Going for a run can help you build muscles, get rid of stress and clear your mind. For the ladies, the right gear is as important, as for the gents. Your running clothes should keep you comfy, dry and warm or cool. If you're on the hunt for running clothes for women, here's what you'll need.
Clothes
When picking out women's running clothing, go for materials that wick away sweat, dry quickly, and breathe well to keep you comfy and cool. Look for features like mesh panels, seamless designs, and UV protection for extra perks. Steer clear of cotton since it holds onto heat and moisture, which can lead to chafing. Also, skip the dark colours that soak up heat; light shades like white are better for reflecting sunlight and keeping you cooler.
Tops
Your running clothes for women can't be complete without a suitable top. You might think wool is the last thing you'd want for running, but it's actually a fantastic natural option that helps keep you cool. Wool does a great job of pulling sweat away and dries fast. Plus, it’s naturally antibacterial, making it perfect for those hot runs.
Don’t limit yourself to just short sleeves or tanks in the summer. Long-sleeved base layers made for winter can work well for hot-weather running too. These snug layers help wick moisture away and shield your skin from the sun. Polyester and nylon are also excellent choices. Polyester is known for its moisture-wicking and quick-drying abilities, while nylon is durable and versatile, especially when mixed with other fabrics.
Jackets
If you're running in the summer heat and it starts to rain, a little drizzle can feel nice. But wet clothes? Not so much. If the forecast looks sketchy, throw on a water-resistant jacket that allows your skin to breathe while keeping you dry.
Bottoms
Worried about thigh chafing? Go for a 2-in-1 short that has a snug inner layer and a looser outer layer for extra coverage. Good running shorts usually come with a mesh liner or built-in underwear. If shorts aren’t your thing, full-length or 3/4-length running tights can keep you cool and boost your performance. Look for materials that dry quickly, breathe well, and stretch for easy movement.
Underwear
When you're out for a sweaty summer jog, the kind of underwear you choose matters. This goes for guys too, not just ladies with their sports bras. If you want to avoid the pain of being sore for days, steer clear of cotton underwear. Ladies, for the ultimate sports bra, look for one with mesh ventilation to keep you cool.
Accessories
Don’t forget to take care of your head and extremities for overall comfort. In chilly weather, a fleece or wool hat is a must. During the summer, grab a lightweight, breathable hat to help you stay cool. For cold-weather workouts, moisture-wicking gloves are key, while thin-liner gloves work well in milder temps. To avoid blisters, go for synthetic or merino wool socks that wick moisture away. In winter, skip the cotton socks to keep your feet warm during intense workouts.
Consider These Features
• Sweat-wicking - choose fabrics that pull moisture away from your skin to keep you dry and comfy while running.
• Quick-drying - materials like polyester and nylon dry fast, so you stay comfortable even if you get caught in the rain.
• Sun protection - look for items with UPF ratings to shield yourself from harmful UV rays; the higher the rating, the better the protection.
• Thumbholes - some long-sleeve tops have thumbholes for extra coverage and warmth for your hands, they help keep the sleeves in place while you run.
• Inner liner - running shorts with an inner liner serve as built-in underwear, wicking moisture and preventing chafing.
• Compression - seek out running gear with compression features for a snug and supportive fit.
• Packable - some jackets and vests can be folded into their pocket, making them easy to carry and store.
• Insulated - lightly insulated styles provide extra warmth without the bulk.
Running in High Temperatures
Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that help keep you cool. Pick light-coloured clothes to bounce back sunlight and reduce heat absorption. Look for moisture-wicking materials to keep your skin dry while you run. When it comes to warm-weather running gear for women, there are plenty of options. For tops, think tank tops, sports bras, or airy, moisture-wicking tees. For bottoms, lightweight shorts or short leggings are great choices.
Don’t forget about accessories that can help with sweat management and sun protection. Caps, visors, headbands, and hydration packs are all good picks. These extras not only boost your comfort while running but also help you stay healthy and perform better, making your experience more enjoyable.
Running in Cold Temperatures
Be sure to layer up with thermal gear to keep your body heat in. Use insulating materials to shield yourself from the wind and cold. Make sure to cover your hands, head, and ears to avoid losing too much heat.
During the chilly and rainy months, it’s super important to be mindful of your clothing. Layering is key, so consider a thermal top and a waterproof running jacket. For your legs, sweatpants or leggings are smart choices to help keep you warm.
Also, pay extra attention to your extremities to maintain body heat. Wear gloves to keep your hands cozy, a neck gaiter for your nose and ears, a beanie, and waterproof shoes. Compression sleeves for your arms and calves can also provide extra warmth.