Running Gear & Apparel

Whether you just picked up running or are an elite runner, investing in a nice pair of running sunglasses is essential.

Picking the right pair of frames for outdoor exercise can sometimes be tricky, but no need to worry—in today’s post, I got you covered.

In today’s post, I’m providing you with the guidelines you need to find the perfect eyewear for any running distance.

Please keep in mind, I’m not gonna give you style advice, but comfort advice.

In this article, I’ll share with you the guidelines you need to help you choose the perfect pair of sunglasses for your next run.

The Dangers Of Sunlights

Our eyes are one of the vital organs—and they deserve all the protection they can get.

Not only do your eyes see shapes and distinguish between millions of colors but also regulate light signals that keep your body’s internal clock functioning properly.

So why should you wear sunglasses when running?

Excessive sun exposure can take a toll not only on your skin but on your eyes, too.

It can actually damage your eyesight in more than one way.

Without proper eye protection, excessive exposure increase your risk of developing eye problems such as from the lightest problem, foreign bodies, dry eye syndromes, to cataracts, macular degeneration, and growth on the eyes called pterygium and pinguecula.

That’s not the whole story.

The eyelids and the sensitive skin surrounding it are cancer-prone.

What’s more?

Running eyewear will also help keep the rain and elements out of your eyes during rainy weather.

Rainwater can be too acidic, causing a lot of harm.

Sports sunglasses can also protect your eyes from insects, cobwebs, leaves, branches, or any mud or dirt from getting into your eyes when running outdoor, especially on trails.

The bottom line –Proper eyewear is one of the best ways to minimize eye damage and should be part of your running kit and gear.

You don’t need to be an elite runner to grab one running glasses for you.

How To Choose The Right Running Sunglasses

Here’s what to look for when choosing running sunglasses:

Protection

The first factor to consider when choosing a pair of running sunglasses is the level of protection.

There are three types of rays emitted by the sun: UVA, UVB, and UVC— When choosing running sunglasses, look for a pair that blocks all of these ultraviolet rays.

What’s more?

Remember—Ultraviolet light can be dangerous on both sunny days and when the skies are cloudy.

So it’s best to keep your eyes protected anytime you’re running outdoors.

Running Sunglasses – Proper Fit & Comfort

Casual sunglasses may protect your eyes from sunlight, but might not stay in place when running, so another priority is getting a pair that doesn’t bounce around.

Go for what feels most comfortable for you.

Not only finding a pair of sunglasses that stay in place while running is comfortable, but can also prevent unnecessary tensing, distraction, strain, and squinting.

For instance, if you have a wide face, make sure your running sunglasses don’t pinch over the temples.

Conversely, if you have a smaller head, look for a model that fits tightly and doesn’t slip nor bounce around.

Take some attention to your nose shape too, make sure the bridge fits perfectly and not slips down when you start bouncing the ground.

Additional resource – Buy glasses online with GlassesUSA

Wraparound Running Sunglasses

UV rays can reach your eyes from all angles, so go for sunglasses that cover as much of the eye area as possible.

I’d recommend wraparound sunglasses as these offer the best coverage from side to side.

Polarized Tint

Consider getting a pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses as they’ll reduce glare, especially if you do a lot of running on paved roads or near lakes.

The polarization can reduce the glare reflected from the cars and road surfaces, allowing you to pay more attention to your run.

Wear A Hat Or Visor

Besides running sunglasses, another measure for added protection is wearing a cap or a visor.

A hat helps shade the entire top half of your face, especially the sensitive skin on the eyelids that sunglasses often fail to protect against the sun’s harmful rays.

In fact, a cap or wide-brimmed hat may block as much as half of the UV rays.

These can also hinder UV rays that strike the eyes from above or around glasses.

What’s more?

Headgear can also help absorb sweat, so it won’t get into your eyes.

You’ll also love running with a hat if you get caught running in the rain.

Conclusion

In the end, the price is not that important.

Pick a pair of running glasses with these features, not the most expensive one.

Choose comfort over the brand.

Fit over fashion.

Get it.

Looking for the best advice on how to choose running shoes for beginners? Then this article is for you.

Whether you’re running to lose weight, or training for a marathon, proper running shoes are key.

