Ambassadors check out Workman's new fall/winter collection! [6] Finding the best layering for trail running
Written by Kazuya Toujyou
Workmanwear is updated with new features every season
The catalogue also features many shots of running scenes, which makes me excited. Even after the tax increase, the cost performance is excellent and there is no problem using them for training, but this time I put the autumn/winter model to the test from a runner's perspective, including whether they are good enough to use in races
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Workman trail running wear review
1275 MOVE FLASH Block Fleece High Neck (Running Recommended Rating: ★★★★☆) 980 yen
Heat retention and moisture control ◯ Sweat absorption and quick drying ◯ Elasticity ◎ Soft to the touch ◎ Breathability ◯ Water repellency × Wind resistance ×
Manufacturer Points
- The block fleece lining provides excellent heat retention
- Reflective print on both shoulders
This base layer lets you experience the benefits of block fleece at a low price. I still love the Workman block fleece from three seasons ago
In comparison, it seems to be more resistant to the cold. For example, the mesh material under the armpits is gone. Also, the blocks are larger, so there is more contact with the skin
The block fleece lining has been changed from the previous model (left) to a larger block in the new model (right). While the warmth has improved, breathability is a concern, but sweat return was not a major concern
At 270g (compared to the previous block fleece model at 230g), it's a little heavy for trail running. It offers better mobility than the looser, older model, and is easy to layer. The subtle improvement in flat stitching eliminates the worry of chafing, making it more comfortable to wear. The thick fabric's warmth is best utilized in temperatures below 8°C, making it ideal for winter trails. While its sweat absorption and quick-drying properties are average, it was perfectly usable for a city run at 13°C. It's truly a useful and highly recommended piece of clothing
It's easy to move your arms in and feels great against your skin, so you'll want to wear it forever
Although it's not an all-workwear item, wearing dry clothing underneath reduced sweat return and made it more comfortable. From here, I'll talk about my expectations as an ambassador... Since I want to be able to use it in a wide range of seasons, it would be the perfect base layer if there was a lineup of zipper models and block sizes. For trail running, if I decided to run fully open with a high-neck closed type, there were times when the heat wasn't dissipated in time. Also, if the reflective tape was on the lower part of the body, it wouldn't get scraped off by a backpack or be hidden. The MOVE FLASH is a piece of clothing that I have high hopes for in the future
11583 Rising Trail Tights (Outdoor Recommended Rating ★★☆☆☆) 980 yen
Heat retention and moisture control ◯ Sweat absorption and quick drying △ Elasticity △ Soft to the touch ◯ Breathability △ Water repellency × Wind resistance ×
Manufacturer Points
- The peach brushed fleece lining provides excellent heat retention
- Supports reducing muscle tension
One of the problems with winter trail running is layering pants. Tights, in particular, are inconvenient to put on and take off, making it difficult to regulate body temperature. That's why many people choose leg covers these days. However, if it's really cold, I'd still choose tights. I personally use Finetrack tights in races, but I once ripped one during practice. Since then, I've only used products with good value for money for practice. While they can't compete with high-spec products from outdoor manufacturers in terms of functionality, I wonder if they'll allow me to enjoy winter trail running casually
The peach-brushed lining is a little too hot for running, and the elastic waistband is wide and thick, restricting movement
The fleece is made of peach-brushed fleece. It's a warm material often used in Workman's winter models. Unfortunately, however, it's not particularly suitable for trail running. First, it's too warm (1). Its inability to handle the temperature fluctuations in the mountains is a drawback. It's fine as long as the weather stays below 10°C and the sun isn't shining. Second, the brushed fleece and compression make it feel tight and uncomfortable against the skin (2). It also tends to get stuffy (3). The elastic waistband is also wide (4). Furthermore, the peach-brushed fleece dries slowly when wet (5). In this case, even in cold weather, I'd choose the MOVE ACTIVE leggings from the spring/summer model
Oops, this puts my cost-effective Workman layering plan to pieces in jeopardy (tears). Yeah, that's right, I'll try wearing them inside out. And lo and behold, I've overcome weaknesses (1), (2), and (3). Truly a secret technique (lol). This provides standard ease of movement, and is warmer and easier to run in than the spring/summer model. However, when I combined it with a dry layer like Finetrack Skin Mesh, there was no improvement in the sweat absorption and quick-drying properties. This secret technique isn't the correct way to use it, but a tool is only valuable if you use it to the fullest. If you're interested, give it a try
2092 MOVE ACTIVE WIND Hoodie (Outdoor Recommended Rating ★★★☆☆) 980 yen
Heat retention and moisture control ◯ Sweat absorption and quick drying ◯ Elasticity × Soft to the touch ◯ Breathability ◯ Water repellency × Wind resistance ◎
Manufacturer Points
- Lightweight yet high-density fabric that blocks cold air
- A zipper pocket on the left chest that is convenient for cards and coins
This summer/autumn model was chosen because we are particular about layering for winter trail running
By choosing the MOVE FLASH as my base layer, I was struggling with finding a suitable mid-shell. To be honest, the warmth of typical autumn/winter models is overkill. Choosing compact and lightweight gear is key when running on winter trails, and this one weighs just 155g. It's plenty light. The feel is soft by general standards, and although it's not stretchy, the silhouette makes it easy to swing your arms, which is excellent. I didn't feel any stress even when wearing it for long periods of time
The front of the MOVE ACTIVE WIND hoodie. A garment with a great design and size
The high-density fabric has just the right amount of breathability, making it wind-resistant and moisture-regulating. It's the perfect match for a base layer. I was very satisfied with the serious layering I was able to achieve with Workman
The only thing I was concerned about was the pockets. (1) The chest pocket is a little small. It won't fit a large smartphone like today's. (2) I wish the pockets on both sides had zippers. Preferably a pocketable model
The iPhone 7 fits perfectly, but although larger smartphones can fit, they don't fit very well
Workman products will not be restocked once they are out of stock. This test item was purchased in December, but you'll be lucky if it's still in stock at the store. However, if you're willing to sacrifice a little on running comfort, Workman's highly water-repellent mountain parka is a good alternative
summary
Workmanwear has improved in a short period of time and there are plenty of exciting features to look forward to. It's definitely something to keep an eye on in the future. What impressed me the most was the improvement in sewing techniques. I felt that the improvement in comfort was related to the finer details. It's still not something I'd actively use in races, but it's definitely moved beyond the level of last year. We'll be looking at outerwear ciel in the running series from now on, so stay tuned!
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Ambassador checks out Workman's new fall/winter collection! [4] A review of winter pants suitable for mountain climbing