New to Running? 5 Items You Need to Have

After you have been running for a few years, you are suddenly a go-to source on all things running for new runners, including running clothing tips. Even though I’m not pounding the pavement a lot these days, I still have eight years of experience and 40+ races under my belt.

When one of my friends recently got into running she asked me for some beginner tips. Before I knew it I had rattled off advice about training, diet, post-race recovery and more. Today I’m breaking down a few of my suggestions pertaining specifically to running clothing tips.

Running Clothing Tips

1) Shoes: No post about running clothing tips would be complete without the mention of footwear. I recommend new runners go to a local running store and get professionally fitted for running shoes. Running store employees are almost always avid and seasoned runners themselves. They may have you run on a videotaped treadmill to examine your gate and stride. They will probably also measure your feet, ask you about comfort and your budget.

2) Socks: I’m not super picky about socks but I would recommend something breathable, and not 100 percent cotton, as cotton will simply absorb and hold on to your sweat. Of all the running socks I have tried I do like Drymax socks the best. My Drymax socks are the ones I wear when I run a 10-Miler or Half-Marathon distance.

3) Shorts: Do you wear shorts when you run? Many runners do, although I know some women prefer to run in capri pants. My favorite running shorts have built in underwear (another thing I didn’t know about until I started running!). I have several pairs of the Nike Tempo Shorts.

4) Bra: This is for the ladies only. For any run 4 miles or longer, I wear an extra supportive bra. Hands down the best I’ve found is Moving Comfort, which is now owned by Brooks Running. These running bras are expensive but if you buy a few and rotate they will last you a long time.

5) Headband: Again this running clothing tip is geared more toward the ladies but I have seen men wear these too. For years I have been running (and working out, in general) with these Goody Slide Proof Stayput Headwraps. If you want a headband that absorbs sweat as well, check out Bondi Band.

Additional related running clothing tips:

• I buy special sports detergent for my workout clothes which are all made of “moisture wicking” material. With running, you tend to sweat a lot, and clothing gets smelly if it’s not washed properly. Right now I am using Nathan Sport Wash Detergent.
• Another one of my running clothing tips is related to comfort with all of the aforementioned running gear. Get some BodyGlide (for him or for her). It’s like a deodorant stick that helps prevent chafing. I use it in a few problem ares (you will find out what yours are after a few of those long runs) and even on my feet to help prevent blisters.

What did I miss? Do you have any running clothing tips to add?