calling all runners to join the united relay!

Disclaimer: I received an entry for the United Relay of America to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!

The United Relay of America is the world's first non-stop running relay setting off from Seattle (April 27), San Francisco (May 4) and Los Angeles (May 8), joining together in New York City (June 4). Those who want to make a difference for communities across the globe are hitting the pavement to fundraise for things like youth education, ending gender discrimination or providing safe homes for orphans, as part of three incredible unbroken chains of runners stretching from the West to the East coast.

Most organized runs take place on closed courses, but the United Relay’s three legs will take an estimated 9,000 runners on roadside courses, during all hours and conditions — a situation that could be potentially unsafe. We’re getting involved to ensure participants are running safely as they pass the batons, day and night, joined together in their causes.

As a BibRave Pro, I am trying to help raise awareness of the event, and help sign up as many runners as possible to keep these chains unbroken. 10,000 miles is a lot of land to cover, and it’s very likely that the United Relay will be running right through your city! 100% of proceeds raised by runners go directly toward the associated charities, and AfterShokz has also committed 5% of every purchase made by the United Relay runners and their sponsors to go to these charities. 

As the title sponsor of this event, it’s Aftershokz mission to keep runners safe with the open ear design of their headphones, while also giving back in a big way as this event makes history. The power of the Aftershokz brand lies in a single key concept: be open. Their missions are safety and comfort. And, more importantly, staying connected—from your music to your moments—without compromise. (PS If you are interested in getting some Aftershokz (I recommend the Trekz Titanium), you can get 20% your purchase with code BIBRAVE20.)

Doesn't this sound like a worthwhile cause? Would you please take a moment and look into the routes, and see if any are near you? I would love to get more runners registered to run a leg, so that we can keep the chain unbroken! There are also some fun group stages happening in large cities (like in Chicago), in which larger groups will run together. I'll be at Group Stage 318 (Team Red) which is a 3.5 mile run at Lakeshore East. We have other Pros running a legs in Illinois, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Georgia, Missouri, and I'm sure some other places that I'm missing. Won't you consider joining us? It would be fun to hand off a baton to a new friend :)

Registration is $50 for a standard stage and $25 for a group stage. Registration fee will be used to cover the organizational costs of the United Relay of America with any surplus donated to the charity partners (based off of a list given during registration). Causes/charities include: Oxfam America, Keep a Child Alive, All Out, Arms Around The Child, War Child, The Trevor Project, Girl Rising, David Lynch Foundation, Boston Children's Hospital, Seattle Children's Hospital, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, McConnell International Foundation, and Concern Universal. You can find out more about these charities here. Honestly, it's hard to choose just one. All pledges and donations made will be passed on to the beneficiary charities to help change the lives of children, families, and communities around the world.

I've decided to help raise money for All Out, a campaign for equality for LGBTQ people everywhere. All Out is building a world where no person will have to sacrifice their family or freedom, safety or dignity, because of who they are or who they love. I believe in equality, whether you're straight, bi, transgender - whatever. We are all humans and deserve to be treated with respect and kindness.

Some common questions:

Who can run a stage?
Anyone can run, provided they're able to maintain an average pace of 11 minutes per mile for the duration of the stage. Under 18s must run with an adult and have signed authorization.

Do I have to fundraise as well?
Fundraising is not compulsory, but we hope that every runner who takes part will set a fundraising target of at least $300. If you do not hit your target you will not be charged. Runners can collect sponsorship pledges via their United Relay of America personal profile page.

Who decides my route?
The first runner to sign up for a standard stage becomes the lead runner. It is their responsibility to plan the route between the start and finish points for that stage.

Read all FAQ here.

Any donation would be GREATLY appreciated. My target goal is $300, but it would be so awesome if I could pass that. You can visit my page here to read about All Out or to donate.

Runners can sign up and get more info about the event here: https://unitedrelay.org

My personal United Relay fundraising page

Follow the United Relay on Social Medai:
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

chicago quarter marathon recap

You can read my more succinct race review over on BibRave.com.

The Third Annual (and my third time participating) Chicago Quarter Marathon was held on Saturday, March 26, 2016 with a 9:15am start. The start and finish were just outside Soldier Field, so we parked at Waldron Deck for $20. I do love races at Soldier Field. Though parking can cost more than other locations, it's always easy and you don't have to worry about getting a spot. Waldron Deck was wide open still (maybe 30% full) when we arrived, and even if that fills, you can head over to the North Garage.

