Fall RUNS: new Gear v experiences

WITH THE CHANGE OF SEASON AND WEATHER runners may begin to think about the need to switch to wearing apparel and shoes appropriate for the cooler temperatures and increased precipitation. The sport fashion aspect of season change may appeal especially to runners who will see and be seen by the multitude of others filling the crowded park paths, roadways, and trails of the largest cities. The updating of technical and performance gear can add to the excitement of autumn. For others who run most of the time in darkness with the coming of Fall, through quiet neighborhood streets or serene country lanes, the semi-annual purchase of trending ‘wearables’ may be a waste of resources this time of year.
 
For example, my sturdy, water resistant, sale-priced, Mickey Mouse shell bought several decades ago (it rained for most of the days of our children’s first Disney World visit) still functions. It’s a bit cooler to run in than my warmest, expensive-reflective winter wear, it can be layered over a long sleeve top, and is perfect for a wet and cool but not bitter cold day. Crowds have left the area where I live and run, and other runners mostly have their heads down and Buffs up as we pass on rainy days. I don’t really need a more stylish jacket.  Should I spend my money on a fall getaway instead? It would be wonderful to RUN AND EXPERIENCE the fall colors, stay in a cozy lodge, or perhaps enjoy delicious seasonal meals cooked by others.
 
Regardless of running circumstance, a question being asked more and more these days is, “which is better, buying new stuff or novel experiences?”  I’m bombarded by email and banner ads with suggestions for the latest gear, so there’s no issue with shopping for stuff. What about experiences? An article in Sunset.com, a publication that promotes better living in the Western states, titled “Fall Travel Experiences” has wonderful thoughts on how to better enjoy the season in that part of North America. If you live there, you’ll especially benefit from the descriptions of activities and get-aways. If you live elsewhere and don’t plan to travel to the West, there are general themes running through the article regarding how to enjoy the Fall season anywhere.
 
Big city dwellers may find even regional trips to be financially out of reach, as they could require the expense of car rental and overnight lodging. However, urban runners can see their city change with the calendar in terms of decoration, types of events, sports, exhibitions, and restaurant offerings. A change of seasonal venue could be accomplished by running in and exploring a neighborhood not previously visited, or enjoying a autumn church festival that features a 5K race.
 
See below the EarnedRuns interpretation of the Sunset.com list of suggested Fall Experiences in the West that could be sought out and enjoyed in many areas of the Northern Hemisphere, some nearly anywhere, by runners and walkers.
 
RUNNING + SPECIAL EXPERIENCE = FALL GETAWAY
Camping, picnic
Weather watching: storms, waves
Dark sky gazing: stars, Aurora borealis
Cozy fireplace: lodge, restaurant
Hiking and rock climbing: geological formation, spectacular views
Flora viewing: wild flowers, fall foliage colors
Mushroom hunting
Large bird migration watching
Fruits of the vine: vineyards and wineries, apple orchards and cider distilleries
Pumpkin patches, corn mazes
 
A run or walk could be arranged near the venue that you choose for one or more of these autumn experiences. Rather than following the same-old, same-old ‘home’ course each weekend, locate and plan special ‘away’ routes that might provide a special, even beautiful new view.
 
RUN HAPPY!
 
http://www.sunset.com/travel/fall-travel-experiences