Choosing the right running gear
If you’re a runner or about to take running seriously you need to gear up! There are a number of items to take into consideration from shoes and clothing to wearable technology.
Footwear
First things first, this is the single most important piece of equipment you need for running, so before you get out there and pound that ground, you need to make sure you have the right tools for the job – the right running shoes.
If you only consider one factor when selecting a running shoe, get something that fits right. A bad fitting running shoe will not only make your running experience annoying and potentially painful, it may also cause you to change your stride or pronation, leading to potential injury.
How different running surfaces affect the body
Know your foot type /pronation
Everyone has different feet and as explained below, the speciality stores can take foot imprint to help choose the right shoe for your foot. The stores usually have thread mills too, so you can test the runners and make sure they are comfortable for your foot.
Many specialty running stores now have equipment that can analyse your gait (how you walk/run) and your foot type. There are many different foot-types, but the the main three are:
- Neutral footed runners
- Overpronation
- Underpronation
Another important factor in foot type, is your arch type, a foot imprint and some advice in a good running store should determine whether you need arch support or not. Also, be sure to try on both feet. Most people have two feet that are slightly different in shape and size.
Right shoe for the right running surface
Trail running shoes
There are many different types of running shoes – training shoes, walking shoes, track, trail, cross country, sprint, or distance running. So you need to consider first of all what surface you will be running on as for example, track runner won’t work for trail or road running. Here’s a detailed guide – choosing the right running shoe for different surfaces.
If you want to get really detailed about it then read up about all the different running surfaces – Road, trail / dirt, grass, track, sand, thread mill.
Trail running requires slightly different gear than roads, especially when it comes to shoes. Running on different, loose surfaces means you need proper grip and support. We would not advise hitting trials with normal running shoes especially when it’s wet. Because of a lot of lateral movement and potential sharp objects you also need good support from your shoe.
The physical and mental benefits of running
Running clothes
Running specific clothes are light weight and designed to flow with your body. Seams are placed in areas to enhance movement and where they are less likely to chafe, and there nothing worse or more annoying than chaffing!
Running gear is usually made from technical fabrics versions of nylon, wool, or polyester. These technical fabrics also hold up a lot better through use and washing cycles than workout clothes made of cotton. There are also specific clothes for running in warm weather and cold.
In ladies specific gear, wear a good, comfortable supportive sports bra which is designed for running or general sports.
Choosing the right running shoe for different surfaces
Socks
When it comes to socks, avoid wearing 100 percent cotton socks as a runner as they hold moisture,instead look for socks made from materials such as polyester, acrylic, and CoolMax.
Lastly if running in low light or night time wear reflective clothing.
The 8 different running disciplines
Wearable Technology
From the fitness trackers like fitbit and technical shoes like the Nike Vapourfly, here’s a guide to the latest in – wearable technology
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