All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
I struggled to findrunning gearthat worked for my larger body.
FreshSplash / Getty Images
The tights I needed for the activities that I engaged in5Ks, half marathons, andmarathonsdidnt yet exist.
Or more accurately, they didnt exist forme.
And the ones I did?
I chose to wear a pair of mens tights to the 2012 Steamtown Marathon in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
They were beautiful, sleek, and smooth against my skin.
I felt ready to take on the race, and happy that I looked so good doing so.
Unfortunately, the waistband started moving south soon after I started running.
It was a mess.
I ended up PRing in that marathon, so maybe that was the missing piece?
Seriously, though, while the PR was great, the clothing experience as a whole was not.
Its isolating and demoralizing not to have access to the clothing that you need.
They lacked the benefits of the more technical apparel I needed.
But I also wanted the same kinds of cute stuff in colors and prints that everybody else was wearing.
Today, its a somewhat different situation.
That means we now have more options for functional, sports-oriented clothing that makes us feel good wearing them.
See more from SELFs Future of Fitness package here.
Lululemon Swift Speed Tight
Lululemon
These tights stay updid you hear that?!
They stay up while you are running!
This makes them a must-have for me when Im logging my miles.
Available in sizes up to 20.
This bra features padded straps and a hook-and-eye closure for a comfortable fit.
Available in sizes up to 42-DDD.
And I prefer socks that have some character too.
Darn Tough Vermont offers boththese micro-crews are an extraordinarily comfortable and high-performance merino wool sock with a little whimsy!
Theyre also cushioned on the underfoot and heel, and wick moisture away.
Available in sizes up to large (womens shoe size 10-11.5).
Plus, the color and print availability of these tights is also on par with the brands straight-size offerings.
Available in sizes up to 3X.
This shirt here does it all.
Bean Trail Model Rain Jacket
L.L.
Its often wet in Vermont where I live, so I wear this lightweight jacket often.
One of the most important features of this rain shell is that itsnotslim-fit.
So many rain jackets are, which limits movement and comfort.
This one fits around the midsection and chest, while providing enough room without feeling bulky.
Regardless of which style you choose, the great fitand full-size pocketsare standard.
Available in sizes up to 7X.
Theyre kind of perfect.
Available in sizes up to 4X.
Its easy to get in and out ofand its cute!
Available in sizes that fit up to a 55-inch bust or I-cup.
They also feel like butter and are completely supportive in all ways, shapes, and forms.
It keeps your boobs where they should be, Brathwaite says.
It doesnt feel like a straight jacket, but it does what a straight jacket ought to.
Available in sizes up to 50-H.
