Bottoms. All the bottoms! The lengths, the fabrics, the pockets. The run-ability. We're happy the fall season is finally here because we have our widest selection ever of sharp and sporty leggings.
Below is a study in our selection. From the shortest length to the longest:
1. Knickers // 16-17" Inseam The term is rooted in the UK (short for knickerbockers) but came to define below-the-knee pants for women.
2. Capris // 18-20" Inseam Typically mid-calf length. Our Spandos are outliers - actually measuring closer to 3/4 length tights
3. 3/4 Tights // 22-24" Inseam An versatile length for many - with the hem falling between the bottom of the calf and above the ankle
4. Tights // 26-28" Inseam Full length tights typically end at or directly above the ankle. Add crew socks and your legs are totally covered!
Our classic Jogging Knickers are ideal for in between season, or if you're sure to get hot, even when the temps go down. With a hem that falls well below the knee, these work for women of a variety of heights. The Nyelle fabric is soft, stretchy, and durable - getting even softer with each wash. The single back zip pocket is ideal for keys or phone.
Bonus Round: The Tights Makers (Knickers + Tall Socks). A staple among the dedicated runners (oh hi Dr. Lesko and Kara Goucher!), this is the easiest way to turn your knickers into a full on winter outfit. Just add Tall Bird Socks, or any compression style. Easy.
The Pocket Jogger Capris have quickly become a favorite. It starts with the soft, compressive loveliness of Nyelle, but it's gotta be the pockets. Five pockets! 2 mesh, 2 side, and one big center back zip pocket. It's impossible to have too many things for the Pocket Jogger Capris unless you literally have too many things.
The Lux Flow Tights, a crowd pleaser since 2017, are back this season in richer colors. But it's the same thick, super-stretchy Heavyweight Lux. The fabric that seems to mold and shape to your body as you put them on. And at that 3/4 length, they're as easy to wear on a run as they are on a road trip.
A favorite for a reason: high waisted, big pocketed, and smartly detailed. The Aero is the fiercest pair of tights in the business - with pin tuck detailing, an angled hem, and a pocket big enough to fit the phablet. Made in Nyelle which is, as always, soft but durable.
Made from our Plya Interlock, Spandos styles are both super lightweight and compressive. The high percentage of spandex means they work hard, but the fine gauge knit is truly remarkable, preventing sheerness. And in limited edition prints, they're collectible too.
Rather than adding one, two, three or four pockets - what if the ENTIRE waistband was a pocket? That's the bold proposition of the O-Mazing Tights and they deliver. Stick any of your belongings front, back, or center. Ideal for long runs; accommodates phones, held in place by strong, strategic bar tacks.
Plya Interlock to the rescue (again). That ideal blend of lightweight but compressive. The Team Tights also bring the team pride, with the branded leg, as well as a convenient side pocket. The 3/4 length is oh so versatile for the many women of many heights!
Back this season - now in Nyelle! These full length tights are ready for the early mornings, the cold afternoons, the long training runs, and all the things you might need along the way. Five pockets: 2 mesh, 2 side, and one big rear zip pocket.
Soft, simple, and with elevated details: the Kaleido-go Tights are the leggings that can go from work to run to play. Made in soft-durable Nyelle, with our custom stretch jacquard at the side seams and waistband, they're down for it all.
Never go dark! The Magic Number Tights are nighttime magic, lighting up when and where you need to be seen. The body fabric is Power Plya - soft, sleek, and compressive. The stretch mesh panels are a premium reflective knit with outstanding light emission. Run far, run safe!
Fall has started, and we're happy we can help you lay down that base!
I’ve heard descriptions of 3 different types of masters runners: straight through (ran young, kept running, still running), start-stop-start (ran young, took a big hiatus, started back up), and “newbie” – started running seriously for the first time well into adulthood. I’m a start, stop (x17 years), start master’s runner, which makes me super vulnerable to injury. Turns out, muscle memory can take you pretty far…and it can also really quickly take you into the danger zone.
Even while moderating, I’ve discovered that the running can still be super interesting, even if the thing you are currently chasing is not a life PR, but an age PR. Each year you get the opportunity to turn the page and start fresh with your one-year-older body, and see what you accomplish. What I did at age 41, 44, and 48 is in the rear window. No comparison allowed.
Several weeks ago, I had the honor and privilege of leading two masters running sessions at Oiselle’s #BigBirdcamp. I was super pumped to meet more of the masters women I’d been communicating with online. About 25 women attended each session. My first reflection was: how awesome to see so many women over 40 take a weekend for themselves for their own physical and emotional refreshment! Amen to that!
Our ages ranged from 39 (getting a jump start) to 65 (hello, badass Nancy!). Big takeaways from our sessions:
Sleep is paramount. As hormones fluctuate, sleep disturbances become more common. Do what you need to do to protect your sleep hours, and catch up/ push workouts out if sleep is compromised!
Hormone changes (in perimenopause, estrogen fluctuates then decreases, and testosterone decreases) hit every athlete differently. In our groups, some women found great relief from HRT (estrogen + progesterone for women with a uterus). Hormone replacement decisions should be made on the individual level between the athlete and her doctor, evaluating risks/ benefits carefully.