I don’t want to scare you off from the get-go, but choose the wrong running footwear, and you risk plantar fasciitis, shin splints, blisters, black toenail, and other injuries.

Your running performance will suck, too.  That’s not cool at all!

Here’s is more bad news.

With a host of price ranges, shoe types, a dizzying selection of styles and brands, trying to find a proper pair of sneakers is like looking for a needle in a haystack.

“Why things have to be this hard, David!”.

Simple: Not all runner’s needs are the same.

All sorts of things—your running style, your weight, your biomechanics, the surfaces you run on, and your running workouts—can impact shoe choice.

Not sure what all of this means?

Keep reading.

In this post, I’m sharing with you my full guide to choosing proper running shoes.

By the end, you’ll learn all you need to know about finding running shoes that fits your running needs like a perfect glove.

Let’s lace up and dig in.

The Benefits of Proper Footwear For Runners

Proof that running shoes help prevent injuries is still, surprisingly, a controversial subject in the running community.

It’s not, in fact, settled from a scientific standpoint.

But all in all, I think that shoe choice matters for injury-free and efficient training.

Let me explain.

Running shoes serve the function of protecting your feet from running’s impacts, as well as help you achieve and maintain top speed.

Problems you can avoid by choosing the right running footwear include :

• Plantar Fasciitis,
• Runners Knee,
• Knee pain,
• Ankle sprains,
• Arthritis, and
• A long list of aches, pains, and injuries.

Since you’re here reading this article, I’d bet that you also share my opinion and believe in the importance of running shoes.

How To Choose Running Shoes For Beginners

Here is the step-by-step system for choosing running shoes that suit your fitness level, body type, training goals, and personal preferences.

The Golden Rule

Guess what’s the most important factor in choosing running shoes?

To no body’s surprise, it’s actually comfort, according to a study published in the British Journal Sports Medicine.

Sure, comfort is subjective as it means different things for different runners.

It’s also not easy to measure nor to keep track of.

But, as far as I can tell, here’s what it means for me.

The ideal running pair should feel like a part of your foot, smoothly matching your specific biomechanical needs.

It’s a mismatch when it’s not the case.

That’s why I always urge my readers and running friends to try different sizes, brands, and models until they find that one that just “clicks”.

Now we got that out of the way, how do you make sure, really sure, that a shoe has passed the comfort test?

Other than running in it for a few weeks, ask yourself the following questions:

• How does the pair feel on initial contact?
• How well does it transition?
• How flexible is the shoe?
• Do you feel any rubbing/abrasion inside of the shoe or at the back of the heel?

If your answers are nothing but positive, you got yourself a winner. Congratulations!

Go to a Specialty Running Store

When looking for new running shoes, get them from a local specialty running store instead of a wholesale sporting goods store or online.

In general, special running stores hire professional staff who understand shoe construction and are experts in matching foot type and mechanics to running footwear.

This is exactly the kind of assistance you’ll need to find the right sole-mate.

Keep in mind that this whole shoe fitting process takes time, at least a half an hour.

Don’t feel rushed into making any decision.

Additional Resource – Here’s a list of the best running shoe brands.

Questions to Ask. Answers to Look for:

Once you’re in the store, be prepared to answer a long list of questions as honestly as possible.

Some of the questions include (but not limited to).

• What are your preferred running surfaces?
• What is your foot type?
• What is your gait type?
• Planning to do any trail running?
• Do you have any history of lower limb injury?
• When was it the last time you got injured?
• What are your common pains and sore areas?
• Are your feet slim or wider than normal? (sometimes they will simply ask feminine or masculine type)
• What brand, or type of shoe, have worked for you in the past?
• How many running workouts you do per week?
• Are you a forefoot striker or a heel striker?
• Do you do any sort of speedwork, faster running?
• What is your average weekly mileage?
• Are you looking for conventional or minimalist shoes?
• How much do you weigh?

If you don’t get asked some of these questions, know that you’re getting the wrong help.

Remove yourself from the premises immediately, and look for your shoes somewhere else.

That store doesn’t care about your needs; they just want to make more sales.

