Browsing other runner blogs, I notice there are lots of recommendations for the right gear to wear. There’s one really good reason for that: money.
For some people, blogging is more than a hobby or a waste of time. Sponsored content and affiliate links turn readers into patrons and words into dollar bills—or direct deposit since no one actually uses cash anymore.
You might have noticed that I’ve never tried to sell you anything and it’s true! My goal as the Irreverent Runner is to provide you with posts that are authentic, honest, and funny. I’m not here to make money. (And actually, after this post, I may not be here at all since my course requirements are officially accomplished and I can go back to a life of relative oblivion and obscurity.)
When I talk about gear that works, I’m talking about products and clothing that I use and that haven’t been given to me in exchange for reviews.
Okay, stepping off that little soap box for some content.
I hate—I mean really hate—shopping for clothes. The women’s department is particularly awful because instead of measurements based off inches—like men’s clothing—we have random numbers meant to indicate size, but they aren’t regulated. A size two in one brand might be baggy while a size six in another won’t make it past my thighs. It’s annoying, depressing, and why I avoid shopping for new clothes.
I still have—and wear—the clothes I wore when I ran 30 miles on my 30th birthday (that was seven years ago, which is enough time for every cell in the body to die and be replaced, which means I’m a totally new person wearing someone else’s clothes.)
Here’s the breakdown of the outfit I wore and why I chose each piece. You’ll notice, there aren’t any links, that’s because these items are so old they can no longer be purchased:
Champion pants—the fabric is thick, but breathable which makes them ideal for cold days. Unlike runner tights—which I can’t wear because I have legs and not toothpicks—they don’t cut off the circulation. They’re tight enough to give my muscles and knees the extra support they need when running long distance and flexible enough to provide comfort the whole way.
Nike tank—This is the only Nike item I own, so I’m not promoting the brand here, but there are lots of reasons why I love this tank.
a) It’s extra-long. If you wear a backpack while you run, you’ll need something that will stay in place—bunched up clothing is not fun. Even if you don’t wear a pack, having something that covers your skin and fits snugly so it isn’t waving around the whole time is best. Full coverage also means less friction and less areas of the body to be in pain.
b) It has removable bra pads which gives me the option of wearing the top without a sports bra beneath. #bcupsbarelybounce
c) The fabric is thick and stays in place as I move. It’s like an upper-body hug the whole way through.
New Balance shoes—the only brand of shoes I’ve worn in my adult life. My feet are short and wide and no other shoe offers me the comfort and the girth that I need. Plus, they’re from Boston, like me, and therefore a hometown hero.
Under Armour Coldgear turtleneck—their products aren’t cheap, but they’re worth the investment. This turtleneck is thin, but effective. It holds the heat in without making me feel like Ralphie from A Christmas Story. It also absorbs sweat, which somehow works to keep you warm. Like the tank top, it’s long enough on the bottom to cover most of my below-the-belt backside, so I don’t have to deal with any extra drafts. There are thumb holes too to keep wrists warm on extra cold days.
Champion headband—my ears are sensitive to the cold and need protection. This headband is simple, light, and effective. There’s even a hole in the bottom intended for ponytails that I never use, but you might if you like.
Do you have go-to gear that you can’t live without and you’re not paid to promote? Tell us about it in the comments.
