The context: I started running more seriously about a year and a half ago (running 5 miles to work a couple of times a week), then entered a HM (1:27:32) and a 10k (39:24) and felt the need to look more 'Mo...'
So I researched the web and found what I thought would be some cool 'elite runner-eqsue' running shorts. Got them today, very excited, put them on to show the wife and...she's not impressed. Gutted.
Is it wrong for non-elite runners to wear elite-style running gear? I don't want people to look at me and think I look obscene, but I did want to get away from looking like a public park footballer who took the wrong turn on his way to see his rotund mates for a kickabout.
I'm quite slim and as yet have no tummy hanging over, my legs are toned etc...so should I keep the shorts (which I like), or should I get rid and get a more modest pair of running shorts (and appease the missus)?
Runners World forumites, looking forward to hearing your views on this most major of dilemmas...
Comments
What was she not impressed with??? That you didn't turn into Mo
I think she thought they were 'too' short...but isn't that the whole point? That they don't interfere with your stride at all, that they're light?
If she doesn't appreciate them, I'm sure there are plenty of women who will. Knoworramean?
There was nothing swinging about in the breeze I hope?
At the end of the day, would the police be interested if you went out wearing them?
🙂
Sounds like there some kind of super shorts I've yet to come across!!
did you say 2 inch..?
Haha! Yes, two inch...they are pretty short.
What I described as 'elite runner-esque' is basically very short running shorts that have splits on the side and make you look like you're at an important track meet (you know the shorts that proper athletes wear!). The ones I got can be found here: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nike-Fundamental-Split-Running-Shorts/dp/B0047P27JQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1359669159&sr=8-1
Thanks for the comments thus far - and just in response to bigeater, I'm not trying to be someone I'm not, but I do want to wear proper running kit rather than my old football training kit - I thought I'd done ok with these shorts...maybe they'll grow on my wife when she sees me out running in them, rather than prancing round the living room in them!!
oof.. so the 2 inch is a split.. thought it might me the entire lenght the shorts' leg, in which case I would certrainly sympathise with your wife
I wear Lycra, apparently they are a lot funnier than short shorts, I love them
will you be wearing pants under them? If not, be careful when stretching, sitting, lunging etc...
Better not go for the upgrade then!
🙂
Keep the shorts. Wear what you are comfortable in, and ignore what other people think!
Is K80 the only one with the sensible option of pop them on a show us the piccie..........
I thought they were the old fashioned type of shorts.surely all the elite boys are in lycra nowadaya
You should get a pair of my favourite "barely legal" running shorts from Viga and wear those round the house for a few days. Your missus will be begging you to get the Nike ones back on.
Tim,
It's the opportunity to help with serious issues like this, that makes this forum worthwhile. Personally, I find that a strategically placed pair of socks can help. Try it, I'm sure that will make your shorts more appealing to her.
i own a few pairs of shorter running shorts, great for the spring and summer as i overhear easily. they're not exactly hotpants, so you're wife will just have to get over it.
she's probably worried you're going to be followed by a bunch of ladies in the park, benny hill style
Speaking as a lady runner, I would not choose any shorts that would necessitate a bikini wax.
Me too! That's why I wear Capris
Shorty-shorts make you run faster. Fact.
If you like 'em, then wear 'em.
I wear those, and wore shorter even when I had teenage daughters.
I've got a pair of those, although sadly not the pair in the rather fetching picture on the left! I like them and you should wear what you want. I'm sure that you'll learn to ignore the missus.