Running can be both a really inexpensive and a very expensive sport depending on how many "extras" you want to run with. I only bought shoes when I first started and just wore my cotton t-shirts and pants. The more I ran the more comfortable I wanted to be. The first luxury I bought was tech clothing followed by a running watch. There is a lot of running gear out there and I always found it helpful to ask fellow runners what they tried and liked. So, I have decided to compile a list of running gear I love and can't run without.
Running Clothes - Technical! Unlike cotton clothing, synthetic fabrics, such as CoolMax or Dri-Fit, wick moisture away from your skin. Cotton is heavier, doesn't breath well, and doesn't dry off if it gets wet. As a side note on clothing, if you are a woman, make sure you get a well supported sports bra. I also LOVE running skirts!
Running Watch - I CANNOT run without my Garmin Forerunner 305. It is by far, the most expensive piece of running gear I own but definitely worth it! If you are going to be doing a lot of running, you will want a running watch. It gives you your speed, distance and pace along with many other awesome features. There are many running watch options out there but this is the only one I have owned so I cannot give you a proper comparison. However, I have found most runners like the Garmin. There are much smaller models out there then mine, which would be my only complaint. Mine is pretty bulky.
Hydration - I bought a hydration belt before my last Ragnar and loved it. I got the Amphipod Hydration Waistpack. The bottle is flat on one side so it doesn't dig into your back. There is a zipper pocket to carry keys or other items (I actually put my ipod in there instead of using an arm band.) It is very easy to pull out the bottle even while running. It stays very secure and does not bounce. I have tried a Camelback and like the belt much better. The Camelback made my back too hot and moved around too much.
Shoes - We all know how much I love my Vibram Five Fingers. I haven't personally tried out the Merrell Road Glove (or Dash Glove for Women) but my husband loves his. I have also heard a lot of good things about the Newton Trainers which gives you cushion but is designed to make you run forefoot/midfoot which is what you want.
Music - I think any small music device would work just fine (I use an Ipod touch) but the thing I want to tell you about are RunPhones! My ears are on the small side and any ear buds I tried would just fall out of my ears. I finally found RunPhones and I LOVE them! It is basically a sweatband with speakers inside. You can take out the speakers and wash the band. They are AWESOME!! They have a "summer version" and a "winter version". I really don't see the point in get both unless you have extra money lying around. The summer version keeps my ears warm in the winter and they don't get too hot in the summer.
Comment with any other gear you have tried and love!
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