5 pieces of equipment necessary for all runners

Dubai Marathon 2017 : News Photo
Proper equipment makes running comfortable, safe and effective

Running is often regarded as a low maintenance sport, where one may not require a host of fancy and expensive equipment or gear. But, when it comes to regular runners, it is critical that they have certain items marked off a checklist in order to make their runs more comfortable, safe and effective.

Sportskeeda looks at five basic pieces of equipment necessary for all runners:


#1 The correct pair of shoes

The first and foremost thing for a runner is to invest money in a good pair of running shoes. "Every time you put your foot down while you're running, imagine that weight times three, because that's the amount of force you're generating when you're running no matter how fast or slow you're going," Mary Arnold of JackRabbit Sports was quoted as saying to The Huffington Post.

"Without the proper footwear to help absorb some of your repeated exposure to that amount of force, that's going to over time make it more likely that you would have an injury."

Thus, it is of prime importance to have the right pair of shoes, which are snug and well-fitting, almost tailored to one’s foot. The perfect pair of shoes will make your foot feel lighter while running, as it will mould into the shape of your foot.

Furthermore, it will also help reduce the friction caused by rubbing your heel against the back of the shoe, thus preventing the onset of blisters. The best way to pick the right pair of shoes is to go to a store which has in-store machines that map the shape/type of your foot and accordingly help you select the appropriate pair.

#2 Hydration gear

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Hydration is extremely important in running

It primarily refers to hydration belts or fuel belts that athletes prefer to run with during longer races or extreme weather conditions. Another factor why all runners should run with a hydration belt is the fact that one can never be sure about the availability of facilities like water fountains on the course or more importantly, the kind of fluids that are served by the organisers.

Hence, with a hydration belt, the runners can ensure that they have the ideal drink for their body, not over-concentrated or over-diluted. Moreover, it helps them save valuable time as they can consume their own fuel as per their own requirements without having to wait at aid stations.

#3 Running jacket

A perfect running jacket is a must

When it comes to outdoor running, in weather conditions which are slightly on the cooler side, it becomes important to wear a jacket that helps you maintain your body temperature, so that you stay warm and run in comfort.

The best kinds of jackets are the ones that are adequately insulated and waterproof, which will ensure that cold winds/water is locked out while body heat is maintained. Other than that, it should contain ideal mesh ventilation that helps control body temperature and circulate air while the runner is in motion.

#4 Tracks/shorts

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Shorts must be comfortable and fit well

Depending on the weather, a runner should decide whether he/she prefers running tracks that cover the entire legs from waist to the ankle or just knee-length shorts. However, in order to feel most comfortable while running, it is essential that the tracks or shorts are made of “technical material” that help in pulling away sweat and moisture from the skin and thereby avoid chafing.

One should look for materials other than cotton, preferably nylon/lycra which are light-weight and help one stay cool during the summers and warm during the winters.

#5 Visibility gear

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Sunglasses are a must

With many people preferring to run during dawn or late in the evenings, it becomes mandatory for runners to wear reflective clothing in order to remain visible to motorists in low-light conditions. Hence one should wear white or bright fluorescent colours which have an inherently reflective nature.

Besides this, one should also have headlamps, knuckle lights or flashlights which help car drivers spot the runner while also helping the athlete themselves see the ground in front of them, thus preventing them from falling or tripping.

On the other hand, while running during the day, sunglasses are of prime importance because they shield the runners’ eyes from UV rays helping them see the course better. Moreover, a good pair of shades will also help in keeping out the dirt, dust and pollen off one’s eye.

Edited by Staff Editor