What do you wear when you warm up? How are you trying to feel? What’s your ideal emotion toe-ing the line? How does this affect what you wear? After the race - what do you throw on? We hear from Volée Liz Anjos (aka Pink Feathers) on how she puts on her powersuit. Road style!
WARM UP – WHAT DO YOU WEAR TO GET IN THE ZONE?
I typically layer a long sleeve over my singlet, and if it's cold, an Aero Jacket and Lux Track Pants as well. On a hot day, I'll still wear a tee so that mentally I still have one last layer to shed before toeing the line. I go for tops with a wide collar or a zipper so I don't have to have to worry about knocking my headband or bobby pins off my head minutes before the start of the race. I liken my warm ups to a boxing robe. There's a bit of mystery involved. When I'm doing my drills and strides, I want competitors to think, "who's that speedy looking girl?"
Dani Reese and I about to warm up before the 2016 Oregon Wine Country Half Marathon
STARTING LINE – HOW DO YOU WANT TO FEEL? WHAT DO YOU WEAR? WHY?
I like to feel composed and intentional when I toe the line. I start with picking a top and bottom that are comfortable, flattering, stay put, and make me feel fast. The Spandos Jane Bra and Shorts are among my favorite race day outfits, along with the Volée singlet and 3/4 top paired with Stride Shorts or Portman Shorts. I'll match everything else I'm wearing down to my socks, headband and even nail polish. I like to think that what I wear signals to my brain that I'm not just going for an every day run; it's a special run that I've been preparing for and have a game plan for carrying out.
Eugene Half Marathon 2015
Chicago Marathon 2016
The North Face Endurance Challenge California Half Marathon 2016
Virginia Wine Country Half 2016
Berlin Marathon 2015
POST RACE GRAPHIC TEE OF CHOICE?
My first thought after the race is to get warm, especially after a marathon. I usually have a light jacket or Trials Hoodie stashed in my gear bag. I also have to have slides or flip flops to change into. It's just a mental thing. I can kick off my shoes and go, "Ahh. I did it!"
Me and my husband André after the 2016 Chicago Marathon
The best thing post-race is getting to shower, change into my comfy Denim Track Pants and Distance Tee, and celebrate over delicious food with friends! If you happen to be racing in Portland, my favorite post-race spots are Dockside Saloon and Por Qué No.
Shasta Zielke and I celebrating her win at Race for the Roses 5K over tacos!