Anyone who has ever experienced the "runner's high" knows how gratifying the sport can be. But, running is also one of the most affordable sports. You need not spend well over $100 on shoes and $80 on running tights to get quality apparel that performs and lasts.
Instructions
1. Look for comfortable, performance running gear in major chains, not sporting goods stores. The selection of running clothes and the quality of materials has changed dramatically at known chain stores in the last few years. You can find a variety of moisture wicking clothes, which draw sweat and moisture away from the body quickly, in fashionable colors and styles. You can afford several changes of clothes for what you might pay for a few items at a sporting goods store.
2. Search for clothes at the end of summer and end of winter. You'll find your best buys at any store if you search the racks toward the end of the season. The clothes won't be that outdated by the time you really wear them the following year, and the price is well worth the wait.
3. Keep your eyes posted for university sales. Sometimes colleges and university sports departments "purge" their gently-used gear, including team running tanks and tights. It will cost you next to nothing and you'll be able to stock up on your favorite university's or alma mater's logo gear. You'll also know that the money you spend there will go to fund school projects and fundraisers.
4. Drive a few extra miles to peruse a reputable outlet mall. Not all outlet malls are created equal, but once you find one boasting quality clothes in good condition with little imperfections, make it a top destination for your gear. Speaking of imperfections, if it's relatively minor and will not impact your performance (i.e., is not a tear in a seam that could rip as you're running) it may be well worth the additional discount you get as the result of this minor flaw. If your a decent seamstress, you might be able to fix even a more complicated flaw with ease.
5. Splurge on the shoes, if you must. With the money you save from not buying the prestige brands of running t-shirts and shorts, you'll have a bit more left over to spend on the one item that is most splurge-worthy: shoes. Even so, there are still alternatives to the $100 pair. Check out the discount stores that offer New Balance, Nike and Adidas at half the price of the sporting goods store.
6. Shop the youth section when possible. If you are on the smaller side, invest in running gear and shoes from the youth section. Some of the larger youth sizes (for example, girl's 14 to 16) can accommodate women who regularly wear junior's or smaller misses sizes. These products are often just smaller versions of what you find in the women's department, and the price tag is also a much smaller version of what you'll find in the "big girl's" area!
7. Convert your mainstream clothes into running clothes. If you're really cash-conscious, consider that hoodie you wear with your jeans as yet another item to grab when you go on a run. Okay, so it may not wick moisture the way your actual running jacket does, but it will keep you somewhat covered on a chilly fall day when you hit the trail.
Tags: sporting goods, goods store, running gear, sporting goods store, well worth, what find, youth section