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  |  Get Fit  |  Body Shape  |  Running shorts
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Some surprising facts from the Colonel

Running shorts

Article brought you in association with realbuzz.com

It used to be that shoes were the only high-tech gear a runner could consider purchasing. Most people would just toss on a pair of old, baggy gym shorts and a worn out t-shirt and head out for a run. However, a lot has changed in the past decade, and even in the past couple of years. Today running apparel has become a multi-million pound industry, with a myriad of fabrics and styles to choose from.

Some of the biggest improvements in running gear have been in fabrics used for shorts. If you haven't purchased a pair of running shorts in a while, you'll be amazed by how comfortable and lightweight the newest models are.

Currently, the most popular material for running shorts is Supplex nylon with a Coolmax liner. Supplex nylon feels similar to soft cotton, but it is much more lightweight, wind resistant, quick-drying and tough. With an incredibly comfortable fit and feel while running, it's a wonderful example of how far fabrics have evolved. Supplex is an especially welcome addition to running apparel for those who run in warmer climates or run long distances. The lightweight material makes an enormous difference in comfort, as does its quick-drying quality.

Coolmax is another wonderful material, constructed of channeled polyester fibers. The channels are grooved, enabling it to pull moisture away from your skin and allow it to be quickly evaporated. Since a liner is worn against your skin, it's especially important that it let your body 'breathe' and wick moisture away. Coolmax is a perfect fabric for hot weather days, helping to prevent you from becoming soaking wet with sweat. Because Coolmax is a lightweight and soft material, it is also utilised in shirts, singlets, and as a liner for jackets. Though it is lightweight and soft, the most impressive aspect of Coolmax is its ability to wick moisture away from the skin. It actually retains eight times less moisture than nylon, and 14 times less moisture than cotton. This equates to a considerable increase in comfort on warm days.

Today running shorts also come in a variety of lengths, making them even more comfortable. Some runners prefer the free feeling of a shorter length while more modest runners prefer a short that covers most of the upper leg. There are plenty of lengths in between, allowing you to chose a fit that you're most comfortable in. With the latest lightweight and soft materials, whatever length you choose is sure to be a perfect fit.

Whether it's your first time buying running shorts, or you're a seasoned professional, always purchase them at a speciality running store. With a staff of experienced runners, they'll be able to assess your needs and let you know what fabrics and styles are best suited for you. A speciality store will have the latest in technology and fashion sure to make you look and feel your best. That's the long and short of it!

Find the latest information on running at www.realbuzz.com


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