This year, I tried running from road to trail using Workman's new running wear.
Written by Kazuya Toujyou
The annual Workman Check, which is well known on our website, has been holding running items this season, following last year, and hiking and mountain climbing items for the first time in two years. As this is the first part, we will start with a review of running and trail running gear.
The test period is approximately two months from April to June. The reviewer is Tojo, a website writer, trail runner, and hardcore workman user. From roads to trails to everyday life, we have been living a whole lot of workman life and thoroughly researching how it feels to use it.
It seems the items we reviewed last year will continue to be on sale this year, with the exception of a few, so please take a look if you are interested.
Tojo Kazuya
He grew up in Ibaraki Prefecture and worked mainly in swimming during his student days. He made his triathlon debut as a working adult. In his first year as a member of the company, he completed the first Japan Mountain Endurance Race (= Hasetsune). I am fascinated by the sense of accomplishment of mountain sports. In his 30s he moved to Saitama Prefecture and became independent. Mr. T guided Okumusashi to him and was fascinated by the training run and ultra marathon. He is currently active mainly in domestic trail races. He completed a series of long races from Shinetsu Five Mountains, Joshu Takeru, and KOUMI100. He also works with the NPO Koedo Oedo Trennic World and the NPO Sainokuni Ultra Project (SUP). They are also working hard to bring out the performance of the gear and raise awareness of ensuring the safety of trail running.
table of contents
table of contents
Shirt version
This time there are four models. I tried out the new and updated models.
When using it for running, we evaluated it to determine the stretchability and balance around the shoulder blades. First of all, this season, I get the impression that it has become more comfortable to wear through all the models. The reason is that the flat sheath (stitching on the gusset) has been improved to make it thinner and flatter than before. Last year's model was often used to rub against the thickness of the stitching, and it was not suitable for long runs such as full marathons. However, this time we found a model that doesn't have any problems running over 50km.
Evaluation of each model
MOVE ACTIVE AIR Long sleeve crew neck
Sweat absorbency◯ Quick drying◯ Breathable◎ Stretchy◯ Feel to the touch◯
The mesh on the back and sides is extremely breathable.
A hybrid model that uses a lot of mesh on the back and sides. The polyester fabric on the back makes you forget that it is breathable and long sleeves. The key point is that the mesh part doesn't really feel the coolness of contact, making it just right for running, so you won't get tired. The front is made of a mixed polyurethane and polyester fabric, so it is not expected to be sweat-absorbent and breathable, but it has a well-balanced finish for wearing from spring to autumn.
MOVE ACTIVE ICE Short sleeve middle neck
Sweat absorbency △ Quick-drying ◎ Breathable ◯ Stretchable △ Feel on the skin △
Light and thin throughout the front and back. And a cool touch. It is comfortable on the road, but is not recommended for use on trails.
This ICE model has a unique texture and a cool feel. On a trail run, the cool feeling of contact was too cool, causing me to get sweaty, so I don't recommend using it on trails. The thin fabric is so light that you can see through it, it is breathable and lightweight, making it the best place for road running. The raglan sleeves make it easy to swing your arms and have a beautiful silhouette, making them a piece that is typical of sportswear. This is a model you'd like to buy if you're aiming for a toned body.
Cool compression short sleeve middle neck
Sweat absorbency △ Quick-drying ◎ Breathable ◯ Stretchable △ Feel on the skin △
Although it is basically well done, the tension caused by compression is not a problem.
The difference from the previous model is that the stitching on the gusset is more flatter, which reduces interference with the skin and reduces stress. This effect was huge, and the old model felt uncomfortable when running 10km, but this model had no problems running 30km. Furthermore, the mesh on the armrests is located on the front, which has the effect of speeding up sweat removal. The unfortunate thing is that the tightness around the shoulders is just like the old model, and it's just one step away from running gear.
Cool Reflective Frank Short Sleeve T-shirt
Sweat absorbency◎ Quick drying ◯ Breathable ◯ Stretch ◎ Feel on the skin
Its natural comfort and quick drying properties can be used all-around. Reflection on the back and armpits is also great
An all-purpose shirt that can be used from trails to roads. It is characterized by its soft texture and stretchy, making it easy to move around in. It has a normal impression of quick-drying and breathability, but thanks to its sweat absorption and excellent distancing feel, it is a piece that is finished with an excellent balance of comfort even when wet.
This guy naturally chose when I was thinking about running over 50km. It's amazing that the cheapest of the four, but the stress-free shirt I've worn for the longest time was 580 yen. There are many reflectors in front and back, and I found a great companion who can run from morning to night.
Socks
We tested two types of five-finger socks (ankle model) for running, from road to trail. I carefully checked to see if it could be used compared to the high-performance socks I tried last fall. A common feature is the breathable summer model with ventilation mesh on the instep. It can be said that the soles of the feet do not have any particular functionality such as anti-slip properties.
Evaluation of each model
FOOT ARMOUR MESH 3PAIRS
Sweat absorbency △ Quick drying △ Breathability ◎ Holdability △ Durability ◎
Perhaps because it's a loose, one-size-fits-all size, I'm worried about the gaps in the tough run.
