Some runners like to say that all you need is a good pair of running shoes and that's it. I would argue that there are a few pieces of gear that make running much more enjoyable.
Patagonia Houdini Jacket This jacket comes with me on virtually every run. I either have it on as a breathable shell or I can have it stashed in my running vest. It folds into a chest pocket and it's so small that you could carry it during your run and not really notice it if you don't like wearing a vest. And I've been told it fits well in a Naked Belt. For some reason, this ultra-thin, ultra light weight jacket does wonders for all temps between 10-50F. It's also great to have after a run, when you're all sweaty, you want to grab a coffee in town, and you need something to keep you warm.
Athleta Salutation Tights While I definitely dread that day in October or so when I finally cave and have to put on tights, I actually really like these tights. They're buttery soft with just the right amount of compression and I don't feel like they restrict my movement. On the days when I have a shorter run and don't want to wear a running vest, these have the perfect pockets for my phone.
Moisture-wicking tops. I have many of these and they're a game changer. You'll still feel wet and sweaty after a run, but you'll dry more quickly and won't be soaking wet. I have different weights of thermals for cold to frigid days. My current favorite is the REI midweight base thermal top. It's super soft and dries quickly. It's perfect for temps between 20-40F. At 40F, I usually just wear it alone. 30F usually requires a light fleece over it and 20F usually requires a heavier fleece over it.
Injinji Trail Toe Socks These are my go-to socks on most of my runs. With Altras and the wide toe box, it's nice to be able to spread your toes and really push off. I find that the toe socks help with this action. Also, on longer efforts, the toe socks definitely help prevent blisters from forming in between your toes. Add a little bit of Squirrel's Nut Butter and you're pretty much guaranteed no chafing or blistering between your toes.
If you can't get there with the toe socks, I would suggest that you try it a few more times. The first few times, it does feel pretty strange, but I promise you, it will be life-changing! But, if you try it a few times and it's just not your thing, I'd recommend DryMax socks. These are awesome for wet, muddy trail running. They wick moisture away from your skin, helping to prevent blisters. I've worn them on many 20+ mile trail runs and they've held up extremely well.
A rechargeable head lamp: It looks like the Cotopaxi Claro that I have has been discontinued, but I would highly recommend getting a rechargeable head lamp. I have a Black Diamond head lamp that's super bright, but it eats batteries. Having a head lamp means that there's no excuse not to get out early before sunrise. Getting to watch the sunrise while on a run is magic.
Dakine Ski Gloves When temps drop, these gloves are key. They have a perfect liner glove with waterproof mittens on top. I love having a liner because I can take my hand out to take a picture (they work well with an iPhone) and not freeze while doing so. My hands stay nice and toasty inside the mitten. These also have leashes that you can attach to your arms, so if your hands do start to get too warm, you can take the gloves off and they will securely be attached to you. And later, when you have the gloves flopping around, you can look like a 5 year old whose Mom attached your mittens to a string so you won't lose them.
Territory Run Company Gorge Cap I have a different style of this same running hat and I love it. It's super breathable, adjustable and I forget that I have it on my head when I'm running. I love the wide brim that's just wide enough to shield my face from the sun. These hats seems to sell out often and then they come out with different designs. Kind of cool knowing there are naturally a limited number of the same hat out there. I love this company's gear overall and also love that Ben Gibbard is one of their ambassadors.
Salomon Advanced Skin 12 This running vest goes with me whether I'm going for a quick 4-5 mile run or longer runs. It's made of super stretchy, breathable material that fits snugly, but not too tightly. I don't even notice it anymore when I run with it. The only time I might notice it is when it's super hot and humid outside. I've gotten used to carrying it because my phone comfortably fits in one of the front pockets, which means that my family can contact me if needed and I can take some photos and listen to podcasts while on runs. It has secure front zippered pockets for my keys and a couple of gels when needed. I can easily carry everything else I'll need, including a mask and credit card for my after-run coffee run. The vest comes with 2 x 500 ml soft flasks that sit in pockets at the front. You can also add a hydration bladder, but I haven't really done this unless it's really hot out and I know that I'll need water to have with salt tablets. The back pack is very roomy. I've carried extra layers and my lunch when going on longer hikes. If you're a woman looking at vests from Salomon, I wouldn't waste your time with the women's model. I ordered two different sizes and they both had a terrible fit with the vest cutting into my armpits. I ended up just getting the Adv Skin 12 in a unisex size XS.
I love the Buff. Especially during COVID times, having a Buff handy is always great. You can wear one on the trails, quickly pull it up over your face if you're passing someone and then pull it down again when you're safely past him or her. On frigid winter mornings, I like having the Buff up over my face until I warm up. They have different weights for the Buffs- lighter ones for hotter weather and thicker ones for the cold.
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