We were also able to get free packet mailing because we registered prior to January 25. Yay! If you didn't get free (or pay for) shipping, then packet pickup was being held at Road Runner Sports on Kingbury Saturday the 19 and Thursday the 24. You could have a friend or family member pick up your bib (up to 5). This year participants received a red, full zip sweatshirt embroidered on the front with the race logo.

We arrived about 30 minutes prior to the start, so hung out in the car for a while. Weather on race morning ranged from low- to mid-40s, 7mph winds, and mostly sunny. Not bad at all.

Training leading up to this race was a bit off. I had taken some time off to let my minor quad injury (which ended my run streak) to heal, so I wasn't expecting any type of PR. I ran with my mom and we chatted and had some fun.

The course was the same as previous years - line up and start line were on Waldron Drive, then you went south on the Lake Front Path, turn around and come back north to the finish (same as the start line). The path does split at one point, so there wasn't too much of the two way race traffic causing congestion. I'd say there were approximately 1000 runners for this race. Take note that there were no corral, pace signage, or wave start. Everyone just lined up and when the race started at 9:15, we were set loose. I was towards the back at the start, but plenty of people came in behind me once we started moving, but I didn't notice too much congestion and it thinned out quickly enough. No pushing or shoving, which is always nice.

This was part of the course that has the path in two spots, so less congestion.

There were 3 water stops on course, but with it being an out and back course, this meant 6, and there was first aid at the midway point (about mile 1.75 going out, and 4.75 coming back). Pretty much my only beef with this race was that after the first water stop, there wasn't any more water at the following 5 stops - they were all out. I brought my own hydration (I love to use my Orange Mud HydraQuiver VP1 regardless of race distance to keep my phone, keys, water/electrolyte drink, etc.), so this wasn't a problem for me, but I thought of all the other people that didn't bring anything, my mom included, who probably could have used some water after mile 1. There were still plenty of volunteers at the stations, so it wasn't that they weren't staffed well, they just somehow completely missed the mark on cups or water. Disappointing to see this happen. Luckily, it wasn't 80 degrees out, so I'm sure everyone fared fine, I just hope that next year they are better prepared. This race definitely helped remind me why I do bring my own drink on course regardless of how many stations they supposedly have. I don't like to rely on when the stations are and what they have (or don't have). I can carry what I prefer to drink, and drink it when I want. Very convenient :)

Post-Race Party

I was getting nervous that there wouldn't be any post-race snacks for as at the finish line, the way they ran out of water on the course. What if they weren't prepared there either? Luckily, they still had snacks. We grabbed a bottle of water, banana, and choice of Kind bar (I grabbed the Pomegranate Blueberry Pistachio). There was a live band playing, and a special Easter Kids' Hop (Additional fee) where kids got to run around with the easter bunny.

Beautiful day for a race!

Mom and I did running 45 sec and walking 55 sec. We finished with a decent time (not as great as I'd been having before my mini break, but still not bad) and I was happy with how my legs were feeling. This was also the first race I used my Aftershokz Trekz Titanium headphones and they worked great! I could listen to music, but also was able to talk with my mom without having to take earbuds out. They use bone conduction technology, so nothing is actually IN your ear. They're pretty sweet. Plus, they matched my 2XU compression tights for the race haha.

At the finish, participants received a medal (a bit on the cheaper end this year - just went through and saw my 2015 medal and it was a tad nicer). Not a big deal for me, as most of my medals are hidden away in a box, but my feelings are if you are going to have a medal, have a nice one. I generally don't expect a medal for anything less than a half (though I do think it's a nice bonus when there is one). Anyway, I wish it was a little nicer is what I'm trying to say haha.

If I'm available, I'll probably be running this event again in 2017. It's a nice way to sort of kick of the racing season (though I do race all year round, the race choices are more slim in the winter), and I just enjoy racing for fun. It's nice bonding for my mom and I. Also, the race beneficiary is Prevent Child Abuse America - love when races donate some of the proceeds to a good cause.

