Thoughts on Gear for the Trail
By Coach Jeff Preston
I wanted to talk a bit about gear as we move into longer distances in our walks/runs. I’ve included links where possible for anyone that’s interested in learning more. Please note, that I have no affiliation with any of these companies. I just like their products.
Running Belts
The first item I wanted to mention was a running belt. I am currently running with the URPOWER-Upgraded Running Belt. Like all belts, it’s adjustable in length. It comes with two 6-oz water bottles and a large pocket that easily holds my gels, Chap Stick and even a cell phone.
It also has an opening for earphones for runners who aren’t using Bluetooth “Air Pod” technology. I like this product because it’s not bulky, it holds up well, and meets all of my needs. Finding a belt that meets your needs is really important. I’ve noticed many people don’t run with them until they start into longer runs. I encourage people to wear them every time they run. Adding any gear to your routine deeper into the training program just means more time late in the game for your body to acclimate to something new.
Headbands
The days of the Bruce Jenner terry cloth headbands and wrist bands are long gone, but the need is still there. I can’t stand sweating into my eyes while working out. A few years ago, I came across an amazing product by Sweatgutr. The product is a thin translucent headband and does a great job of keeping sweat from rolling into my eyes. The technology is such that it has a “gutter” that collects the moisture and directs it to the rear and down your back, aiding in cooling while keeping your eyes clear.
https://www.sweatgutr.com/sweatbands
Nipple Protection
This is for the men. When you’re out there running and sweating, you’re releasing lots of salt. Salt can be abrasive, especially with the movement of your shirt while running. Most guys don’t notice it during the short runs, but as distance increases, the repeated abrasion often causes your nipples to bleed. It has already happened to me once this season as I’d forgotten to protect my nipples by covering them up with some type of band-aid.
Two weeks ago, I saw one of our coaches finishing a run wearing our new bright-yellow shirts, and he was bleeding as well. Now any band-aid type bandage will work, but the larger bandages cover more area than what is required. If you have any chest hair, you know the pain pulling those large bandages off while ripping out hairs. So, after a couple of years of battling with finding the right coverings, I found HEB’s Clear Spot bandages. They’re round band-aids a little larger than a penny, and they get the job done. Most of the pharmacies have their own version of the product, and they all work equally well.
https://www.heb.com/product-detail/h-e-b-clear-spot-all-one-size-bandages/518588
Body Abrasion
So now that the miles are starting to pick up, we will all battle the rub. Everyone has their own unique body style, and we all rub in different places. Some people under the arm, some between their thighs, and others... well let’s just say I fell into the "other" category a few times. I was quickly introduced to Body Glide. It’s an amazing product. It’s not messy, or smelly, and is a NO BRAINER. If you’re someone that has dealt with chafing in the past, then this is your reminder to start applying now.
If you are having abrasion in the “dairy-air zone,” then diaper-rash-type protection is a must. There are many over-the-counter zinc ointments meant for this region, and they work very well.
Sun Block and Sun Glasses
If you’re like me, the idea of applying sunblock literally makes your hair stand on end. I can’t stand to be slathered up in greasy slime. I know some of you could care less, but for me it’s just nasty. Regardless of my personal feelings, there are lots of athletic-type sun blocks available. Find one that works for you, and use it.
If the slimy, greasy thing gags you as well, then I encourage you to check out Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer body mist. It doesn’t gag me, and I’m not miserable with it.
Sunglasses aren’t just for style and design; they also protect your eyes. So be sure to shop for something comfortable that’s protecting you from the harmful effects of the sun.
I’m currently wearing a pair of Scattante glasses that are a multi-lens cycling pair of sunglasses. They have interchangeable lens that you can change out fairly easy. The multi-lenses feature is really nice for changing out your lenses based on sunny or cloudy days. I enjoy these a lot. They’re lightweight and provide plenty of eye coverage.
Lenses for cloudy days actually provide a lighter view of your surroundings. These may be more than most people need, but I hit a sale and nabbed a pair a couple of years ago.
https://www.performancebike.com/bike-cycling-sunglasses/c15087