If you’re just starting out as a runner, you have many happy miles ahead of you! It’s easy to get started and you don’t really need any specialist kit, just a good pair of running shoes to begin with. As you develop your running habit, you’ll find out what your preferences are and choose running clothing that works for you. In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of running clothes available and share our tips on how to find your new favourites.
Here at The Edge, we have a wide range of running clothes for men and women, and we have running shoes and socks that will enhance performance and comfort. Our friendly team will be happy to share their expertise to help you find the best options when you pop in and see us in-store.
Running Clothes for Beginners
If you are learning to enjoy running, you may find it helpful to follow an introductory programme such as Couch to 5K to help teach you how to manage your breathing and build up your stamina and speed gradually. These programmes will also reassure you that you do not need to have a great deal of equipment to get started and that any comfortable clothing will do.
When you start running, you can wear any kind of shorts, trousers or leggings that are comfortable and stretchy, and a top or t-shirt that is breathable. If you have a large chest, you may find that you need a good sports bra to run comfortably as it is essential that you feel well supported when you exercise. The most important consideration is your shoes, as these will support your feet – and therefore your whole body – as you run and this is vital to prevent foot pain and injury. Your running shoes should be fitted by a professional, who will ensure that they fit the contours of your feet and give you support and cushioning in all the right places.
Developing the Running Habit
As you become more confident and experienced with your running, you will begin to develop preferences for the type of running you enjoy most. For instance, you may prefer running on roads or you might like trail running in your local countryside. You might even get the running bug in a big way and fancy training for a marathon or ultra event as a future goal!
Depending on the type of running you enjoy, you will probably want to invest in some of the essential running clothing that can make it a more pleasant experience. You should also ensure that your running shoes are suited to the terrain you run on most regularly. If you are running in all weather, you will need to consider protecting yourself against the elements, and if you plan to run all year round, some insulating layers can make a big difference to your comfort in the winter!
Running Clothing You’ll Love
There are many different types of clothing designed for running, and finding your favourites can help you streamline your running and improve your speed and performance. If you like to listen to music or podcasts as you run, it’s a good idea to ensure that you have suitable pockets to accommodate your device and earphones, and wearing just one earphone is good practice to keep yourself safe if you are running near traffic. We’ll take a look at the essentials most runners wear and share some of our most popular choices:
- Running jackets. A running jacket is a must-have for all-weather running, especially in a changeable climate like ours in Ireland. There are many things to look out for when you’re choosing a running jacket, including high visibility features and pockets for your phone and running gloves. The fabrics used in running jackets are technologically advanced to improve the way sweat wicks away from the body and they are designed to be fast-drying and non-restrictive. The Ronhill Women’s Tech Fortify Jacket is a brilliant choice that combines protection and comfort, giving you a lightweight solution to running in the rain. It has a handy chest pocket and the hood is designed to mould to your head so that it doesn’t obstruct your view of the road or trail ahead.
- Running gloves. Running gloves are a staple for runners in Ireland, especially in the cooler months, and a pair that is breathable yet warm can make all the difference to your comfort as you run. Ronhill Night Runner Gloves are an excellent option for low-light conditions and will keep your hands warm in the early mornings and evenings all year round. With thermal protection and reflective fabrics, these will help to avoid the pain of stinging hands that can often affect runners when it’s cold or wet.
- Running trousers. There are several different types of running trousers available and your preferences will be your biggest influence as you find the best options for you. You may find leggings more comfortable, as they streamline your silhouette, or you may prefer jogging bottoms that offer a thicker, warmer solution for all-year-round running. We love comfortable joggers with an elasticated waistband for ease, and these Under Armour Men’s UA Rival Fleece Pants are an ideal choice, light and soft with pockets for convenience. Shorts may be a better option in warmer weather, especially if you tend to feel too hot when you are running, and we have a good selection to choose from.
- Running Tops. There are many different types of running tops, including those made from intelligent fabrics to help regulate your temperature and wick sweat away, keeping you cool and comfortable. When running, you want to ensure that you have an optimum range of movement and this means a stretchy fabric that will adapt to your body. Breathability is key, and many of our favourite designs have mesh panels and compartments to give you the flexibility to cope with any weather. This Under Armour Women’s UA Empowered Crew has long sleeves so it’s a great choice for the winter, but be sure to add some high visibility stripes or a jacket that will ensure you are easily visible to drivers.
- Compression. Compression socks and supports are very popular with runners, providing the boost you need to get the best performance. Compression clothing utilises technology that provides medically controlled, graduated compression on the feet and legs, stimulating blood flow to reduce swelling and fatigue in the muscles. This supports the muscle regeneration process helps with toxin elimination, and can be worn during or after exercise. We love the high-performance Compressport Full Socks Recovery, which is full-length compression socks with 3D dots placed in the foot and Achilles areas to boost blood flow and give a gentle micro-massage. Some runners do not like the feel or effects of compression clothing so don’t worry if this is not for you!
- Accessories. Our range includes many accessories that will make your running more enjoyable, and these can be added to personalise your running clothing and adapt to the season. A cap can be a useful addition to your summer running gear, protecting you against sunburn and absorbing sweat. A headband or visor can also be a great way to secure your hair and absorb sweat, helping to keep you comfortable as you run. We love buffs, or neck warmers, which are an excellent way to stay warm when you run in colder weather. This gorgeous Buff Merino Lightweight Neckwear in Dusty Blue is a very good choice to wick away sweat with ethically sourced Merino wool that is naturally odour-resistant and can help regulate your temperature. A beanie hat is another essential for many runners during the colder months and we have a great selection to choose from.
Whatever you are looking for, we are sure to have a good selection of running clothing to choose from and our friendly team will be happy to make recommendations according to your preferences.
Find Great Running Clothing in Ireland
When you’re looking for running clothing for men or running clothing for women, a visit to The Edge will help you find everything you need. You can order online for convenience or visit us in-store to find our full range and take advantage of our recommendations. We have running jackets, running trousers, running leggings, running tops and running socks, all designed to optimise your performance and ensure that you are comfortable while you are exercising.
At The Edge, we aim to bring you all the outdoor adventure equipment you need, including top-quality equipment for biking, swimming, running and surfing. We have a wide range of mountain bikes, electric bikes, traditional road bikes and hybrid bikes, as well as surfboards, wetsuits and triathlon kits. Visit our website to find out more or pop in and chat with our experienced team in store.
