Ryka Fitness Skirt : Hot to Trot

When I wear the Ryka Fitness Skirt to go running, I run twice as far as usual (which, I admit, is still not very far) because I love sporting the combination of stylish form and serious function.

What makes the Fitness Skirt so genius is that it integrates shorts under the skirt. The interior shorts are clingy but not tourniquet-tight; the streamlined overskirt adds a fashionable, feminine touch without compromising performance. So I get the support and aerodynamic profile of spandex shorts without having my every bulge on display.

In fact, not only does the Ryka Fitness Skirt hide bulges, it achieves what I thought nothing made of tight, stretchy fabric could ever achieve: it flatters. The contoured waistband flattens my stomach, minimizing the jiggle factor, while long arcs of contrast stitching - one in front, one in back - de-emphasize the width of my hips and give me a shapely silhouette.

None of those things would matter, though, if the skirt weren't comfortable. Luckily, it is. The soft fabric doesn't chafe my sensitive skin, and the deep side slits give my legs complete freedom of movement.

The Fitness Skirt comes in sizes XS to XL and runs a little on the small side. You might want to consider ordering up from your usual size. Available in four colors: white, black, seaspray (light blue) and coral.

Bottom LIne:This skirt makes me feel like an serious athlete. It keeps me cool, supported and looking good. I go running just so I can wear it.--S.G. (July 2008)

Price: $62 (at zappos.com)

Manufacturer's Site: www.ryka.com