Running, an excellent aerobic exercise, gives men various benefits. It improves your muscles and bones' health. Also, it encourages healthy body weight.
However, if you are one of the newbies or someone who is looking to advance your running routines, you need these 9 running essentials to give a boost to your performance.
9 Running Essentials for Men
To magnify the benefits of running to the maximum extent, therefore, use these nine running essentials for men
1. Men's pair of running shoes
Indeed, shoes are the basic essentials for running. They are the prime factors in protecting you against injuries. As well as controlling your foot motion and running.
Features to consider
The best pair of shoes for running should tick certain boxes, such as fit size, comfort, level of protection, and grip.
When you are selecting daily running shoes, choose the perfect size with broad-spectrum protection since running with unfit shoes can cause injuries.
Also, the shoes should be made of the right lightweight material, such as carbon rubber or blown rubber, to enhance durability and comfort.
Mid-cushion is another needed feature to fight against ground strain.
A wider toe box will allow a free moment while running.
The Best Men's Running Shoes
Nike men's Revolution 6 running shoes - platinum - Nike offers the best option for breathability.
Mizuno men's Wave Horizon 6 - Mizuno men's running shoes offer ultimate cushioning and are eco-friendly.
Adidas men's Ultraboost 21- These men's white running shoes offer the best aesthetics along with comfort.
Men's UA Surge 3 running shoes- UA Surge offers an ultimate lightweight choice.
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 22- Men's Brooks running shoes offer excellent stability and reduced discomfort.
2. Men's Running Socks
Running invites a pool of sweat and makes feet vulnerable to blisters; however, this can be prevented by using men's running socks.
Furthermore, an added benefit of running socks is that they improve blood circulation, help you run longer, and speed up muscle recovery.
Features to consider
Fitting socks, especially those made of nylon or polyester, don't allow sweat to hold up. And in the list of materials to avoid, cotton socks stand out first due to their moisture-holding capacity.
When it comes to the length of socks, let the running route decide it for you. If there are dusty or soiled areas, opt for long socks. In the case of track runs, no-show socks would be great.
Also, extra-padded socks near the toes protect against blisters.
The best men's running socks
Balega hidden comfort performance - Balega stands best against impact resistance.
CEP no-show compression socks- No-show compression socks offer extra protection against blisters.
Smartwool run targeted cushion low ankle socks - Smartwool has virtually seamless socks with targeted cushioning for easy movement.
Darn tough men's athletic socks - Darn tough socks are ultra-light with warming abilities.
Feetures Elite Ultra Light running socks- have excellent moisture-wicking capacity.
3. Men's running tops
A simple thumb rule for choosing the best running clothes is the level of comfort.
Because the main goal of running tops is to elevate your comfort and keep those sweaty runs away.
Features to consider
If you live in an area where hot weather conditions are persistent and there is excess heat, you should opt for tops with breathable fabrics and short or sleeveless tops. Similarly, opt for a long-sleeve shirt in winter.
Avoid fabrics like cotton, as they become damp after sweating. Alternatively, choose synthetic materials like nylon or polyester.
In terms of size, it's optional to go for the right fit or baggy ones as per preferences.
The best running tops
Brooks carbonite short-sleeve top - Brooks combines moisture-wicking fabric with reflective gear suitable for low-light areas.
Puma men's run favourite short sleeve tee - It applies innovative dryCELL technology for reduced sweat and resistance-free runs.
Nike Dri-FIT Trail Element Top - Nike's Dri-FIT technology is made with 75% recycled polyester and does a great job of keeping you warm and comfortable.
Under Armour Men's Seamless Long-Sleeve - Under armour’s seamless fit has soft fabric, coupled with 4-way stretch fabric technology for an enhanced moment.
Adidas men's 25/7 Rise up n run Parley Tee - This tee is made of climacool fabric, which makes it suitable for areas with hot conditions. Besides, 100% recycled polyester makes it lightweight and breathable.
4. Men's running shorts
Men's running shorts are on the list because nothing really affects your running more than the shorts.
Having the right running shorts will provide you with ultimate comfort. Also, they provide extra mobility for your legs.
Features to consider:
As a runner, chaffing is a common issue many face. Hence, choosing shorts with anti-chafing fabric will help you out.
Also, to get rid of those sweaty runs, opt for a blend of comfort fabrics such as nylon and polyester that have moisture-wicking abilities.
Besides, choose the exact inseam lengths. Shorts with longer lengths help you out on sunny days or relaxed runs. Shorter inseam lengths can help you during your fast-running workout days.
The best running shorts for men
BOA Men's 1" Elite Split Solid Running Short - Its combination of elastic waistband and full-side split makes it the best-split shorts.
Hanes Men's Sport Performance Compression Short - These compression shorts give you dual protection from changing and running strains.
Baleaf Men's 7" Quick Dry Workout Running Shorts - Baleaf’s built-in liner and zippered pockets make it versatile and breathable, making it the best mesh-liner shorts.
Patagonia Men's Strider PRO Shorts - Its micro denier polyester crepe lining makes it the best among lightweight shorts and breathable shorts.
Nike Dri-FIT Stride Men's 7" 2-in-1 Running Shorts - These DRI-FIT training shorts excel in functionality with zippered phone pockets and an adjustable waistband.
Van Heusen Athleisure Men's Synthetic Shorts - Van Heusen incorporated 4-way stretch fabric with reflective trims suitable for running on dim-light trails.
5. Men's running jacket
Seasonal changes can force us back to treadmills. So why not level up with a men's running jacket? They offer ultimate cold and wind protection.
Features to consider
Look out for jackets with seams taped so that no water enters during rain.
If you wish to have a lightweight jacket, go for no insulation layers; however, it works only in mildly cold weather.
If you need a jacket for cooler areas, insulated ones are a must.