Regular blood testing is important! I’ve received such useful information (with corrective recommendations) from athletebloodtest.com on red cell turnover, training load tolerance, and micronutrient status. If you are training at a high level, consider blood testing with athlete parameters every 3-6 months.
Nutrition: It’s individualized! Many of our masters noted great improvement from working with a nutritionist. Consider this option!
Get a coach who understands masters runners and their particular athletic needs (see below). Fleshman has been great at this, and adapts her recommended workouts to my and Sally’s masters roller-coaster bodies.
Training: ok this was the super meaty and interesting portion for me. One reproducible finding: recovery is key. RECOVERY IS KEY! You may be able to do the same intensity of workout at age 47 that you could at age 37, but if you can’t recover from the workout in time for the next workout, you need to back off of the work. It doesn’t matter if you can do it, it matters if you can reliably recover from it.
At some point between age 36 and 47 (for the women in our groups), they all moved from Tues/Fri/LR Sun pattern of workouts to Wed/Sun: Wed being the workout (speed, VO2, etc.) and Sunday long run with some type of work in it. Strength work/lifting should be done on the same day as workout, so that off or recovery days are truly that. So, with that pattern, if you aren’t fully recovered from Sunday’s LR by Wed, or Wednesday’s workout by Sunday, you need to decrease either the intensity or duration of the work. Full stop. The women also reported taking every 3rdor 4thweek as a down week (~60% of usual mileage), 1-2 days of non-running/week, and plenty of down time after each race.
The myth is that you “slow down” as you get older. But a more accurate description is that your recovery slows down, and at a certain point you just can’t do the necessary training to run X time without getting injured. (Yep, I’ve jumped into workouts that are over my head in the past 6 years, and although it’s way fun, that 3 week recovery really takes a bite into training).
But, now to the art and joy: being around all of these women at camp—serious athletes, powerful voices, all willing to share their experiences and triumphs—was a super boost to my motivation. So many women, with so many compelling stories, fast times, and fun new experiences they are gunning for. And for me, seeing the strong women in their 50’s and 60’s confidently setting goals, lifting weights, and persisting, paved a path for me as I am about to turn 50. So let’s keep sharing the wisdom and motivating each other. There is no secret. Just keep going.
Want more info on master's running? Check out Ask a Master 1, 2, and 3 straight from the O archives!
I relish suiting up for a run. I enjoy following training plans. I thrill at racing. I revel in PRs. I respect all distances. I devour books on the sport. I like hills. (That one took a while, but I’m there now.)
Most of these things are optional when we run. (Probably not the clothes in most cases, though there are notable exceptions.)
At the core of it all, running is our bodies in brief yet repetitive conversation with the earth. It is simple, but deep. Connection and release, over and over again.
This series poses to be a reflection on that simple but deep connection between the earth and ourselves that running provides. Beyond the shoes, beyond the programming of a training plan, beyond even (GASP) the #flystyle. Because, even more than these other things, we love RUNNING.
Now let’s take off our watches, and get inside our running.
Find Your Running Pickle
Your main ingredient for your day/soul/muscles/mental health/fill-in-the-blank is running. It’s part of your routine. It’s the main course of your aerobic meal.
Maybe you’re a streaker looking for motivation. Maybe you’re just coming back from the post-marathon leg wobbles and training taking over your life. Maybe you usually run alone through choice or circumstance and that road is a lonely one. For whatever reason, your main course now tastes bland. It is a weight in your mouth that is work to consume. How do you get the lost flavor back in your running?
You gotta get yourself a pickle.
Placed on your plate as a part of a meal, a pickle is the component that reawakens your palate. The tang of a balsamic vinaigrette on a salad with your pizza. The acchar next to your biriyani. The dill pickle next to your grilled cheese sandwich. The part of your meal that gives your taste buds a wake-up call and allows you to enjoy your main course anew.
You gotta find your running pickle.
Here’s a few pickles to try:
Wave at every kid you see.
Hot day? Run through that sprinkler. (I did this on a Ragnar leg and it was MAGICAL).
BY: TRISTIN VAN ORD Originally published on the Raleigh Distance Project Blog but we found it so valuable we also wanted to share. We can't thank you enough for sharing your story with us Tristin!
My RDP teammates and I recently had a session with sports psychologist, Dr. Swoap, while we were training in Asheville. I have struggled with anxiety and obsessive compulsive tendencies my entire life since my dad died when I was 4. The amount of professionals I have talked to has been countless, and going into our retreat weekend I thought that our session with Dr. Swoap would be just like all of the other professionals I have seen. Although the other professionals I have seen have been helpful, this visit with Dr. Swoap was pleasantly different.
Being diagnosed with OCD as someone who has OCD is probably one of the hardest things to accept. It’s like a huge, bitter, non-perfect pill that you have to swallow, and then it feels like it’s stuck in your throat for hours. Except the bitter taste just stays there forever.
