One can EVER be sure of the weather ... (Trust me... we know after last weekend) But it pays to be ready for anything.  For now it looks like it will be cloudy with a slight chance of sprinkles.  High in the low 60's ...NOT bad at all.  Don't let the cool morning or chance of a shower fool you into over-dressing or you'll be roasting and uncomfortable by mid-race.

An old "Runner's Rule" says to dress as if it's 20 degrees warmer than the actual temperature. Therefore when planning your outfit, plan to feel like its 65-75 degrees outside which, for many people, means shorts/skirts or capris and either a singlet or short-sleeves. I would also add arm warmers (either official ones or hand-crafted ones made by cutting off the toes in a tube sock). They keep your arms and hands warm (but your armpits cool!) and can be easily scrunched down to wristbands or thrown away when you get too warm. You can easily stuff them into the waistband of your shorts or tuck them into your water belt. A long sleeve light shirt under a wicking tee or singlet will also work.  You can always pull up or down the sleeves as needed. 

Of course, you're going to be cold waiting for the start (especially if you are running the half marathon) and don't want to waste energy shivering, so plan on wearing an old pair of sweats that you can toss off right before the start (items are then collected and donated to charity). We like to use a large trash bag (cut out the middle seam for your head). If you have fans that will be cheering you on, you can always toss your warmer outer layers to them when you see them - or have them bring along a long-sleeve tee for you to put on mid-race if you are too cold.

Here are a few of our other Race Day Essentials:

Sports Shield/BodyGlide: Whatever the conditions, Sports Shield or Body Glide can prevent chaffing and blisters. Use it anywhere that you anticipate irritation... it can save you some serious pain. Trust us.

Nip Guards: Men can avoid discomfort and embarrassing race photos by using these comfortable, specially-designed adhesive pads on their chest. The bonus over regular band-aids is that they also come off painlessly after the run.

Lock Laces: During a marathon, your feet can swell up to one full size. These triathlete-loved elastic shoelaces stretch with your feet to keep them from getting squished.

Compression Sleeves/Socks: There is a reason why many Olympic athletes from sprinters to marathoners wear compression - it increases oxygen flow to your muscles which acts like super-fuel for your muscles. They also provide shin and calf support which is really nice around Mile 19. Go with the sleeves if you are particular about your sock. (I LOVE my Balega socks so I wear the sleeves). You can get the CEP Compression sleeves and socks at our Expo Booth as well as comfy Balegas!

SuperFeet: To keep your feet in alignment and well cushioned to take on the mileage ... a supportive foot bed could do the trick.   

Nutrition: Carry whatever nutrition you prefer - Gu, Sport Beans, UCAN, Honeystinger chews ... This way you can time your nutrition to your needs, not the race's nutrition stops which can be easy to miss or worse, will give you the flavor you despise! See the next item for the best way to carry said nutrition.

Race/Nutrition Belt: A race number belt can serve several purposes. Save your favorite running top by affixing your number without safety pins and keep your number visible no matter how many layers you have on (or take off) which is important because your official race photo is tagged with your bib number for quick look-up. Additionally, you can use a belt to carry your nutrition and hydration comfortably.

Sweaty Bands/Ponya Bands: Nothing can sting more than salty sweat dripping into your eyes. Prevent this with the most popular headbands in the country. Pick a fun design and your friends can find you in the crowd more easily.  

Addaday Rollers/Balls - This nifty new Ultra Roller features a gear design that allows for optimal blood flow around muscle groups.  The gears knead like the human elbow.  the multi-gear design allows for easy navigation around the human body, especially waist, back and hip area. Come to the booth and check it out!