Additional resource – Guide to insoles for running shoes

Leave Breathing Space

As a rule of thumb, have at least a thumbnail’s width distance from the tip of the big toe—usually the longest toe—to the end of the shoe.

You should be able to play the piano with your toes.

If it’s not the case, then go up one size.

Remember that one shoe size is about 1/3 inch.

So do your math.

Also, your heel shouldn’t slip out when you walk or run.

What’s more?

Try on the new shows with any orthotics or inserts you plan to use while logging the miles to ensure that it can comfortably accommodate any add-ons.

Additional Resource – Here’s how to break in new running shoes.

Not All Feat Are Created Equal

Your right and left feet are of slightly different shapes and sizes, with one—usually the dominant one—larger than the other.

This is the reason you need to have both of your feet measured.

What’s more?

Foot size changes over time and one model can be significantly different from another, so go by what feels most comfortable, not by your “standard size.”

I’d recommend that you measure your feet for length and width at least twice a year, or whenever trying new running shoes.

You should also do this in the evening as feet tend to swell after prolonged sitting or standing.

Test Out Running Shoes

A common mistake I see beginners make is trying to cram the feet into the shoe.

That’s the wrong approach.

A shoe has to conform the shape of your feet—and anyone who tells you otherwise is lying to you.

Again, some Salespeople just want to make a commission—they don’t care about your needs.

I understand. Everyone has to make a living, but not on the back of my running comfort.

Sorry!

I’d recommend that you test out the shoe on the in-house treadmill.

Most specialty running stores provide this “free” service.

Not possible?

At the very least, ask the staff if it’s all possible to take a lap around the store or the block.

As a rule, test out four to five pairs from different models and brands and ranging in price from $75 to $110.

Don’t get fixated on just one brand—loyal consumers can be, sometimes, dumb consumers.

Additional resource – Here’s the full guide to running shoe anatomy.

Get Quality Shoes

Quality running shoes are made from superior materials that will last you longer and provide maximum support and protection.

Try to save money on poorly made shoes, and you’ll end up having to replace them sooner than planned.

These shoes won’t also offer much in terms of support and protection.

So how much?

Mid-range shoes do the trick for me.

Expect to invest at least $80 to $100 on these.

Think of this an investment in your fitness and health.

Good running shoes are worth their weight in gold if you ask me.

I cannot manage without them—neither can you.

So don’t skip.

Additional resource – Running Shoes Vs. Cross Trainers

How to Find a Cheap Pair

“Yes, David, your tips seem to fine and dandy, but good running shoes are pricey, right?

Yeah, no.

The most expensive shoe in a store doesn’t mean it’s the best option.

But, most importantly, there are many things you can do to find cheap options.

For starters, go for last year’s version of a mid or top-range shoe.

The differences won’t be that important, but you’ll, at least, get a top-shelf pair for a fraction of the price.

You can also look for bargains. Some of the places to check out when shopping for running shoes are department stores and outlet malls.

Most shoe retailers, including Nike, Adidas, and Brooks, have homes at these outlets, which means you can get your hands on those expensive pairs at a discount.

These stores also prefer to move products quickly, so they often discount the slow-selling items, such as running shoes, as well as semi-annual sales they’re always advertising.

Getting your shoes online is another option.

According to the analysis of prices from 41 online retailers conducted by RunRepeat.com, getting your shoes on, one can save you about 40 percent.

That stands for roughly $40.

Of course, this option only when you already know your feet really well.

Here are a few of my favorite shoe websites:

• Zappos –offers a wide range of running shoes with free shipping and returns.
• ShoeKicker—this handy website helps you pinpoint the lowest possible prices on shoes in one place.
• Shoebuy –comes with a price-match guarantee, meaning if you could find a better deal on another website, they’ll refund you 100 percent of the difference.

Additional resource – Running shoes for plantar fasciitis

Part 2: Determine Your Arch type

The above tips should help any beginner find proper running shoes, but if you’re looking for more advice, especially technical advice, or just want to be a self-proclaimed expert on running shoes (just like me), then the rest of this article should get you started on the right foot.

Let’s nerd out a bit.

Warning: Arch type and running gait can be a part of the shoe fitting process, but they are not the ultimate measuring stick.