A pair of shoes that sells durable socks that are highly abrasion-resistant. Quality is sufficient for use on city runs of 20 to 30km. What caught my eye was that it was spacious and available in only one size fits all. When the fabric stretches over a long period of time, it feels like it will overlap inside the shoes. In the event of rain, if the excess fabric gets wet, the excess fabric can cause problems. If you choose the usage environment for 499 yen for three pairs, you'll be satisfied with the product.
16355 Action Save Short Type 2PAIRS
Sweat absorbency◯ Quick drying△ Breathability◎ Holdability◎ Durability◯
The hold strength around the ankles and heels is strong, but that's perfect for running.
The arch support design helps reduce fatigue. The hold strength was strong from the tips of the five fingers to the ankles, so it didn't get in the way inside the shoes. There was little concern about using the trail. It has a moderate thickness and cushioning, making it a great option for beginners to train runners. Fabrics containing cotton are comfortable to wear, but they don't dry quickly, so it's best to avoid using them in water areas or in the event of rain. These socks are tested for a long period of time and are durable and have no issues with great value for money. (As of July 4, 2019, it is not available on the online store)
Running pants
Two new models. We conducted a rigorous evaluation of the comfort of walking. The two things in common are 1) a semi-short type with a crotch of about 25cm, and 2) pockets on both sides that are convenient for street-running.
Evaluation of each model
1182 MOVE ACTIVE Shorts
Sweat absorbency △ Quick drying ◯ Breathability △ Easy to run ◎ Comfort ◯
The natural silhouette makes it suitable for wear regardless of person or situation.
These 100% polyester shorts are breathable and sweat-absorbent, but they are soft. I was worried about using it in the middle of summer, but the wide opening of the thighs made me feel unconcerned about the breathability. Moreover, although the opening is semi-short, it is designed to prevent stress from walking. Even when I sweated on the trail, there was little unpleasant feeling to the fabric clinging to my thighs. Even after a long 50km run, it was relatively easy to use and there were no problems such as rubbing against the skin. There is a zippered pocket on the back for storing small items. These pants are all perfect. (As of July 4, 2019, it is not available on the online store)
Mapping mesh shorts
Sweat-absorbent ◯ Quick-drying ◯ Breathable ◎ Easy to run △ Comfort ◎
If you're going to wear it a little tight, this is it. There is little fluffiness and is breathable and comfortable.
Even 100% polyester shorts are made of mesh fabric, making them highly breathable. The thighs were narrow, so I was worried about how to move around, but it was stretchy and less stressful. It is slim, so it can be used even if it's just one size larger when running. The weakness is the elastic part in the waist, so it's not a problem to run about 20km, but it's not suitable for long-distance running and it rubs against the skin, which is a shame. The stylish design is sporty and is a piece that you'll want to use when jogging.
MOVE ACTIVE Full Leggings
Sweat-absorbent ◯ Quick-drying ◎ Breathable ◎ Easy to run ◯ Comfortable ◎
Continuing from last year, this is a super-optimized item for running compression tights. As an evolved store since last year, the mesh fabric has been created on the sides, making it even more breathable. It's becoming even more comfortable even for midsummer runs. As fast as ever, it dries quickly, so you can wear it without feeling uncomfortable even with full leggings. The molding, which is carefully cut, has room in the crotch, making it an item that is easy to use on trail running without crotching the legs. Reflective materials are placed in three locations, so you can rest assured even when running at night. There is a zip pocket on the hips, so if you have a light jog, you can go out with keys and coins, making it the same easy to use and at this price.
Gloves
The new gloves are finally here. We checked whether it is a gloves that can be used as a trailing gear. Summer design made from a cool contact material.
Cool-like cut gloves
Sweat absorbency◯ Quick drying◎ Breathable◯ Grip power◎ Durability◯
Gloves that are bothersome to wear and rubbing are helpful if they have inexpensive items.
Workman, a wide variety of gloves, has made it a perfect match for trellan gloves. The back of the hand is quick-drying and breathable, so it was easy to use in rainy weather. The towel-like material on the thumb area is conveniently made to wipe off sweat. The palm part has a thin cushion and is firmly anti-slip, so you can feel the good response. This is a masterpiece that will surprise you with its high level of perfection and low price.
summary
Workman's serious sports gear development has recently been featured in the media. Many of the gears we tested this time are new models, and I think they will exceed the expectations of users. There is no doubt that it has good cost performance, but I have a feeling that it will change the way you choose, not because it's cheap, but because it's good quality. It seems that we will continue to be able to keep an eye on Workman's sports gear in the future.
Workman product information and store information
We also recommend this article about Workman.
- Is Workman the best value for money even when running? A trail runner tried it out from the beginning [2018 Spring/Summer Model]
- Workman has the best value for money and walks around Okuchichibu, where the autumn leaves are in full bloom [2017 Autumn/Winter Model]
- A serious mountain lover has tried out the clothing that works out at Workman, which costs less than 10,000 yen in whole body [2017 Spring/Summer Model]
- We tried out how far we can go with Workman, who is rumored to be the best value for money [2016 Fall/Winter Model]
