Running Clothes

In a time where exercise and keeping healthy is vital to most individuals, running has become one of the most popular ways to exercise. Finding the proper, supportive running clothes can be a challenge. If the wrong items are purchased, or if the right items aren’t purchased at all, this can make for an incredibly uncomfortable run. In areas where seasons frequently change and weather can be unpredictable, it is important to have the right pieces so that a run is still possible, no matter what the weather may be.

The best items to invest in would be lightweight clothing, regardless of the season. You don’t want heavy fabrics and materials weighing you down throughout the run. Some great fabrics to try are moisture wick synthetics, which keep the moisture away from your skin and provide added comfort throughout the run. Something to avoid, especially during the hot summer months, is cotton. Cotton actually retains water, so it will hold in your sweat and can even cause some chafing.

Loose fitting running shorts or pants are best for running in the warmer months, since they will allow your body to breathe as you run. During the winter, running pants or tights, accompanied by wind pants, depending on the temperature, are usually enough to keep you warm because your legs move frequently enough to generate heat to keep them warm. In the summertime, layering your running shirts isn’t necessary, but in the winter, layering is a great option. As you run, your body heats up, and if you get too warm, it is much easier to remove a layer than to be stuck in whatever you are wearing. Under armor can be a wise choice to help keep your body dry, as it won’t allow the sweat on your body to freeze in cold temperatures.

Over your clothes, running jackets or vests can come in handy if you don’t like the idea of multiple layers. This way, you only need to wear one layer under the jacket, and if you get too warm, you can remove it or your vest without a problem. Some people like this option because it allows them to carry their keys or cell phone in the pocket of their running jackets without worrying about losing them during the run. Running jackets are specifically designed to be lightweight and not restrict any movement for the runner, all while providing proper insulation and warmth for those chilly morning runs.

An aspect of running clothes that may go overlooked is undergarments for both men and women. A key component of women’s running clothes is a properly fitting sports bra. With a bra that is too tight, a run can easily be very uncomfortable for a female. If too loose, the bra will not provide the necessary support during the run. A sports bra should also be replaced after the elastic wears, as this will also contribute to an uncomfortable run. Something that can be done to alter the level of comfort in men’s running clothes is to wear tighter undergarments or even spandex to ensure everything stays in its proper place and doesn’t become uncomfortable or painful during a lengthy run.

No matter what options you choose, the most important aspect of the perfect running clothes is that it is comfortable for you – the runner – to exercise it. Without that level of comfort, your run is likely to be unpleasant and something you do not look forward to. With the right running clothes and properly fitting garments, exercise can be something you look forward to on a regular basis and enjoy doing time and time again.