Key Features That Make the Best Running Clothes
When you’re out running, it's important to have the right gear to keep you on track, motivated and beating your personal best. Running clothing has advanced properties that can help you get the best from your time at the gym, on the pavement, or at the track. We take a look at some of the qualities you should look for in running clothes.
Moisture-wicking
When running, you’re going to get hot and sweaty; getting as much of that moisture away from your body as possible is essential to enhance your performance. Feeling wet whilst taking part in any activity isn’t pleasant. Moisture-wicking takes the wetness from your body and traps it in the fabric, leaving you feeling dry even when you’re running your hardest on a hot day. Always look for moisture-wicking properties when buying running clothing.
Mesh vents
Mesh vents allow air to enter the hot spots on your body, which can help keep you cool, allowing you to run faster for longer without becoming too hot. Mesh vents are typically found on the back, sides and under the arms of running tops. Look out for mesh vents if you like the idea of a cool breeze whilst running.
Quick-drying
As well as moisture-wicking, the fabric you wear during running should quickly dry. This is helpful in bad weather and for drying sweat. The moisture is wicked away from your body and then quickly dries, leaving you cool and comfortable. When running in showers, you can soon become comfortable again; as soon as the rain stops, your running clothes will dry quickly, so you can keep on running.
Reflectivity
This might not be such an issue if you’re running at the gym or in the daylight, but reflectivity is vital for those more dedicated runners that run at night and when it’s getting dark. Cars are much more likely to see a runner in reflective clothing, so you’ll be safer and be seen if anything does happen.
Ethical material
For many runners, where they get their clothing from and the working environment of the people who make their running gear is very important. Ethical running clothes are easy to find; you can buy running clothes made from recyclable fabrics, natural materials, vegan running clothes, sportswear made in the UK and much more. You should always buy running clothes that fit your values.
Pockets
If you’re carrying valuables, try to find running shorts, jackets or tops with zipped pockets, these will help keep your items safe and secure even during your top speeds. No matter where you are running, pockets are really useful for carrying your phone, key or water bottle. You often find running leggings or shorts with concealed pockets, but you can also buy running tops and jackets with pockets for your belongings.
Sun protection
UV protective running gear is essential for runners who love to heat things up and run outside when the sun is beating down. It not only covers your body but is proven to protect your skin against the harmful effects of the sun. You should always wear sunscreen on any areas exposed to the sun; in combination with UV-protective running clothes, you’ll protect yourself against sun damage.
Compression shorts
Compression shorts can help to reduce the onset of muscle soreness and chafing. Many athletes and casual runners swear by the benefits of compression running shorts. They’re not only really comfortable to run in but can help your body recover faster and train harder. Try adding some compression shorts to your next run, they can be challenging to get on, but once you’re used to them, you’ll find they have many great benefits.
Running clothing continuously evolves to adapt and find new ways to help the wearer. We expect there will be more developments in the world of running gear that will help to improve performance, reduce muscle soreness and fatigue and increase your personal best. When it comes to running, you don’t need to be an athlete to benefit from running clothing; even those runners who occasionally hit the treadmill as part of their weekly training schedule can benefit from running apparel with some of these properties.
Resources:
Sustainable Sportswear UK - Taiga
Ethical Activewear - Journo Portfolio