Originally featured in MyDaily on 25 February 2015
What should you consider when you’re getting kitted out for marathon training?
- Shoes – proper running shoes are a key staple to your wardrobe, go to a specialist running store to have them test your stride and see what shoe would fit you best
- Sports bra – make sure it is a snug fit, but not so snug you cannot breath English weather is unpredictable…A top and leggings are a great start to the wardrobe.
- Top – make sure you like the fit, most people tend to go for a tight fitting top (one that fits without constraining and assures freedom of movement). Breathable, either through clever mesh detailing or fabric
Are there any materials that work better than others when you’re training outside?
- Technical fabrics with features such as compression, moisture management, quick drying, 4 way stretch, antibacterial, UV protection, shape retention are all good features under the description of the clothing. If you want a natural fabric, merino wool is a great material that is being used more and more in technical garments. It has great antibacterial properties and it is breathable and depending on the consistency it is also very soft. Downside of wool is the increased cost
Should you adapt what you’re wearing depending on whether you’re running indoors or outdoors?
- Running indoors is easier to plan. You only need a top and bottoms. Technical, functional and stylish but you know it is not going to rain on you or be windy or cold.
- Outdoor running is a different ball game, you need to completely cater you outfit to the temperature and conditions. It is less about running indoor vs. outdoor as it is about the weather. Indoors you only need a tank or t-shirt with ¾ legging, or leggings. It is fairly predictable what the temperature should be without considering wind, sun, rain, or time of the day (darkness) Outdoor requires a bit more planning depending on the time you run and the weather. Indoors you might bring a sweater for cooldown, while outdoor you might need a technical light top to keep you warm or a rain jacket if it pouring down. Your leggings if not brushed (and makes them winter running leggings) can be used interchangeably.
Is it better to layer up or leave a layer off even if it feels cold outside because of the heat your body generates?
- This is a personal preference and you soon realize how you prefer to wear and layer your clothes. I usually use the test of standing still, if I am warm, I have too much clothes on. It is better to feel a bit shilled (NOT frozen) when you start, because within a few minutes you will want to start taking layers of clothes off. Keep in mind, that thinner tops and layering of jackets are always a good investment as you can always tie it around your waist if you get too hot
What are the difference between running leggings and leggings designed for other activities, e.g. Yoga (obviously they all differ but some general guidelines would be great)?
- Usually it is the elasticity, cut of the legging, seams and details such as reflective, and zippers. Yoga can be a bit looser more forgiving in shape and fabric. Running tend to have more compression, fabric is a bit more technical in properties, and detail such as flat seam, detailing is usually there for a reason and very functional, small pockets for keys and gels, reflective for night running.
How many alternative running ‘outfits’ would you suggest having?
Try to see your running outfits as how you would plan your wardrobe, invest in pieces that can carry you across various activities and weather conditions. Invest in layering tops, sport bra, tanks, t-shirts, long sleeve (thin), long sleeve (a bit thicker), a hoody, training jacket, rain jacket.
- Bottoms, shorts, ¾ leggings, long leggings. Try for 4-way stretch and excellent coverage (no need for people to see things that was not intended), shape retention (you want to be able to wear the leggings over and over again), compression on the legs is a great feeling
- This might seem like a lot of pieces, but invest in new items as you see fit. No need to buy shorts, if you are never going to wear them and it is negative degrees outside.
Any other tips when it comes to picking a running kit?
Start your running collection small, it will mushroom before you know it.. try tops and bottoms from different brands to see what works for you. If you are uncomfortable on a run, try to figure out why, does the top ride up, are you too hot, do you wish you could pull down a zipper, is something irritating your skin? All of this will help you pick your perfect running kit.
Never have a new outfit you have never done a training run in on race day.