When I was about 10 years old I was officially diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I always knew that something had to be a little different about my brain and the way that it worked. I was constantly preoccupied with things that my peers seemed to never care about. I had to organize my stuffed animals a certain way before I went to bed. I had to tie my shoes about 4 different times before it “felt right.” Counting was a relief. “One, Two, skip a step, Three, four...bad thought...start over…” Turning the light switch on and off until I felt content was also a habit. Wasting time was something I thought was normal.
As a second grader, I would leave the classroom multiple times during the day to wash my hands until they were cracked and bleeding from dryness caused by the cheap antibacterial soap they stocked in the school bathrooms. In fifth grade I wouldn’t eat because I wanted to look like the perfect athlete. I would run a lap around the house for every gram of fat that I ate. One gram of fat equals sprinting around the perimeter of the house one time. As hard as I could. 2 grams, 2 laps. I was 12 years old.
My mom, the world’s best nurse, finally thought that it was time I visit a psychologist to figure out what was wrong with me.
Going to a doctor...literally the last thing that I wanted to do.
Go in to see a specialist that would tell me I wasn’t perfect and that something was wrong with my brain...Not what I ever wanted to hear.
I remember when my mother gave me confirmation that I did, in fact, have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder after talking to the psychologist. Seriously the last thing that someone with OCD wants to hear: that the chemicals in their brain are DISORDERED. Messed up. Chaotic.
BUT WHY?
Having OCD makes me OBSESS over having an explanation for everything. I need to make sense of why certain things “are the way they are” or why they happen. But it’s not just curiosity. It is legitimately obsessing over something like, “why did I get a cold this weekend?” Que the researching diseases for hours, taking my temperature 500 times, and walking through my activities for the last 3 days trying to figure out where and when I was exposed to the virus.
But why do I have OCD? Did I do something wrong? Where did it come from? Can I get rid of it?
But throughout the therapy I also learned so many amazing and wonderful things about my OCD. It isn’t me, it’s just something I carry with me. And it can be a tool for the things I want to achieve and the things that I am passionate about. Don’t get me wrong, my life would be so much less exhausting and so much easier without it, but there is a positive spin that allows me to realize my life wouldn’t be the same without it.
My OCD makes me strive for the best. It makes it hard for me to take “no” for an answer. It helps me be the best human I can be. It’s something that will always be with me, but holding myself accountable for receiving help is something that has, and will, help me for the rest of my life.
After my mother observing all of these obsessions and compulsions, it all hit me like I was some sort of crazy person. The shrinks. The doctors. The MRIs that were done so that the doctors could do studies on my imperfect brain. It effing sucked.
So fast forward to our Asheville weekend. Just like any time that I have to confront my OCD and acknowledge it as a thing that is real, I was nervous going in to our meeting with Dr. Swoap.
Psychologists intimidate me, and this time was no different.
Walking into the classroom with teammates WAS different though. I had yet to experience a session with others around me, and at first, it made me more nervous.
Do I have to stand up and say uncomfortable things in front of my teammates?
What if they find out I’m a neurotic weirdo?
Do they already know I’m a neurotic weirdo?
Am I the only nervous one here?
At this point my teammates are probably laughing because looking back, I now know that I wasn’t the only one experiencing these feelings of doubt and anxiety. Facing the issues of negative thoughts and anxiety surrounding running isn’t unique. I’m not special in my thoughts of:
Is my heart going to stop while I’m running super fast?
Am I going to fail?
Am I going to run like shit and let my coach and teammates down?
So even though I do have diagnosed OCD, I have slowly come to realize that I’m actually not THAT much of a freak. These thoughts that I obsess over are common, even if I do dwell on them a little longer and more intensely than most people.
OCD aside, as runners, a lot of us are a little obsessive...but that’s what makes us successful. Don’t push away your anxieties. Embrace them for what they are. Let the negative thoughts just pass right on through as you take steps forward towards your goals.
P.S. If you are an athlete striving toward an important goal, I HIGHLY recommend seeing a sports psychologist. Whether individually or on a team, the tools that these professionals use are extremely helpful in pursuing your dreams. If you are on a team, try having a group session so you can figure out how to move forward together.
My name is Sally and I’m a sports feminist. I’m also a CEO, an apparel designer, and a leader and follower of women. I’m a child of the running gods and goddesses (forgive me mother, for I have not run yet today). And I’m a bit player in the global movement known as women’s sports.
Today is a big day. Yes, it's a relaunch of our brand, and a beautiful new collection to go with it. But more importantly, it's a recommitment party. We're doubling down on our mission.
Since that first, admittedly self-interested quest for non-poofy shorts in the early 00’s, my world has been forever changed, redirected, expanded, by this experiment called Oiselle. We find ourselves in and of the movement: from the athletes we've partnered with on the national and global stage, to the unapologetic change makers we're proud to call friends.
Just as we did when we founded the company 10+ years ago, we wanted to take the opportunity to reflect on both where we’ve been, and where we still want to go. Then and now, it starts with a simple question…
What we know, more than ever, is that…
We know it. We see it. We’ve lived it. When moving your body – whatever that looks like – becomes a consistent part of life, life gets better. Radically better. To the point where we know athletic activity does everything from reduce chronic illness, generate brain cells, to improve overall happiness.
