Since I’m going ahead full force with my 12 races in 12 months for 2011, most of which will be running, I thought I’d take the time to share with you my favorite running gear. Its not like I’ve tried everything there is out there (and I’m always looking for suggestions/upgrades/recommendations), but this is what works for me thus far (especially on my super awesome graduate student budget!).
For starters, shoes. I swear by two different pairs of shoes, depending on the distance. For shorter distances I don Brooks Addiction.
source: www.runningshoeswizard.com
For my longer distances, I look to Mizuno’s Wave Precision.
source: www.activegearreview.com
I choose these two shoes because I pronate a lot (I tore my acl, mcl and cartilage in my right knee when I was 16 due to over-pronation, rotation and lack of stability muscle strength in my leg while playing soccer), and these shoes offer the support (non-collapsing arch) I need when I run. I also have orthotics I put in my shoes for additional support, but that is just an extra precaution I take because I would like to keep my knee – two surgeries before 21 is enough for me 
For socks I swear by Smartwool’s lightweight running socks for women. I own five or six pairs, and need like five or six more. They’re seriously incredible, and they’re the only socks I have not gotten blisters from. Absolutely incredible. I will say though, that once they start getting loose, i.e. the elastic starts wearing out, you need to replace them or you may start getting massive arch blisters.
source: www.artistansocks.com
Next, my shorts/running compression tights. I’m normally not a specific brand girl, but my favorite pairs of running shorts and running compression tights have been Asics. For the marathon I wore my *new* orange Asics running shorts, which I love for the three mesh pockets they have in the back, and my other pair of Asics are blue with side pockets and a hidden key pocket. For me, and my need to fuel up on runs longer than 8 miles, pockets are very very necessary.
The only running compression tights I have tried have been the Asics Inner Muscle Knee tights, which are advertised as helping keep women’s hips and knees in alignment during running. I can’t say that I notice they’re helping me, but I love the way they feel (its almost like wearing nothing ), and the way I run in them – so they must be doing something for me!
source: www.sportscrazyforum.com
As for my sports bras, I used to swear by the Champion Maximum Control Powerback Underwire Sports Bra, but once I started running longer than 10-12 miles, I started getting chaffing (really bad chaffing) in between the ladies. So, after Julia recommended Moving Comfort sports bras, I indulged two days before the marathon (yes I wore something for the first time on Marathon day) and bought the Moving Comfort Helena Bra.
source: www.buzz.snow.com
Verdict?!
Best.Purchase.I.May.Have.Ever.Made.Period.
I ran 26.2 miles in a sports bra that had never been tried out, washed or even really researched about, and I had no chaffing at all. It was even raining so chaffing would’ve been more likely than normal! And, I have been wearing it on all my runs since, and the chaffing as continued to stay away. Unless I ever find a better sports bra (I’m thinking I probably won’t), this is going to be my go-to for running. If only I had the disposable income to start investing in more…
Hey Moving Comfort want to sponsor me?
And finally my tops. I will be the first to admit: For the most part, I don’t buy running/sports shirts. I usually just wear t-shirts/shirts from races that I’m now starting to collect. The only things I have invested in are a few dry-fit long sleeve shirts (I have one Asics and one Brooks for night time running – I’m really indifferent to brand because they’re usually a top layer) as those don’t seem to come from races very often. I wear shirts like this one:
The only other running shirt I’ve purchased ever, I think, is the Nike Women’s Marathon shirt I ran to run those 26.2 miles in when I realized I had only grabbed a tank and long sleeve shirt… My reasoning? I don’t need to look cute when I can look like a running race junkie – and its not like I need to impress anyone, I’ve already got Mr. K fooled
What are you go-to clothes for running or working out? Do you swear by specific brands for certain items?
I am extremely brand loyal when it comes to my workout clothes…I only wear Under Armour shirts because they are not too tight and breathe really well…and I only wear Asics socks, etc.
I also would never wear another sports bra that wasn’t by Moving Comfort. They have changed my life.
They have changed my life too. Once you go Moving Comfort, you never go back
Do you know a good place to get Under Armour for cheap? I’ve always wanted to try something from them, but I can never find a good deal!
i am quite certain your best purchases ever have been those running shorts. at least from my view(point).
thanks, i think?!
i def dont go by brand… except for shoes!! asics!.. .but other than that i just go by what is comfy and what i will enjoy workin out in!
I second the Smartwool sock recommendation. I have a few different thicknesses for warmer/colder weather, but they’re not completely blister-proof. I had one race weekend last year with some heavy trail running and I had a couple big blisters at the end. Also, application of Body Glide in key areas is my preferred way to beat chafing. Won’t leave for a long run without it.
I didn’t have that great of luck with body glide…which type did you use? I hear there are differences…?
You’ve got to check out Gracie’s Gear! http://www.graciesgearandtraining.com. My favorite stuff. Designed by a woman marathon runner for women. My favorite are the long running tanks. Only thing I wear for running now! (Well, with shorts too, obviously). Gracie sells them at marathons around the country – hope you run into her sometime!
I’m underarmour all the way for running boyshort underwear. They are incredible!