Falling leaves, pumpkin-spice everything, and the unseasonable appearance of Christmas decorations means that Halloween is approaching. While you may be tempted to stay home and eat your way through mini candy bars, we recommend getting out for a Halloween-themed race to brighten up your holiday.
Combining speed and style, you’ll want to wear something that wows a crowd but also allows you to perform at your highest level.
But, if you plan on laying down a spooky speedy time, you’ll want to make sure that your costume is both *on fleek* and will allow you to fly by.
So, to help you out, we browsed Spirit Halloween for the ultimate running costumes, from spooky to silly—including crowd favorites from IT, Aladdin, and Stranger Things.
After making our picks, two of the world’s most accomplished costumed runners weighed in: Aly Dixon, who recently ran the fastest female half marathon time while wearing a superhero costume, and Michael Wardian, who held the fastest male marathon time in an Elvis costume (2:38:04) until it was broken at the 2018 Berlin Marathon. Both are not just amazing runners out of costume but also experts on the dos and don’ts when it comes to capes, bodysuits, and masks. Read on for their scary-good advice. (For even more words of wisdom, read these 7 Keys to Racing in a Costume.)
Watch: Draw your lightsaber and don these race-worthy Star Wars costumes.
Pennywise
Pennywise the Clown Costume
IT Chapter Two hit theaters in September, bringing back the bloodthirsty clown we’ve tried to forgot for the past two years. While the sight of Pennywise away from his Derry, Maine, home will likely cause some unease among fellow racers, we cannot promise that you will scare your way to first place. For that, you’re gonna need some solid training and some good shoes.
Should you race as Stephen King’s clown of nightmares? Both Wardian and Dixon agree that this is not an outfit for PRs. “Running Clowns are scary and cool,” Wardian said. “But it looks pretty hot, and masks can cause vision issues.” Dixon agreed adding, “the material doesn’t look too breathable so you might finish a very sweaty mess.” She also mentions that should you forgo the mask for face paint even though you may end up looking like a melting clown.
Princess Jasmine
Another return to the big screen was Aladdin—this time as a live-action film. Whatever your take is on the recent epidemic of remakes, audiences were thrilled to see that they could be taken on a magic carpet ride one more time. Now, we all know the genie would be the best costume, but a Blue Man Group skin treatment Although riding a magic carpet is likely against race rules, running in a halloween race truly is a whole new world.
Should you race as the high flying princess? Dixon is excited about this one, “baggy trousers, but not too baggy, won’t hinder range of movement in running stride and the cropped top will keep you cool.” Wardian pointed out that the breathability is a big plus, but to make sure that the headpiece is pinned in tight.
Joker
The Joker Suit — Batman
The Joker is back, and bigger than ever. The latest anti-hero’s film starring Joaquin Phoenix foll0ws the transition from failed stand-up comedian into Batman’s infamous foe. While there are many Jokers to pick from throughout the years, you’ll surely impress with the latest in the franchise’s history.
Should you race as Batman’s antithesis? Dixon and Wardian’s main concern is that the suit could be hot and tight. We suggest sizing up and wearing it to a night race or when it is cool enough to wear tights and a long sleeve. This will give you enough room to breathe and be comfortable enough to hopefully not sweat off the Joker’s signature smile.
Eleven
Eleven Geometric Romper — Stranger Things
Stranger Things was back this year offering a mix of 1980s nostalgia with scary thriller that fans obsessed over once again. There are so many iconic characters from this show, but we have to go with our super-powered Eleven to push through the crowds on tour way to the finish line.
Should you race as this Eggo-loving tween? Absolutely, said Dixon. The romper is similar to running in shorts and a T-shirt, which is breathable and allows for great mobility. Wardian, a Stranger Things fan, heartily agreed.
Pikachu
Pikachu may be best known as Ash’s electric side kick, but he has recently taken on the role of detective in his new movie. Whether you know Pikachu from the ongoing Pokemon GO fad, or the cards from your childhood, he’s a classic character that kids and adults will love alike.
Should you race as the crime solving rodent? This has full body fabric contact, so Wardian suggested breaking out the chafe creme before toeing the line. While the outfit may be on the warm side, it is basically like running in a giant onsie-sweatshirt. Dixon found issue mostly with the hood, which could easily fall off when running.
Harley Quinn
Another movie exploring the madness behind the mask—or ponytails. Harley Quinn has her own flick coming out in 2020, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get ahead of the trend, and your competition. If you are feeling adventurous (and the race allows it) complete the outfit with Harley’s signature set of roller skates.
Should you race as a member of the Suicide Squad? “Two words,” said Dixon. “Sequin Shorts.” While we agree, sequins could get uncomfortable, a solution would be wearing them over leggings instead of tights to give you a bit of extra protection. Wardian was more concerned with the jacket, which could be hot—there is however, the choice to run in just the T-shirt. If you are nervous about the wig, you could also use spray-in hair paint.
Daddy Shark
Doo doo doo doo doo doo run as daddy shark, and chase down the competition. The children’s song that wound up as a viral sensation may be annoying, but the it’s a great family costume—especially for running. If you choose to wear this costume however, be ready to hear Baby Shark throughout the route.
Should you race as America’s toothiest dad? Dixon and Wardian agree that sweatshirts are welcome on a chilly October run, this one just happens to be a shark. Their one suggestion? Ditch the jeans for something more comfortable and stretchy.
Mermaid
Mermaids have infiltrated our food, fashion and movies in the past few years. Whether you enjoy chowing down on the pastel mermaid toast, or always wanted to be part of the aquatic world, this fishy ‘fit is ready to help you scale back your PR.
Should you race this creature of lore? “This looks fast!” said Wardian, “Not to mention breathable.” Not only do you have your arms exposed, but the bottoms are leggings—something you run in anyways! “I am just worried about the wig being hot,” said Dixon. Should the wig be an issue, there are plenty of mermaid hairstyles that are more race-friendly.
Giraffe
Sometimes you gotta stick your neck out there to win the race—now you have an advantage. While the suit itself may be a bit cumbersome, this gentle giant could help you edge out your competition with a stretch of the neck.
Should you race as this long leaf eater? If you’re looking to run fast, maybe not so much. “Don’t be expecting to set any PRs” said Wardian. But not to be discouraged, there was recently the trend of running (and doing other activities) in inflatable T-rex costumes. If you are looking for a challenge, and a statement maker, this is it.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
