7.22.2024
The Seven Lesser-known Essentials For Long-Distance Running
Embarking on a long-distance running journey demands more than just willpower and determination. The right running gear, from your footwear to your accessories, can be the deciding factor between a successful run and a frustrating one. But what about the lesser-known essentials that can genuinely elevate your performance when the going gets tough? We’ve compiled a list of our top 7 essentials for every dedicated runner.
What Is Considered A Long Run?
Some define a long run as a distance longer than 3k, but this may seem like a simple walk in the park for those who train for marathons and ultra-marathons. The more accurate and scientific approach is a run which tests your endurance to extend the distance you run on each outing. With training, each session helps improve your breathing, strengthen muscles, and help your body use resources as fuel to keep you energised for longer.
Why Is Specific Running Gear Essential?
Although running is one of the most freeing sports a person can do, with no specialised equipment necessary, the clothing and gear you choose to support your long-distance journey will play a crucial part in your performance. Well-fitting running shoes are a must-have and a very obvious purchase for those interested in various running styles, but here is our list of essential running gear for your kit bag.
Waterproof Running Jacket - CONCURVE
Maintaining body temperature is crucial when undertaking any sport, and although heat and sweat are often a factor many consider, understanding specifically designed fabric technologies to keep the wind and rain at bay is a game-changer.
GOREWEAR’s range of waterproof running jackets, including our new CONCURVE design, is designed to feel like a second skin. This jacket is a masterpiece of Kinetic Garment Design and is close-fitting, breathable and lightweight.
With features such as the magnetic hood for easy storage in dry spells and quick release in sudden downpours, an elasticated cuff design to accompany gloves, and the new GORE-TEX Membrane, which is thinner, lighter, and has a lower carbon footprint*, this is our choice for any running jacket.
Ultra-lightweight Running T-shirt - Contest 2.0
Whether you prefer a running vest or shirt, breathability and sweat-wicking fabrics are the key to an essential running top. However, the GOREWEAR Contest 2.0 shirt is hard to beat on all counts. With its ‘barely there’ feel, you’ll be kept cool, dry and comfortable in the warmest weather.
Designed by athletes, for athletes, this running top has features that simply make sense;
The bonded collar design reduces friction and irritation on the neckline
Featherweight moisture-wicking material maintains a cool body temperature
Available in long and short sleeves and sleeveless for all-weather wear.
Merino Socks
We know the importance of a good running shoe, but injuries and discomfort can occur without appropriate socks. Merino wool socks are the ultimate in comfort, breathability, and structure, and they help regulate the temperature of the feet. Designed for runners of any distance, they have mesh structures to support breathability and reinforcements in abrasion-prone areas.
Compact R3 Gloves
The extremities of wind, rain, and cold conditions on exposed skin are enough to put you off running, so gloves are an undervalued essential item in running.
Knowing which gloves will aid your performance is vital. Features such as compactness, moisture management and thermo-stretch functional fabrics are crucial to finding the right running glove that won’t leave your hands itching for fresh air.
Base Layer Underwear
What you wear under your sportswear is almost as important as what you layer on top. Chaffing can happen when the fabric is loose, damp or ill-fitting, so finding specialist running briefs, bras, and shorts will help you maintain comfort from top to toe.
As with any base layer, you want those with moisture-wicking fabrics, thin and light fabric and flatlock seams to prevent discomfort.
Waterproof GORE-TEX Cap
Protection from the elements is key to any successful venture. If a jacket isn’t necessary but the skies look a little grey, a GORE-TEX cap is the perfect accessory for keeping showers at bay and your eyes locked on your stride.
Waterproof fabric technology from GORE-TEX will help keep your head, hair and face dry, reducing the annoyance of windy conditions and keeping off the glare of sun rays on the sunnier spells.
Wide Fabric Headband
Not just for those with long hair, a fabric sports headband specially designed for runners is one of the most underrated accessories. Designed to keep ears warm, sweat at bay, and hair from your eyes, they are versatile enough to be worn for various other sports.