RUNNING WITH A TENUGUI

Lightweight, quick-drying, and compact. A Japanese tenugui makes a great running companion, too. Wipe away sweat, wrap it around your neck, or use it to bundle up your belongings. Just one towel can come in handy in so many ways. Here are a few ways to use a tenugui to make your runs more comfortable and enjoyable.

1. Stretch with a Tenugui 

Stretching before a run is essential for preventing injury and maintaining proper running form. A tenugui can help with your warm-up, too.

Hold one end of the towel in each hand and use it to stretch your arms, shoulders, and back, reaching areas that can be difficult to target on your own. This allows for a gentle stretch without putting too much strain on your body. Try it before your run or as part of your cool-down afterward.

2. Wear It as a Neck Scarf

Wrap a tenugui around your neck before you set off. It’s there whenever you need to wipe away sweat.Wet it at a park or water station and wrap it around your neck again to stay cool as the water evaporates. Pair a patterned tenugui with simple running clothes to add a stylish touch to your outfit.

3. Use It for Sun Protection 

When wearing a cap, fold a tenugui in half and tuck it underneath your cap. Let it drape down over your neck to help shield it from the summer sun. Thin and lightweight, a tenugui allows air to flow while helping protect your neck from the sun, making it a great choice for running in hot weather.

4. Wear It as a Sweatband

If you have long hair or are bothered by sweat on your forehead, try tying a tenugui around your head like a bandana. It keeps your hair neatly in place and helps keep sweat out of your eyes, so you can focus on your run.

5. Quick to Wash, Quick to Dry

One of the lovely things about tenuguis is how quickly they dry, whether it’s the rainy season or the height of summer. Give yours a quick wash after a run and wring it out well. In summer, it can sometimes dry in about 30 minutes. The thin, plain-weave fabric and unhemmed ends allow water to drain away easily, speeding up the drying process. Their ease of everyday use and simple care are among the reasons tenuguis have been loved for so long.

Ready to try a tenugui on your next run?

The beauty of a tenugui is how naturally it fits into everyday life, while also coming in handy on your runs. Find a favorite and make it part of your daily routine.

Explore our collection of tenugui featured in this article and find your favorite.