My Favorite Things for Running

As a runner and blogger I am often asked about what my favorite things are when it comes to running. As any runner knows, you find something you love… and you stick with it. And when it comes to clothing and shoes, performance and comfort in what you have on are key elements to a good run. So, here is my list of my favorite running/fitness items (in no specific order, I love them all):

  1. Brooks Pure Connect Sneakers. I recently switched to Brooks and love them!! I had a great half in them this month, and they help me keep my focus on posture. They are super comfortable and lightweight. I attended a Brooks Running Clinic and they had me run on a treadmill and then evaluated my foot strike. I highly recommend to all runners they get their stride/foot strike evaluated. I am a neutral runner, and I am aware that as I get tired I heel strike, so I went with less cushioning at the heel so that I am aware when I heel strike and can correct for it.  IMG_2995[1] IMG_2990[1]
  2. KT Tape Pro. If you use this, you understand why this is on my list. This stuff is amazing, offers stability, helps with healing and supports concern areas. It is lightweight (I don’t even feel it) easy to apply and waterproof. Their website has great instructional videos. It is a staple in my running bag. I’ve also used it to wrap blister prone areas on my feet so my skin can breathe and blisters don’t happen. Added bonus, it comes in my favorite color green!  91Cfz9Sn6PL._SL1500_
  3. Injinji Socks. I recently found out about these from fellow runners. These toe socks keep your toes separate, reducing friction and blisters. They are super comfortable and lightweight as well. Very breathable while running. I am in love with these socks. Seriously, the more I wear them running, the more I want to throw away all other socks and just wear these.  IMG_3044
  4. Under Armour Sports Bra. Okay ladies… you all understand the pain and frustration of finding the right sports bra. If you are larger chested, this is often more difficult. The first time I tried this on I was in love. It is the ONLY sports bra I use. I have tried so many and this is great, stays in place, doesn’t chafe, the “girls” stay put… what more can I say.  IMG_3217
  5. Under Armour Women’s Victory tank. This is great for the Las Vegas area, which is warm or hot most of the year. A breathable, sweat wicking material that is super comfortable and fits great. It doesn’t ride up while running and keeps me cool. Plus, it comes in some great colors (I have several of the colors)!!  IMG_3218
  6. Yurbuds Inspire for Women. For the runs I do with music, these things are great. The sound quality is amazing and still allows me to hear what is going on around me. They twist and lock into your ear, which makes it virtually impossible for these things to fall out while running. They stay put even with 30+ MPH winds. Cannot beat that!  IMG_2389
  7. Oakley Caveat shades. Hey… I can block the sunlight and look stylish? Sign me up!! These are lightweight, great eye protection and super comfortable. I have had many sunglasses that slide down, don’t feel right, or fog up on humid sweaty runs. Not these, these are just amazing. I wear them ALL the time. I also have recurrent corneal erosion and severe dry eye, so on windy days, this can really irritate my eyes. These shades keep a majority of things out of my eye, which is a great help!  IMG_3210
  8. RunMeter app. I may be one of 5 people that doesn’t have a garmin, so I use the runmeter app. The GPS is very accurate, the details I get are great (pace, splits, elevation charts, etc) and I can set it for intervals if I want a run/walk or sprint/jog workout. I am also able to set target paces, so if I go too fast or slow, it lets me know. Super easy sharing via email or social media so I can track my runs, progress and issues.
  9. iFitness belt. I have the 2 pouch belt, and for long runs, this is a perfect way to carry fueling and my phone, ID, and keys. The belt stays put, is adjustable and has plenty of room to get me through a half marathon.  (as of August 2013 the company name is Fitletic)IMG_2164
  10. Honey Stinger Fueling. (yes, I am sponsored by them in their grassroots program the Hive) In trying almost everything to find fueling that didn’t upset my stomach, was easy to take while running, and tasted good, Honey Stinger did it for me. That the ingredients are all natural and some are organic made it even better. Being honey based, the products go down smoothly and are gentle on my stomach.  IMG_3020
  11. Nathan Water Bottle Sleeve/Pouch. Now that I have to always have eye drops on me, and because it’s hot in Vegas, I can put this on my water bottle for shorter runs I won’t need the belt for, and carry my key and eye drops. Helps keep a grip on the water bottle as well.  A thank you to my brother for gifting me his!IMG_3220
  12. Zensah Compression Sleeves. I wear these after long runs, and after a half marathon, even sleep in them, to help speed up muscle recovery and improve circulation in my legs.   71FwmGTNZzL._SL1400_
  13. Shower Pill Athletic Body Wipes. These things are great to quick clean up after a race so that I can hop in my car and out to eat without offending all the other patrons (or making my car stink). I actually use these suckers all the time, when I travel, at the gym… a great thing to have on hand in case of emergency!!  IMG_2739

Other things: Road ID! I never go for a run without it (sorry no pic).

So tell me, what are your must-have items for running and/or fitness?  What don’t you have that you would like to try?

**Also… to my husband, please let this serve as an ongoing wishlist. If you are ever stumped for a gift, please refer to this list. Thanks!