 HELP Running Accessories A wide range of handy accessories are available today for runners. These have been designed and manufactured with the runner very much in mind. If you are wondering how you run and still manage to - carry that energy gel, fasten on that race number in a triathlon, get those shoes on quickly in transition, prevent that chafing, carry your drink ... ... then look no further than our range of accessories in the online store.
Socks Ask experienced runners what their most important items of kit are and most will tell you it's their trainers and socks! Check out our range of socks in our online store and you'll find a carefully arranged selection of different socks to suit the needs of every runner.
How to choose a sock
Training or Racing? If it's a sock for training in day-to day then you are likely to go for something with a fair bit of padding, particularly in the forefoot and heel. Thinner socks tend to be for racing in or for gym use. Blisters or not? Double layer socks, where the inner layer stays in contacts with you feet and the outer with your training shoe are popular with those people who are particularly prone to blistering on a run. Some people also like them for the extra cushioning they provide. Take an extra few seconds when putting these socks on and you will benefit from the enhanced feel these provide. Hot feet? Cold feet? A thicker padded sock will help if your feet feel cold on a run. Running shoes encourage air to flow around the feet with open nylon mesh uppers, but they can make your feet feel cold, particularly in the winter. A thicker sock or double layer is just the answer. Trainer socklet? Anklet or longer sock? It's often a style or cosmetic issue when determining how long you like your sock, but consider the fit of your trainer - does the heel counter or collar come up above a trainer liner and if so is it likely to rub? If so, go for an anklet sock instead. Arch bracing? If you like the sock to wrap strong around your arch or help support your ankle then a support sock would be a better option or one with a strong elastic brace across the arch. Colour? Technical running socks are typically white with a trim colour if they are intended for road/gym use and black, grey or blue for off-road trail runs. Some brands offer gender specific socks - with less material used in the heel in ladies versions and these are typically shorter too. You will also find that a number of brands design and manufacture anatomical socks and hence you will see the socks labelled LEFT and RIGHT.
Carriers Determine what you need to carry (and what you don't) and go for something the right size for you. You don't require a waist belt to carry 2 energy gels, but you may need one if you do need to carry more gels, an iPod, a drink, keys and a phone. Most music players or mobile telephones will fit in a carrier worn on the arm. Materials used in manufacturing most types of carriers have been selected with the sweaty runner in mind and tend to be a combination of a neoprene and stretchy material.
Bottles and Carriers Many runners like to take fluid in on the run, particularly when running longer distances. This takes some getting accustomed to and practice makes perfect, so don't wait until race day have a practice beforehand. You may wish to carry the bottle in the hand at all times - if so see our range of hand held bottles (run-aid style) or you may choose to draw your bottle John Wayne style from a belt or holster. There is also the option of carrying two or more bottles positioned around the belt. These are particularly useful if you like a plain water drink and also an energy or an isotonic drink on a long run.
Runners Bac pac You can choose to carry what you need in a lightweight rucsac. Many of these also feature a 2 litre bladder incorporated in to the bag to enable rehydration on the run, eliminating the need to carry a bottle. Design features include lightweight, durable and breathable materials, adjustments on shoulder and waist straps. Individual pockets in a range of sizes provide for secure storage solutions.
Gloves and Hats An essential bit of kit through the autumn and winter months. Choose a warmer thicker material glove if you really feel the cold and don't tend to have to take the gloves off part way through a run. If you do find yourself parting with your gloves on your way around a run then go for a thinner lighter glove as these just give you what you need to keep off the colder, frosty winds. Runners gloves are As you lose a large amount of heat through your head it's essential to keep your head warm when running. A breathable running hat or beanie is a good buy (particularly if you have big ears like me - see my picture on the about us section). If you have long hair you may find the artificial fibre hats more suitable than a wool runners hat. A runners cap or visor will help to keep you cool in the summer sun and protect you from potential damage from sun burn. Many people get caught out when on a run and it's not just those with a bald head who can benefit from a hat. You are less likely to suffer dehydration if you protect your head from the sun too. All running caps are made of a breathable and lightweight material and it's unlikely you'll know you are wearing it after 10 minutes running, but on a hot bright day you'd know if you weren't.
|