5 Great Brands For Runners
There has never been a better time to be a runner. There are running groups sprouting up all over the country and developments in new activewear technology happening all the time. Consequently, there are now dozens of brands that can make your run that much more effective and enjoyable. Here are five such brands.
Under Armour
For many runners, simply wearing a nice t-shirt and a pair of shorts is the perfect activewear for their run. But with the technology available to runners today, there are lots of options that can keep you comfortable and performing to your best at the same time. But out of all of them, Under Armour has to be the best.
Under Armour lives up to its name by providing strong, durable activewear that is high-functioning and high-performance. Made with breathable and versatile fabric, I’ve always found Under Armour to be comfortable and flexible — it’s like a second skin.
And on a side note, while looks certainly aren’t everything, Under Armour does deliver in that respect too. Eschewing the acid greens and blinding blues in favor of understated dark tones, you can feel and look good at the same time.
ASICS
Once you’ve been running for a while and you know that running is the right sport for you, it’s time to invest in a high-quality running shoe. When you’re pounding the sidewalk regularly, it’s worth paying a little extra to keep your feet protected.
The “best running shoe” is a hotly-contested title that changes with every runner you speak to. But if you’re finding a brand that consistently delivers high-quality, high-performance running shoes time and time again, it has to be ASICS.
Taking its name from the Latin phrase anima sana in corpore sano (“healthy soul in a healthy body”), ASICS is regularly ranked as the best running shoe around — and I’m inclined to agree. They keep your feet safe and comfortable, and they’re durable enough to withstand even the most gruelling run.
I prefer running on asphalt and ASICS are perfect for that, but they’re equally good for trail runners and treadmills too. And while running shoes tend to be very expensive on the higher end of the scale, ASICS have plenty of reasonably-priced shoes that provide high quality at affordable prices.
SportOxy
It can take a while for newbies to first commit to running. Decent running shoes and accessories don’t come cheap, and paying big bucks for your first pair is not an appealing option.
For example, it’s difficult finding an affordable pair of running shoes that: a) won’t fall apart the first time you wear them, and b) won’t leave you feeling as though you’ve been running on asphalt barefoot.
And as if it wasn’t hard enough finding a decent pair of shoes, you need to choose what to wear too. The variety of activewear on offer today is dizzying, especially for complete running novices.
So for beginner runners, Sport Oxy is the one-stop shop you need. It offers everything the newbie might need to get started in running at highly discounted rates.
It’s great for new runners who don’t want to make a heavy financial investment before deciding whether running is right for them. Despite the low prices, the products are still durable and comfortable, giving you a great run every time.
And for the more entrepreneurial minded runners out there wanting to start their own local fitness brand, Sport Oxy is a Utah-based business that’s also currently for sale. It’s a chance for you to combine your passion with business, all the while earning a little extra cash out of it too.
The Science Of Running
Hitting the wall. Overpronation. Carbo-loading. Hypoxic.
The running world is full of jargon and obscure concepts, and it can be a challenge making sense of it all.
Or if you’re an experienced runner, it’s not always easy to find the motivation and direction to push yourself further.
Enter The Science of Running.
This is a blog and podcast series created by renowned coach Steve Magness. With experience coaching dozens of world-class athletes, Steve is well-placed to deliver fascinating insight and motivating advice for runners of any ability.
His articles are data-led and highly comprehensive, providing in-depth advice on a range of topics. From dealing with failures to coping with stress, Steve covers it all. If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to pull your shoes on and head out for a run, The Science of Running will give you the motivation you need.
Nike+ Run Club
Like most runners, when I first started running, I struggled. I panted and puffed and wheezed my way around the track for half an hour three times a week, but I felt like it was all for nothing. I didn’t feel myself getting better at it, and I couldn’t see any visible results in my body.
But then a friend got me onto the Nike+ Run Club. It tracks your run from your smartphone with accurate, comprehensive results, and is highly customizable.
For example, if you want to run for a set distance, the app will monitor your run and alert you when you’re halfway there, and when you’re almost done. It also offers guided runs, helping newbies get into short, long, or speed runs, amongst others.
Since I started using it, I’ve been able to accurately track my progress, seeing in real-time how my speed has increased and how many calories I’ve burnt.
If you’ve lost your running mojo, Nike+ Run Club is your key to finding it again.
The simple art of running hasn’t changed, but how we do it has. The above are just a few examples of brands that can help you get the most from your next run. Be comfortable, embrace a positive mentality, and always strive to be better. All it takes is all you’ve got!
Patrick Foster is a writer, runner, and businessman from Ecommerce Tips. This is a personal passion project where he shares business tips and marketing advice for ambitious individuals who want to start their own ecommerce business. Check out all the latest on Twitter @myecommercetips.