2016 tinker bell half marathon weekend: exclusive dooney & bourke purses

The new design for the runDisney Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend Dooney & Bourke purses were released yesterday on the runDisney page. Have you taken a look yet? I'm really digging the colors, personally. Tinker Bell has never really been a favorite Disney character of mine, but she's grown on me over the years, and I've enjoyed running the races during Tinker Bell weekend the past two years. 

Here's a look at the purses:

Prices:
Shopper - $289.44 (middle)
Letter Carrier - $192.24 (left)
Wristlet - $116.64 (right)

What do you think? You can preorder here. Quantities are limited, and remember that you have to pick them up at packet pickup - nothing will be mailed or refunded.

stop the chafe: 2toms review

Disclaimer: I received 2Toms to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

Getting ready for BoMF Mardi Gras 10k. First time running outside in shorts
since receiving 2Toms. Rolled on pre-race and brought the wipe for any
chafing that might occur during. Wipes are great to put in my pack.

Chafing is a common occurrence among runners. Sometimes we can have all the perfect gear, but chafing can still occur. I've found for myself, it's a random thing. Sometimes I have chafing problems, and sometimes I don't. With the same exact gear. It's quite the anomaly. I think often the main factors of my chafing are weather related and how sweaty I am, and not always related to what clothing I'm wearing at the time. All of my gear has been tested pretty thoroughly, so I don't really blame my clothes. 

Anyway, I often wouldn't even notice the major chafing until I took my shower after my run or race. I'd step into the hot water, and AHHHH/OUCH. The chaffing showed itself (and was horrifically felt).

BoMF Mardi Gras 10k was shorts/skirt weather. You know 2Toms was applied.

Now, chaffing locations can be quite sensitive... and a sensitive topic depending on where that chaffing is happening. My most common spots are thighs and sports bras locations. So, I've grown accustomed to using anti-chafe cream where my sports bra band is and on my thighs, but I hadn't found a product I particularly loved. 

Cold weather running testing out 2Toms. Worked great.

In comes 2Toms. They so nicely sent me the SportShield for Her! Roll-On and three SportShield for HER! Single Wipes. They also sent a helpful note with the products.

10 miles and no chafing. Boom.

The Roll-On applicator is fantastic! It's so easy to apply wherever you want and is fragrance-free and long lasting. It feels so silky and nice. I've found not all anti-chafe products have a nice feel. 

Gym bag staple!

The SportShield for Her! was exclusively formulated for women with added benefits for comfort and protection specific to women. The intent was to deliver the perfect balance of protection and comfort in a silky smooth formula that lasts all day. It performs under the most grueling conditions and will not rub off. It even works under wetsuits, bathing-suits, and sports bras.

SportShield:

• Won't melt

• Rolls on quickly and easily

• Sweatproof

• Waterproof

• Delivers all-day protection against rubbing and friction

The For Her! difference:

• Moisture rich protection

• Contains aloe and shea butter to moisturize and soothe

• Natural anti-microbial ingredients help protect sensitive skin

• Fragrance free

• Dye free

• Contains no animal products

Usage:

SportShielf is removed from the skin with soap and water (leaving no residue) and is ideal for: running, hiking, biking, swim suits, wet suits, sports bras, underwear, and heart rate monitors.

Flat Heather ready for the Chicago Quarter Marathon. Yes, 2Toms is always in my pile.

Shorts weather is upon us, which means that protecting myself from chafing is even more important now. Roll-On some SportShield on my legs and I'm good to go. We've had a lot of jumping in temps and weather patterns, so I've been able to test it with just about every possible layering I'd do - from 5 degrees and crazy windy, to 50s (for me that's a tee or tank and shorts). It's held up well in all variables.

2Toms even makes a guarantee: If not completely satisfied, return package (unused portion) and a receipt/proof of purchase for a full refund.

The gym I go to is extremely warm, and so I sweat a lot, which I think leads to even more chafing. I haven't had any problems since I started using 2Toms. It's amazing. No more surprises when I jump in the shower. Thank goodness. There's no sticky residue and doesn't feel gross, but it washes right off with my loofah and soap.

Post Chicago Quarter Marathon. Smiling because there's no chafe!

