I ran the #quaRUNtine half marathon this weekend and it got me thinking about running (there’s plenty of time for thinking when you run). One of the things that I really like about running is that you don’t need a lot of fancy gear. The barrier to entry is pretty minimal. All you really need is a decent pair of running shoes and some standard athletic clothes to get started.
I went quite a long time before I started investing in my workout gear and I won’t lie, it has some definite benefits. There are a couple of things that I’ve really liked using as I’ve gotten more into running. A good pair of running shoes has been vital! Also a good pair of leggings that allow movement but also have a pocket for my phone.
That’s what I wanted to share with you all today. While there isn’t much that you need to start running, there are some items that I’d like to recommend to you guys. Let’s get into it!
My Favorite Running Gear
LEGGINGS: OLD NAVY ELEVATE POWERSOFT 7/8 LEGGINGS
Leggings with pockets for the win! These have been great for running. Buttery soft leggings that aren’t too long and only $35! I’m completely in love. I have an entire review of these that you can read here. I have these in maroon and navy and I love them both. The maroon pair does show sweat stains but the navy pair doesn’t. A final thing to love about these leggings, they have three different inseam options so no matter your height, you can get great ankle-length leggings for your workouts.
HEADPHONES: BLUEPHONIC SPORT WIRELESS HEADPHONES
In 2018, I finally got a pair of Bluetooth headphones and I still love them! They were even featured on my holiday gift guide last year. They are only $30, the battery lasts forever, and they stay in your ears no matter if you’re running or weight lifting.
RUNNING SHOES: BROOKS RAVENNA
I have been wearing Brooks running shoes for years now and I am a total fan! The Ravenna 8s were the shoes that I wore when I ran my first half marathon but they are now at the 11th edition of that running shoe. If you’re a local to Seattle, you can go into their Trailhead Store and get fitted by an expert. They’ll have you run on a treadmill, analyze your gait, and get you in the best shoes for your specific needs. I can’t say enough good things about the brand. All their gear is really great.
SHORTS: C9 CHAMPION
I don’t usually work out in shorts but sometimes in the summer months, it really can’t be helped. Andrew got me a workout set (shorts and a tank) from Champion at Target for my birthday and I really like the shorts. I haven’t been wearing them much right now but once it starts to warm up, I’ll be breaking them out again.
LONG SLEEVE TOP: MEN’S 32 DEGREE CREWNECK
I actually run in long sleeves quite a bit. The only way that I’ve been able to do that is because I’ve stolen several of Andrew’s 32 Degree long sleeve shirts. They are loose-fitting (on me) and made of a really nice breathable material. I never get too warm, sweat is wicked away from my body, and I don’t have to wear sunscreen. These are my favorites for cooler early morning runs or when it’s raining.
SHORT SLEEVE TEES: OLD NAVY BREATH ON TIE BACK TEES
I really like these Old Navy tees for warmer weather runs. They are so light and airy that I never feel stuffy or confined during my workouts. They have a tie back feature so you can leave them looser like a regular tee or tie a knot in the back to make it more fitted and cropped. It’s a nice two-in-one feature. Plus they are regularly on sale for about $10.
TRAINING PLAN: IVL Running Guide
For my past two half marathons, I‘ve used this IVL Running Guide. It’s a nice guide and breaks down basically everything you need to know when it comes to running. There are plenty of free guides online as well and I’ve used the Hal Higdon plans as well. Between the two, I’ve found the IVL one easier to follow. My friend Emily also has a training plan on her Instagram account if you want another option.
SUNSCREEN: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen
I’ve been wearing Supergoop sunscreen for a while but they have recently reformulated and repackaged all their products. This Unseen Sunscreen is really nice for all your standard sunscreen needs. Their Glowscreen is better for underneath makeup since it acts as a primer.
MILEAGE APP: MapMyRun
I don’t have a fancy smartwatch so I track my pace and mileage on my phone with the MapMyRun app. It’s simple to set up and use, plus it will pause my music and let me know my time/pace/split pace/mileage at the end of every mile. Online they have a bunch more features where you can search and map out routes but I only ever really use the app.
