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 #Birdstrike member Nora Bird on how she puts on her powersuit. Trail style.
WARM UP – WHAT DO YOU WEAR TO GET IN THE ZONE?
Generally I wear the Lux Track Pants over my Mac Roga Shorts. I want to feel comfortable and warm, but I also don't want to overdress. If you have been around me pre-race you know that I am very competitive (#birdstrikers got to see that first hand). I used to get very in my head before a race and stress out a lot. Now I have some mantras that I chant, but I am always nervous and anxious. I put alot of pressure on myself, but once that gun goes off, it melts away. Having clothing that you don't have to second guess and are comfortable is key. I already have a million things going on in my head about the race, clothing should not be one of them.
STARTING LINE – HOW DO YOU WANT TO FEEL? WHAT DO YOU WEAR? WHY?
I like to be out front, so you can almost always see me on the line. So, choosing a race day outfit for photo-ops has to be considered, right?! Even though I am nervous at the line, I know it will disapate quickly, so feeling strong and confident. Unless I am running a winter race or snowshoe race, you will find me in the Mac Roga Shorts, I do see the Flyout Shorts making an apperance soon though... My legs get hot as I race and it will consume my thoughts if I am overdressed. I also always wear my Volée kit when racing, so I like to match the colors. Black wins for the bottoms majority of the time. In longer races where a hydration pack is necessary I find the singlet provides good coverage without chafing. Honestly, race day outfits are easy, I know the shorts never chafe and won't let me down, the pocket in back is perfect for salt tabs, ginger chews and chapstick.
POST RACE GRAPHIC TEE OF CHOICE?
Denim Track Pants are perfect, so soft you almost forget you just raced 50K or over. My Distance Crewneck and #RAD Tee are a go-to's, I never want someone to question if I race clean. I love the after race atmosphere. In these long races you make friends along the way and I love to see them finish (that's probably the coach in me). After the race I can finally relax, turn my mind off and really soak it all in. I love hanging out at the finish and am an obsessive race result checker-back to the competitiveness. I pack my own post-race fuel and food so I don't have to go anywhere after the race until after the awards to sleep. I am a good sleeper. Talented really. If you know me, you know that I am an on-the-move kinda gal, so choosing the styles that can move and keep up with me is important. The Aero Jacket with all its pockets and sleek design paired with the Denim Track Pants are the ultimate go-to post-race outfit.
