Sweatshirts and fleece for running 🧥

Running sweatshirts and fleeces are essential pieces of clothing that provide both comfort and functionality for runners. These garments are typically made from moisture-wicking fabrics that help keep runners dry and comfortable during their workouts. Sweatshirts are ideal for cooler weather because they provide warmth without adding bulk or restricting movement. Fleece materials are soft, lightweight, and breathable, making them a popular choice for outdoor activities like running. Many running sweatshirts and fleeces also feature reflective details for better visibility in low-light conditions, as well as handy pockets for storing essentials like your keys or phone. Whether you're heading out for an early morning run or an evening run, a quality sweatshirt or fleece will help you stay warm, dry, and focused on your run.

What are the benefits of wearing running sweatshirts and fleece sweatshirts?

Wearing sweatshirts and fleece while running has several benefits:

Warmth: Sweatshirts and fleeces provide an extra layer of insulation to help keep you warm while running in colder weather.
Moisture wicking: Many sweatshirts and fleeces are made with moisture-wicking fabrics that help wick sweat away from the body, keeping you dry and comfortable while running.
Breathability: Sweatshirts and fleeces are often designed to be breathable, allowing airflow and ventilation to prevent overheating.
Comfort: The soft and comfortable materials of sweatshirts and fleeces make them comfortable to wear while running, reducing chafing and irritation.
Flexibility and range of motion: Sweatshirts and fleeces designed for running are typically made from stretchy materials that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring you can move freely and comfortably while running.
Visibility: Many running sweatshirts come with reflective elements that increase your visibility in low light, helping you stay safe during your morning or evening run.
Storage: Some sweatshirts and fleeces come with handy pockets for storing essentials like keys, cards, or your phone, allowing you to keep your belongings with you while you run.

What is fleece?

Fleece is a soft, lightweight, and warm synthetic fabric commonly used in sportswear, outdoor gear, and winter clothing. It is made from polyester fibres that are tightly woven together to create a shaggy texture that mimics the feel of sheep's wool. Fleece is known for its insulating properties, as it traps heat close to the body while allowing moisture to escape, keeping the wearer warm and dry.

Fleece is a popular choice for outdoor activities and sports such as running, hiking and skiing because of its excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, breathability and quick-drying properties. It is also easy to maintain as it is machine washable and dries quickly. In addition, fleece is often used as a lining in jackets, sweatshirts and vests to provide additional warmth and comfort.

Overall, fleece is a versatile fabric that is valued for its softness, warmth, and functional properties, making it a popular choice for a wide range of clothing and outdoor gear.

What is the difference between a classic sweatshirt and a fleece sweatshirt?

Sweatshirts and fleece are popular choices for both casual wear and athletic activities, but they have a few key differences:

Material: Sweatshirts are usually made of cotton or a cotton-polyester blend. They have a smooth outer surface and a soft, brushed inner side that helps trap heat. Fleece, on the other hand, is made of synthetic polyester fibres that are tightly woven to create a shaggy texture similar to sheep's wool.
Warmth: Fleece is generally warmer than a sweatshirt due to its insulating properties. Fleece traps heat close to the body while allowing moisture to escape, keeping the athlete warm and dry. Sweatshirts provide some warmth, but are not as insulating as fleece.
Moisture wicking: Fleece is often made from moisture-wicking materials that help wick sweat away from the body, keeping the runner dry and comfortable during physical activity. Sweatshirts, while comfortable, may not have the same moisture-wicking properties as fleece.
Breathability: Fleece is known for its breathability, which allows airflow and ventilation to prevent overheating. Sweatshirts, especially those made from cotton, may not be as breathable as fleece.
Weight: Fleece is typically lighter than a sweatshirt, making it a popular choice for layering or as an outerwear item in milder weather. Sweatshirts can be heavier and provide more substantial coverage.

Check out our video How to start running? 10 tips for beginner runners