We believe in…
That body movement is a universal right, not a privilege. And that of all the sports out there, running is the one we were born to do. Participate or watch any running event/race, and behold the beautiful spectrum of humanity.
We believe that women need…
It’s not enough for women to feel empowered by sport. We’re fully actualized when we also have authority, power, representation, longevity – in life and the sports industry – to foster lasting change.
There are deep-rooted problems in the sports world, from the Olympics to World Cups and World Championships, on down to colleges and high schools. In fact, after sponsoring four Olympians in Rio 2016, we were so frustrated with how Olympics Executives Cash in on a 'Movement' that Keeps Athletes Poor, that we met with lawyers to learn more. What we know now is that there IS a path forward - that would radically improve athletes' earning potential and allow smaller sponsors like Oiselle (and major players too) to have a place in the sport we love. It's called amending the Ted Steven's Act. Dear New Balance, Adidas, Hoka, Skechers, and all brands who sponsor pro runners: read this just-released white paper from former Washington State Attorney General Rob McKenna. Change is possible and you're invited. Oiselle is in, as am I.
We believe that…
And that they should love and respect their bodies. With the right tools in her tool box, girls learn to expect more from themselves and the world. Through our Bras for Girls Program, Oiselle has donated thousands of bras to girls who need them most. What drives us is not just the ability to give away free product, however. It's also our unique position as a women-led and run company to have direct and no-BS conversations with girls about their changing bodies. We know from our work with Dr. Melody Moore that these perceptions start young, and so helping girls is where Oiselle can use its superpowers.
We believe in…
Team. It’s not something we have to give up when we’re done with school; or after we move to a city, or get a job, or have a kid. We still need the support and friendship and health that comes with showing up for ourselves and each other. The Oiselle Volée is thousands of women strong, across the country (and in five countries). As an all ages, all paces team, we run, race, live, learn, cry, and support each other – together.
The apparel and shoe companies constantly strive to “win with women” while inside their walls, discrimination and being kept from pay and power continue
And what's happened in the USOC since 2016? The Larry Nassar revelations and an organization that appears incapable of meaningful change
So we're...
We're doubling down on the things we care about, philosophically and visually.
The Flag Crest is our company mark. It doesn't replace our bird logo, but it will be woven throughout the brand. The Flag Crest represents our commitment to a new era in women’s sports - in which we are in control of the narrative; the reasons we run, the way we feel, the strength we know, from the inside out. It represents our commitment to not only equality and empowerment through sports, but also creating new traditions, elevating new voices. In 2016, we started the High Flyer Awards, recognizing women leaders in sport. In 2017, we started the 4:30 mile project, followed by the 2:30 marathon project. We are also committed to continuing the fight for better athlete compensation and sponsor visibility at national and international sporting events.
The Sport Crest celebrates the entire spectrum of female sports and athleticism. The interconnectedness of speed, strength, and endurance. Each has its place, and the total is greater than the sum of the parts. We also love that these three tenets lend themselves to the stages in a woman’s life: in our 20’s, we enjoy our raw speed; in our 30’s, we come fully into the strength of ourselves; and in our 40’s and beyond we take all that we have become and persist.
The Team Crest embodies the radical progress that happens when women decide to show up for themselves and each other. We will continue to invest in the building of this incredible run club we call the Oiselle Volée. Looking for sister strength? Join us. In early 2019, we'll be offering a team collection of special styles, from the beloved race day crop to singlets, tees, warm ups and more...all in the Team Shop.
Introducing the new Crest Collection; our celebration of New School: an era in which women will continue to create their own place, their own traditions, in sport.
Punches above its weight. Premium Pertex® Microlight fabric and 650 Fill Power, using Primaloft® Silver Down-Synthetic blend equals warmth without weight.
In our new Bantam Flyout® fabric with HoverFit® technology. This fabric literally floats above your skin, and this very slightly heavier weight is ideal for fall and winter training. The clipped Sport Crest, front and back, infuses its power.
Elevated basics. With the right fabrics, including our family of Nyelle®, every piece is made softer and more durable.
Lastly, we will continue to diversify our brand, team, and product line. To show women athletes in action. And to mirror the growing diversity of our team.
Thank you for believing in us -- and being an important part of our flight. There is no secret, keep going!
My name is Sally and I’m a sports feminist. I’m also a CEO, an apparel designer, and a leader and follower of women. I’m a child of the running gods and goddesses (forgive me mother, for I have not run yet today). And I’m a bit player in the global movement known as women’s sports.
Today is a big day. Yes, it's a relaunch of our brand, and a beautiful new collection to go with it. But more importantly, it's a recommitment party. We're doubling down on our mission.
Since that first, admittedly self-interested quest for non-poofy shorts in the early 00’s, my world has been forever changed, redirected, expanded, by this experiment called Oiselle. We find ourselves in and of the movement: from the athletes we've partnered with on the national and global stage, to the unapologetic change makers we're proud to call friends.