If you feel like you’re being pushed into a buying a certain shoe to control your pronation, or whatever, then think twice.

Comfort first!

Mine unlike yours and yours, unlike mine.

Arch Type In Runners Explained 

When you hear people talking about foot arch, they’re mainly referring to the height of the medial arch, which tends to differ from one person to the next.

See picture.

The Foot Type Tests You Need

To determine your foot type, you can do any of the following:

1. Have a podiatrist assess your foot type.
2. Check the wear patterns on the soles of a pair of worn-in shoes.
3. Or, perform the “Wet Test.” Highly recommended.

The Wet Test For Finding Foot Type Explained

The “Wet Test” is not the most accurate arch type test, but it’s a good start, and a convenient, free, way to figure out your arch type.

Here is how to how to do it:

• Dip your foot in the bowl of water for a few seconds,
• Stand on the paper bag to show an imprint.
• Take a look at the imprint that your foot left on the brown paper bag
• Compare the imprint to the images below.

Foot Types

There are three main foot types based on the height of the medial arch.

Here there are, along with the corresponding recommended running shoes.

Additional Resource – Overpronation vs Underpronation

The Flat Arch Type

Roughly 20 percent of the populace falls into this category.

As you can see from the image, these have very low or non-visible arches. In fact, flat feet imprints display the entire sole of the foot.

In theory, having flat feet might present some serious trouble for runners, increasing the risks of heel pain, arch pain, and plantar fasciitis.

The Best Shoe?

Motion-control shoes and stability shoes.

The Medium Arch Type

Approximately 60 percent of the general population falls into this category.

The medium arch is the ideal type as it is flexible and can help you absorb a lot of impact while running.

For the most part, runners with a medium arch tend to be neutral or may overpronate on some occasions.

Also, having a medium height arch that naturally supports body weight is a sign of biomechanical efficiency, but it does not necessarily mean that they are injury-proof.

Additional resource – Running shoes for overpronators

The Best Shoe?

If you fall into this category, lucky you for because a broad range of shoe options is available, but stability shoes still the best.

You can also go for a minimalist shoe if minimalist running is something you want to try.

The High Arch Type

If your arch type belongs to this category, then your feet may pronate enough to absorb the maximum amount of shock.

Research has linked having a high arch with stress fractures, and heel pain issues since this type of foot tend to be less flexible, taking in extra impact.

Best Shoes

Runners with a high arch often, but not always, require shoes with extra cushioning.

Running Gait Demystified

Once you determine your foot arch, you’ll want want to figure your running gait cycle type.

In essence, running gait is a set of unique actions and reactions that a foot performs while in motion (whether it’s walking, running, etc.) in order to provide support, balance, and shock absorption for the body.

The most important thing about running gait that you need to understand is pronation.

Pronation Explained

Pronation is part and parcel of the natural movement of the human body.

In essence, it’s the foot’s natural inward rolling for impact distribution, following the heel striking the ground during a running gait.

Getting your head around your own pronation type is one major puzzle piece in helping you pick a comfortable running shoe.

Assessing Running Gait

Here are the two options you have to determine your running gait:

The Pro Option

The best way to determine your running gait is to have your foot analyzed by a specialist using multi-angled cameras and a treadmill.

While using these special tools, the specialist can assess your gait and measure how much your foot rolls in, or rolls out.

But this is not always an option, right?

Don’t worry.

I got you covered.

Additional resource – Should you rotate running shoes

The Home Free option

You can figure out your running gait is by checking the wear pattern on the side and the sole of a used pair of running shoes.

Here’s how:

• Place a used pair side by side on a table, toes pointing away from you,
• Look at them from eye-level behind the heel
• Compare your results to the three categories below.

Running Gait Types

As a general rule, running gait falls into three broad categories: (1) neutral, (2) overpronation, and (3) underpronation.

Here’s what each means. .

Additional resource – How to measure foot size for running shoes

Running Gait—The Neutral Gait

This is the basic neutral pronation type.

If you have a neutral gait, then you might be a biomechanically efficient runner.

A neutral gait means that your ankle, knees, and hips are all in alignment, therefore, be able to absorb impact, and reduce pressure on the joints and knees.

