So, you have decided to start running and are unsure what running gear you need. There are so many brands and different types of kit, that it can get confusing. Below, we go into some detail about what you need for your running journey
For those of you who think that running is expensive, forget it! The truth is, one of the greatest things about running is that it can be an inexpensive hobby. However, be careful when buying your running clothes because your running gear will spell the difference between an enjoyable run and a miserable one. Below is a checklist of the things you need and not need to buy in order to run very comfortably at a price that will not break the bank.
Table of Contents
Choose the right Kind of running shoes
First, you will need to buy a good pair of shoes. They need not be expensive, as long as they give your feet and legs the comfort they need.
Never decide to go for non-running shoes, like tennis shoes for example, or the old pair of trainers you brought a few years ago. They just won’t do. What you need to run effectively are fresh and well-supported shoes that are the perfect fit and that match your type of feet and way of running. This is especially important because as a runner, your feet will have to get all he protection they need while you run.
Some sport shops have treadmills in them, so they can analyse your running style and determine the correct type of running shoe for you.
Choose comfortable running apparel
The key to buying running gear, is being comfortable. You should not only be comfortable with how you keep your pacing while running, but most importantly with how you are dressed. Most of the time, excited beginner runners tend to overdress themselves that their running gear become uncomfortable for them. And of course, this will lead to running unsuccessfully and potentially lead to getting demotivated.
Steer clear from cotton tee-shirts
Since they are absorbent and therefore easily soak up all perspiration, it is best to steer clear of cotton shirts. They retain sweat and moisture in the shirt, and worse, the body smell as well. If you noticed, cotton Tee-shirts are unevenly stitched, and this is believed to cause chafing or even some bleeding in severe cases. So instead of using cotton shirts for running, it might be best if you go for running clothes manufactured with materials that can wick sweat away from the runner’s skin.
Choose the right running clothes for the season
As the seasons and weather patterns change, a runner’s decision of what to wear will always indicate the outcome of their run for that day. That is why it is particularly important to check the weather conditions for the day before deciding what to wear before running. Bear in mind that you will never need to stop just because it is winter or because it is raining. You can always enjoy running even in the winter by simply layering your clothes. All you need to do is find the right mix of clothing for the appropriate season.
For example, if it is going to be a hot day, decide on wearing clothes with lesser layers. Otherwise, if you put on so many layers, you will feel warmer or hotter. Bear in mind not to use the cotton fabric as they will make the runner extremely hot causing her to sweat excessively. Truly, the clothes you wear will have a great impact on the way you run, not to mention your attitude in running.
Hydration belt / vest
Purchasing a hydration belt or vest can have many benefits for a runner, during any time of the year. A hydration belt will usually be strapped to the waist and contain either just a pouch, where you can put money, keys, or phone etc. Or also have a compartment for a water bottle too.
Hydration vests are lightweight and go over your top with chest and waist straps. They will have compartments for keys, money for example and will also have side pouches, where you can have water bottles. They also have a compartment in the back, and some will have space for a bladder, but also can be used to store light clothing.
These can be used any time of year, especially if you do not like carrying things when running, or if you want to lose that extra layer during your run.
