For those starting or wanting to start their running journey this year, finding the right running gear is essential to have a smooth kick off. This gear includes clothes, shoes, and any other running essentials.

The most vital part of running gear is the shoes. The type/brand of shoe preference varies between person to person due to differing foot structure, running technique, and prioritized features of the shoes. Mrs. Wong, a teacher at Hidden Valley, states that Brookes are her favorite brand of shoe because they are “light and just fit my foot really well.” A good way to find what shoes work for you is to go to a running store, like Runabout Sports and Fleet Feet, to have a professional customize their picks based on your needs.

Other than the shoes, running gear is fairly affordable. Wong says, “You don’t need fancy clothes to be a runner. You can run in anything.” She believes a good way to start out is by thrifting your outfits to run to keep costs down. To begin, the only essential clothes are shorts, a shirt, and socks.

The other gear someone may need also differs between people. Noah Settle (12) shares that what you may need depends on mundane factors, “Whether your socks are too soft, or your shoes will slip off or if you have shin sleeves, arm sleeves, depending on how [your] blood flow works.”

“The best thing about running is that it is accessible,” states Wong. Not much is truly needed to start your journey other than good shoes so, get out there and go run!