Running Gear: 9 Sweat-Tested Tips for Comfort & Performance

FYI... not all running gear is the same.

You know... the worn out cotton T-shirt, sweatpant cutoffs, old shoes, and maybe a too-big-to-run-with water bottle.

Sure, this stuff might be functional. But it’s not the ideal running gear for comfort, performance, or PRs.

So how do you figure out what kind of running gear to get to help you go the distance?

Trial and error is certainly one way to learn what works and what doesn’t.

But it can cost you time and money. And there’s a better way.

Get the inside scoop on running gear others are using to finish races, crush training runs, and chase PRs.

Check out these 9 sweat-tested tips for running gear:

1. Find the Perfect Road Shoe
Got a fall marathon coming up? Or maybe you’re planning more road miles through parks and neighborhoods. Check out these tips to help you pick the right shoe to go the distance (after you read up on how to choose running shoes wisely).

2. Hydration-Vest Hints to Be Your Own Aid Station
If you’re gonna wear a hydration vest for a half marathon, marathon, ultra, or any other activity that requires you to be your own aid station, the right fit and features make a huge difference.

Check out these running gear tips and recommendations to pick a hydration vest for your next run or race.

3. Trail-Shoe Tips to Run Over the River and Through the Woods
Trail running more your thing? Pick your favorite trail, path, or race, and let er’ rip. But before you go, lace up the right trail shoe to run all the miles and manage technical terrain, rocks, roots, and obstacles. Here’s how to pick a trail shoe that works for you.

4. Running Gear for the Minimalist
Follow running all the way back to the beginning, and you’ll be reminded it can be a minimalist sport.

Maybe you’re not quite ready for the barefoot movement, but your jam is a minimalist approach to running.

If that sounds like your thing, check out these running gear tips to keep it super simple.

5. Light Up Your Next Night Run
“See and be seen.” You’ve probably heard the advice before. If you’re planning to run at night, the right running gear and lights can make a big difference.
 
Wondering what to wear to light up your next night run? Here’s what you need to know…

6. The Fastpacker’s Running Gear Checklist
Grab your backpack and go. If you’re thinking about cranking out some miles on your favorite trail by hiking, running, or a little of both, at warp speed, how do you pack for it?
 
FYI...you’re not gonna load-up a car or stuff an old-school pack with 50-pounds of gear. Fastpacking requires a more strategist and lightweight plan to go the distance. Here’s how to prepare…

7. Sock Secrets to Keep Your Feet Happy
Going for a run? Before you go, slip into something a little more comfortable. No, not like that. Put on a pair of running socks designed to help you go the distance, improve performance, and keep your feet happy for miles. Here’s what makes running socks different from old-school tube socks.

8. Running Shorts: Choose, But Choose Wisely
You know those cut-off sweatpants turned into shorts? They might work for a short gym session or easy workout. But if you’re looking for shorts to add a whole new level of comfort to your next run, it’s time to rethink your running shorts choices.
 
Check out these running shorts picks from ultrarunner Brynn Cunningham.

9. Don’t Leave Home Without THIS Summer Running Gear
Check the weather before you go for a run. We all do it. It’s a critical piece of intel that helps you decide what to wear, what running gear you need, and what you can do without.
 
Summer running has its own unique requirements to help you go the distance, stay hydrated, and protect yourself from the sun. Here’s a simple checklist of running gear to help you run all the way past the dog days of summer.

Take inventory of the running gear you have, and make a list of what you need. Keep in mind, running gear needs can change from season-to-season, based on where you live. Invest a little in the right shoes, clothes, and gear, and you’ll be set to run all the miles.