I hope it is ok to ask these questions here. I would rather have advice from users (can't even trust reviews) than sift through pages and pages of marketing.I am looking to buy a waterproof/windproof running jacket does anyone have any suggestions?
Now it looks like I am going to bridge to 10k and continue my running career should I think of replacing my entry level bought in the sale Asics shoes? If so any suggestions? The market is mind boggling!
Thanks in Advance
Feel the same way…I have loved my ASICS…they need replacing & I could easily get the same again.. never ever had a problem from the day I put them on! A minefield of marketing info out there!! Watching for comments from others …grateful you have raised it!!
If you want new running shoes, I’d visit your local independent running shop where there’s most likely a wealth of experience. They can look at your hair and recommend trainers to suit your individual running style best. EDIT: They look at your GAIT! Not your hair. You’ve got to love it when your phone goes rogue with the autocorrect…
Beware wary of thinking entry level/less expensive must mean worse. I prefer my cheaper gt 2000s to my new kayanos.
I don’t like running in jackets so I’m not the best person to recommend one. I find waterproof jackets mean you get wet from sweating rather than the rain. I’m sure others can help though.
Happy shopping!
I like the idea of free hair analysis with new running shoes MissUnderstanding !
Goodness knows what sort of trainers I’d get if they were based on my hair!!!
I’m sure a skilled hair analysis would tell me that it probably needs more attention from me!
Ooh hair analysis - yes! Mine would definitely say could do better. It has a mind all of its own 😀 MissUnderstanding I'm interested to hear why you like the gt2000s better than the kayanos as I've just bought a pair of kayanos.
I think it’s a lot down to personal taste. I’ve found them to be very comfortable but I prefer the less cushioned, lighter feel of the GT 2000. I do enjoy wearing them. I haven’t run further than a half marathon and at longer distances, maybe I’d prefer the kayanos. They’re still lovely trainers though and if you asked a load of different people, you’d probably get different answers.
😂🤣 just cracked up laughing MU - ‘Going to buy some new running shoes, how’s my hair looking?’
Glad to be of service! I almost corrected the ridiculous typo but it tickled me too and thought other might appreciate seeing it. Sometimes I honestly don’t know what my phone is thinking!
It did make me wonder being a newbie, could you imagine if I went into a running shop and asked for my hair analysed as I wanted new running shoes 😂 😂
When I worked in retail as Saturday girl while I was at university, we did get some pretty strange requests… I think look at my hair and tell me what running shoes to buy would be the strangest though!
I know they can type the craziest things.but I’m glad you left it in 🤣🤗
I think we now need a new thread where we match pictures of haircuts with running styles and running shoes - who knows, there may be a link! 😂
I am late to the party - am looking for recos on running jackets, so I stumbled over this post - and laughed out loud over the hair analysis! Thank you so much for leaving it in, MissUnderstanding !!!
I still think it could be how I make my millions!!! Glad it made you laugh too!
Hallo OMR, you’ve asked a question that many have asked before you. As always in these things, something that suits one person won’t be any good for the next - it’s all about your own preference. But one of the main things you will see if you look back through the posts is that a visit to an independent running shop is almost a must. They will carry a range of shoes and will do a gait analysis to see how you run, thus making sure that whatever you choose will be comfortable and give you the support you need. But equally, if your current shoes do that, then stick with them! As far as jackets are concerned , MissUnderstanding’s right - I have a windproof jacket from Decathlon but I usually take it off as soon as I warm up otherwise it’s like running in a plastic bag! I try to avoid going out when it’s raining but if it starts when I’m out, I just get wet! Enjoy your shopping !
I bought a Ronhill very lightweight jacket in a sale when I started to increase my distance and I've hardly worn it as a running jacket. Like the others I found it far too hot to run in. It's been useful to throw in a bag when I'm walking though 😂Again gait analysis at an independent shop is your best bet but that will very much depend if you have one nearby. Some websites have guidelines to try to match you to the right shoe.
We' ll look forward to seeing a photo of what you get.
Hi OldManRunning , if your Asics shoes were bought for C25K, then they're not likely to be worn out. So if that's the case, and if they suit you and you've been running injury-free in them, no need to replace them right now.
However, when you do want to do so, I agree that getting advice from a specialist running shop is definitely worth it. If budget's an issue, tell them. In any case, when you're just starting out as a runner you really don't need the whizziest shoes designed for Olympians or Mont Blanc ultra-trailers.
