Beginner’s guide to
running apparel
Posted January 5th, 2007 at 7:00 AM by Jenna Sumara
Section: Running & Training, Gear & Apparel, Apparel
You’ve heard that clothes make the man … or woman. Well, when it comes to running, clothes absolutely make the runner. But in the world of running, the emphasis isn’t on being a fashion plate (despite what that Paris Hilton look-a-like at the gym thinks). The emphasis is instead on functionality. This may seem a daunting task to a new runner, but not to worry - TFS has prepared this simple, beginner’s guide to help you make the right choices.
Let’s start from the bottom up. Shoes are by far the most important item a runner can own. But everyone knows you can’t wear the dusty ones that have been sitting in the back of your closet when you are looking to make a serious leap into running. When you walk into a sporting goods store, the walls are lined with shoes in every possible color, with numbers and names that probably mean nothing to you. So how can you decide?
First and foremost, you need to forget about the color. The shoe’s fit, function, and feel are the most important aspects. Also forget what shoes your friends are wearing. One runner’s cushion of air is another runner’s shin splints. Focus instead on what your personal needs are. You can take advice from the store associates, if you feel like they know what they are talking about, but it is probably best going into the store having a base of knowledge.
Buying the most expensive shoes isn’t always the best way to go, but there is a good chance that those bargain bin shoes aren’t either. Think of the shoes as an investment into your well-being. Your feet are going to take the brunt of your workout so a good shoe is a necessity. (Check out: “Foot type, pronation and how to choose the right shoes”)
Next we come to the clothing. Most runners start out with too much clothes. That’s not a completely bad thing, but you’ll probably end up pretty uncomfortable. In sports clothing there is a term called “wick” or “wicking” this basically means how fabric transports sweat away from your body so that regardless out the temperature you can feel dry. It is also a good idea to layer your clothing so that you can remove layers as your run goes along. Even when it is cold outside, once you get your heart rate up, your body temperature with increase up to 20 degrees, so having the option to remove clothing is a good idea. You should also consider carrying a soft hat and gloves for those bitter days.
Men also should really consider using compression shorts to reduce chafing (in conjunction with Body Glide Skin Formula) and women need a proper sports bra. (Check out: “Attn Female Runners: Sports Bra 101″).
You don’t have to spend a million bucks to feel like a million bucks, and when you are running down the street, nobody really cares if you look like a million bucks. Keeping yourself dry and comfortable is your primary concern as a new runner. Some of this will be trial and error, but a simple wardrobe and a great pair of shoes is really all you need to get started.
For tips on socks and how to prevent blisters, check out: “BLISTERS: What They Are and How To “Win the War” Against Them”
For tips on apparel for the winter, check out:
Sources and further reading: [RealBuzz], [Cool Running]
***Note: We encourage EVERYONE to see a doctor before altering their diet, taking a supplement and/or performing athletic, fitness or other strenuous physical activity. It is your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness of any information, instruction, opinion or advice contained in the content. Please also see our complete disclaimer.***
Tags: apparel, basics, beginner, beginners, clothes, cool, dry, moisture, moisture wicking, running apparel, running clothes, running shoes, shoes, sneakers, wick, wicking
Like what you see? Subscribe to our feed!
The Final Sprint
[…] Runner’s apparel guide Saturday 06 Jan 2007 by fbm Jenna Sumara at The Final Sprint offers some good advice in her article Beginner’s guide to running apparel. She touches the basic points a runner (especially a beginner) should consider when buying shoes and clothes. […]
January 6th, 2007 at 10:26 amGood collection of running apparel I found at CouponAlbum site at very reasonable price…
October 15th, 2007 at 5:22 amThese are great sports apparels, similarly I found offers and coupons from stores like Sports Authority, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Eastbay etc at Couponalbum.com..!!
October 17th, 2007 at 2:29 am