Must Have Running Essentials For All Seasons

For over 50 years, Sports Tours has been taking runners to the world’s biggest running events, where race day weather can be unpredictable and challenging. With the help of our ambassadors, we’ve curated essential running gear for all seasons, so you can train and race in rain, heat, or snow. Don’t let the weather cloud your performance, with the right equipment, you’ll be prepared for anything!

Running Spring Essentials

Running in the Spring is arguably the most difficult season for the right running clothes. In the morning it can be cool, but by mid-day its humid. It should be noted that between 7-15 degrees, we recommend breathable material and anything above 15 degrees should be shorts and a lightweight top. Our ambassador Dann recommends 2 in 1 shorts, they keep you cool and easily dry if you get caught in the rain. A quarter Zip top for the early morning runs that is light and can be wrapped around the waist is a clever way to cater to the Spring weather.

Running Summer Essentials

Hydration, hydration, hydration! Sports drinks, electrolytes, salt tablets and gels are all essential in the heat. Yimmy suggests a slick pair of sunglasses, a microfiber cooling towel, and an extra scoop of Tailwind in the mix for extra electrolytes. Salt tablets in particular make a positive impact on performance on runs of over 10 miles. This is a good time to invest in a pair of carbon plated race day shoes, to test out on dry terrain. And finally, a lighter mesh running vest, no one wants a heavy piece of material hanging over them on a summer run!

Running Autumn Essentials

There is no better time to start running than in Autumn. A season where you can get out and enjoy crisp fresh air. But don’t overestimate the temperature, it can sometimes be deceiving, and not as cold as you would assume. We recommend a thin breathable running jacket that is also reflective or luminous, as the nights start to get darker. Our ambassadors recommend thin running leggings with a pocket for your phone.

Running Winter Essentials

You don’t have to stop running in winter just because it’s colder outside, with the right clothing cold days are by no means a hinderance! When it comes to cold weather running gear, it’s all about layering up. Our ambassadors recommend a running buff, thermal leggings, a waterproof jacket with vents (to regulate temperature) gloves, (if less than 5 degrees) and a head-torch to see and be seen! Dann and Raj run with a small running backpack so they can carry extra layers if they’re not finishing the run at home.

Ultimately, don’t fall for all the hype, you don’t need a ton of gear. A versatile pair of trainers, shorts, a tee and a running belt/vest is all you need. Other than that, it’s simply to keep you motivated, there’s nothing quite like purchasing a bright fit for a summer run or switching up your playlist and keeping track of the metrics (it’s a lot of fun!). Take time to assess your gear and make the necessary adjustments for each season, this was you’ll be prepared for your upcoming marathons and half marathons.

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An action shot of a Sanlam Cape Town Marathon runner racing along a city highway, smiling with both arms out, creating the peace sign gesture on both hands.