Why do Runners Wear Tutus?

Short answer, why not?

For the long answer, read on... If you’ve spent any time on our Curius Compass socials, you’ve probably noticed the tutus. They’re a regular feature of our run/hike/walk attire. So, why do runners wear tutus? Are we marking a milestone? Raising money for charity? Training for a dance recital? Nope, we wear tutus for the fun of it.

The very first tutu first made its appearance at the Beer Lovers’ Marathon in Liège, Belgium. I’d organised a running getaway for four of my fellow runners, and the 2019 theme was “Superheroes.” Naturally, I designed our 'Wild Women of the North' outfits to fit right in with the other be-costumed runners at the event: Spidermen, the Incredibles, and a surprisingly large group of Bob Rosses (yes, the happy-little-trees guy), amongst so many others. After the race was run and the beer well and truly sampled, I didn’t want my blue sparkly tutu to be relegated to the back of the wardrobe.

So, I started wearing it to every race, and my fellow runners soon followed suit. It was a brilliant way to share the joy and spirit of running.

We’re not front-of-the-pack runners. We stop for selfies, admire the views, have a good chat, and never pass up a feed station. For us, it’s not about time or placement, it’s about being outdoors, embracing the adventure, having a laugh and getting to the finish. The tutu quickly became a conversation starter with other runners, volunteers, random members of the public, and, also helpfully, acts as a beacon, so if we take a wrong turn and get lost, we hope a marshal or two will remember the last time they saw “the three women in the blue sparkly tutus.”

Do you have to be a runner to wear a tutu?

Certainly not! When Katie and I started guiding tours along Hadrian’s Wall, it was only natural to bring the tutus along. They helped our guests spot us straight away, break the ice with other walkers and visitors, and soon we were being recognised, not just by fellow hikers but by bus drivers and long-time volunteers along the trail. These chats often led to little gems of local knowledge. It was thanks to a conversation in The Sill gift shop that we finally got the detailed directions we needed to find a hidden carving on the Wall that had eluded us for months!

Now, whenever we’re out on long-distance trails, the tutus come too. People ask: “Is it for charity?” And we always say, “No, just for fun!” They’re a joyful way to connect with other people, fellow walkers, locals or anyone out for a stroll. On a long day, a cheerful comment or smile directed at the tutu-wearers can be just the encouragement we need to keep going. For us, tutus are an outward expression of how we feel when we’re on the trails. They signal we are light-hearted, approachable and enjoying ourselves.

Being out on the trails takes serious preparation, training, planning, navigation and the right kit to keep you safe. But once that’s in place, give yourself over to the fun. Let the adventure be joyful, silly and entirely your own.

Ready for the best of Hadrian’s Wall with a tutu-wearing guide? Tap Contact Us and we’ll organise a bespoke day out or book you onto one of our classics.

The Bit at the Bottom Where We Answer Stuff...

Are tutus practical for walking or hiking trails? Yes, you can wear them on all kinds of routes. Pick a lightweight mesh tutu that sits above the knee with an elasticated band that isn't too tight. Don't be too precious with your tutu; it will get snagged on gorse, walls and stiles.

What are alternatives to wearing a tutu? Wear something that gives you the same buzz. Pick something that feels you, fun, visible, and that still works on the trail. Some examples:

• Bright or patterned socks

• A colourful cap or beanie

• Brightly coloured buff/neck gaiter

• Reflective wrist/ankle bands or hi-vis vest

• A tee or patch with your “why” on the back

• Decorate your pack with ribbon, badge, or small flag

Keep it comfy, weather-smart, and trail-safe. Avoid anything that might rub or shed microplastics.

If you’re always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be. –Maya Angelou