The towelettes are super easy to put in my Orange Mud VP1 and have with me if I missed any spots or some new place is chafing while I'm on the go. To use the wipes, you just need to tear off the top, push up the wipe, and pain on like a brush. It prevents getting SportShield on your fingers and also allows for multiple applications. Speaking of, if I have short sleeves on and am using my pack, I'll add some 2Toms to my arms where they would rub on the pack to avoid chafing there as well.

2Toms also has some other great products that I'm interested in - Stink Free Gear and Shoe spray and Stink Free Sports Detergent. I know Amy bought the detergent, so can't wait to hear what she thinks on that.

You can purchase 2Toms on their website and the Roll-On is only $13. AND BONUS: Use 2Toms20 for a 20% discount. Your body will thank you when you stop the chafe.

I know not everyone chafes on the regular, but I'm not sure I've ever met someone who hasn't at least once. I think it's good to have product on hand just in case, and I would definitely recommend 2Toms to my fellow active friends and followers. And I don't know about you, but even if I don't always chafe, I'd rather add on some extra protection every run rather than have those random acts of chafing that are so painful in the shower and could have easily been avoided with a quick swipe of some 2Toms.

Connect with 2Toms:

website | facebook | twitter | instagram (parent company media-dyne)

What the other Pros thought:

Ashley | Amy | Jenn | Samantha | Danielle

2016 rundisney wine and dine half marathon weekend

As the registration date looms for the 2016 runDisney Wine and Dine Half, I thought I'd do a quick post on the changes that were made this year.

Photo from runDisney Facebook page.

I've done the Wine and Dine half every year since 2012. It was my first runDisney event, and I fell in love. I loved running at night, getting to go through Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot. And then enjoyed some special late night time at Epcot for the Food and Wine Festival. Yummy treats.  It was only my second time to Disney World, my first being when I was a teenager and my parents and I only had time to make it to Magic Kingdom for a day. I've become a tad obsessed with runDisney and Disney in general since running there in November 2012.

Photo from runDisney Facebook page.

As most of you know, The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights had its final season in late 2015 to early December, with a final goodbye on January 6, 2016. With no lights in Hollywood Studios and all of the construction going on, it seemed a likely decision that HS would be taken out of the Wine and Dine course. So sad. I'm not sure about you, but I was not expecting the amount of changes they ended up making.

As Annual Passholders began to have anxieties over early registration on March 8, when an announcement came on March 7 that registration would be delayed while they put the final touches on the weekend. Most people were speculating as to what the changes would be. I was pretty annoyed that the registration date had changed, as it takes some special scheduling to make sure I'm able to be at a computer at 11 ready to register. Anyway...

Luckily, we didn't need to wait TOO long to find out. They announced the New Items on the Menu on March 10.

runDisney added a new challenge to the weekend (Lumiere's Two Course Challenge = 10k and half marathon), but with this change came a disappointing news. The Wine and Dine Half would no longer be a night race. Womp womp. I know a lot of people hate night races, but it was one of the things I loved most about this race. I am not a wake up early and run kind of person – I much prefer running at night. But I digress.

Also, with the night race being gone along with Hollywood Studios construction and no more Osborne Lights, there will be a course change. There isn't a map up yet (those come usually pretty close to the event), but it does mentions the 13.1 mile course through ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex (does this mean something similar to the marathon? That was my least favorite part of the race... I almost could have managed more highway instead if you can believe it), Animal Kingdom, and Epcot. I imagine the 10k will be similar to the 10k course for Marathon and Princess weekend. 

With the challenge meant that the race weekend would begin on Thursday with the expo, Friday morning would be the 5k, Saturday morning the 10k, and Sunday morning the half. Don't worry – there's still an after party. This is one change that ends up being good for me and I'll explain why.

The After Party now takes place Sunday night from 8pm–1am at Epcot. From what I understand, the After Party was for runners only, and for friends and family that purchase a ticket. On the runDisney website it mentions after-hours at Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, so that's what I'm taking from it. 

Anyway, with your exclusive entry (either from being a half marathon runner or purhcase a ticket) you get early entry into Epcot at 8pm, can purchase indulgent offerings from more than 30 Global Marketplaces at the International Food and Wine Festival, ride select Epcot attractions, enjoy character meet and greets, and listen to musical performances.

