Nothing can prepare the novice runner for the effects that this otherwise straightforward, humble sport will have on their psyche. After a couple of runs, they’ll become hooked, not just to the runner’s high, but to the culture as a whole.
It turns out that a big part of that culture revolves around looking good while running. After all, if I’m running in public and, god forbid, I’m recognised by someone I know, then I’d better look the part. So begins a slippery slope that can transform any reasonable, level-headed person into a rabid consumer, frothing at the mouth as they inspect the latest £300 bouncy trainer that’ll shave a millisecond off their personal best.
So to simplify matters, here’s a short guide to the essential items that every runner needs. No frills, no nonsense, no flashy marketing spin. Just the stuff that you actually need.
A Smart Watch
Is it tech? Or is it fashion? Well, people tend to wear smart watches on their wrists, so I’m including it. Ever since I bought one, I’ve never gone back. Owning a device that can track your route, pace, calories burned, and more… I could go on and on.
I personally have an Apple Watch, but Garmins are excellent as well. You can customise with different straps, in a variety of colours – some of which are better than others at absorbing sweat. If I were you, I’d steer clear of fabric straps.
The Right Trainers
Now, I’m sure this is what a lot of you are here for. The meat and potatoes. Running shoes. I’ve bought too many pairs over the years to count; some were at the more affordable end of the spectrum, while others were eye-wateringly expensive.
The most expensive pair I ever bought had a £400 price tag, and they were terrible. In comparison, my first pair – easily the cheapest at £75 – were great. They got me into running and, being none the wiser at the time about my gait, running style and so on, I loved them.
If I’m being practical here, the most important takeaway on getting the right shoes is that they fit properly, feel comfortable, and have suitable cushioning to lessen the impact of long-distance runs.
An Outfit That Looks Good AND Does the Job
The outfit you choose will depend massively on your taste. But there are some essentials here too. A running vest can be practical if you need a place to store your gels, phone, and water.
For cooler times of year, a men’s or women’s tracksuit will stop you from shivering, and either a hat or headband is a must-buy for anyone whose hair likes to bounce in their eyes.
You don’t need to empty your bank account on these items. Buy with the intention of getting a season’s use out of them if you run a couple of times a week – any longer is a bonus. There are also plenty of shops and online stores where you can get these items at fairly affordable prices – like Closure London.
Closing Thoughts
It’s easy to follow the herd when it comes to fashion trends in running culture – it might give you a sense of belonging or community if you run past someone with the same vest or trainers as you. But it’s also important to recognise that you don’t need to feel pressured into buying the next big, useless thing. The essentials are all you need.
