Sometimes the sport of running can be a little intimidating. As a side note—running is a little like Christianity; they are both really simple, but get intimidating when people add their own requirements. So, from time to time, I like share what I do when I run. This is not the only way—but it is my way.
I have three aspects that I look for in the clothes that I wear when I run.
1. Safety First. I like to have bright colors when I run. I also like to have reflective material on the shirts that I wear, if possible. Bright colors are important to me because I want people around me to know that I am there. The farther away they can see me the better. The foremost reason is the fact that I don’t want to get hit—by cars, by bicycles, or by other runners. The other benefit, that I don’t mention to Monica very often, is that with bright colors, people can find me if I happen to go down—not expecting it, but it could happen. Safety should always be on everyone’s mind. This is important to me.
2. Thin Polyester Blend Material. I hate to run in bulky and absorbent material. I prefer the moisture wicking tech shirts. They are light and stay dry for most of my runs. I prefer the same material for the shorts. Nike is a good brand for this, but expensive. I understand about looking good—but getting a $50-$75 shirt sweaty on the road or empty desert doesn’t make a lot of sense. Sales are always a good thing. My favorite place to find these shirts and shorts, as well as limited winter gear, is Target. The Champion line is inexpensive, durable, and looks good.
3. Loose Fitting. I like to feel loose. Sometimes in the winter when I layer clothes to stay warm, I must go tight—but it is only because I dislike the alternative more. I read somewhere that we should prepare our gear for 10 degrees above what it actually is if we are running. With that said, I wear shorts down to 40 degrees and short sleeves down to 50 degrees. This is my rule—sometimes, I even fudge this if the weather is heating to above 50 degrees during my run. Looseness allows for air to circulate inside the shirt and doesn’t feel constrained.
These are my three simple aspects that I look for when I am preparing to run or shopping for new gear. As far as socks, I just wear regular white socks. As for a hat, sometimes I will where a running baseball type cap, if there is too much sun. As far as shoes, I wear a neutral shoe—Nike Pegasus is preferred, but I am using a Vomero 8 right now—either are great shoes for me. I recommend that you do some research before picking a shoe and take a wet test to determine what you may need. (Runner’s World explains the “Wet Test” at this link.)
Running is not rocket science. We put our feet on the pavement and go. Choose to be comfortable and enjoy the time you spend!