The Right Running Apparel For Any Occasion
It’s hot, too hot! I should have put on my shorts… I should have left the running jacket at home… Sound familiar? We often let the weather (forecast) trick us into choosing fitness clothes that are too warm, other times we feel we should have gone for an additional layer. To help you avoid these moments in the future, we’ve asked running expert Sascha Wingenfeld about his tips on the ideal apparel for every weather condition.
Not only the shoe counts
Your main focus when it comes to running gear should definitely be on high-quality running shoes. That being said, great fitness apparel can really improve your training and running routine. This also means, owning running clothes for all weather and seasons. “So-called functional textiles are way better than normal cotton t-shirts. High-quality running clothes made of functional fiber absorb sweat and transport moisture to the surface,” explains our expert, Sascha. A dry body combined with the fact that there are no wet, heavy clothes rubbing on your skin, improve your running experience. “The body maintains its perfect temperature and we don’t cool out,” he adds. All that makes our training easier and running more fun.
Here’s what you should keep in mind when buying sports apparel and some tips for what to include in your basic equipment:
Running socks
Poor fitting socks can lead to blisters. Make sure you choose your socks rather one size down than up. This way you prevent them from wrinkling and rubbing. Good running socks are made of antibacterial material that helps absorb sweat. “Both the material and fit of your running socks are important for happy feet while running – they build the foundation of your running style,” underlines Sascha.
Running shorts / pants
Also your running pants should be breathable and moisture-wicking. “Make sure your pants or shorts aren’t too tight and don’t cut into your flesh. Plus, you shouldn’t feel the seams rubbing on your skin, as you could end up with sore skin. In addition, your running gear should provide maxium range of motion for you to unleash your full potential, and deliver a great performance,” the expert explains.
Running shirt
A high-quality running shirt is another basic to include in your running wardrobe. The right shirt has moisture-wicking properties and is made of breathable material while protecting you against wind and weather. Another characteristic of high-quality materials is that they don’t soak up the unpleasant smell of sweat. “Opt for shirts with flat seams too to prevent them from rubbing on your skin,” Sascha says. Many running shirts come in patterns supporting maximum freedom of movement and even support typical running movements. Reflector elements increase the visibility of a runner when lighting is not ideal (in dim or dark surroundings). Sascha’s tip regarding safety: “If you don’t want to spend lots of money on your gear, don’t save on safety, though!”
Running jacket / vest
The right running jacket or vest allows you to train in any weather condition. It protects you against low temperaturs, wind and rain; however, it is important not to overdo it with this second layer. Rain jackets, windbreakers, fleece & soft shell jackets are not always the right choice for running, depending on the weather. Avoid getting too warm under your top layer by choosing breathable vests that allow for your sweat to evaporate off your arms and hands. They’re ideal for spring and fall, when a shirt is too cold and a jacket is too warm. “As a rule of thumb, you should dress yourself thinking that you might freeze a bit. In this case, you usually reach a comfortable temperature in the course of your training session, and your body still gets enough fresh air for cooling,” the expert says.
Headgear
A large part of our body warmth is lost through the head – that’s why it’s vital to keep it warm when it’s cold outside. A breathable beanie keeps you warm by transporting the moisture away from your head. Even for summer, a beanie might be a good idea as it protects against UV rays, keeps your head in the shade and the sweat from dripping into your eyes.
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