The Ground Contact

During the neutral gait, the outside of the heel strikes the ground first, then the foot pronates to absorb the shock and support body weight.

The Test

When a pair of used shoes do not show any inward or outward tilt and/or showing signs of wear down the middle of the sole, it usually indicates a neutral gait.

Common in

Runners with medium arches, as you can already tell.

Best Running Shoes?

I highly recommend a stability shoe or neutral shoe.

Additional Reading  – Your guide to the heel to toe drop.

Running Gait—The Overpronation Gait

As I have already stated, all runners pronate—to one degree or the other.

The forward roll of the foot following a foot strike helps distribute the shock of impact, reducing the risks of overuse injury in the process.

So, a little pronation is a good thing.

But a little too much can be problematic, resulting in overpronation, which is an exaggerated form of the foot’s natural inward roll.

The Ground Strike

During the overpronation gait, the foot lands on the outside of the heel, then pronates excessively inward, transferring the shock of the impact to the inner edge of the foot instead of the ball.

In theory, if you tend to overpronate, then you are risking knee pain and injury.

The Test

If the shoes have a slight or a substantial inward tilt along with signs of wear on the inside by the big toe, then you might have an overpronation running gait.

Common in

This gait type is mostly common among flat-footed and/or low arch runners.

Best Running Shoes?

The type of shoe you need depends on the degree to which you overpronate.

Stability shoes works very well for mild-overpronators.

But if you severely over-pronate, go for  motion control running footwear.

Additional resource – How to recycle old running shoes

Running Gait—The Underpronation Gait

Also known as supination, if you underpronate, then this means that your foot rolls out during a running gait.

Foot Strike

The outside edge of the heel strikes the ground at an increased angle but does not roll inward during the gait cycle.

This causes a massive transmission of shock through the lower limbs.

This results in insufficient impact reduction upon landing, putting a lot of pressure on the leg.

Some of the common injuries among underpronators include shin splints, ankle sprains, and plantar fasciitis.

Doesn’t sounds nice, right?

Here’s the full guide to under pronation

The Test

If your shoes have a slight or a significant outward tilt along with wear patterns on the outside edge of the sole, then chances you have an underpronation/supination running gait.

Common in

Runners with high arches are likely to be supinators.

Best Running Shoes?

I highly recommend neutral shoes with adequate cushioning properties for increased shock absorption.

Measure your arch really well so you can add sufficient cushion.

Shoe Types

As I have already stated, running shoes come in many different sizes, shapes, and levels of stability.

With all that being said, here are the main types of running shoes to consider before making a purchase:

Stability Shoes

Stability shoes feature a good dose of medial support and midsole cushioning and are perfect for runners who exhibit mild to moderate overpronation.

Motion Control Shoes

If you tend to exhibit moderate to serious overpronation, then motion control shoes are what you need.

These come in with extra built-in support and flatter outsoles—the exact mix you need to ward off excessive pronation and providing sufficient stability to the feet.

Neutral Running Shoes

If you are looking for minimum medial support and maximum midsole cushioning, then neutral running shoes are the best choice.

Neutral running shoes provide a bit of medial (arch-side) support and midsole cushioning for extra shock absorption ability.

In fact, some brands of super-cushioned shoes can provide as much as 50 percent extra cushioning than standard shoes.

Barefoot Running Shoes

For the most part, most barefoot running shoes have no cushion in the heel pad.

They also come with a very thin layer of the shoe between the ground and the skin.

Just keep in mind that with this type of running shoes, you’ll be provided with the bare minimum when it comes to protection from the elements and potential risks on the ground.

Additional Resource – Here’s how to dry running shoes.

Running Surfaces And Running Shoe Choice

Oh boy!

One down and some more to come!

Another thing you need to consider—especially when it comes to making your shoes last as long as possible while providing maximum protection—is the type of terrain and/or surfaces you’ll be running on.

Here are the main running surfaces to consider along with the ideal type of a shoe for each terrain.

Classic Road Running Shoes

If you are like the majority of recreational runners out there and tend to run on paved roads, indoor tracks, and/or packed trails, then classic road shoes are all you need.

Most classic road shoes have flexible outsoles and are fortified to provide enough cushioning during repetitive strides on hard, even terrains—think paved surfaces—flat and hard surface.

