This round-up of what should be in the running gear repertoire for women will be most helpful for beginner runners as well as veterans looking to top-up equipment for the new year.
Whether you’ve been running for a while or have just taken up the sport, knowing what you need to buy to enhance your run can be a daunting task.
In this blog post, I share some pointers for picking good running gear for women as well as great accessories that will make your run less boring and something you look forward to.
Picking out running gear should not be an overly complex activity. Once you have your running shoes sorted, all the other gear can be relatively straightforward.
The key here is choosing a few good quality and stylish items then getting out there and having fun.
Running Gear For Women
Here is a compilation of the most critical items that you’ll need for running and things to keep in mind about each one plus some retailer suggestions:-
Running Shoes
Whether you’re training for a marathon or running for weight loss, the right shoes are important for providing a foundation for your body.
Great running shoes also prevent injuries and make those miles appear much shorter than they are. Additionally, you want proper support, cushioning, and stability.
There are several types of running shoes available for road running, trail running, and cross-training.
For the purpose of this article, I will focus on road running shoes. Whichever running shoe you choose, the most important thing is that it fits properly from the start.
If you have to break in running shoes, then they are not a good fit. Some great running shoe recommendations for women include:-
Running Shorts, Leggings, and Tops
When picking clothing for running, the first rule is to avoid clothing made from cotton.
Cotton gets heavy when it gets wet, and not only does this feel terrible, cotton typically refuses to dry once it gets wet.
Wet cotton clothing can especially be a problem on a cold day if you stop running, as your body temperature will come down, and this could lead to hypothermia.
Instead, try to pick out technical fabrics for running clothing. Look for materials like DriFit or fitness clothing that is made from polyester or synthetic blends. These garments will be lightweight and will dry quickly.
You also want bottoms with pockets for your phone, ID, and keys. Some excellent running bottoms and tops for women include:-
Sports Bra
Apart from providing good support, your sports bra should be made from materials similar to your running top and bottoms.
Running Gear – Socks
Socks are a critical piece of equipment because they form the barrier between your feet and your shoes.
A sock that doesn’t fit correctly can cause blisters. Also, it is best to avoid wearing cotton socks because cotton becomes abrasive when it gets wet, and this also causes blisters.
A snug-fitting synthetic sock that doesn’t slip around or bunch up is going to be the best bet for most runners.
You want to wear a pair of socks you don’t have to think about while you’re running.
Some excellent running socks recommendations for women include:-
Running Gear – Cap or Visor
Most runners definitely need to put something on their heads, especially when it is hot outside.
A light running hat or visor keeps the sun out of your face and keeps the sweat from running down into your eyes.
In cold weather, a hat will also help keep your head and ears warm. Some great running cap recommendations for women include:-
Running Gear – Hydration Belt
As you run further, you’ll need something to carry electrolyte replacement fluids. This can be as simple as carrying a bottle in your hand. However, this can get tedious.
The best option is a hydration belt. Hydration belts hold fluids, phones, energy bars, and more if required. Some of them also come with bottles.
When shopping around for a hydration belt, get one designed for running. These go around your waist rather than over your shoulders.
An over-the-shoulder pack will most likely bounce up and down as you run and get in the way. Some great hydration belts for running include:-
Running Gear – Watches and Pace/Distance Monitors
As you run longer distances, it becomes more and more important to keep track of the duration of your run, calories burned, liquids required, etc.
Get a good sports watch with a 50 to 100 lap memory. Most runners do not need a heart rate monitor unless they are cross-training in multiple sports.
Some excellent sports watches and pace/distance monitor recommendations include:-
Jackets
Running jackets are ideal for chilly days or if you’re going to be running during winter.
The best running jackets are lightweight, water-repellant, windproof. It’s ideal if it’s also loose fitting and keeps you comfortable and dry in drizzle and flurries.
Running Safety
If you will be running in the early mornings, evenings, or low visibility weather, then you definitely need some safety gear on your person.
These could be reflective slap bands, reflective vests, or reflective lights around your foot. Some good recommendations include:-
Running Gear – Sunglasses
Do you live in a year-round sunny place (lucky you) or run during summer? Then you’ll definitely need a good pair of sunglasses.
You want the lightweight kind that won’t bounce around your face as you run even when you’re sweating. Some popular sunglasses for running include:-
Related Content: Home Gym Set Up Ideas
Running Gear FAQs
How Much Running Gear Do I Need?
You only need the basics recommended in this article. Don’t get too caught in buying tons of gear that cost a lot of money and you barely use.
Buy according to the season and time of day you plan to run as well as the terrain you will be running on.
How To Store Running Gear?
I have a handy bin box like this one for storing my walking gear and a dedicated space in my bedroom for hanging my clothes.
You can also store them in small bags and if you have the space, you can dedicate a little drawer or shelf to them in your apartment.
I hope this compilation of running gear basics has been helpful and will give you a platform to make the best decisions for your training.
Abi is all about staying in the best shape of your life at every age without having to starve yourself to make it happen. She’s been on her fitness journey since the age of 15 and doesn’t plan on letting up anytime soon. She’s currently studying to become a Certified Nutritionist. Learn more about Abi and her favorite fitness tools HERE. See our Editorial Guidelines here.
This post may contain affiliate links which means I will make a small commission if you purchase through those links. Read full disclosure HERE.