Running Equipment

 

Must have:

• Shoes: Our friends at Bushtukah, 203 Richmond Road, will guide you by looking at your feet and helping to determine the level of support and cushioning you require. Then it's all about fit - find the most comfortable shoe in your price category. Breathability and durability are additional considerations.

• Top: Any old cotton shirt can do the trick but you will likely be more comfortable in a 'quick dry' shirt that is light and wicks the moisture away from your skin. Once wet, cotton stays wet.

• Bottom: For now any comfortable short will do though, again, you can buy specific shorts and tights for running that are light weight and quick dry.

• Socks: Same thing here again, normal ole cotton socks work fine for most but if you are going to 10k plus runs or have troubles with blisters, a technical quick dry sock would be recommended.

 

 

Could have:

• Hat: Protect yourself from the sun but make it a lightweight hat that doesn't cause you to overheat.

• Fluid System: Some like to play it safe and have their own supply of water to supplement that available on your training or racing courses. A simple water bottle belt is the choice for most.

• Watch: If you're training to run faster, a digital watch with a stopwatch feature can be useful to allow you to measure your progression.

• Heart Rate Monitor: A great investment if you know how to train using heart rate zones. The club will teach you how.

• GPS Device: The ultimate tool for the experienced runner, telling you your current pace and exact distance through use of satellite technology.

 

 

Winter Clothing:

The key is layering.  We recommend a bottom layer that is of a wicking nature so it removes the moisture from your skin, keeping you warm.  A tech t-shirt would do this, as would any of the many technical winter shirts designed for winter running and cross country skiing.  The next layer would be an insulation of some description; a fleece sweatshirt for example. 

 

Avoid any cotton at all as it loses all insulation ability once moist.  Your top layer should be a breathable jacket that can also break the wind, if it's blowing.  As far as the legs go, on a basic level, any sweat pant would do.  If you are running longer or harder though, you should consider winter running tights. 

 

For socks, we again recommend avoiding cotton and opting for a 'technical sock' (yes, there is such a thing!).  It will wick the moisture away and keep your feet warmer.  A neck tube and moisture-wicking tuque are highly recommended along with wind proof mitts.  There are some great new mitts out that are reflective for an added safety element.