We all know the importance of wearing sunscreen every day to protect ourselves from skin cancer, sunburns, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. But there’s another way you can shield yourself that might not be on your radar: by wearing UPF (or sun-protective) clothing—i.e., garments that block harmful UV rays. While you definitely still need to use […]
8 Prana Becksa Legging Most Comfortable Pros: Soft and thick fabric, light compression Cons: Not as rugged as other options For a pair of super soft yet supportive trail tights, consider the Becksa from Prana. Several SELF staffers tested these leggings a couple years ago and were wowed by their unique ribbed fabric, just-right high […]
5 Salomon Quest 4 GORE-TEX Hiking Boots Most Protective Pros: Very durable, designed for trekking and long hikes Cons: Heavy If you’re taking on an especially long, difficult trail or embarking on a backpacking trip, the Salomon Quest 4 is the rugged boot you need. It has a range of tough features like aggressive lugs, […]
These Old Navy leggings were our readers’ pick for this year’s Activewear Awards, and, wow, did they have a lot to say: “I literally have 25 pairs, and they’re the only bottoms I’ll do races in. The side pockets are so great, I don’t even need to wear running belts during my training runs to […]
Nothing puts a damper (pun intended) on a walk, hike, run, or commute like a surprise storm, especially when it results in soggy feet. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to: With the best waterproof shoes and water-resistant options out there, you can actually enjoy a gray day, even when the sky is literally raining on your […]
For an activity as physically and mentally restorative as yoga, it can raise some stressful questions—namely, how are you supposed to lug all your gear (not only your mat but potentially a towel, water bottle, and change of clothes) to the studio? Before you shove everything into an old tote bag and hope for the […]
Many of the tops and tees in your activewear wardrobe are probably replaceable—you buy something new, wear it for a couple of years, and eventually it winds up in your donation pile. It was fine and it did the job, but it’s unlikely that you’d buy it again. Now leggings—oh, boy, leggings: These are the […]
Sorry to be dramatic, but there is something diabolical about an uncomfortable sports bra. Seriously! On top of ruining your workout, it can ruin your entire day. On the other hand, there is something truly magical about a sports bra that feels good—that gives you confidence in the gym, lets you sink deep into your […]
It’s no secret how important it is to wear a helmet while riding a bike. There’s plenty of research that shows the safety benefits of them—it’s definitely in your best interest to put one on. “People [who crash] without helmets tend to have more severe injuries,” Steve Broglio, PhD, director of the University of Michigan […]
Slipping and sliding during a workout is not only annoying, but also unsafe. (If you’ve ever awkwardly fallen out of a yoga pose or taken a tumble during barre, you know). Investing in a pair of the best grip socks can help, though. We spoke to fitness experts to find out everything you need to […]