Running Gear

Running clothing and accessories

Good, proper running gear is very important. Having the right clothes and accessories can make a significant difference to your comfort and success while running. There's no need to buy all the best equipment, but make sure you have good, decent running kit to help you stay comfortable and injury-free, when training or competing.

Running Tops

T-shirts
Avoid cotton tops. Instead wear clothes that have wicking - the ability to pull moisture away from the skin - for the greatest comfort in all temperatures.

Sports bras
A good sport bra is essential for all female runners and a variety of quality lines can now be bought online.

Jackets
Having a good quality running jacket is essential for running in the cold months of the year.

Legwear

Shorts
Advice varies. Some suggest buying shorts that hang comfortably and do not stick to sweaty skin, while others (mainly women) prefer skin-tight shorts. The choice is yours.

Leggings
Ideal for winter running, providing legs with much-needed warmth. And with modern hi-tech modern fabrics providing comfort against the skin, leggings provide both easy running and protection from the cold.

Footwear

Socks
Although normal sport socks can be worn, proper running socks are the ideal choice. Running socks are specifically designed to meet the physical demands of running. They provide stability to the runner while drawing moisture away from the skin. In addition many running socks now have cushioning and are designed to prevent blistering.

Shoes
A good pair of running shoes is the most important purchase you will make as a runner. However, with so many brands and designs available, finding the right pair isn't always easy. Spend as much time a you need (resisting pushy shop assistants) when buying shoes. Ensure you end up with a pair that are comfortable with good support. Also, be wary that most running shoes are smaller than normal shoes, so you may need to buy a size larger than usual.

So where do you start? There are an increasing number of biomechanic experts or experienced shoe retailers to test the foot arch calibrate and define whether you have a normal foot, flat foot or high arched foot. A high pronator for example requires substantially more cushioning in a shoe with plenty of flexibility to encourage foot motion.

When initially testing out your first training shoes you can never try out too many pairs. Go for a jog in them. Some expert shoe specialists allow you a trial week and if the shoe displays any discomfort you can bring them back. Keep trying pairs until you are truly happy you have found the ideal pair. The reason for being content with your initial training brand shoe is that the brands can vary significantly and your feet will soon mould to a specific style and it is advisable to stick with these.

Trainers do not last forever, you must buy a new pair ever 500 - 600 miles. It is difficult to remember the number of miles you cover, but try and keep a rough diary of your long runs, and it is always good to have an additional pair of training shoes to gradually break-in.