Just as we did when we founded the company 10+ years ago, we wanted to take the opportunity to reflect on both where we’ve been, and where we still want to go. Then and now, it starts with a simple question…
What we know, more than ever, is that…
We know it. We see it. We’ve lived it. When moving your body – whatever that looks like – becomes a consistent part of life, life gets better. Radically better. To the point where we know athletic activity does everything from reduce chronic illness, generate brain cells, to improve overall happiness.
We believe in…
That body movement is a universal right, not a privilege. And that of all the sports out there, running is the one we were born to do. Participate or watch any running event/race, and behold the beautiful spectrum of humanity.
We believe that women need…
It’s not enough for women to feel empowered by sport. We’re fully actualized when we also have authority, power, representation, longevity – in life and the sports industry – to foster lasting change.
There are deep-rooted problems in the sports world, from the Olympics to World Cups and World Championships, on down to colleges and high schools. In fact, after sponsoring four Olympians in Rio 2016, we were so frustrated with how Olympics Executives Cash in on a 'Movement' that Keeps Athletes Poor, that we met with lawyers to learn more. What we know now is that there IS a path forward - that would radically improve athletes' earning potential and allow smaller sponsors like Oiselle (and major players too) to have a place in the sport we love. It's called amending the Ted Steven's Act. Dear New Balance, Adidas, Hoka, Skechers, and all brands who sponsor pro runners: read this just-released white paper from former Washington State Attorney General Rob McKenna. Change is possible and you're invited. Oiselle is in, as am I.
We believe that…
And that they should love and respect their bodies. With the right tools in her tool box, girls learn to expect more from themselves and the world. Through our Bras for Girls Program, Oiselle has donated thousands of bras to girls who need them most. What drives us is not just the ability to give away free product, however. It's also our unique position as a women-led and run company to have direct and no-BS conversations with girls about their changing bodies. We know from our work with Dr. Melody Moore that these perceptions start young, and so helping girls is where Oiselle can use its superpowers.
We believe in…
Team. It’s not something we have to give up when we’re done with school; or after we move to a city, or get a job, or have a kid. We still need the support and friendship and health that comes with showing up for ourselves and each other. The Oiselle Volée is thousands of women strong, across the country (and in five countries). As an all ages, all paces team, we run, race, live, learn, cry, and support each other – together.
The apparel and shoe companies constantly strive to “win with women” while inside their walls, discrimination and being kept from pay and power continue
And what's happened in the USOC since 2016? The Larry Nassar revelations and an organization that appears incapable of meaningful change
So we're...
The Flag Crest is our company mark. It doesn't replace our bird logo, but it will be woven throughout the brand. The Flag Crest represents our commitment to a new era in women’s sports - in which we are in control of the narrative; the reasons we run, the way we feel, the strength we know, from the inside out. It represents our commitment to not only equality and empowerment through sports, but also creating new traditions, elevating new voices. In 2016, we started the High Flyer Awards, recognizing women leaders in sport. In 2017, we started the 4:30 mile project, followed by the 2:30 marathon project. We are also committed to continuing the fight for better athlete compensation and sponsor visibility at national and international sporting events.
The Sport Crest celebrates the entire spectrum of female sports and athleticism. The interconnectedness of speed, strength, and endurance. Each has its place, and the total is greater than the sum of the parts. We also love that these three tenets lend themselves to the stages in a woman’s life: in our 20’s, we enjoy our raw speed; in our 30’s, we come fully into the strength of ourselves; and in our 40’s and beyond we take all that we have become and persist.
The Team Crest embodies the radical progress that happens when women decide to show up for themselves and each other. We will continue to invest in the building of this incredible run club we call the Oiselle Volée. Looking for sister strength? Join us. In early 2019, we'll be offering a team collection of special styles, from the beloved race day crop to singlets, tees, warm ups and more...all in the Team Shop.
ntroducing the new Crest Collection; our celebration of New School: an era in which women will continue to create their own place, their own traditions, in sport.
Punches above its weight. Premium Pertex® Microlight fabric and 650 Fill Power, using Primaloft® Silver Down-Synthetic blend equals warmth without weight.
In our new Bantam Flyout® fabric with HoverFit® technology. This fabric literally floats above your skin, and this very slightly heavier weight is ideal for fall and winter training. The clipped Sport Crest, front and back, infuses its power.
Elevated basics. With the right fabrics, including our family of Nyelle®, every piece is made softer and more durable.
Lastly, we will continue to diversify our brand, team, and product line. To show women athletes in action. And to mirror the growing diversity of our team.
Thank you for believing in us -- and being an important part of our flight. There is no secret, keep going!
In the fall of 2009, I quit rowing forever. Nine years later, I earned a spot on the USRowing Senior National Team for the World Rowing Championships.
I had a really tough time rowing for the Princeton open weight program and, as a fiercely independent person, hadn’t felt like I could lean on those around me for help. Feeling overwhelmed by what felt like failure, I couldn’t face going back for another year.
