Photo Credit: Gonzalo Mendiola via www.pexels.com

It’s very easy for runners to end up with much more kit than they’ll actually use. It’s not uncommon for people to splurge on a whole load of kit when they start a new running routine, only to end up returning again and again to a few reliable pieces of kit while the rest languish in cupboards and kit bags. So, if you’re thinking about getting into (or back into) running, here are some kit tips that could save you some money and cupboard space:

The Essentials

Let’s start with the absolute bare essentials. Surprisingly, there aren’t many of them. A good men’s vest for running, a sports bra if you have breasts, decent running shoes, and joggers or shorts that don’t chafe or restrict your movement are pretty much all you need in a pinch. However, the quality and make of these essentials can make a big difference to your performance and comfort. Let’s dig a little deeper:

• Shoes. Honestly, the majority of your running budget should go on a good pair of running shoes. You need a pair that suits your running style, that doesn’t rub, that cushions your soles well at the point of impact (which differs for everyone depending on gait), and that can stand up to all kinds of terrain and climate conditions. It’s worth taking some extra time to pick out the perfect pair of running shoes, as your footwear really does make a huge difference to your overall running experience.
• Clothing. While basic shorts and a hoodie can work for short runs, you may find it more comfortable and better for your performance to wear clothing specifically designed for running. For example, lightweight clothing tailored for running is less likely to flap around, to chafe, or to restrict your movement. Similarly, running shorts and exercise bras are often designed to move sweat away from your body and to help keep your temperature stable. This will help you to run for longer, keep you comfortable, and prevent painful rubbing and friction.
• Socks. You’d be surprised at the difference that the right socks can make. A badly designed pair of socks will leave your feet swimming in sweat, as well as potentially rubbing your feet and causing blisters. Running socks will wick sweat away from your skin and work with your trainers to keep your feet stable and blister-free.

Sometimes essential

There are some items that may be necessary depending on the weather or circumstances, but aren’t must-haves for every single run. Let’s take a look:

• Water. As every runner knows, hydration is very, very important. However, you may not need to carry a water bottle with you on every single run. For example, if you’re going for a short jog between places where you can easily rehydrate (like from your house to the shops or to a cafe), there’s no need to weigh yourself down with a water bottle. That being said, if you’re not sure whether to carry water with you or not, err on the side of caution. It’s better to carry a water bottle and not need it than to leave it behind and run thirsty.
• Hi-vis gear. Being visible on the roads is a very good idea, but you may not need to put hi-vis bands and stickers all over yourself every time you hit the pavement. If you’re running in broad daylight, or somewhere that cars can’t go (a park, for example), it may be worth saving your money and opting for just a few hi-vis items.
• Extra layers and accessories. We’re specifically talking about cold-weather items like gloves and jackets here. These will sometimes be necessary if you’re running in the dead of a cold winter, but if you only plan to head outside for runs in warmer weather, you can probably leave the thermal gloves on the shelves.

Not necessary (but often fun!)

The following are items that you don’t necessarily need in the strictest sense of the word – i.e. your performance and safety won’t be impacted if you leave them behind. However, they can often be useful for things like tracking your performance, and are often just fun to have!

• Wearable tech. Fitbits, heart rate monitors, and so on, are fantastic for tracking things like time, pace, stamina, calories burned, etc. But you can run just as well without them. Purely from a performance perspective, they add nothing in the moment. However, they are useful for getting to know your own body and running style a bit better. 
• Headphones. Lots of us consider headphones a running essential and won’t leave the house without them. Pumping music while you run can really help to keep you motivated and set a pace. That being said, again, it is perfectly possible to put one foot in front of the other without music blasting in your ears. Trust us, it is – unbelievable though it sounds!
• Tons of storage. Bags, pocket vests, and so on are very handy if you want to carry a lot of stuff with you on your run. But, honestly, do you need all that stuff? Running tends to be easier if you’re less burdened. If you can, leave all the extra accessories (and the bags and pockets you carry them in) at home.

Run light, run well

You do not need a large setup to run well. Shoes that fit, clothing that stays out of the way, and a simple approach to water when distance demands it will cover almost everything. Once you recognise that, the rest becomes easy to ignore. That being said, if you prefer to be a bit more well-armed and accessorised when you run, then go for it!