain goal, the item is mine. Bribery at its health-conscious finest.

Summer running incentives

Saucony ProGrid Kinvara. This super light shoe is designed to make it feel like you have nothing on your feet, but the shock absorption in the heel tells your body otherwise. Durable and extremely comfortable, this shoe is especially great for summer running when every bit of bulk seems twice as stifling. Cost- approximately $90

Rudy Project Rydon Nothing stops a run like a migraine. Avoid squinting into the sun with these perfectly designed wraparound sunglasses. The Rudy Project is a unique company. Choose from hundreds of designs, or customize glasses to ensure you will love them, and wear them on the road. Cost-$179-$210

H2O Audio Surge Sportswrap Headphones. Although these are designed for water sports, the design makes them very appealing to runners. I figure if they can stay on while surfing or kayaking, then they can handle a trail run just fine. The behind the neck band and short two foot cord keeps everything right where you put it. Impressive sound and comfort makes these a must have for summer runs. Cost- $44.99

Lucy Headgear, Run Power headband, or Lucy Run Power hat are both great for keeping you looking cool and collected even when the temperature soars. Keep the hair out of your eyes with a snug moisture wicking headband, or slip on a low profile, light weight hat that features a zippered pocket and interior sweat band.

Smart Girls Who Surf Sunscreen. Another surfer product that transfers wonderfully to sweaty summer runners, this 30+SPF sunscreen has a mineral based formula. This product is also all natural, made in the USA, full of antioxidants, chemical free, water-resistant and will not sting your eyes. Smart Girls Who Surf also carries after sun lotion, hair care products, face sticks and lip balm. Cost- $14.99

Nike + SportWatch GPS powered by TomTom. Last but certainly not least, this yet to be released running gadget is a collaboration between Nike and TomTom. The watch is set to be released to the public in July, 2011. Designed for performance, among the many features this sports watch can record history, tracks time, pace, distance, route and calories burned. Cost- yet to be released

Whatever the motivation, just get out there and do it!

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