Gear

Shoes

Shoes are critical and very important to a runner. Your feet are important! Make sure you have proper running shoes and socks. A general rule of thumb for running shoes is they last about 400 miles or one cross country season. Your running shoe should never have a birthday. For proper fitting, go to a running store and ask for assistance. 

Racing flats/spikes are recommended for experienced runners to use in competition only. Shoes are so complex today that they are almost a prescription item. Even if you do not buy the shoes from the running store at least get fitted and the names of the shoes that will work best for you. 

Watch

Runners will often need to keep track of both their times on distance runs and in specific workouts. It is very important for each runner to have a running watch and to wear it to practice each day. Although not required, there are many inexpensive running watches that have everything you need on them to time your runs.

Clothes

Running clothes should be comfortable for the runner.  Socks can often cause blisters if they aren’t the correct socks for running.  Be sure to take care of your feet, and find the right sock for you!