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Cheapish running clothes - any recommendations?

42 replies

BamburyFuriou3 · 21/09/2017 21:49

I hate what's on offer in my local supermarkets so hoping someone can recommend something online?

I'm new to running and due to weight loss I'm fed up of continuously hitching up my standard leggings, and getting wet in the rain. I'm happy to continue wearing an old t shirt for now though Grin

Anyway - what I'm after is soft (cotton?) Full length leggings with a wide waistband and no ankle zip (I have easily irritated skin and zips always catch). I'm also wanting a high visibility/reflective waterproof running-friendly coat.

Anyone got any ideas of where to go?

Thanks!

OP posts:
Penguins333 · 22/09/2017 14:38

Primark. Their range is very good for this i find.

BamburyFuriou3 · 22/09/2017 19:22

Been looking on decathlon. I could spend a fortune!
Couple of stupid questions if someone wouldn't mind answering?

  1. Why running socks? Do I need them?
  2. I've admitted that soggy cotton leggings are not brilliant so going to get some "proper" ones with a drawstring - but do I need a "proper" top as well or am I on still in my old baggy t shirts?
  3. Do I really need running trainers as I sent to be doing ok in my several years old (but pretty unused) cross train trainer?
OP posts:
KeiraTwiceKnightley · 23/09/2017 07:49

I bought some running tights in matalan the other day which are great. Good selection there and v reasonably priced.

KeiraTwiceKnightley · 23/09/2017 07:50

The socks are double layer so theoretically the layers rub against each other and thus prevent your shoes rubbing your feet.

rightsofwomen · 23/09/2017 07:56

Keep an eye on Aldi running events!
I am a keen runner and have stuff from adidas, H&M, Primark, Sainsbury's, aldi.

lauramcd86 · 23/09/2017 08:01

BamburyFuriou3 I would get a proper top. So much more comfortable when the sweat is wicked away. Makes for a more enjoyable run Smile the socks generally have extra cushioning which can help you if you're upping your distance. I need orthotics for running shoes as I amnt a neutral runner. Think if you're "neutral" your choice of runner isn't hugely important once you're comfortable and not feeling any pain.....? I know for me I had Nike running shoes but was feeling pain in knees hips etc after runs.

Hullabaloo31 · 23/09/2017 08:02

I love H&M sportswear, and it really lasts too.

BamburyFuriou3 · 23/09/2017 08:27

I don't have a matalan or primark anywhere near, but do have a very small Aldi so will keep an eye thanks.
Ok will add proper running top to the list! Long or short sleeves?
Oh and how do I know what size to order? In Tesco I seem to be a size 10 or 12 for bottoms and a 12 or 14 for tops...

OP posts:
dantdmistedious · 23/09/2017 09:11

Decathlon sizes are ime tiny! Even my 6 yo kids are in age 9 swimsuits and they are skinny shorties.

AuntieStella · 23/09/2017 14:57

Running tops - you'll need a selection for different times of year and the weather. As it's coming into autumn, yes, you'll needa long sleeved too, because arms can gat chilled by wind. But if you're always hot when you run, then get short selected and a pair of gloves (sounds slightly bats, but cold hands can be miserable). A showerproof zip up that squashed down to nothing is useful, as is a visor/baseball cap (to keep everything, including the front of a hood if you have it up, out of your face.

Not all socks are twin skin BTW and I don't get on with Kalenji ordinary ones (Kalenji is one of the Decathlon own brands). I think you'll be OK with general sports socks until you're sure you're going to be running regularly. At which point, make your first Wiggle order (they have all the main brands, usually cheaper than on the high street, and you get a packet on mini-Haribo included in every order).

You'll probably need to replace the trainers idc, but starting off in a general purpose pair is fine. But if you are getting lots of aches in your feet/legs/hips/back, then get new ones as soon as you can. It is worth going to a proper running shop if you have one nearby, so they can check if you need a neutral sole or a supportive one, and they can also advise on things like amount of cushioning.

Also think about getting some sort of waist belt, so you can stuff phone, keys etc somewhere convenient,

And also as it's autumn, think about where you'll be running and whether you need to get something bright so you can be seen - if you got a neon/fluorescent vest top, you could throw it on over a long sleeved one for winter visibility, and wear it in its own in the summer.

And yes, 3 lengths of those running tights. Capri length year round, mid-thigh length sold in the warmer months, and full length in the cooler ones.

lljkk · 23/09/2017 16:05

I don't take the clothing so seriously, OP. I'm happy not following most of this advice. Maybe see how you go before breaking the bank.

BamburyFuriou3 · 23/09/2017 16:15

Well I definitely need new leggings - went round with my current ones held up by a hair bobble today Grin, and a waterproof jacket would be helpful :)

OP posts:
MoreProseccoNow · 23/09/2017 18:14

Good old M&S! If you have a sparks card, it's got 20% off just now.

I got some good straight legged, wide waistband joggers there, from the "performance" range - they are breathable & lightweight - different leg lengths too. Good t-shirts as well.

AuntieStella · 24/09/2017 16:01

Yes, running seems to be my mid-life crisis, and there's always stuff to buy!!

Seriously, you can get running tights and a neon shower jacket from Decthlon at under £10 per item.

Or you could spend more, or expand list to include proper tech t-shirts of different sleeve lengths, accessories like hats/visors and belts, phone holder for arm, etc etc etc. It all depends on how much you are likely to run, in what conditions and whether this is the start of a settled habit. Replacing kit as it wears out with stuff more suited to running is one way to spread the cost, and only get what you like/need.

Exception - get a good bra. I think you need one from the very start, because if jiggling stretches your Coopers ligaments there's no way to reverse the droop.

Fekko · 24/09/2017 16:03

I got some cheap deals at sports direct - Nike and under armour. Shock, horror, they were last year's (nicer) colours and (better) styles (without the stupid fishnet effect).

BrieAndChilli · 24/09/2017 16:07

I bought some leggings for £5 in the H&M sale, (so they weren't pricey to begin with) they are my favourite, soft and a wide elastic waistband that doesn't dig in.

SilkandSteel · 24/09/2017 16:14

I really like USA Pro leggings. Often some good discounts and nice designs
www.sportsdirect.com/usa-pro/usa-pro-gym-tights-and-capris?utm_content=usapro-lp2017#dcp=1&dppp=100&OrderBy=rank&Filter=AFLOR%5EWomens

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