Running is a common and simple exercise that’s widely practiced in the world. It is a complete sport that requires very little specialist kit. The running gear you choose for this exercise has a crucial impact on your training performance and running motivation. Besides that, they also help improve your chances of success, and they might even make your run more enjoyable. In fact, the right gear is the essential equipment you need, whether you’re a complete beginner or a veteran athlete. 

Running gear generally refers to the list of equipment or items a person can wear during a run. It ranges from running shoes to technical clothing, hydration belts, sport bras(for females), performance socks, GPS watches, and heart monitors. But the most important and technical gear to have are running shoes. This exercise is undoubtedly one of the most profitable sectors in the global fashion and sports equipment market.

Below are the basic running gear or kits you’ll be needing if you want to take running more seriously.

1. Running shoes

Of course, you won’t want to run barefooted as you get started as a runner, so this makes a good pair of running shoes an essential gear. Wearing the wrong type of shoes caused most of the injuries people encounter ( both beginners and veteran athletes). When you want to purchase running shoes, it’s advised not to go for a pair just because of the style, color, price, or brand. Instead, you should invest in a good pair that will make you more comfortable and prevent injuries. See a complete guide on running shoes.

Below are the features to look out for when buying a pair of running shoes;

• Tread: Before you purchase a pair of running shoes, think about the surface where you’re most likely to run, either on the road, trail, tracks, or on a treadmill. This will give you an insight into the best pair to fit your activities. Trail running shoes should have a deeper, thicker tread than shoes designed mainly for road running.
• Cushioning or lightweight: Shoes heavily cushioned are a great option for beginners, especially the heavier ones. You should try cushioned shoes and lightweight shoes to see which one you may prefer.
• Reflective surface: If you plan on running more often, it’s best to consider a pair of shoes that include some kind of reflective material. This will make you more visible to drivers and cyclists while running on the road.

2. Running shirts

Shoes are not the only running gear that makes your running more enjoyable and comfortable; clothing also matters. The type of shirt to choose for running depends on the weather. That’s why you may have to purchase shirts for different temperatures and seasons in a wide range of fabrics and weights, including light shirts, heavy turtleneck shirts, sleeveless shirts, etc. It’s advised to go for technical materials because they’re lightweight, regulate your body temperature by dissipating heat and make you feel comfortable and cool. Cotton gets wet quickly, turning into cumbersome and scratchy material that can cause chafed underarms and bleeding nipples. A good running shirt is typically made from nylon. You can try products from brand names like Dri-Fit, Climalite, or Coolmax. They should feel cool and comfortable on your skin.

3. Running shorts

Running shorts are an integral part of your gear that makes you comfortable, and they wick away sweat when you train. They usually come with a pant liner (with this, you don’t have to wear any other thing with them). Apart from liners, some come with an elastic waistband, though it’s worth paying extra to get a drawstring so that you can easily adjust the shorts to your personal fit.

In addition, ensure your shorts are not too tight or have a restrictive feel, as this may cut off circulation around your waist. They should provide you with a maximum range of motion to run at your best and unleash your full potential. Also, consider getting shorts that give a small zipped pocket that can act as safe storage during your race or long-running sessions.

4. Running tights

They’re an essential running gear, especially during winter. It’s advisable to wear tights to keep your legs warmer and reduce the chances of injury. They’re usually made to fit the leg more effectively and stop rain and wind from penetrating your leg. This means you can enjoy your exercise even when the weather is bad and far from ideal. They usually come in a variety of different lengths, ranging from knickers to 2/4-length to full-length, so you can choose the one that works best for you. In addition, good running tights are typically made from synthetic stretchy fabrics, such as Supplex or polyester, to provide a flexible and stretchy fit.

5. Running gloves

Running gloves are necessary as a runner because running often causes large amounts of blood to be diverted from the extremities to the legs, causing the extremities, i.e., the fingers and especially the hand, to get cold. They should be very comfortable and lightweight, and you may only need to wear thick running gloves in extreme weather. Gloves are cheap though they don’t have waterproof or windstopper abilities like other fabrics. Whatever the case, woolen gloves will be fine for most runners.

 6. Running underwear

This is also an essential gear you may want to wear with leg attire. They are particularly a great option during winter, and they usually have a good layer for support and insulation. You can choose the underwear that works perfectly good for you as long as it’s comfortable and fits you well.