Trail Running Shoes

If you trail run often, consider investing in a trail running shoe.

As the name, Trail shoes are designed for the beaten and off-road paths.

These surfaces are usually peppered with mud, roots, rocks, gnarls, and other (injury causing) obstacles.

Most trails running shoes are fortified with a much denser rubber outsoles than the standard road shoe.

They are also designed to provide better tread and superior grip, which can provide better control on softer, often slippery or uneven terrains.

Cross-trainers

If you’re in the market for a sports shoe for the gym, or CrossFit workouts, then go for cross-training shoes.

Most cross-trainers are designed to have more contact with the ground or floor.

As a runner, you’ll be doing plenty of cross-training workouts.

For that, check my page here.

It got all sorts of strength training, yoga workout, and everything in between that you need to become a well-rounded runner.

Here’s the full guide running shoes anatomy.

Take Care of Your Running Shoes

As I have explained in a previous post, running shoes are not invincible.

According to most experts, a pair of running shoes should last between 400 to 500 miles—that’s roughly four to six months for recreational runners.

Once the shoe is past this mileage range, it’s compromised and using it puts you at risk for injury.

And you don’t want that.

Luckily, there are many things you can to make the most miles out of running shoes.

In fact, take good care of them, and they’ll last much longer.

Let’s look at a few measures.

Use your Running Shoes for Running only

The average pair has a lifespan of around 400 to 500 miles.

Every trip to the grocery store, Zumba class, tacks on the miles, and eventually contribute to the downfall of your favorite shoes.

Yes, it’s an exclusive relationship!

Your running journal should keep you honest.

Here’s how often to replace running shoes.

Wash Your Running Shoes

Sure, you won’t necessarily deteriorate your shoes faster if you do not keep them clean, but you will definitely if you clean and dry them improperly.

Never put your running shoes in the washing machine.

Instead, get the dirt off the shoes by wiping them down with a shoe brush or a dry cloth after use.

Let your sneakers air dry completely instead of placing them near a heater vent or tossing them in the dryer.

Never use chlorine or peroxide to clean up.

Soak them for a moment with gentle detergent is enough.

Additional Resource – Here’s your guide to running shoes for flat feet.

Rotate Your Running Shoes often

Do not wear the same running pair two days in a row.

They need time to air out and bounce back.

By doing so, you extend the lifespan of your shoes.

So, for instance, if you’re logging in serious miles in preparation for a longer race, consider rotating two—or more—pairs of shoes during the same season.

This is also helpful for tailoring the specific shoe for the type of run.

Storing Your Running Shoes

Exposing your running shoes to extreme temperatures and elements can cause severe strain on the shoes.

Storing your shoes in your box after use, car trunk during the summer heat, or outside when temperatures are freezing is the fastest way to break them down.

Instead, store them in moderate temperature, preferably in an open area where they can air dry and breathe.

Remember, microbes living there too.

Here are are more tips on how to make your running shoes last longer.

How To Choose Running Shoe For Beginners  – The Conclusion

There you have it.

The above guidelines will surely help you to find your perfect sole mate and budget-friendly.

You need to take action, and the rest is just details.

Don’t be afraid to ask the expert before you decide on your own.

In the meantime, thank you for dropping by.

Keep running strong.

Running is one of the most convenient and simple forms of aerobic exercises in the world.

You can do it virtually anywhere without needing a gym or fancy gear.

That said, technology can improve almost everything we do—running is no exception.

Thanks to the massive growth of fitness wearable technology, running gadgets have become a training necessity.

Whether you’re looking to measure your training data, have the upper hand over your competition, or you want to put technology to your advantage, many gadgets will meet your needs and help you reach your goals.

The Running Gadgets You Need To Have

In today’s post, I’ve put together a list of the must-have running-related gadgets and tools to help you run your best for the year ahead.

With these gadgets, you can keep track of your pace, monitor your heart rate, protect your body, learn how to be efficient, and so much more.

Enjoy

1. A GPS watch with Heart Rate Monitor

If you’re into analyzing training metrics, you’ll love GPS watches.

With a GPS watch, you can track all kind of information.