As for clothing, I'm a great fan of Decathlon (men's running kit is here: decathlon.co.uk/browse/c0-m... and Lidl.
I'd say that windproof and breathable is important in a jacket - I wouldn't go for waterproof unless you're prepared to invest a chunk of money in one that's also breathable. A jacket that met specific criteria was obligatory kit for a trail event I did, but tbh I hardly ever wear it!
Waterproofing works both ways. If you're running you are going to get wet from the inside out anyway, and waterproofing will give you the "boil in the bag" feeling.
I have a Ronhill running jacket but it's main use is to keep the wind off in colder weather on my warmup walks and on occasion on my cooldown when I have ended up further from home than intended. It inevitably comes off after 1 or 2km as once I'm running I get too warm and then wet from the inside.I don't mind running in the rain. It can be quite refreshing - as long as its not torrential.
It's basically down to personal preference though, how much you perspire and whether you run hot or cold.
If you need/ want new shoes I'd also recommend visiting your local running shop and if it's an independent all the better. You can get your gait analysed and they will be able to recommend a range of different shoes at different price points for you to try
For shoes I would recommend going to an independent running shop, as they will be able to do a gait analysis, and will know which shoes are best for you. This might be good reading for you.
healthunlocked.com/couchto5...
I bought a Ronhill running jacket because the material was softer than some of the cheaper alternatives. But really it is down to personal choice.
Hi, I’ve bought a very lightweight wind/water resistant jacket from decathlon and I’ve worn it twice in this last week, I took it off the first time and tied it round my waist as it’s just too hot to run in and last night I wish I hadn’t worn it. I think I’d rather get wet but remain cool and if I’m driving home from a run I take a jacket to put on when I finish so I’m not soaking the car.
I’ve tried various makes of running shoes but my big wide feet love New Balance. I treated myself to their foam fresh ones when I graduated ct5k but I’d definitely go for a gait analysis for my next pair now that I know I’m sticking with running. Good luck!
Thanks everyone for all your thoughts. I think I'll invest in an after run jacket or coat instead, a warm one like a Superdry. I did try running in an old waterproof training top and suffered as some of you have mentioned hence my question about breathability. As for my shoes I will be getting gait analysis next time I venture to Cardiff. THANK YOU 😁
Another vote for independent running shops and gait analysis. The one I've been to has been very helpful and no more expensive than the big chains. Take your old shoes along and they can get an idea of what you like/how you run from the wear pattern.
As to whether you need new ones, a new pair of running shoes is pretty rigid from heel to toe, but wear causes them to get softer. I did C25K in a pair of ASICS that had been sitting in a cupboard, pretty much unworn, for 10 years. I pulled a ligament shortly after graduating and my physio demonstrated that the 'old faithfuls' would easily bend in half with no resistance. The lack of support had contributed to my injury.
The second pair of ASICS lasted me about 6 months, 400km ish, which was less than I expected. I'm slightly overweight and run mostly on paths across fields which may make a difference. Anyway, as soon as I saw they were losing their strength it was back to the running shop for me.
Currently I'm using Brooks Adrenalines which are incredibly comfortable. I'm up to 385 km (in 7 months) and they still seem to be doing well.
In case you're wondering, my Garmin Forerunner 45 watch has a feature where you can track the mileage on your shoes.
As to running jackets, I just use an old Regatta packaway wind/rainproof jacket. I try not to run in winter rain 
and unless it's really cold I usually take it off after a km or so anyway.
Happy running!
As you can see Old ManRunning, there's nothing this forum loves more than a bit of running gear-chat! I always find these posts so useful 🙂
I just completed my first rainy run (I have no idea how I've managed to be so lucky...) - and as I was peeling off my layers I realized that the drizzle had soaked through the windproof and "water-resistant" jacket I bought at Tchibo. Yes, that's the coffee beans chain in Germany that seems to be selling more clothing than coffee these days...
So, I thought I'd see what advice is on here - and reading the comments above, I realized: If you would've asked me outside after my run, I would've sworn that I had not gotten wet beyond the jacket because nothing was clinging and I felt warm! So, I think I'll stick with that jacket rather than buying a waterproof one that'll soak me from the inside... Of course, I don't yet know how it'll fare during a downpour...
(Here's the jacket in case that helps someone: tchibo.de/lightweight-windj... )
First 10K entered. Advice please
Same shoes again?
NO SHOES!!!
New shoes? 
4E shoes!!