Why is the After Party a better deal for me than it was before? Because I'll be able to enjoy it the entire time! Being a slower runner meant quite a bit of my After Party time was spent running, with only maybe 2 hours left to enjoy the party (once taking photos, getting through security, etc). So, though I am very disappointed it's a morning race now, I'm excited to enjoy all 5 hours of the After Party.

Photo from runDisney Facebook page.

Schedule of Events:
Expo: November 3–5 at ESPN WWoS
Mickey's Holiday 5k: Friday, November 4 at Disney's Animal Kingdom. 6:30am
Wine and Dine 10k: Saturday, November 5 at Epcot. 5:30am
Wine and Dine half marathon: Sunday, November 6 at 5:30am. Start at ESPN WWoS, Finish at Epcot. 
Post Race Party: November 6 at Epcot from 8pm–1am

Entry Fees:
Lumiere's Two Course Challenge: $330
Wine and Dine Half Marathon: $190
Wine and Dine 10k: $120
Mickey's Holiday 5k: $70

If you plan on registering, take note that only you can pick up your race packet. 

If you are an Annual Passholder, get ready for early registration beginning Tuesday, March 22 at 11am CT. Regular registration opens a week later on March 29 at 11am CT.

Photo from runDisney Facebook page.

While disappointed with a few changes, generally I'm still excited for this race. Not all the changes are bad, and it is Disney, so it'll still be lots of fun. As long as I can score a registration spot... Keep those fingers crossed for me, would you?

Who's registering for the 2016 Wine and Dine? Which races? Are you disappointed in the changes? Thoughts?

love to (de)compress in 2xu calf sleeves and vectr socks

Disclaimer: I received 2XU Performance Run Calf Sleeves and Race VECTR Sock to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

I'm sure you all know by now that I have a very strong, deep, loving relationship with 2XU. Ever since I tried their MCS Elite Compression Tights, I've gone on to have the opportunity to try some other products as well as purchase almost the entire line of compression tights and capris since then. (Though of course now they have a new Spring Collection out, which is amazing.) I wrote some other reviews if you're interested in reading: Hyoptik Thermal Tights (helped me get through winter training), Compression Tights, Recovery Tights, and Element Sport Jacket, and the MCS Elite Compression Tights.

This time around, 2XU was giving BibRave Pros the chance to try out their 2XU Performance Run Calf Sleeves (we even got to pick which color, which for me was a tough decision because there were so many great options) and the Race VECTR socks (they chose the color that best went with the sleeves, which was thoughtful and an unexpected surprise).

First off, I LOVE the color I chose for my Performance Run Calf Sleeves - they are a beautiful bright, fun Ice Green with Yellow thread for the 2XU on the front and back. I know compression can be controversial – not everyone believes in their power, but personally I believe they help me recover quicker. Here's a quick video that explains how the Performance Run Calf Sleeves help runners and their muscles.

So the first two times I wore them, they might have been on backwards. Oops. I had initially put them on correctly, but wanted to double check and referenced a photo of someone else wearing them wrong, so turned them around, but when I looked on the box to double check (and on the 2XU website), noticed they were on the wrong way. My bad. The logo that's on the top belongs in the back, and the logo on the bottom is the front. As shown in the video above. I guess I should have just looked there first :-/

Proper wear.

Some product details on the 2XU Performance Run Calf Sleeve:

They feature zoned breathability panels for maximum airflow and comfort. Seamless, graduated compression zones for increased blood flow and maximum muscle containment for increased performance and enhanced recovery.

• Graduated compression promote increased circulation for recovery.

• Highest power denier targeted support to calf + shins

• Reduced fatigue in lower legs through muscle oscillation

• Reduced muscle soreness

• Greater power output

The garment features PWX compression fabric with enhanced power supports the shin, calf, and ankle; graduated fit to promote circulation for muscle performance and faster recovery, seamless construction for greater comfort; high filament yarns for dryness - wicks sweat from the skin to the fabric exterior; and antibacterial and UPF50+ sun protection.

During my 111 day run streak, there were days that my calves were just tired and sore, but wearing the sleeves during my runs helped me keep my streak alive for as long as I did. My legs felt great running in them, and I even wore them sometimes after the run as well for compression recovery. One such day was after being on my feet in heels all day long for a wedding. My legs weren't feeling so hot the next day, so I wore them for a quick run and then the rest of the day to relieve sore muscles.

