12 Days of Dappered #12 – A Better Workout

It’ll be here before you know it. Our annual 12 days of Dappered gift guide covers one item/idea each week-day for the next dozen days. All will be reasonably affordable, and at the same time they should (hopefully) appeal to someone who might drop on by this corner of the internet. So if you’re looking for ideas on what to give a decently dressed (yet budget conscious) fellow, or, if you’ve got friends/family struggling for ideas on what to get someone (you) who’s hard to buy for, check back in as this year’s 12 Days churns on. You’ll also find the growing archive here.

The gym isn’t a fashion runway. That said, you look good, you play good. And there are days when you need a little extra boost to get going. A boost that can’t be delivered by mis-matched gym socks, a raggedy old tee-shirt, and shorts that are starting to lose their elastic in the waist.

If you’re on this site, you care about how you present yourself. If you care about how you present yourself, chances are you take decent shape of your body. And having the right gear can make a real difference. These picks should help the exercise-nut hit the gym or outdoors without looking like they got all their gear at the thrift store.

 

The Better Gym Bag: Blue Claw – $98.00 | Beckel Canvas – $65.00

If the recipient has been carrying around the same nasty, smelly gym bag for the last 10 years, it might be time for an upgrade. Look for something in a washable, natural fabric if possible. Bonus points for both of the above options since they’re made in the USA.

 

iTunes Gift Card

A new song… or seven… can make a world of difference on a day when you’re just not that into it. The power of music is real. Just ask the Rock.

 

Stuff to get through the winter: Tights + Mittens+ a light

It’s cold. It’s dark. There might be wolves after you. Winter is a rough time for those who like to exercise outdoors. But with the right gear (and some common sense), most can still get their workout in even in bitter cold conditions. Compression tights help you move much faster than bulky running pants, mittens keep your fingers warmer than gloves, and the eGear guardian is a long lasting, can’t-miss-it clip on light that will help you be seen. Might even scare off the wolves.

 

Stuff to get through the early A.M.: MRM “Driven” Pre Workout Boost – $16.28

Chugging a Monster energy drink at the gym would leave many of us retching in the corner. This stuff on the other hand, is as close to all natural as it gets, and it really seems to work. One scoop before you head out the door, and you’re quickly awake without any nasty jitters or intestinal discomfort.

 

Just about anything from Target’s C9 Champion Line

Best bang for the buck workout gear out there. It’s not even close. Under Armour, Nike, etc… can get expensive, FAST. But the C9 stuff is super affordable and holds up well. Especially their sleeveless wicking tees.

 

The Favorite Team Warmup

Most fan gear is made to sit and rot, not get out and move. Get inspired by the freak athletes on your favorite team by wearing some logo gear that’s actually good to work out in, (or, gear that’ll get you out the door and on your way to the gym.) You’ll want something fitted, wicking, and made to take a beating. Eastbay often has a good selection of the popular U.S. sports (pro & college). For the futbol fan, there’s always worldsoccershop.

Your turn fitness enthusiasts. What’s on your list this year for the gym? What’s in your rotation for go-to gear when it comes to workout out? Leave it all below.