The best running jackets for men
Nike Repel Miler running jacket - Nike's advanced water-resistant technology and hooded coverage make it the ultimate running rain gear.
PUMA Men's Iconic Running Fitness Track Jacket - It's ultralight and works well for running on warmer trails.
Brooks Men's Canopy Jacket - It is a stylish take on running jackets and has advanced dry layer seal fabrics that offer rain as well as wind protection.
Reebok men's running jacket - Its well-designed ventilation zones keep you dry no matter what the climate is.
Patagonia Men's Storm Racer - It is one of the most durable jackets, made of exceptional nylon fabric.
6. Men's running tights
Although there isn't any competition between tights and shorts, each has its own set of benefits.
Men's running tights will keep skin-to-skin contact minimal and prevent abrasions. Besides, tights give you extra layers of protection against dropping temperatures.
Features to consider
Anti-abrasion fabrics will guard you with anti-chafing protection.
Stretching fabrics will help you have a free moment.
Moisture-wicking ability is a must for sweat-free runs.
The length of the tights isn't a concern, but you can opt for longer ones for modest wear.
If you usually run in dim light, you can go for tights with reflective accessories.
The best-running tights for men
Salomon men's cross-run tights - This men's tight is equipped with 4-way stretch fabric, which keeps it flexible.
Kalenji Kiprun tights - Its unique equarea fabric keeps the tights dry as well as lessening muscular vibrations to keep your legs sturdy while running.
BALEAF Men's Fleece-Lined Water Resistant Running Tights - Baleaf's multifunctional product with pockets, elastic waistbands, and water-resistant technology is a must for every runner.
Smartwool Merino Sport Fleece Wind Tight - Smartwool incorporates a windproof front panel for wind protection as well as reflective elements for dim-light runs.
Nike Trail Kiger Men's Running Tights - waistbandsIt's quite stretchy for flexibility and has enhanced breathability due to DRI-FIT fabrics.
7. Men's running singlet
Owing to their duality of being lightweight and sleeveless, singlets are quite popular among runners. They give an all-round comfort of anti-chafing, breathability, and moment.
Features to consider:
For warmer weather, opt for moisture-wicking singlets made of polyester, whereas insulated ones go well for cooler weather.
Opt for lightweight fabrics for freedom of movement.
Brighter colours will give you fair visibility.
Anti-chafing fabrics will guard against skin abrasions.
The best running singlets for men
Nike Dri-Fit ADV Aeroswift singlet - It's highly suitable for racing days due to its Aeroswift technology, designed for intensive work sessions.
Reebok Boston Running Singlet - It combines speedwick fabrics with meshliners to keep you dry and make it anti-abrasion-fit.
Adidas men's running singlet - This crewneck singlet is lightweight and also offers an eye-pleasing minimalist aesthetic.
Under Armour iso-chill running singlet - This nylon-dominant 4-way stretch fabric disperses heat uniformly and keeps the body cool.
TLRUN Ultra Lightweight Marathon Singlet - This multifunctional singlet offers chaffing protection with an entire flatlock. It contains moisture-wicking fabrics and is ultra-lightweight. Besides, it has reflective tapes.
8. Men's running hats
Running hats are an excellent option if you want to get rid of the dripping sweat drops and the itchiness caused by them.
These are made of mesh nets that wick sweat even before they begin to drop down. Besides, if you have long hair, you won't be distracted by it during your runs.
Also, it helps you stay hydrated by reducing the sun's impact.
Features to consider
Lightweight fabrics to keep it breathable.
Sun protection factors to reduce the recovery times.
Water-resistant fabrics based on your living area.
The best-running hats for men
Puma quick-dry-running cap - Highly suitable for warmer terrains due to its unique moisture-wicking eyelet mesh.
Adidas Climalite Running Cap - UPF 50+ offers enhanced protection against UV rays. Besides, its reflective elements make it more visible.
TrailHeads Race Day Running Cap - It's adjustable closure makes it very flexible to wear and offers greater comfort than others.
TYR Running Cap - It's high-quality fabric, coupled with mesh panelling, makes it durable as well as breathable.
Outdoor Research Swift Cap - It has the ultimate lightweight design and UPF protection.
9. Men's Running Belt
For a carefree run, a running belt will help you hold all your essentials. You can carry an energy bar, snacks, a mobile, water, or anything else you need.
This will help you focus on running completely without worrying about your possessions.
Features to consider:
Mainly, study the pouch size to fit your needs, whether you need the belt for the phones, ear plugs, etc.
Opt for running belts that fit perfectly, or at least one with an adjustable strap to keep it in place.
When it comes to fabrics, you need to go for durable and breathable ones because you don't need an extra weight of sweat to carry.
Look for the right number of pouches based on the materials you intend to carry.
The best-running belts for men
Flipbelt Classic Premium Running Belt - It's no-buckle design guards you against chaffing while keeping your running gear safe.
Salomon pulse belt - It's 4-way stretch fabric and easily accessible zippers make it easy to maintain.
Nike running large hydration running belt - For runners with extra gear to carry, Nike’s large-sized running belt is the go-to option.
Decathlon Running Phone Belt - A simple yet elegantly designed running belt with phone pockets keeps you on the run without worry.
Adidas superior running belt - Its elastic model makes space for possibly everything you need. Besides, adjustable straps allow it to have a snug fit.
Conclusion
Running is a healthy exercise routine one can incorporate to maintain a healthy fitness balance.
It is highly recommended for men, especially those living a sedentary lifestyle, to evolve a timeline to reap the benefits of running.
Also, to smooth your transition from a desk-bound life to a jogger and runner, you can use the appropriate gear, such as compression socks, sleeves, sunglasses, and a running belt.
Written by: Sameena
Edited by: Aniket Joshi