I’m “Old School” (not just old). Running was never a sport, it was training for a “real sport” like baseball. To run you wore whatever shoes you had, put on baggy sweatpants and a hooded sweatshirt if it was cold….cotton, of course that felt great wet! But I’m here to tell you that I’m now a convert. This will be the first of a set of quick product reviews highlighting why I need to not be “Old School”.
Brooks’ Utopia Soft Shell. Called “Be Warm X” or having “shelter” technology, this is one jacket that works. I received this jacket as a give and put it on right away. First of all it fits comfortably…not too snug, and has enough pockets of various sizes to carry the necessities AND access them quickly and easily while running.
It is also highly reflective, which is perfect for running in the darkness that accompanies the cold.
Believe it or not, the challenge I’m having is matching the right amount of layers with this jacket. Be Warm X is designed for under 40 F. They are not kidding. The first time I ran in this jacket, it was about 45 F and I was too warm although I only had one layer on underneath. Next time I ran with it, it was about 32 F and I work a Cold Gear shirt. Once again, too warm. The third time I ran, it was around 37 F and I wore a standard wicking shirt and felt just right…hmm…sort of rings a bell…
I also am a big fan of the built-in hand coverings. While not unique to this jacket, I never appreciated how valuable that covering could be as a second layer on cold runs or even as an initial layer prior to warming up on moderate temperature runs.
For me, Brooks has a real winner here and a jacket that I would buy again…especially if it goes on sale!
Note: I was not compensated nor encouraged to write this review and the opinions expressed are mine alone.
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