Instead, I spent the 2009-2010 school year falling in love, riding my bike, learning to bake and working hard at all the other pieces of my life. That included my health. After gaining some weight post-rowing, I found myself in the “overweight” category on the BMI chart. I made some changes, started tracking nutrition, and slowly began the weight loss process. By end of summer in 2010, I had lost 25 pounds and decided to reach out to the lightweight coach.
Paul and the lightweight team welcomed me back to the boathouse with open arms. And with that incredible group of women, I found a new place in the sport. My first two years of college rowing, I felt a personal obligation to continue. I had no identity or friends outside of the sport. In my year away from the boathouse, I created that identity, found those friends and filled in empty spaces that I didn’t even know were there.
But it turns out that I really rowed because I loved it, and there was an empty space that only rowing could fill. I started fresh in 2010. And every day I showed up to practice because I wanted to be there. I rediscovered joy.
By the end of the 2011 season, I had worked my way from slowest in the 2V to stroke seat in the varsity boat. We had an undefeated regular season, won our regional championship and were ready to take on Nationals. But we fell 0.681 seconds short of the title “National Champion”, and that left me with some unfinished business.
After college, I tried coaching for a year, but those 681 milliseconds still bothered me. When one of my coworkers asked me if I wanted to be rowing in the boat or coaching the boat, my answer came instantly. One year after I left Princeton, I picked up (a little bit less fit than) where I left off.
Since 2012, I’ve been chasing a big dream: the Olympics. My husband and I moved across the country to a tiny town in northwest Connecticut to work with a great coach and train on an amazing body of water. In the beginning, I got my butt kicked so many times. Every time, I adjusted, put my head down, and worked hard. Slowly, I got faster. And with speed, came results. But the results were never quite enough. I’ve placed 2nd or 3rd at World Championship Trials four times, and only the winner earns a spot.
I’m not sure anymore how many times I’ve almost quit again. Too many times to count. But this year felt different. This year, I asked for more help. And the people around me stepped up in huge ways. My coach gave me space to experiment. One family friend provided housing for a winter training trip, another for a visiting athlete. The Volée showed up for my cross-training runs. Friends came to cheer me on in races. The masters and junior athletes stepped up so they could push me in practice. And all those little pieces added up to something magic: first place.
On August 8th, I earned the title USRowing National Team Athlete. It’s not the Olympics yet, but it’s a huge step in the right direction. On September 9-16, I’ll be competing at the World Rowing Championships in Plovdiv, Bulgaria in the lightweight women’s quad with three other incredible women and our incredibly accomplished (female) coach. We’d love for you to join our cheering squad!
If you want to follow Michaela and all the World Rowing Championship action you can check out the live tracker, audio commentary, and live results here!
We can't believe Big Birdcamp 2018 has already come and gone! So many amazing moments! Steph and I tried to write down our favorites and we just couldn't stop at 10. Thank you all for an amazing weekend. Each of you who attended made it very special. We are so grateful!
Lesko and Steph's Top "10" Big Birdcamp Memories
Lauren's Big Birdcamp song. We are women and we're here to be...(stomp stomp), a little more wild and a lot more free...(stomp stomp)...
The amazing floaty selection...enough said
The BIG SLIDE
Caroline Keating out-swimming the lifeguards in Lenape Lake (they had to switch to paddleboards to keep up)
Barefoot tennis (we can't officially recommend this, for health reasons)
Beth McAlpine working her magic to get the spandos to camp. The disco spandos left their birthplace in California on August 7th, and on Thursday, August 23rd they were still "somewhere" on a train in Pennsylvania. If you need something impossible done, contact Beth. And the spandos were so happy to meet their new owners!
Track workouts with Kara, Lauren and Kendra, fireside chats with Allie. Oiselle's pros are the best!
The swaggiest swag bag in all the land! Huge thank you to Salomon, Goodr, nuun, Picky Bars, Miir & Sufferfest beer!
The FOOD!!! The never-ending salad bar, the generous serverings, and the coffee station with unlimited cold brew.
Lesko running her longest run EVER (17 miles!) with the help of all of the support squad, and the company of Jungle Chicken, Sally, Rebecca McCown, and Jackie Gruendel. Run friends make everything possible!
The long-ass hill! Whoa!
The dance party! Who knew a double stage and a limbo broom are the keys to a great party? Everyone can be a star! And a huge thank you to Rebecca Trachsel (aka Trax) for her awesome playlist. We definitely took some dance-move notes. And we got to sing Jacinta "Happy Birthday"!!
Jenn's amazing graphic design! All those Big Birdcamp signs kept us motivated on the runs and the cabin signs weren't too bad either! Go Bushtits!
The trail running! Cat Bradley reignited our love of trail running; showing us technique and leading us on the trails.
The Camp IHC staff. A more generous and proficient group of people have never been assembled.
Til we all meet again, holding this weekend in our hearts!
Thanks for asking! I work for International Mountain Guides, where I lead climbing, trekking, and mountaineering expeditions around the world. Right now, I’m still recovering from my most recent trip: for the last two weeks of July, I was lucky enough to lead a team of six climbers on a mountaineering expedition in rural western Mongolia. Our objective was Mount Khuiten, which — at 14,350' — is the tallest mountain in the country. It's a gorgeous, rural peak, and it's less than three miles from the border tri-point between Mongolia, Russia, and China. So cool!
