A List of Basic Running Gear for Runners, New & Not
Are you a new runner? Yeah, we all were there once! Do you get intimidated by all the "pro" looking runners in their running gear? Yup, we remember that too! So, here's our little list of must-have running gear for all runners, new and old.
Why run? Isn’t it hard enough to get up in the wee hours of the morning? You run because it keeps you fit. You run because it prevents you from chugging down copious amounts if caffeine to keep you going at your desk job. You run because there is nothing like the endorphins that rush your body as soon as you finish that last 5K. You run because you love it. But can you really enjoy it if your spandex pants keep riding up north? We know it's sure to kill the mood, but there are solutions for it -- it’s time to get geared up! Remember, pure fashion-y workout clothes are cool to look at, but they can put a damper on your run and workouts if you don’t choose wisely. There are some fitness fashion faux pas that you need to keep in mind, and our suggestions for what to wear designed to keep you fit and looking good at the same time!
Gear up for Hot Weather Running...
SINGLETS (i.e. TANK TOPS): It’s hot as blue blazes but runners got to run. (Surely you've figured that out by now this summer!) Just remember that sweat pants and shirts don’t always a runner make especially when temperatures rise and show no signs of dropping any time soon. And lightweight, breathable running gear will go a long way. Wear breathable, wicking running gear such as tech performance Running Singlets, like our Men's Electron Running Tank Top or Women's Carbon Running Tank Top. A heatstroke can set you back a couple of days. If it's raining, make sure that the jacket you wear is not only waterproof, but also lightweight and windproof or else you'll be suffocating regardless of the weather.
SHORTS: Of course, when it's hot out, run in shorts -- not Capris, not Pants -- SHORTS. Ladies, we know some of you wear capris even when it's 95F and 99% humidity, but we're just letting you know you look beautiful in shorts regardless of your body!! It's time to just be confident and proud of how you look and remember your top priority should be BEING COMFORTABLE when you run. Of course we suggest checking out our lightweight Men's Velocity Running Shorts and Women's Gravity Running Shorts for running comfort. They also happen to look good, too! But any kind of running short made of a lightweight, breathable fabric, with a light mesh interior "underwear" lining is what you need. We prefer running shorts with big pockets and zippers (like all our shorts) so you don't lose your ID or credit cards along the run.
Brrr, Winter Running Clothes...
CAPRIS & RUNNING TIGHTS: No one can stop a dedicated runner in your from trotting out in the morning, even when temperatures drop to near zero degrees. As much as we know you love our Men's Velocity Running Shorts and Women's Gravity Running shorts, going out for a run in shorts during the big freeze is cray-cray, and can even be a big mistake. Men, we know a lot of you are hardcore wearing shorts in 15F, but guys, please wear some running tights under your shorts. And we recommend good quality running capris or tights for the ladies - like our Women's Kinetic Running Capri, which has two pockets, including a zip pocket for your nutrition and GU's. If it gets super cold out, there are some "sub zero" running tights out there that work great. Or, layer a pair of old "fashion" tights under your running tights -- it works!
LAYERS LAYERS LAYERS: Layers are the key. We usually wear a running singlet on the bottom, 1-2 running tee shirts on top (both short and long sleeve), and top it all off with a light shell windbreaker, lightweight running jacket or a heavy half-zip running top. A light running jacket should keep you warm, but be light enough to take off when you get too warm (which you will!) and not cramp up your (running) style.
Accessorize...
VISOR: In the summer, there's nothing like a good running visor. It keeps the sun off you face, but allows air to flow so you stay cool. Just watch those balding spots on your head if you've got them -- sunblock!
SUNBLOCK: Speaking of sunblock, even for a 6-8am run before the UV is strong, we still layer on our favorite anti-sweat, full-spectrum sports SPF 30-100 sunblock. We also wear clear zinc oxide on our face - we like this brand and this brand best. Yes, we love sun, but no, we don't love skin cancer. Mostly, we just don't want leathery, spotty skin. We want to look 29 forever.
HYDRATION: Also, don't forget your water whether it's hot or not. A good hydration pack or handheld water bottle is your best friend when you run. We love most of Ultimate Direction's products -- seriously some of the best running hydration packs out there. Also good: our friends at Orange Mud, Nathan handheld bottles and packs, and Ultraspire makes good gear.
GLOVES: In the winter, if you don’t like Jack Frost nipping at your fingers, wear gloves. We especially like the Mizuno Breath Thermo gloves -- find they work great and never get sweaty. Better yet, also wear a warm hat or some other type of cold weather head covering for good measure.
RUNNING SOCKS: If you're training for a half marathon or marathon, invest in a few pairs of good running socks. Put them on when you run in any season. Yes, they're not cheap. Some running socks are specifically designed to prevent blisters. But do you like blisters? Or being able to walk after 26.2 miles? Well, okay. We've been told the best running socks are made by Balega and they sure are comfortable socks! We also run in our Wrightsock anti-blister running socks, and Smartwool running socks, which do the job for us. Smartwool is also the best socks for running in the rain!
REFLECTIVE GEAR: At Burning Man, you'll often hear "safety third"...but that's Burning Man. IRL, safety is a higher priority. Hardcore runners who love running at dusk or at night are advised to don reflective running gear so you don't get hit by cars, bikes or even pedestrians (that happens in NYC!)
It doesn’t matter if you run marathons or like to jog a few miles before heading to the daily grind. The wrong running gear will make the sport feel like a chore rather than what it is truly meant to be -- an exhilarating experience. Keep these gear tips is mind the next time you feel the need to satiate the runner in you!
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