If you want to start jogging or running, you have to do more than make a single purchase. It is a great idea to synchronize all your gear to maximize your performance.
Running is one of the best exercises for your body and a great way to improve your overall health. In this guide, we will provide the best products, what you will need, products to avoid, and even others you might not think of. Reading this article will keep you from making the most common gear mistakes.
It is without question that you will need to know what to buy if you want to get started running.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| HOKA ONE ONE Mens Bondi 6 Running Shoe | Best Overall |  |
| ASICS Women's Distance8482 Shorts | Budget Pick |  |
| Garmin Forerunner 235 | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. HOKA ONE ONE Mens Bondi 6 Running Shoe
Pros:
- High grade breathable mesh uppers
- Excellent support system
- Double stitched seams
- Super stable
- Superior traction
- Extremely comfortable — may require breaking-in
- Lightweight and durable
- Available in different colors
Cons:
- Not as breathable as other models
- A little pricey
This is a comfortable running shoe from Hoka One One. The Bondi 6 has a double stitched mesh upper that offers unbelievable support; making it one of the most stable shoes designed by Hoka One One. What’s great about it is you can wear it for any type of workout. It’s super versatile and will keep up with pretty much any other type of shoe out there.
While the Bondi 6 was a little expensive, it is definitely worth it. You will not be disappointed with the breathability, stability, and grip on this shoe. It is so durable that the Bondi 6 is eligible for Hoka One One’s maximum durability guarantee. If you are looking for a comfortable and durable running shoe – this one is a keeper.
2. Garmin Forerunner 235
Pros:
- Full-color Garmin Chroma Display
- Lightweight design
- Comfortable rubber wristband
- Up to 1.5hrs of battery life
- Personal Records
- Auto Pause
- Intervals
- Tracks distance, pace, heart rate, time, calories, cadence, and more
If you are a beginner in the running scene and are looking for a model that can help you get your bearings, then the Garmin Forerunner 235 GPS Running Watch is an excellent choice. It comes with a wide range of features – including features such as the GPS satellite reception and an inbuilt heart-rate monitor – all of which are useful for someone starting out in the world of running and jogging.
The Garmin Forerunner 235 GPS Running Watch is a premium choice when it comes to top running watches available today. It comes with a number of advanced features, such as the inbuilt heart rate monitor, which makes it a really good option to look into.
The Garmin Forerunner 235 GPS Running Watch features an impressive display which makes it a really good option for a whole host of activities that you might want to track in a dedicated device.
3. TrailHeads Men's Touchscreen Gloves
Pros:
- Waterproof and windproof
- Fingerless design
- Touchscreen compatible
- Excellent for cold weather and rain
- Breathable, lightweight, and flexible
- Includes reflective strips
Cons:
- Gloves are not the warmest, so they won’t handle freezing temps
- Touchscreen-friendly is a little hard to use
For Cold Weather, Lightweight Gloves with Touchscreen and Reflective for Running, Cycling, Hiking, MTB.
If you’re looking for a cycling or running glove that is water-resistant, warm, weatherproof, soft, and breathable, then these gloves are the right choice for you. They’re a great cycling or running accessory. These feels great on your hands and they offer you the freedom of movement. You won’t suffer from loss of grip because they have endless gripping power.
This waterproof running gloves are lightweight and come in different sizes. They come with seamless design, which makes these gloves easy to wear and very comfortable. It comes with touchscreen compatible and reflective material, so you can enjoy working with your gadgets while riding. The reflective material has the ability to maintain your hands’ visibility in night time. The colored gloves make it easy to see during dark conditions.
4. ASICS Women's Distance8482 Shorts
Pros:
- Unbelievably comfortable
- Stretchy material with a wide waistband area
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Easy to clean
- Good customer service
- Not super tight or constricting like typical running shorts
- Affordable and versatile
- Versatile as can be used for rigorous workouts, yoga, spinning, hot yoga, weightlifting, etc.
- Also available in several styles (not just the distance 8482, there are so many things you can do with them! They are a great alternative for those who complain about the price of Lululemon)
Cons:
- Material is a tad thin, and the lining on the crotch area is itchy (but a little extra fabric around the waist or putting in an insert of some sort takes care of that)
- These tend to run a little larger, so it’s recommended to order a size smaller than usual.