It was a fabulous trip. We had a blast exploring Ulan Bataar, then caught a small plane to the western province of Olgi, where we loaded into 4x4 vans and overlanded for 7 hours to get to the trailhead. From there, we trekked to base camp while camels carried our gear. Camels! (I named mine Excamelbur.)
From base camp, the climb went perfectly: the team was strong and optimistic, we were able to thread the needle on a slightly tricky weather window, and the conditions couldn't have been better. I'm so proud of our team, and couldn't be more grateful for our Mongolian friends.
When I reflect on the trip, I think about the ocean-colored skies. I remember the alpine starts, when the agony of prying yourself out of a warm sleeping bag is worth the joy of watching the dawn. And I think about a nomadic Mongolian woman who shared her family’s homemade cheese, explaining each step of the process that moved milk into curds. I left her with one of my Oiselle layers, not knowing how to explain that even though it was dirty from my two weeks of climbing it was one of the only things I had on my back that felt connected, conceived, and stitched together in a process I could explain and understand. She smiled shyly, trying on the long-sleeved shirt and checking her reflection in a 3”-square mirror.
As we left, I tried to explain through our interpreter that I’ll be back next year. The way she hugged me made me feel free.
My favorite Oiselle gear for climbing expeditions:
Vim Jacket. Alpine climbing is all about mastering the art of layering — you’re working hard, the temperatures are constantly changing as you get higher and the weather changes, you’re trying to keep all of your extremities warm while not sweating through your base layers. The Vim Jacket is lightweight, easy to throw in a backpack (or even just a pocket), and it’s the perfect way to cut the wind. I recommend it to everybody.
Spring Wazzie Wool Racerback Tank. When I’m on a long expedition, I often wear a lightweight tank top underneath all of my other layers. It wicks away sweat, it keeps me modest if I’m changing layers in mixed company, and — when it’s a wool baselayer — it never smells funky. I’ve worn all different brands of wool, and Oiselle’s is the absolute softest, most durable, and least prone to shrinkage when I accidentally stick it in the dryer.
Bae Bra. Imma be real: when I’m guiding a big mountain, I don’t want to think about my breasts. I want to pull on a sports bra when I’m getting dressed in the morning, add whatever layers I need to stay comfortable, and focus on the task at hand. I love the Bae Bra’s straps, because they never, ever fall off my shoulders. The band is nice and thick, so it never digs in. And Big Blue — so damn fun.
Next up: I’m heading to Peru in early September to lead a Machu Pichu trek, and then I’ll spend the fall at home in Seattle. I plan to snuggle with Huckleberry, eat lots of vegetables, and run around Greenlake in my Oiselle gear many, many times.
Maybe it’s because we live in the #PNW, but we love the whole idea of “evergreen.” Evergreen trees, evergreen forests, and yes, evergreen designs. Those styles that we come back to year in, year out. A quick tour through the Internet indicates that the word evergreen also means “having an enduring freshness, success, or popularity.” It goes on: “Such as in Hollywood, Star Trek is an evergreen asset.” Ah Hollywood and "evergreen assets." Star Trek, yes. Talented women actors over the age of 35, no. But I digress.
The Vim Jacket and Vigor Vest, which we introduced for the first time in the Fall of 2016, have earned their way onto Team Evergreen. Like most technical apparel, it starts with the fabric. For these designs we work with Pertex, a textile leader from Japan, with their Microlight collection. Without going full textile nerd on you, there’s two things this fabric brings to the party: ultra light-weight, ideal for packing, wearing, and carrying (on the run), as well as mechanical wind/water resistance that avoids chemical coatings and ingredients. In fact, the wind resistance level and testing is so high, you can grab these styles next time you need to run in (or from) a Category 5 hurricane. Its break point for pressure tears is off the charts.
Not to be outdone by the power of the fabric, both designs also include:
360 Reflectivity (back, front, sides of jacket)
Two full front zip pockets
Stuff pocket-pouch with elastic hand/armband
Fully adjustable hem
2-4 ounces, ultra-light, highly compressible
Jacket: full hood with barrel closure adjustability and snap loop for storing
And new color! In addition to the return of black, we’re happy to introduce you to two new colors of the Fall 18 season: Marigold and Fast Pink. Marigold gives this rain shell a classic raincoat vibe, but without the bulky weight. And Fast Pink is a gorgeous new light salmon-y pink (to go with our evergreen trees yo).
So if you love to run outside all year long like we do, you have a friend in Vim + Vigor. From the evergreen PNW with love...
Big Stripe styles are giving my wardrobe life. My style is ever changing but I do like to keep it simple with a pop of *something*. That something right now is STRIPES. My closet has become flooded with them and the new fall 18 big, bold, and soft stripes have a lot to do with it. Weaving #flystyle into my everyday look is something I should put on my resume. Ways to wear? I shall show you the way.
