Starting a new running program begins with choosing a running plan, purchasing the first pair of running shoes and finding the right running clothes. Almost as important as running shoes, running clothing can make a world of difference in a runner's performance and comfort. Most people will just throw on a cotton tee shirt and some shorts or sweats and head out for a run. This is fine but can lead to being all wet and carrying the extra weight of all that sweat. So for the sake of comfort and performance, learn how to choose good running clothes.
Choosing the Right Running Outfit
So why not wear that comfy cotton tee shirt for running? Well although cotton is very comfortable and soaks up the sweat, it also retains all of the moisture and becomes heavy and wet. Often times cotton tee shirts will have uneven stitching that can cause chafing and even bleeding in extreme cases. Instead of cotton, choose running clothes that are made with technical wicking materials. These high tech materials are designed to “wick” sweat away from the skin to the outer surface so that it will easily evaporate. Running clothes made from tech fabric can be more expensive than cotton, but it is well worth it to have a comfortable and dry run.
Choosing Clothes for All Seasons
Running doesn't have to stop just because it is winter. With the proper clothing a runner can enjoy winter runs as much as fair weather runs. The key to a comfortable run in the winter is layering. It is challenging to find the right mix. Too much clothing makes the runner too hot and causes her to sweat too much, and too little clothing leaves the runner too cold to run effectively. With today’s lightweight warm clothing, runners can wear more layers and still move freely and not be weighed down with heavy clothes.
Layer Guide
- The base layer is the layer closest to the body and should be made up of wicking material such as DryFit, Thermax and CoolMax brands. This will keep the sweat away from the skin and keep the runner dry and warm. In weather 40 degrees F. and above, the base layer may be enough.
- The insulating layer is the middle layer, which is needed in very cold weather. This layer can be made of fleece, which will also wick moisture away from the skin. Try to choose a garment that is not too bulky, to allow freedom of movement. Try to find microfleece, thermafleece or thermax fabrics.
- The outer layer should be waterproof. This layer gives protection from the wind and rain, sleet or snow. This layer should also allow moisture and heat to escape so that the runner stays dry and does not over heat. A jacket with a 2-way zipper is a perfect choice for this layer.
For a comfortable run in any season be sure to choose the right clothes. A good mix of no sleeve, short sleeve and long sleeve technical running shirts will make the world of difference. The same material should be chosen for shorts, Capris and tights. Running socks are also available that keep the feet dry while running. The proper running outfit can make a world of difference to a runner's comfort.
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