As a runner myself, I'll admit I'm completely obsessed with the gear. Whether it's the flashy short shorts, the reflective jacket (perfect for those late night runs) or the latest kicks, part of the reason I love running is to have a reason to wear the coolest new stuff. Okay, yeah I run because I enjoy it and also for the health benefits but I'm one of those runners whose closet has more running clothes than work clothes.
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Brook's "Green Silence"
Photo Rights: www.brooksrunning.com |
Part of going on my runs is simply to take in some fresh air and enjoy the quiet trails and the changing seasons. As someone who completely avoids the treadmill at all costs, I love finding a new route, one that passes by a quiet river or a wooded path where the deer are never far from the trail. Part of being a runner is enjoying the environment and also taking care of your surroundings. You wouldn't throw a plastic water bottle on the ground (plus, why are you not using a reusable water bottle?!) so why would you wear clothes with toxic dyes, colorants and adhesives?
Brooks offers the first "built for speed" biodegradable midsole running shoe. Composed of 75% recycled material and made with non-toxic dyes and colorants, the "Green Silence" shoe even requires less petroleum and energy to create.
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Newton Running "Distance" Line
Photo Rights: www. newtonrunning.com |
Perhaps you've seen the "barefoot" running shoes lately. While they may look like something out of a science fiction movie, there has been plenty of talk about the potential benefits of a barefoot running experience, which "barefoot" running shoes mimic. Several companies now offer their webbed creations made from renewable wool, scrap material and recycled plastic water bottles and recycled nylon.
Vibram Fivefingers,
Vivobarefoot, Kigo, and
Newton Running all offer minimalist barefoot styles for trail running, speed training and level to the ground options made with recycled laces, webbing and soles.
If you're a runner, you have to have a watch. While
Sprout watches aren't traditional running watches, the water resistant selections would work well for runners who think, "I just need to be back in an hour," and simply want to keep track of the time. Sprout watches are made with organic cotton, corn resin and cork and are supported by corporate philanthropy focused on advocating for clean water and working with the Trees for the Future center.
For the time being, eco-friendly watches for runners seem to be in short supply. There are plenty of solar powered watches made from recyclable materials but aren't ideal for an activity such as running.
Tweet @GreenChild1 and let me know if you are aware of any eco-friendly running watches. Where do you find your environmentally friendly gear?
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