I started running in September to train for a charity 10K my daughter and I running next February to benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Running when you’ve never done it before is daunting, especially if you’re not in shape (yet). As I’ve continued on my running program, I’ve discovered that some things are worth buying to make running a little bit easier or more enjoyable. For the runner in your life, here are 10 items to consider buying this holiday season.
Some of these items are on my personal wishlist, some I already own and love, and the rest I plan to buy after I finish my 10K. The links included are Affiliate links only if they’re to Amazon.
1. Under Armour Women’s ColdGear Cozy Half Zip Long Sleeve Shirt: For the Girls On the Run 5K, I realized I didn’t have an appropriate top to run in November weather, so I headed out to Dick’s the night before the run (which you aren’t supposed to do, but it was an emergency) for a new cold-weather top. My favorite sales rep recommended this UA top, and it was perfect. If you’re super cold, you keep it zipped all the way, and as you get warmer, you can unzip! $59.99 at Dick’s Sporting Goods
2. Asics Thermopolis LT Tights: Let’s face it, if it’s cold, I’m not going to want to run outside. But these tights insulate my legs from the cold. I just wore them for my very first Turkey Trot and never felt cold (once the run started). $60 (but they’re on sale at Amazon)
3. Zella ‘Live In’ Reversible Leggings: I picked up a pair 30% off during Nordstrom’s annual sale, and they’re awesome. They come in everything from XS to 3X, and every woman should own a pair. $52 at Nordstrom
4. SmartWool PhD Running Light Micro Socks: Who knew that wicking socks would be so important? I remember wearing old cotton quarter-crews in gym class, but no longer. Now that it’s chilly, I love SmartWool socks, which keep my feet warm while also making sure my feet can’t feel how sweaty I’m getting. I stocked up on when they went on sale. $16.95 at REI
5. Moving Comfort Fiona Sports Bra: Nothing is worse than feeling the jiggle while you run. I’ve worn a ton of cheap sports bras, and they just can’t contain D-cups, so if you’re well-endowed, it’s important to invest in a supportive bra. $46 at Dick’s
6. Monster iSport Freedom: I have been running with Yurbuds, and they’re great for most people, but I can’t really stand in-ear headphones. I asked my friend if she’d heard of any active on-ear headphones, and it turns out Monster has a well-reviewed pair that come with removable, washable pads. ($199 at Amazon) OK, those are too expensive for me right now, but the Philips look much more affordable at less than $50.
7. Women’s UA Tech V-Neck Shirt: It’s not always cold when you start running, so a short-sleeve tech shirt is always a must-have addition to your workout gear. If you’re running or working out 3-5 times a week, you basically can’t have enough of these! I have htem in lime green, legion blue, and carbon heather. $24.99 at Amazon
8. Nathan Handheld Water Bottle: I found belts unnecessary for beginning distances, and arm bands a bit hard to deal with if you’re running with a GPS-enabled app. I prefer holding things in my hand when I run, so I can easily make adjustments. Nathan is an awesome, runner-friendly company, and I trust all the products of theirs my daughter and I have tried so far. $30 at Amazon
9. Nike Women’s Cold-Weather Headband: With my curly hair, it’s really, really hard to keep a headband firmly attached to the top of my head. They pretty much all slip off — except for the cold weather ones with fleece. This is my favorite. $18 at Dick’s
10. Garmin watch: I’m not ready for this yet, but after our charity run in Feb, I’m definitely treating myself to a GPS watch, so I can keep track of my miles logged, pace per mile, etc.. $99 at REI
