Youth Sizes
It's not always easy to find good running gear at local stores in the sizes you need, especially when looking for shoes. Young runners should consider women's clothing and shoes for a more narrow, close fit. Don't worry guys -- if you choose the right type, no one will ever know it was made for a woman!
Shopping Online
When ordering gear online, be sure to contact the company first with questions about how certain brands fit (for example, larger than the average "youth medium" shirt or smaller than the average size 6 shoe). Ordering shoes online can be tricky--a runner really needs to feel how a shoe fits to be sure it will provide the right kind of comfort and support. Fit is more important than style.
The Importance of Gear
Proper gear makes a big difference in comfort, physical safety, motivation, and performance. Smart running requires more than throwing on just any old gear and heading out the door.
SHOES Make sure you have a good pair of shoes designed for running, not just generic gym shoes. Just as important is that your shoes aren't old and worn. Without good traction and proper cushioning, they won't protect your body from the constant and surprisingly heavy impact of running.
Despite the design of most running shoes, you might consider buying a set of cushion inserts. They do wonders for sensitive young bones and muscles which are still growing. The inserts that come with running shoes may not provide enough protection for your feet. You can usually find two or more types of cushioned inserts at major department stores and shoe stores. You can choose from heel cushions or full length inserts -- just go with what your feet have been telling you.
Cross-country runners might wonder whether they
should wear "spikes," shoes designed for various
sizes of insertable spikes for better traction. Most
pre-high school runners don't wear spikes unless
they are very serious about their sport. It's a judgement call on your part. If you want to try them, it's possible to find them (online or otherwise) at discount prices. A good alternative to spikes are shoes with rubber ridges or "nubs" that provide extra traction. Read more about spikes here.
WARM WEATHER GEARClothing isn't as important as shoes,
but it can make a difference. In warm
and hot weather, it's awfully nice to have
shorts designed for running (instead of
long and heavy gym shorts) and a sleeveless shirt. It's even better if those are made of materials that "breathe" well and wick sweat away from your body. Polypropelene is one of the most common running gear materials. With gear like that, you're less likely to overheat and cross the finish line covered in heavy, uncomfortable, sweat-drenched clothing.
COLD WEATHER GEAR... ...one of the many reasons people sometimes think distance runners are crazy. When temperatures drop, it makes sense to race in running tights and a long-sleeved running shirt. As with warm weather gear, the gear should be designed to wick sweat away from your body so you don't end up feeling cold and clammy. For warmups and workouts, it's nice to have "wind pants" and a lined windbreaker or a fleece jacket with a high collar.
Don't forget about your feet, hands, and head. Full length wicking socks are best since "ankle socks" will leave ya chilly down there. Hands get cold quickly, so remember light cotton or polypropelene gloves (although hands usually warm up after the first 1/2 mile of running). Finally, it's nice to have a "breathable" headband or lightweight balaclava. Cotton or wool stocking caps can make your head overly toasty in a hurry.
