The BCG Compression Tee: My Ultimate Running Companion Under $20
Running used to be a budget-friendly hobby, but now, high-end running gear dominates the market. The BCG Compression Tee has been my trusted companion through every marathon training session. Available at Academy for just $18, it's a game-changer.
I joined the running world later than most, skipping track in high school and sports that demanded speed and cardio (though I marched in the band). My running journey began in the summer of 2011, post-freshman year, for the simple reason that it required minimal gear. My initial running attire consisted of Nike tennis shoes, shorts, and an old Under Armour compression tee. But now, the running scene has evolved, with brands offering tech-laden gear that can rival sports like tennis and golf in cost.
As a Reviews Editor, I'm all about testing the latest gear. I love trying new shorts and rotating running shoes. I get excited about Bandit's seasonal campaigns and dream of rocking Satisfy's Moth tech tee in casual settings. Running fashion has become a trend, with the r/runningfashion subreddit celebrating its fifth birthday. However, newcomers might confuse the available gear with the essential gear.
My first running kit, anchored by a compression tee, served me well until my first marathon in January 2020. That's when I discovered the BCG Compression Tee from Academy's in-house brand. It's been my go-to for every race since. This compression tee is a versatile workout buddy, perfect for 400-meter repeats, tempo runs, hill sprints, long weekend runs, and marathons. It fits like a second skin, wicking sweat and stretching effortlessly.
While running tops are fantastic, they can cause chafing on sweaty, windy days. As a big sweater, I prefer wearing old tees over my BCG Compression Tee for sweat absorption and as a handy screaming tool when in pain. Running gear may look cool in brand campaigns, but it feels silly on casual runs. According to News Editor Theo Kahler, it's acceptable to ditch the 'runner' look, and running is a chance to showcase personal style. I wear the BCG tee as an undershirt, layering with vintage band tees or sports team shirts for comfort and style.
Running has brought positivity into my life, and I'm thrilled about its growing popularity. I appreciate the emergence of over-engineered, hyper-specific gear from various brands, as it sparks interest. However, running doesn't require all the fancy stuff. I enjoy my collection of running gear, but my go-to top is still the BCG Compression Tee, keeping me comfortable and confident during my runs.