Side note: the thing I love most about stripes is their history. Centuries back, "Stripes had a different interpretation, and it wasn’t a good one. For Medieval Europeans, stripes stood for difference and disorder, and striped clothing was worn by hangmen, non-Christians, clowns, rebels...” Essentially, people wore stripes to mark their status as an outcast. I’m into it. Anyway back to styling...
MIX STRIPES & PRINTS
Seems weird, right? Throw them together — you may be surprised. Below are two of my favorite combos:
I love the high-waisted look and I love anything tied around (you see a lot of it in O styling). I personally like for my bottoms to sit right above my hips and so I tie long sleeves around there as well to help add some shape + a pop of something fun. And again - stripes + patterns, YES! If you love black on black (I feel you), spice it up with textures.
I always get funny looks on set when I do the double knot. I love it, you guys! Such a fun way to layer and add some dimension to any outfit. Give it a try!
This is my definition of the perfect fall outfit. Mock neck + high waisted crop pants + booties. I will most likely be in a variation of these three styles all fall long. It's my feel good fit!
Big Stripe Mock Neck, Wide Crop Pants from Everlane (because I know you'll ask.)
Buns. Do you like yours free flopping or immobile? Do you look at other runners’ buns and feel a sense of envy? Is bun-running an everyday occasion or just for special days?
When did you first start running in a bun and why?
Mo: I started running in a bun when I got to college. My hair was starting to get a lot longer and I didn't like how it would stick to my back and get all over and ratty when I ran. It also was much more controlled for steeplechase. A bun made me feel more together and secure, and made me feel powerful as a runner.
Kami: I've actually always ran with my hair in a bun- I have really long, thick hair and if it's in a ponytail in the summer, I don't get much breeze on the back of my neck. If it's in a ponytail while it's windy or raining, it turns into a rat’s nest- the bun keeps everything together in one spot!
Allie: I started power-bunning last summer as I started running more mileage to prepare for the NYC Marathon. Removing the sweat-drenched hair sticking to the back of my neck made me feel cooler, and in a marathon every little percent adds up! Also, my top knot makes me look a little taller!
Jess: I have always been somewhat of a head case when it comes to racing + competing, so finding ways to keep it light and fun has always helped me. One of those things is how I wear my hair. Through high school and college I was constantly experimenting with race styles and they usually involved 1-2 buns of some sort. Top knot bun, double Princess Leia buns, french braid into buns, triple buns down the middle, etc. etc.
How long is your hair...and do you ever just wear it down?
Mo: My hair when down goes to about my upper/mid back, its super wavy unless it is straightened. Yes, I do wear it down to run sometimes but I don’t love doing that. I often find that it sticks to me and makes my shoulders itchy when I am wearing a tank top.
Kami: My hair is anywhere from mid-back to right above my butt. I love donating my hair every few years so I usually let it grow out till it's borderline unbearable and then donate 10-12 inches and start over again. I wear it down on special occasions. If I wear it down though, it's a whole process with straightening that can take up to 45 minutes, whereas the bun takes 5 minutes max!
Allie: My hair is on the longer side. I almost always wear it down when I’m not running.
Jess: My hair is pretty long (it grows fast)! I chopped it all off about 2 years ago and it’s already back to just past boob length. My fave. I love long hair, it makes me feel beautiful. So when I do have the time for a little primping in the am, I wear it down! *insert hair flip & wink*
How do you make that bun stay in place?
Mo: In my years of doing my bun I have broken lots of pony tails and gone through many bobby pins! I just gather all of my hair on the top of my head to where I want my bun, I fold it over once and then tuck all the excess hair in ways so it will stay the best in the pony tail. I then use the 1st pony tail and wrap it around the bun 3 times to secure everything in place as well as I can. Usually the whole process takes about 1 headband, 2 ponytails, and 4-6 bobby pins depending on the security of the bun!
Kami: It's kind of an art- I use just one hair tie, no bobby pins or anything, just gather my hair on top of my head and twist the hair tie a few times around without ever fully pulling hair into a pony, tuck in any fly-aways and it's done! I think one trick though is doing it while it's still a little wet, although possible when dry, being wet allows for some easier configuring.
Allie: I’ve gotten so many questions about how I keep the bun in place! The secret is two hair ties. I use one to put it in a high pony and then I wrap my hair around it secure the bun with another tie.
Jess: Double hair tie. Ditto on Kiefer’s technique! Sometimes a couple bobbies are required depending on my hair length.
Funny buns:
Kami: I've had incidents when me and another coworker went to look at something and bumped buns accidentally. There are many cone head references when wearing a hood over it, and I've walked or ran under many trees and misjudged the height of my bun and gotten it stuck- knowing your bun clearance is important! :)
Jess: Ha! Well, there is nothing worse than when your bun decides to go rouge in the middle of a work out and starts flopping around everywhere. The bouncing really does cause a headache. One time I was running around the lake doing a hard tempo and the bun went wild… out of frustration I shouted “mother f&^%$#!” (a little too loudly to be honest) and this guy turned around thinking I was shouting profanities at him. My bad, dude. Just a bad bun day. #happens
There you have it! Shoot our bun experts your questions, and happy bunning!
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