The Storm Jacket, above, provides coverage in rain and wind. It also looks great for casual outings on the town.

SportHill athletic clothing features small details that runners appreciate: zippered pockets for safe keeping of keys or spare change, light weight material that is easy to keep clean, tailoring that allows unhindered movement.

Some long distance runners ask, why spend money on running apparel? It is OK to care about one's appearance and take advantage of advances in textiles and style with updated running gear. Companies that specialize in meeting the needs of consumers with an active outdoor lifestyle offer quality, reliability, and stylish protection against nature's challenges. SportHill has been offering attractive options to runners since the company's founding in 1985 by Jim Hill, a former University of Oregon track athlete and Virginia native. Other companies such as Nike, Asics, adidas, Moving Comfort, Brooks, Reebok, New Balance and InSport, too, present a wide range of choice in color, fit, and price.

Washington is a hard-working city of talented professionals and dedicated service providers. Casual, stylish clothing builds group identity for the running community. Figure skaters, gymnasts, baseball and tennis players all use top-notch apparel to entertain viewers, enhance performance and make the most of one's talent. Runners work hard to stay fit--clothing can reflect the important role sport plays in a balanced schedule of work and play.

Tennis and golf know how to invite participation in the sport--a well-dressed runner can also show that marathon training is fun and jogging 30 minutes is an activity accessible to everyone. Lure your fellow citizens to exercise those neglected calf muscles that roamed high school playing fields during teenage years. Attract attention to the sport with an appealing image.

Stylish Protection Against the Elements
The Infuzion Hat and Gloves are light-weight yet surprisingly warm!

SportHill offers a top-notch line for serious amateurs-it sponsors national class teams-and it has been a privilege to put their products to the test during the past six months. The "Storm Jacket" is a lightweight, breathable protector against wind and rain; after several day's use it remained odor- free and attractive, ready for another run. It's convenient for travel and available in colors suitable for blending in with commuters at the train station. For cold, rainy days the "Infuzion" hat and gloves provided amazing warmth with one thin layer of textile. The polyester/lycra blend avoids the sponge effect of traditional, bulkier hand and head coverings on the market. The "Endurance" short and short sleeve "Classic Tee" are great for use at the health club; they are comfortable yet avoid revealing too much flesh and provide a loose fit that doesn't cling to one's skin.

Runners are practical yet enjoy exploration. We use out-of-town marathons as an excuse to travel. Discover new possibilities with flair-go beyond cotton t-shirts and faded shorts in favor of clothing that can match London, Milan, Paris, and Tokyo for good taste in fashion. Seduce couch potatoes onto the trail to better health; fight those terrifying reports of a nation reduced to diabetes and triple-bypass heart surgery. Running is not a total solution, but participation is a step forward and might spur neighbors to try a few miles. Visit a local running shop and ask to see the latest apparel for better ideas on what to wear during work outs.

The Endurance Short offers a zippered back pocket for secure storage of keys, ID, spare change.

SportHill is available at local running stores, on the Internet at www.sporthill.com or via phone at (800) 622-8444.