SHOES -- If possible, go to a store that deals primarily with running equipment or to a specific salesperson who is a experienced runner. Here in Henderson, NV there is Red Rock Running, but feel free to shop online or go anywhere you want. A knowledgeable salesperson can help you make a good decision based on size, width, running style, and type of running (training vs. racing). For a beginning runner, these are shoes that can serve both for training and racing. Be sure that the salesman understands that the shoe will be used for daily training.

 

Four good hints on purchasing a new shoe:

1. A good shoe fit will usually feel the best on your feet.

2. It helps to buy a good shoe. It doesn't have to be the most expensive, but sometimes the cheap shoe causes more problems than it saves. Remember shoes are on sale many times because they are not selling. They usually do not sell because they don't feel good for a majority of runners.

3. Make sure that you have some room in the toebox of the shoe for your feet. A good general rule is the width of your thumb. This allows for both growth, and your feet swelling, and will help prevent you from losing you toenails.

4. Also don't wear your running shoes as PE shoes. This is one of the quickest ways to wear them out.

 

Final thoughts on shoes.. Over the course of many years of running and coaching. I have noticed a disturbing trend. Every Runner that has developed shin splints wore a pair of NIKE running shoes. This only applies to the less expensive Nike training shoe. Top End Nike perform excellently. Nike Racing Flats are excellent shoes / spikes. Now because of this realization I highly recommend any other brand that fits correctly. In addition, due to the milage the runners put on their shoes. It is not unheard of that they wear out the shoe before the end of the season. Shoes do not last forever, and are probably the most expensive part of gear the athlete will need. Personally I follow the adage “You get what you pay for.” & invest in a good pair of Training and Racing shoes. But you need to follow what’s best for your bank account.

  

Clothing -- Since we start our Track pre-season running in the colder months of Nevada, (Nov. Dec. Jan.) It is advisable to wear running tights and a long sleeve shirt or sweats. Dress appropriately for the weather conditions. As the temperatures warm up transitioning to loose fitting t-shirts and shorts are adequate for daily practice.

 

Clean, dry socks or footies for each practice will help prevent blisters, fungus, and other foot problems. It is highly advisable that the athlete packs a second pair of socks into their training bag.

 

It is not necessary to purchase specific running clothing for meets. Uniforms will be checked out for meets and invitationals. Students will need to purchase team sweat suits that they will keep after the season ends and may be used for subsequent seasons. If they lose the uniform they will be required to pay to replace them.

 

As an athlete becomes more experienced and involved, he or she may wish to purchase additional equipment and clothing.

 

Watches -- All runners should purchase a runners watch for practice. While watches may be worn during meets, I treat their use on a case by case basis. Some runners find racing with a watch, a distraction, and as a coach I will ask the runner to remove their watch if its presence is causing a problem with their performance. Watches are a tool to help make our running more efficient and best utilize our time. Usually they can be purchase at stores for as little as $10. We want all runners to have one for practice.