- Quality control is an issue, which is rare with ASICS
- The back pocket tends to be too small to fit your fitness phone/GPS and things jiggle out of place
- Several customers have claimed that after being adequately washed, they rip at the seams
5. ASICS Abby 7" Long Shorts Performance Black MD
Pros:
- Breathable fabric keeps you cool and dry
- High-quality spandex panels in select areas allow for more flexibility
- Polyester is quick drying and fast wicking
- Eliminates chafing from standard cotton
- Stylish colors and narrow waistband
- Snug, comfortable fit
- Wide waistband with internal drawstring
- Elasticized drawstring waist keeps shorts in place
- Interior key/card pocket
- ASICS logo hits above the back right pocket
Cons:
- Silicone grippers on the back of the legs stick out beyond the hem of the shorts
- Doesn’t always hit the knee
- Thigh and seat area sometimes sag
This is a solid pair of running shorts that’s popular among female runners for these reasons – comfortable fit, narrow waistband, stylish design, and a great price point.
These shorts are great for the female runner due to its lightweight feel, and the spandex panels designed to make sure you get the most breathable fabric possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should a beginner runner wear?
Runners can wear anything from shorts to spandex, tights to tees. But doing so without proper support or functionality can get you injured. Beginners run the risk of over-use injuries, which can totally ruin your running experience.
Getting to know your body is the key to staying injury free. The more you understand your own running style, the better prepared you will be to work with it.
Running shoes: Your running shoes are the most important aspect of your running attire. They will support your body and allow you to run comfortably.
You should have a thickly padded, non-slip sole with heel and toe support. But most importantly, the shoe must fit you properly … like a glove. The last thing you want is to be constantly adjusting your shoe mid-run.
What equipment do you need for running?
The most basic items you need to get started running are a good pair of running shoes and comfortable workout clothes that will stretch when you move. Depending on your goals, you may also need a heart rate monitor if you are interested in improving your speed or endurance.
Some runners also like to use compression layers when they exercise. Compression garments are tight, spandex like clothing you wear on muscles that are active during exercise to prevent or solve pain. Compression clothing is particularly useful in aiding blood flow when doing long distance or endurance runs.
The most recommended brands for compression tanks and sleeves are 2XU, CW-X, and Skins.
How much should you run as a beginner?
Running is an activity that requires a great deal of commitment and persistence, not just when you are a beginner but also as a veteran runner. The first thing you need to do before anything is to develop the right attitude, and you should start by building a training program.
You will be surprised to know that the first three months of running will actually be the most difficult. As a new runner, you need to allow your muscles, ligaments, and bones to adjust and adapt to the new routine, which can take a toll on your body. It will also take some time to break out of your comfort zone and push your limits. So, you should be patient and give yourself time to settle into a new regimen.
It’s essential that you start slowly. But before doing so, you need to have a good understanding of your body and medical condition first. You should be able to keep pace with your goal without running into injuries.
What are the best running shoes for a beginner?
We’re going to see what makes good running shoes, and how to choose the right one for you.
To understand this, you must first understand why we need to run shoes at all.
When running, impact happens every time we place a foot on the ground. The impact is measured in pounds, and each time you make contact, you displace that weight in your stride.
If you were to run barefoot, this number would be around 1.7 pounds of weight displaced with every stride.
That is pretty significant! And if you increased your pace, so would the heavy impact increase.
This is why running shoes matters. Because a good running shoe will use some as the impact your feet will have on the ground, usually through a cushioning system for shock absorption.
This protection is important, because, when we run, our tendons and muscles take the brunt of our steps.
Conclusion
We all know that running is a great way to get your heart rate up, burn of calories, and better your overall health. But when you’re shopping for wear, it can be a bit overwhelming. If you’re just getting into the sport of running, you’re probably wondering, what running gear do I need? The answer is simple – a good pair of running shoes, comfortable attire, and proper nutrition are the basic necessities.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| HOKA ONE ONE Mens Bondi 6 Running Shoe | Best Overall | |
| ASICS Women's Distance8482 Shorts | Budget Pick | |
| Garmin Forerunner 235 | Upgrade Pick | |