First time in them... the sleeves are backwards. Whoops!

For fighting out calf sleeve size, you want to measure your calf size. Since I have some pretty decent sized calves, I went with a large. They were defnitely the proper size for my calf size, however they were a bit longer than I think they should be on someone my height. I didn't have any problems with the length – I would just make sure to have the bottoms be around my ankles so it didn't interfere with my shoes or feel uncomfortable. I feel generally it's the same with all sizings of calf sleeves – they are made for a certain calf girth, and generally my size of calf is what is expected in a taller person. Didn't bother me at all, though, just thought it was worth mentioning.

Care instructions for the 2XU Performance Run Calf Sleeve:

Machine wash in cold water with like colors.

Do NOT tumble dry.

Hang to dry in a cool shady area away from sun.

Do not use bleach, fabric softeners or dryer sheets.

Do not iron.

While wearing the 2XU Performance Run Calf Sleeves, I also wore the Race VECTR Sock. Mine were the white/silver logo color, which worked well with my sleeves. I have problems with PF, which certainly had some flare ups during my run streak. Having some extra arch support really helped keep it in check while running. The sleeves and socks really helped me keep my run streak going strong for much longer than I was anticipating. So perhaps you see why I'm such a big fan of 2XU. 

Second wear... still backwards! Get it together, Heather. Am I right?

Some product details on the Race VECTR Sock:

Engineered for faster performance than ever before, this impressive Race VECTR sock is designed with 2XU's X:LOCK support system powered by 2XU's Compression technology for secure, ergonomic fit to the foot and stabilization of the ankle and arch. Delivering maximum abrasion protection, extra heel and forefoot cushioning, dry mesh panels for ventilation plus a linked toe cage for comfort, the Race VECTR Sock is ideal for racing and training alike.

Garment features:

• X:LOCK support system

• X:BLEND fiber formula: nylon

• Linked toe + anti-blister

• Dry mesh panels

• Cushioned heel + forefoot

The care instructions for the Race VECTR Sock is the same as the 2XU Performance Run Calf Sleeve – wash in cold water with like colors and hang to dry away from the sun.

I really loved the support the Race VECTR Sock gave to my arches and helped the PF not be as painful as it was in socks that didn't have that support. I honestly believe that my run streak would have ended closer to day 70 than 111 (and the only reason I decided to end was for a minor quad injury that I didn't want to become a major injury). 2XU makes quality products and I stand by everything I've used 100%. I'm a big believer in compression and 2XU has become one of my favorite running brands. I've never had issues with chaffing or blisters with any of their products.

Relaxing in my sleeves and socks.

Give 2XU a shot for yourself. You can get 15% off on full price products (cannot be used in conjunction with any other coupon offer) with code TRAIN15. Offer is valid until April 30, 2016. Their new 2016 Collection has some amazing stuff. I'm currently eyeing the mid-rise ICE and Pattern shorts, tech vent short sleeve top, pace 3" 2-in-1 short, and the compression quad sleeve. For reference, the Performance Run Calf Sleeve cost $39.95 and the Race VECTR Sock are $19.95. I find both to be reasonable prices compared to similar products.

2XU will be sponsoring BibChat on Tuesday, March 22 at 8pm CT. Come join us for an hour long chat with other running enthusiasts and maybe win yourself some 2XU for yourself :)

Connect with 2XU:

website | facebook | twitter | youtube | instagram

What the other Pros thought:

Frank | Rachel | Jessica | Mark | Sarah | Samantha | Laura | Jessica | Jeremy

love to the buff: merino wool review

Disclaimer: I received a Merino Wool BUFF® to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

If you've seen in the past, I've had the chance to test out a few BUFF® products: UV Half, the Original Full, Thermal Hoodie, and now: Merino Wool.

I have a pair of Merino Wool socks that I love wearing in the winter. They keep my feet warm and are super soft, so the Merino Wool BUFF® intrigued me. When the package came, I felt the material and to my excitement it was so nice and soft. Dimension wise it's a bit longer than the Original, but about the same width.

I really love the color options, and the one I got is a beautiful grey stripe that pretty much goes with anything. Not that I'm a super matchy person most of the time, but it's nice to have some items that you can grab without even thinking about colors clashing - you'll know it'll just go well no matter what. The print is called Cugnot and I just love it.

