Have I ever mentioned how much I LOVE running?!? The Chiclets (me, Nancy, Lisa and Sheryl) ran around Tucson this morning. I ran 15 or so miles! It was fun - what a great group of women. I'll miss Lisa when she moves in November. She'll be headed to Bend, Oregon, which was named one of the top 30 places to live in 'Outside' magazine this month. Lucky Lisa! Here she is in her 'biking attire' at Sabino Canyon. Lisa is a 'Tri-Girl'.

Thought I would do a running skirt review because I have so many! I started wearing running skirts in Tucson before very many people did, because they are great! It is really catching on now. I try to support individuals who are earning living with their own business, so I haven't tried any of the skirts from the 'big names' in running apparel. Here is my review:

1. Scout Performance - one of my favorites. Find it at http://www.activasports.com/

Pros: Tactel fabric is buttery soft. Shorts underneath are shorter than many skirts and they don't squeeze skin. The color is fabulous. Love the wide waistband, which is very comfortable - it comes down in front in a V, which is very flattering. I have a lot of Scout Performance clothing - it is all well made stuff.

Cons: No pocket and a little pricey (although, very worth it!). However, you can join their 'Diva Club' and save a little that way. Not very many colors to choose from.

2. Atalanta Athleticwear - decided to buy it since Catra Corbett, an ultrarunner, raves about them. Find them at http://www.skirtgoddess.com/

Pros: Two pockets, one on each side in the back, which are huge! The fabric is super comfortable. I have the 'commitment' (shown in the black), which has shorts underneath, which don't squeeze and don't ride up. They just came out with a skirt with the underwear attached which I haven't tried yet (this is my next skirt purchase). Very well made. Fabric wicks nicely.

Cons: I think they accent my hips a little, which I don't like, but otherwise, very nice skirt!

3. Skirtsports - my first running skirts (they practically pioneered them). Find them at http://www.skirtsports.com/

Pros: The fabric wicks like crazy - very light. It has a pocket on the side (the newer versions have a pocket in the back) to put gels, etc. The skirt that I have with the attached underwear has a flattering cut.

Cons: Pocket on the side can make me look heavier if I put something in it (which they have fixed by putting the pocket on the back). Fabric (speedsilk) is so light, that it tends to ride up in the back when I use a waist water bottle carrier. The skirt with the attached shorts is not as flattering as the other one and the shorts tend to squeeze my thighs a little. All this being said, I own 3 which I wear regularly.

4. Running skirts - find them at: http://www.runningskirts.com/

Pros: Tons of colors to choose from and fabric is very nice. Two pockets, one on each side. Nice, wide waistband, which is flattering.

Cons: Not as well made as some, but price is a little better, too. Pockets are on the side, which are not that flattering depending on what you put in them.

Okay, gals, there you have it! I love wearing running skirts.

Remember to treat yourself gently today and remind yourself of how beautiful you are.