Running is a simple sport and you don't need much kit to go running in some comfort.
That doesn't stop people trying to sell you stuff; GPS watches, heart rate monitors, phone carriers, flashing armbands, massaging foam rollers etc. are things you might want to buy later, if you feel that you're enjoying running and need them. I have some of them, I don't use them very often.
This is what, in my opinion, you need to go running.
There's only one way to get a decent pair of running shoes; try them on. The easiest way is to go to a decent running shop, where they'll actually watch what your feet do when you run and then sell you an (expensive) pair of running shoes suitable for you.
Expect to pay £50-100 for a pair. This is an investment against having knee/leg problems caused by your shoes. Once you know which type/size of shoes suits you, you can buy replacement pairs more cheaply off the Internet, Sports Direct etc.
Places to go:
- Runners Need (branches all over London, I've always found them really helpful)
- Run and Become (never used them, but many recommendations)
- Sweatshop (again, ever used them, but had recs from loads of people)
Blisters are not cool, if you get blisters when you walk a long way, you'll likely be susceptible to them when running. Luckily a decent pair of socks will help a lot.
I've tried loads, but Thor-lo have worked out by far the best for me. They're comfortable and very hard wearing. I've got pairs that I've used weekly for the past 3-4 years. I usually get these: http://www.thorlo.com/socks/running-socks/mini-crew/10.php
I also get the odd multi-pack of cheap sports socks from Sports Direct for short runs. If you don't blister you might get away with it. Look out for pairs with decent level of padding around the heel, toes and ankles.
Trousers or shorts is a personal preference. I wear shorts unless it's close to or below zero. Some people won't be seen dead in shorts.
Trousers are either tracksuit bottoms (loose) or tights/leggings. Again, it's personal preference. Some people like leggings more, cause there's less to flap around, some people prefer the more flattering cut of loose tracky bottoms.
Basically, the best idea is to go into a Sports Direct or other large sports discount store, grab a few different types and try a little jog in the shop to see:
- If they fit
- If the sensation of running in them is awful
- If you feel OK wearing them in public
Things to look for:
- A zippable pocket for keys, cash, id etc. (I always need to carry a key, so this is a must).
- A liner in shorts or loose trousers, this means you can go commando, should you so wish.
As well as Sports Direct, any running shop will sell you extremely nice gear at about three times the price.
Examples:
- Shorts: http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-x-lite-running-shorts-mens-453066
- Loose trousers: http://www.sportsdirect.com/donnay-closed-hem-woven-pants-mens-499056
- Leggings/tights: http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-running-tights-mens-454042
Cotton t-shirts are fine, but a bit sweaty. You might as well get cheap, breathable running tops.
This time of year, you will probably want to start with a short sleeve and a long sleeved top. That way you can wear the long sleeved top or both if you feel the cold. If you wear both and are still cold after you have properly warmed up grab a sweater.
Examples:
- http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-run-long-sleeve-t-shirt-mens-452094
- http://www.sportsdirect.com/asics-long-sleeve-running-t-shirt-mens-452022?colcode=45202244
Again, there are plenty of running shops that'll sell you very classy numbers at £40 a pop, but there's not really much to be gained by doing so.
Another good source of running tops is to do events and get given the free t-shirt.
Even at this time of year you often won't need them unless it's really cold, so these are optional extras if you feel that you will be keen enough to go when it's cold.
Hat can just be a normal beanie.
Gloves: it's best to wear the thinnest gloves you can get away with unless you really feel the cold. Your hands will warm up from the movement of your arms. Specialist running ones are thin, keep the worst of the cold and pretty cheap if you know where to look e.g. http://www.sportsdirect.com/karrimor-running-gloves-765131
If you feel the cold, some Sealskinz Ultra grips should do the job.
I think this is an optional extra for someone new to running, because you probably only need it when it's really rainy or windy and realistically, are you sure you're going to go out in that sort of foul weather? If it's just light rain you can go out without a jacket.
Secondly, in order for this to be any use, you'll want a breathable one and this will be expensive. If you get a non-breathable one you'll just sweat in it and get just as wet.