Spring Running Gear
Spring is in the air! By which I mean the weather has been bitter and unpredictable the last few weeks. We're getting snow, rain, and a range of temperatures from the low 30s to the mid-60s. With the change in seasons, it feels like it's finally time to start packing up some of your heavy winter gear and do some spring shopping.
To help you out, I decided to put together a list of some of my favorite spring running gear to prepare you for whatever the weather throws at you. And lucky for me, my sister and I are both training for our first marathon together, and she was able to provide her favorite gear from the female perspective.
Here are our top 5 recommendations for some new gear to keep you comfortable on your runs this spring season.
1. Raincoat
Ryan:
It seems like we're finally going to start getting a break from all of the snow we've gotten this winter, but it's been replaced with relatively constant rain. A lightweight raincoat is a must to keep you dry on your runs, especially while we wait for warmer weather. My personal favorite is the Brooks Canopy Jacket! It's super lightweight and packed with useful features. It also folds up into a little backpack so it's easy to shed if you get a little too warm midway through a run.
Sophie:
Nothing says springtime to me like spring showers. Running in the rain can be very therapeutic, so long as you're dressed for the occasion. Check out this raincoat from Saucony. it has a tightly formed hood to keep it from blowing off your head and a handy pocket to keep any essentials that you need to keep dry. It comes in a few fun colors and patterns too to get you out of those winter doldrums. So next time you're out for a run in the rain just remember, at least it's not snow!
2. Joggers
Ryan:
I'm a huge fan of joggers both on and off course when running. Especially after a run, there's nothing I like more than slipping on a comfortable pair of sweats. I like joggers as opposed to traditional sweats because I don't feel like a bum wearing them out in public. They're perfect for meeting a group of friends at your local brewery after your weekend long run.
Sophie:
Joggers just might be the best new trend of the past few years and when you find a good fair, you may never want to take them off. I nabbed a pair from 90 Degree by Reflex a few years ago and they immediately became my favorite pants to lounge around and work out in. Not only is this style flattering on most body types, they are hella cozy to boot!
3. Buff
I think I would probably put Buff on virtually every gear recommendation list for every season, they're just so versatile. I'm still not convinced we're safe from the snow and I've been getting plenty of use from my buff as a face cover in the bitter cold. Even in warmer temperatures, it makes a great headband to at least keep my ears warm on a run. In even warmer weather, you can roll a few ice cubes into your buff and wear it around your neck to help keep you cool! As I said, it's perfect for any occasion.
4. Pullover
Ryan:
I don't know how I survived as a runner without some kind of pullover for running. When it's too warm for a jacket and too chill for just a long-sleeve, it makes an excellent addition to your wardrobe. It's probably one of my most-worn pieces of gear and I should probably invest in one or two more before I wear mine out from overuse.
Sophie:
As we transition from winter into summer, the big key to your running wardrobe is going to be layers. You want clothes that can move right along with you as the weather outside changes. When it comes to lightweight jackets, you want something that can add some protection under a warmer running coat or vest in the winter but can hold its own as the mercury creeps up too.
5. Oofos
You've heard me review Oofos in the past and it's finally warm enough that I can wear them outside again without freezing my toes off. Warmer weather typically means more outdoor running and higher mileage so it's important to consider recovery also. With my marathon coming up at the end of April, I'm wearing my Oofos every minute I can to give my feet and legs some much-needed rest.
Bonus Item (Treat Yo' Self)
Ryan:
While spring shopping, I'm always an advocate for snagging yourself something just for fun. You've earned a splurge item so why not spring for that piece of gear you've had your eye on all winter but keep talking yourself out of.
My favorite piece of gear I've ever splurged on was my Aftershokz headphones. You've probably seen the ads on my site because I really do think every runner could benefit from a pair. If you've never heard of them, you can see my full review HERE but I can't recommend them highly enough.
Sophie:
I recently bought this sports bra myself and I cannot say enough about it! It has the perfect amount of support without feeling like I'm strapping on a straight jacket, plus the pocket in the back is perfect for stashing your cell phone on a run or any other outdoor excursion this spring! And with blossoms popping up everywhere, you can't beat this floral pattern for spring!
Sophie's Bio
Sophie has been a proud "beginner" runner since 2008 when she ran her first half marathon. Almost a decade and more than thirteen half marathons later she's ready to tackle her first 26.2 this April. Like her favorite running shirt says, "Running slow is not a character flaw. Quitting is." When she isn't running, Sophie loves sour beers, horror movies, and hugs.