When I received the Merino Wool BUFF®, weather here in Chicago was starting to warm up, which made me nervous, since for me, merino wool means cold, winter weather (I know, it can be worn in summer too, but it's just not for me with how much I overheat once it hits 50s and I'm being active outside haha. I'm in that camp that needs to have on as little as possible in order to not pass out - if my eyes weren't so sensitive, I would ditch even the visor). Luckily, it cooled down some more with some very windy days, which were great for testing it out.

My favorite way to wear it was as a headband (though I suppose in the 'ways to wear' Buff calls it Hairband). It would cover my ears and keep all of my little stray hairs out of my face. It also come in handy as a neck warmer/scarf, and even as a way to keep my face warm while I waited outside for a Bruce Springsteen concert (face mask). I was very happy that I decided to toss it in my purse for a quick trip to Milwaukee. 

One run, the transformation of BUFF Merino Wool usage.

On the super windy days, which hurt my ears if they are uncovered, it was perfect for keeping them wind-burn free and warm. You guys know how easily I overheat, so I love that it could go from a hat, to a headband, to a wristband easily. Sometimes it went from headband to wristband and back to headband depending on how the wind went throughout the run. I also love that it scrunches it up well so that I can put it in the pocket of my Orange Mud VP1 if I was getting too hot to have it on at all. 

Waiting to get inside to see The Boss.

They have a great variety of colors and prints to match your style or mood. I'm eyeing a few myself. I love that there are so many great qualities about the Merino Wool BUFF®: moisture management, microclimate control, 100% Merino Wool, odor resistant (I think we all know how important this is!), thermal protection, wind resistant, semi-seamless, and natural stretch.

Most used style - 'hairband'.

A few details about the Merino Wool BUFF® from the website:
It's the classic BUFF® headwear shape, but with a few extra inches of length for cozy protection in the fabric outdoor enthusiasts love most. Made from soft 100% natural Merino Wool and feature subtle tone-on-tone designs, the Merino Wool Printed BUFF® feels great next to the skin, and it keeps you warn even when it's wet. It's the soft, breathable extra layer of insulation you need for chilly days. Plus, BUFF® donates 1% of the proceeds from Merino Wool Printed BUFF® to the plate so you can feel warm and fuzzy on the inside too.
• 100% natural Merino Wool
• 12+ ways to wear
• Merino Wool's natural qualities include: water repellent, odor resistant, flameproof, durability, UV protection, and natural stretch and elasticity
• Thermal protection from cold and wind
• Cool in the summer, extra layer of warmth in the winter
• Semi-seamless — small, unnoticeable seam on top and bottom of Wool BUFF®
• Quick drying
• One size its all adults.

Like I said, I heat up easily... and sweat a lot even on a short run.

Care instructions:
• Hand wash in warm water with mild soap
• Lay flat to dry
• Do not use fabric softeners
• Do not bleach
• Do not iron

Ways to wear:
• Neckerchief
• Sun Guard
• Face Mask
• Hood
• Cap
• Neck Gaitor
• Do Rag
• Pirate
• Foulard
• Hairband
• Headband
• Hair Tie

In all honestly, I never hand wash anything. Seriously - nothing gets hand washed. Our machine is easy-going with clothes (there's no agitator, which I think is what used to ruin some of my clothes when we had an older machine), so I wash it on delicate and then toss it on our drying rack. It's been working just fine, though I'll admit I don't wash it very often... you know, thanks to that whole odor resistant aspect ;)

The Merino Wool BUFF® will cost you between $27–32, depending on which color style you choose, and really - so many great options to choose from. Definitely a reasonable price for such a solid product.

I love BUFF® as a company - they make quality products, and they are very active on Twitter and Instagram. If I have a question they always answer promptly, and they are very nice with the likes and comments. I'd suggest giving them a follow.

BUFF® will be sponsoring #BibChat on Tuesday, March 15th at 8pm CT. Come join some fun runners/people for an hour of answering questions and discussing food, beer, running... just about everything you can think of!

Connect with Buff:
website | twitter | instagram | facebook | youtube | pinterest

What do other Pros think?
Jen | Angie | Mark | Janelle | Christine | Bradley | Katherine | Laura