Spring is here, and for many, that means easier outdoor runs. For the treadmill-intolerant, spring is perhaps the best time of year for race training—no more sloshing through snow and ice to meet your goals, no more fear of slipping on hidden patches of ice, and no more loading up on layers just to get outside.
As race season approaches, the temperatures will only rise from here. It’s important to have the right gear for all four seasons so you can comfortably stick to your training regimen and prepare for your 5K’s, 10K’s, half marathons, or even full marathons. So the Dr. Cool team got together and made this list of essential springtime gear for runners!
1. Long Sleeve Running Shirt
Yes, spring means warmer weather, but the lingering cold and wind from winter may stick around for the first month or two. Because of this, many runners seek a balance between lighter summertime gear and something insulated that protects against the elements. For us, long sleeve running shirts fill this void.
A long sleeve offers the freedom of a t-shirt as well as the insulation needed for your arms (or even your hands). At Dr. Cool, we’ve taken that delicate balance one step further with our long sleeve cooling shirt—warmth when you start your runs, then a cooling sensation as you start to sweat to avoid getting too warm. The result is a top that’s perfect for outdoor running in spring or fall.
2. Fitness Tracking Technology
Many predict 2016 is going to be the year of wearables in fitness. Some even say that nanotechnology implanted in your clothes (a little crazy, if you ask us!) is going to be popular. For those training for a race or another kind of event, it’s crucial to chart your progress and make adjustments as necessary.
Luckily, there are several solutions out there! Fitness tech products like FitBit wristbands and Garmin vivoactive watches will help you track useful statistics like distance, speed, heart rate, and more.
3. New Kicks
Every runner needs to take care of their body. Improper or old gear can lead to injuries like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis. Shoes are the most important in this regard, as they’re the first line of defense against the high-impact exercise of running.
Spring can be a good time to make an upgrade in the shoe department, as many popular brands often release new products as runners return outside. Shoes like Brooks’ Transcend 3 and Topo’s Tribute are receiving huge amounts of praise right out of the gate, and are guaranteed to give you the comfort and stability you need this spring.
4. Ice Wraps
As your training increases—especially on hard surfaces like pavement—injury prevention is vital. Training too hard can be rigorous on your body, and the last thing you want before a race is a nagging flare up of runner’s knee. Listening to your body and getting the appropriate rest are good solutions, but there is an even better one.
Dr.Cool ice wraps are made to treat common running injuries like those mentioned in this blog post. While they’re ideal for recovery, World Marathon Challenge champion Becca Pizzi used them to prevent injuries during her training to run 7 marathons in 7 days. Simply wet, freeze, and wrap, and you’ll be giving your body the treatment it needs to stay healthy until race day!
What gear do you plan to stock up on this spring? Let us know in the comments!