Why are running clothes so impractical?

.....and.....???
Did you go?
How was it?

I'm a fat runner. I really like M&S Good Move leggings - roomy and soft but supportive and thick enough to stop you feeling like everything is wobbling around. They have a zip pocket on the back at the waistband for anything small (keys) and a deep side pocket on the thigh that would hold anything else like your phone, plasters, gels etc.

I just found some good longer breathable tops on Next as well - my problem is that because I'm fat, even bigger sizes are too clingy but these hang nice and loose and cover my arse/dont ride up.

Hope that helps!

I have New Balance running tights, they have phone pockets and are very supportive and sturdy.

I can't help with the clothes (I'm just a man!) but you can get armbands that hold your phone like this one - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Running-Armband-Adjustable-Reflective-Sweatproof/dp/B077GD416Z/ref=asc_df_B077GD416Z and some models have key holders too. I've also seen people tie a house key to their shoelaces for ease

Reporting back.
It was quite warm. Most of the men were in loose shorts - mid thigh length. One chap in tight cycle short length ones with a long vest (praise be).
The women were in long leggings, or loose shorts.
Honestly, we were all just happy to be able to run in the light!

I've run for ever. Honestly, my favourite leggings were from Aldi over 10 years ago. Black with reflective white dots. They have everything the 8 x more expensive Sweaty Betty ones have.

I run in my riding tights and nearly all of these have phone pockets. If you go down this route, just don't buy a "full seat" pair otherwise it will have a rubberised bum and thighs! These are also firmer material 😊

I find sweaty Betty much more flattering than other brands, plus they aren’t see through. They have pockets but I would suggest getting them in a smaller size if you want to use them because I have some that fit well until I try run with my phone in the pocket, it seems to pull them down. You can get them a lot cheaper at the outlet.

Agree with others, you’re not looking in the right places. I actually think it’s uncommon for running gear to NOT have pockets. Most have pockets for at least a key and phone. All my running shorts, trousers and leggings have them.

I tend to use a belt though as I prefer having it all in one place. I keep my phone and key in the front, along with some tissues as I often get streaming eyes or nose from the wind. I can also slip a soft drinking pouch with some water in the back for longer runs.

Men's t-shirts tend to be longer.

Lots of people have mentioned Sweaty Berry leggings. I was in their outlet store the other day and they had dozens of pairs at under £20. My DDs bought a couple of pairs at £14.

I have a running belt for my phone and keys. I really like Pour Moi leggings, they're thick but not too warm and I wear them for the gym as well. They have pockets that fit a phone easily. I like a vest or close fitting t shirt, if its cold I wear a long sleeved top from Decathlon. I also have a New Balance running jacket, it's very light but keeps me dry. I have a hat as well for v cold days. I don't care too much what I look like, my priority is wearing something bright for safety and being comfortable.

Op I used to wear a running belt. I had it quite taut around my waist and the phone part would rest on my hip and it never ever jiggled or moved.

I find the amazon leggings the best. Nice and thick. Never met a pair of sweaty betty that don't fall down around my Knees, leaving an uncomfortable drawstring on my hips.

I also was quite happy running in shorts all year round. The Runtime 2 shorts are absolutely perfect.

I have multiple pairs of running leggings with pockets from lots of different places. M&S do a lot of good exercise wear & leggings from Next are good.

T-shirt wise, just wear a normal t-shirt.

But thicker sports leggings or running trousers rather than leggings. Also try a light running jacket. I wear mine in all weather, the pockets fit phone and keys.

You could ask the same question about much of clothing designed for women. I wonder if it is intentional to get more money spent.

Flip belts are amazing- lots of pockets, fit close to the body and mine has a secure section for keys etc

I highly recommend Happy Stride running shorts/leggings. I’ve been running a while and these are the best bottoms I’ve tried. Sweaty Betty were rubbish, don’t waste your money.

You don’t have to run in tights. Many runners wear lightweight jogging bottoms. If you need bulky stuff like phones then take a bum bag.

I got a running jacket thing from aldi that is ace. Just enough room for phone and keys and water if needed.

Aldi stuff is really good too. I have various bits of very nice kit but all winter my £10 decathlon leggings and £4 Aldi running top have been my defaults. Lots of pockets, long enough arms with thumb hooks, and generally just feel v comfy. My favourite v pricey ronhill double layer very funky shorts rarely get worn either, because my cheapy karrimor ones are ace. Doesn't need to be pricey.

I agree with this. Tesco has great leggings.

I usually only buy Sweaty Betty, Alo or LuluLemon but I went away for a week and forgot my running gear. I popped into Tesco and picked up some cheap running leggings and they are so flattering and comfy. I wear those now more than I do my more expensive pairs.

Matalans tops tend to be long.

Most running gear I’ve seen, do have hidden pockets. The tights have a small one for a key, jackets tend to have one on the arm or zip up pockets.

The clothing is designed to be tight fitting. Keeps muscles warm, wicks away sweat. Fabric moving when running could cause rubbing.

Buy black rather than colour, it hides bumps better. Could always get a mens t-shirt as they are designed bigger in general.

I have the sweaty betty leggings and a reasonably baggy running t-shirt. I’m on the larger side and find vest tops, while initially more comfortable lead to chafing in the under arm area ( I have a couple for non running gym sessions). I also find the back pocket too small for my keys ( at least without taking them off the keyring) and don’t like the feel of my phone in the pocket so use a running armband. I did try a bum bag but it kept slipping down ( probably due to most my weight being on my tummy) and getting in the way. I keep looking at running belts but suspect I will have the same problem.