No Tricks, Just Treats: Our October Must Haves

These Teeki Northern Lights Pants ($66) are eco-friendly, fashionable, and completely different than anything you've seen on the shelves of other fitness stores — get ready to make a statement and wear these pants! I love them for yoga, dance class, running, grocery shopping, or just watching TV. The light fabric used from recycled plastic bottles is formfitting and comfortable, plus they stretch and feel light enough to keep me cool.

My pet peeve is heading out on a run without the pocket space to stash everything I need, but this Alternative Apparel Move Flex It Tank ($44) means I'll never run into that problem again. The stylish tank features zip-up pockets where I can comfortably keep everything from keys to an ID to my metro card — that way I never leave the house unprepared.

I have never — ever — been one to wear underwear when I work out, especially since almost all workout capris and leggings are made with a gusseted crotch.

When Sweaty Betty's No Show Pant ($18) arrived on my desk, I was dubious. Several workouts later, I am a convert. Both moisture-wicking and quick-drying, it has actually made my workouts more comfortable. And even under fitted leggings, there is absolutely no VPL.

Having a race on my calendar makes for motivation as the days shorten and it becomes a little easier for me to skip out on my runs. The Run 10, Feed 10 ($35 to $55) is a 10K race with the added motivation of raising money to feed the hungry. Run for yourself but also help others; now that's a win-win.

Sponsored by Women's Health Magazine, the race entrance fee goes to feeding 10 people. This October, there are upcoming races and fun runs in a bunch of cities across the US. But runners are encouraged to create a fun run in their own city — now that's empowering.

Armed with the CamelBak Eddy glass water bottle ($25), I'll bet that I've become the most well-hydrated person at my gym. It's so easy to sip from, I quickly find myself at the bottom of my bottle. Plus, since it's made of glass there's no worry about BPAs or chemicals.

I was introduced to Chikum, an athletic line based in Vancouver, British Columbia, at Wanderlust Whistler this Summer, and I fell hard for their Supratis Leggings ($64) from my first wear. Beyond their creative design and bright mesh paneling, I have been hard-pressed to find tights that are as light, breathable, or as fun to wear as this pair. I also appreciate their flattering high waistband that keeps me feeling cool and confident in just my sports bra during any supersweaty workout. The first time I rocked my pair during a SoulCycle class, my instructor stopped class to ask me where I found them.

I love this little Amphipod Micropack Running Pack ($14) that clips right onto your shorts or pants. It's not as bulky or heavy as a belt, and it rests on your body so comfortably with no irritation — you can hardly feel it. When I park my car for a run or just leave the house, I need to fit the essential items in my pack: keys, money, and chapstick. Plus, if you run 10Ks or half marathons, this also fits the gel packs and jelly beans to help you finish strong.

I don't have much of a sweet tooth, but when I'm looking to indulge, I want a clean treat that keeps portion control in check. From my first bite of Ginny Mini's Chocolate Chip Love ($6 for seven small bags), I knew I had met my dessert match. These crisp, chocolaty cookies are certified organic and GMO- and gluten-free, and they weigh in well under 200 calories per bag. I'm so satisfied after the cookies in one perfectly portioned bag; I'm not even tempted to open up a second helping. Well . . . not too tempted.

For the last few months I've been training for the Nike Women's Half Marathon. Running doesn't come easy to me, and if it were up to my physical therapist, he'd have me quit altogether. And while this race might be my last, I am determined to set a PR when I cross that finish line.

During this latest bout of training, I've suffered from both shin splints and hamstring tendonitis — injuries that can make running painful and lead to above average bouts of recovery time. Next to ice, one of the best forms of self-treatment I have found are my Skins Compression Tights ($150). I put these on after my long runs and instantly my legs feel better. I have also noticed that on nights I sleep in them, my recovery time between runs is always reduced. And since sizing is based on important factors like height and weight, pressure is delivered to the key areas of my leg, allowing for oxygen flow to increase and help those sore and fatigued muscles wake up again!

If you're set on those early morning runs, but you aren't a fan of the darkness that's slowly creeping in, increase your visibility to others with this Saucony Sonic Vizi Vest ($72, originally $95). I love that it's wind- and water-resistant and brightly colored, but the absolute best feature is that it has blinking LED piping in the front and back. It also has reflective fabric on the front and back. Talk about feeling safe!

Primal Pit Paste ($9) might not sound glamorous, but neither is the aluminum found in many antiperspirants. I am liking the lavender deodorant these days; the scent is not overwhelming, and I find that it keeps me from reeking on stressful days or when I wear synthetic-fabric tops. The simplicity of the recipe (baking powder, shea butter, coconut oil, arrowroot powder, and essential oils) also makes me feel comfortable giving this to my almost-teenage daughter when her hormones take a shift and something like this becomes necessary.

Fall workouts outside can be tricky. It's too hot for long sleeves but too cold to sport your tank top. Whether running or biking, I'm a huge fan of these Bontrager Thermal Arm Warmers ($35). The fabric is soft and durable, and it wicks sweat so I feel completely dry. My other favorite feature is the silicone lining around the inner elastic band on the upper arm. These stay put until I pull them off, without having to mess with them. They keep me warm for the first part of my workout, but they easily slip off when things start to heat up. If you're not a fan of plain-old black, increase your visibility to others by ordering red or white.