The 14 Things Lauren Fleshman Can’t Live Without
The runner turned entrepreneur talks about her most essential gear
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Lauren Fleshman was a five-time NCAA track and field champion and 15-time all-American while at Stanford University. Nowadays, she and her husband, triathlete Jesse Thomas, run Picky Bars, one of our favorite energy bars here at Outside. She's also a mom and a coach.
To find out what gear Fleshman uses during her very busy daily routine, we called and asked. “Outside of a few core items, I’m not really into stuff. I loathe waste, clutter, and fast fashion,” Fleshman said. “When I decide to buy something, I am thoughtful about it.”
Wireless Headphones
The Jaybird X3 Wireless Sports Headphones are the best way for me to lock out the outside world and focus. It’s important for me to decide in advance if I’m going to be social, or productive, or introspective, and my headphones help me take control of that.
Music
Explosions in the Sky is a favorite playlist when I’m writing. Spotify radio stations based on Alt-J, Kaleo, Grateful Dead, or Brandi Carlile get an obscene amount of playtime as well.
Running Tank, Shorts
I love the Flyte tank and Summer Roga shorts by Oiselle. I like running gear that more or less disappears when it’s on, can be worn all day when you don’t feel like showering or changing, and looks good. I also like that my gear is from a “by women, for women” company, which is a breath of fresh air in the outdoor industry.
Socks
The Stance Speed of Light running socks are my favorite; preferably the tie dye color.
Sunglasses
My favorites sunglasses, the Roka Phantom, happen to be Outside’s pick for gear of the year, so that’s handy.
Sandals
I wear running shoes for as little time as absolutely necessary and then I’m straight into my Mephisto sandals, a favorite of mine since 2003. I’m only on my second pair in that many years.
Hat
My running hat of choice is generally of the trucker variety, but the rest of the day I’m wearing the Coal Waverly, which apparently looks very hip. But I like it because it’s the only hat that fits my huge head.
Sunscreen
I never leave home without Zelios sunscreen. It’s the only brand I’ve found with micro zinc that rubs in easily, is waterproof, and doesn't leave a film.
Hammock Tent
I’ve got a Quarter Dome Air Hammock tent from REI that is off-the-charts cool and makes an awesome kid fort and adult napping cave.