Veggie Blog

Walk into a sports store and you will see an enormous range of clothes and accessories. There is gear for golf, running, fitness classes, horse riding, yoga, surfing, rafting and even mountaineering. The right clothes will not make you fit, but they can make exercise more comfortable and safer. Here is how to choose for some popular activities.

What should you wear for running and workouts?

For running, aerobics and gym sessions, comfort and moisture control matter most. Cotton soaks up sweat and stays wet, which can cause chafing and leave you feeling cold when you stop. Synthetic fabrics that wick moisture away from the skin, or some merino wool blends, dry faster. For a long run, choose a base layer top that keeps you dry. Running shorts or tights, and moisture-wicking socks, make up the basic kit. Pick the right size, because gear that is too tight restricts movement and gear that is too loose can rub.

Shoes are the most important part. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons advises shopping late in the day or after a workout, when your feet are at their largest, wearing the socks you will use for your sport, and leaving about half an inch between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. See its guide to choosing athletic shoes. If you run or play a sport more than twice a week, a sport-specific shoe is a good idea. Our posts on how to choose a gym and get started and group fitness classes can help you decide what you need for classes.

What about golf?

Golf apparel is usually a pair of trousers or shorts and a collared shirt, and many courses have a dress code, so check before you go. Chinos or lightweight sports trousers are popular. A hat or cap protects you from the sun. Freedom of movement in the shoulders and hips is the most important factor, since you need a full swing, and soft-spike or spikeless golf shoes give you grip and comfort over several hours of walking.

What should you wear for the weather?

Dress for the climate and the conditions. In cold weather, wear several thin layers that you can remove, with a wind-resistant outer layer. In hot weather, wear light-colored, loose and breathable clothes, a hat and sunscreen. A running or jogging pant with a drawstring waist is a comfortable all-weather option, and all-weather gear that keeps out wind and rain is useful if you train outdoors year round. For rafting, surfing and other water sports, wetsuits, vests and life jackets are designed for those uses, so choose ones that are approved for the activity.

What do riders need?

Horse riding clothes are simple: riding breeches or comfortable stretch pants, a close-fitting top and boots with a small heel, such as paddock boots, that keep your foot from slipping through the stirrup. Most importantly, wear a riding helmet that is certified for equestrian use and fitted properly. Helmets do not prevent every injury, but they lower the risk of serious head injury. Local riding stores can help you find the right size, and many offer second-hand tack for beginners.

What do you need for yoga?

Yoga clothing should be stretchy enough to let you move freely and fitted enough not to get in the way when you bend over or turn upside down. A T-shirt and loose or stretchy pants, or leggings, are all you need to start. Designer outfits are available at yoga stores, but they are optional. A non-slip mat is a more useful purchase. If you are starting out, read our basic yoga postures guide, or see yoga for women.

Good gear is not about looks. Choose what is comfortable and safe for your activity and your budget, and spend any extra money on well-fitting shoes.