It’s not a crazy idea to think that running clothes and gear doesn’t really matter if you’re just a beginner. But investing even just a little time, effort and money in it can make a surprising difference to your running experience.

1. Synthetics

Avoiding chafing is a number one priority. Wearing clothes that are sweat resistant — like those made out of synthetic materials — is the best way forward. Your everyday cotton unfortunately will encourage rubbing. That’s especially the case with socks and tops, so it’s worth a couple pounds to make sure material and skin don’t come up against each other.

2. Fitted Running Shoes

You’ll see it again and again. But paying a bit extra for the right running shoes will make a massive difference. Going to most sport shoe shops will give you the opportunity to have your feet and gait measured properly. They’ll set you up with a video camera and find the right shoes for you. Don’t worry if they’re suggesting a ½ size up from your normal one. Break them in gradually and well before your event and you’ll avoid discomfort and unnecessary running injuries.

3. Base layers in winter

You can find breathable winter running gear that will keep you warm and dry in your average winter conditions. They won’t drown you — they’ll be comfortable and lightweight. You also shouldn’t overheat or feel a sweaty cold. Gloves and running jumpers can be added for the same, and you’ll be able to avoid the treadmill even out of season. Plus it’ll allow you to do your fitness training in conditions closer to those that your running event is probably taking place in.

4. High-visibility clothes

It’s so easy to not be seen by the things around you. Staying safe by not wearing headphones while road running is one tip; another is to invest in some high-visibility clothes if running in the morning or late afternoon. They’ll add an extra (probably waterproof) layer as well as keeping you running for a little longer.

5. Spare cash & snacks

In the interests of running safety, bringing a bit of cash in a pocket is a good shout. It’ll just be a safety net — whether you get lost or are just in desperate need of a bottle of water or a snack that you haven’t managed to fit in one of your pockets.

6. Iphone Running Armband

Listening to running music or a podcast — provided you don’t on roads — can make long and repetitive runs a little more interesting. Where a strap around armband holder for your phone is better than just a pocket is that you can check the time, change song, and start your Strava app to record your distance.

7. Vaseline & Blister Plasters

Not exactly running gear, and hopefully you’ll already have them at home. With blister plasters you should be able to carry on running, and maybe prevent the bigger blisters from forming by catching them early. Vaseline or BodyGlide is good to prevent (or minimise) any chafing you’re still experiencing, whether it be your nipples, feet, or thighs.

8. Running water bottles

You’ve probably seen runners with easy-to-hold bottles. You can buy them incredibly cheap from any sports store. They’re worth it if you often get a dry mouth when running and obviously if you often suffer from dehydration. You can definitely take them on race day, although for long-distance running events they will have water stops throughout the race.

9. All the gear, some idea?

What to wear running is not a difficult question. But it can make the difference in comfort and occasionally in minor to moderate running injuries. It’s worth investing, and usually not very much.

Don’t let your gear go to waste and head over to Let’s Do This to find your next Beginner-friendly race here, https://www.letsdothis.com/gb/running-events/beginner-friendly.

Let’s Do This