My dresser is 80% running clothes. I have a draw each for sports bras, short sleeved tops and tanks, long sleeved tops, and running pants, plus a couple free-floating warm weather tops and vests and a collection of hats and gloves. Probably, most likely, I have enough running clothes.
And yet I can’t help but coveting new things. It’s so motivating to say to myself, hey, on tomorrow’s run you can wear your new running socks – get excited! So even though I know, logically, that I don’t need to spend the money, I have a hard time letting a running gear sale pass me by.
Mostly I’m talking about C9 by Champion, Target’s athletic line. They release discounts periodically, and every time they do I can’t help but browse. And then there was the time Target was offering a $10 gift card for every $40 in clothing purchased, C9 included. I walked out with a small but no less superfluous haul. And let’s not even talk about what’s on my Christmas list.
It’s not strictly wanton! Since I’ve been running outside more and more a lot of the warmer stuff is quite necessary. And since it’s a Target brand it’s not like I’m constantly dropping tons of tons of money. And this is how I snagged a pair of running pants that had stripes in Figment purple and orange that doubled as part of a race costume. Practical!
But the best example of my playing with fire was when I ran the Baltimore Marathon. Guys, I did something very very stupid: I bought a pair of running capris a week before the race, and without even testing them, I RAN THE RACE IN THEM.
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| Like so. |
Why? Why would I pull such an obviously boneheaded stunt? Was it the spectacular pattern? The superior design? Did all my other tried and tested running capris spontaneously combust?
No. It’s just that these pants had… A ZIPPERED POCKET. I could put my house key and a credit card and ID in my pocket and fear NOTHING. In perfect comfort too, unlike my sometimes sweaty and restrictive wristlet. It was 100% worth the risk. And it paid off, too – I didn’t see so much as a lick of chafing.
A classic case of do as I say, not as I do, kids. But the siren call of shiny new running gear is so tantalizing sometimes…
Do you have a minor obsession with new running gear, too?
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As running and general fitness gear inhabits the majority of my closet, it is only the lack of space that creates any modicum of control over new purchases. So now I've moved on to "buy one, get rid of one." Who knew decision making could be SO. DAMN. DIFFICULT.
But… but… WHAT IF I NEED IT?!