You can monitor your pace, training time, distance, calorie burn, and how to get back to the starting point, and so much more.

Also, look for sweat-resistant rubber watch straps that won’t irritate your skin while you’re working out.

This makes them great for a variety of different exercises—not just running.

Your exact choice is a matter of your training goals and budget.

Remember that the most expensive brand isn’t always the best gadget for achieving your running goals.

The Price

You can find GPS watches in a wide range of prices and style—guaranteed to fit any budget or personal preference.

The usual prices range from around $100 and run s high as $1000 or more.

The more you spend, the more features you get.

2. Wireless Headphones

Research has revealed that listening to music while exercising can keep you in the zone for longer and help you improve your training performance and experience.

That’s one reason why investing in a proper set of running headphone is worth it.

That said, your standard smartphone earbuds do not make the cut.

Instead, you’ll need a set of proper running wireless headphones if you’re serious about making the most out of music when running.

Ask yourself the following when choosing your next running headphone:

• Are they waterproof/sweatproof?
• Are the volume controls easily adjustable?
• Are they compatible with running apps?
• Are they light enough that they won’t bounce around while running?
• Do they provide a secure fit so you can get lost in the music while pounding the pavement?

If a given set does not meet a couple of more of these requirements, then keep looking.

Additional resource – Prescription Glasses for runners

The Price

Again, there are many wireless bud options for runners in a wide range of prices and styles.

It’s all up to you and how much you’re willing to shell out on a pair.

In general, they can set you back by $40 to $150.

Remember to give them a test run inside the store before you make the purchase.

3. Knuckle Lights

If you have a full-time job and kids to look after, hitting the pavement early morning or later in the evening are often the only options you got for logging in your miles.

If you want to ensure excellent visibility when braving the dark outdoors, then knuckle lights are precisely what you need.

Knuckle Lights are designed to be worn on the outermost part of the hands, in the ideal position to illuminate the entire area in front of you.

Make sure to pick ones that are lightweight, waterproof, and come with adaptable straps so you can make them fit comfortably around your knuckles while running.

Price Range

Expect to pay about $30 to $40 for a good set of knuckle lights.

4. Foam Roller

Pounding the pavement places your muscles and fascia under a constant process of breakdown.

This can cause inflammation and irritation to the connective tissues surrounding your muscles, resulting in tight muscles and a host of mobility issues.

Here’s the good news.

Known as “poor man’s massage,” foam rolling is exactly what you need to fix this damage.

This handy tool can help you dig deep into your muscles to break up scar tissue, speed up recovery, and improve overall mobility.

Foam rolling is a type of self-myofascial release, or in other words, a soft tissue massage.

It places pressure on the soft tissue to increase blood flow, release tightness, promote muscle recovery, and so much more.

More specifically, the foam roller directly targets your facia.

This is a fibrous layer of connective tissues that encloses all of the muscles in your body.

The Price

Unlike some of the other items, a foam roller is pretty affordable, costing about $10 to $30, depending on the size you want.

5. Yaktrax

Are you a serious runner who wants to keep hitting the pavement all year long?

I got the perfect solution for that.

Yaktrax devices consist of slips that attach themselves to your running shoes.

These provide enough grip to allow for walking and running on ice and/or snow-covered streets and trails.

This should increase training consistently and keep your training year-round.

A good set should be super light to the point that they don’t interfere with your stride.

Price Range

Yaktrax devices are priced within the $20 to $40 range.

6. A Running Belt

A running belt is more than a fashion statement.

It’s is a training necessity that helps store your water bottle, iPod, keys, and pretty much anything else you’d need to bring along while running.

Choose a belt that sits comfortably against your body so that you don’t have to worry about it bouncing around on every step you take.

The belt should have adjustable straps and buckles.

Price Range

Prices differ widely starting from $10 to up to $50 or more, depending on your own needs and preferences.

Conclusion

There you have it!

The above gear items are some of my best suggestions if you want to use a few tools to improve your running experience and training without breaking your bank.

Make sure to pick whatever gadget you feel like you need it the most in your life.

The rest is just detail.

Please feel free to leave your comments and questions in the section below.

In the meantime, thank you for reading my post.

Keep running strong

David D.