Although one of the great things about running is that you don’t need much more gear than a good pair of running shoes, when running becomes more than an occasional activity, there are some clothing and gadgets that will make your run more comfortable and improve your performance.

CLOTHING

Running Shoes

The most important piece of equipment you need for running, not only they will make your run more comfortable and enjoyable but will also prevent injuries. Finding the right type of shoes is based on a number of factors such as the type of running you wish to do (i.e. trail run, run on asphalt, long distance, leisure running, etc), the shape of your foot and foot arch and even the weather conditions you will be running on.

It is best to go to a running specialised shop where knowledgeable staff can examine your feet and running style and help you find the running shoe that best match your running needs. Running shoes should be replaced roughly every 300-400 miles (500-650 km) depending on your body weight and running style. As running shoes will loose shock absorption and stability over time, wearing worn-out shoes increases the stress and impact on your joints and legs which can lead to injury.

Clothes

The good thing of running is that you don’t need expensive running clothing to get started, just comfortable clothing will be sufficient to start with. As you get more serious about running, you may want to invest in specialised clothes that will increase the comfort especially in long runs. Some runners prefer to use clothes made of cotton as it absorbs moisture as you exercise, however most specialised running clothes are made of synthetic material as it is light-weight, breathable and will wick away the moisture of your body.

Running socks

Made of synthetic materials such as polyester, acrylic and CoolMax, will wick away moisture and keep your feet cool and dry when you exercise. If you are blister prone you may consider specialised running socks with added cushioning around common blister areas.

Sports bra

Women should wear a sports bra that fits properly to prevent ligament damage and will make for a more comfortable run and it will wicks away moisture from the body. Most sports bra will need to be replaced after 72 washes as the elasticity is lost.

WINTER CLOTHING

Hat

A fleece or wool hat will help you keep your head warm during winter runs as you will reportedly loose 40% of your body heat from your head.

Gloves

Running gloves will wick away moisture and keep your hands warm.

Base Layer

Should be made of a synthetic material that will wick away moisture from your body and keep you dry and warm.

Mid Layer

Made of insulating material such as fleece, it will wicks away moisture and also keep you warm on colder weather.

Outer Layer

Wind or Water proof layer will keep you dry and warm on windy and wet weather conditions by keeping warmth in and moisture out.

Trousers/ running tights

Made of synthetic material will wicks away moisture from your body. In cold wet conditions you may want to use wind or water proof trousers to keep the moisture and wind out.