Lightweight Gear for Diehard Runners

Since it gained popularity as a recreational sport in the 1960s, running has been a popular exercise choice to relieve stress and get in a good cardio workout. For some, running is simply a quick weekly workout on a treadmill. Just put on a pair of sneakers and some flexible clothing and you're set to go! You don't need anything special. But for diehard runners out there who make the exercise a passion, picking out the best gear to improve your running experience is essential.

Choosing Lightweight Gear

There's plenty of runner's gear to choose from. Go into a sporting goods store and you'll see everything from phone holders to running belts and pedometers. We consider these things the jewelry of running. They're pretty and the idea behind them is cool, but when it comes down to it, they aren't the most essential.

What we focused on is what you're putting on your feet and body. If you aren't comfortable in your clothing -- if you are constantly stopping to tie your shoelaces or start chafing -- then your run could be completely thrown off.

To that end, we've searched for the best lightweight running gear. In our search, we found a lot of products that seem lightweight but are actually poorly made, use cheap material, or aren't that supportive. So we made sure to choose lightweight clothing options that are durable, comfortable, and won't overheat you.

Running Pants

If you're going with pants, then we assume that you're a cold-weather runner. However, the right type of running pants should work for warmer weather as well.

CompressionZ High Leggings

These compression leggings are perfect for runners of smaller stature, as they tend to run small. Both affordable and comfortable, they are made from breathable, wicked fabric.

NIKE Power Essential Dri-FIT

Nike Power's cropped-cut running pants are perfect for both cold and warmer weather as they don't cover up the entire leg, but cover up enough to keep you warm. The seams are sewn flat so they won't fold or rub against your skin, and the pants are made from a polyester and spandex blend so they stretch and remain snug against the body. They also come with a zippered back pocket with a waterproof lining.

Running Shirt

The function of a shirt while running is fairly obvious. But the right shirt can help keep moisture off your body and make you more visible when running in low light conditions.

Under Armour Men's Tech Short Sleeve Running Shirt

It shouldn't come as a surprise that Under Armour finds itself on this list. Their wicked shirt is made from pure polyester to keep away sweat and moisture. It's ultra-soft and dries quickly and has anti-odor technology to prevent body odor absorption.

Joe's USA Men's Running Shirt

Made from pure polyester, Joe's USA running shirt keeps you free from moisture. It fits loosely to give you a full range of motion while you move and comes in a large range of colors.

Hats

A hat while running? You bet! Wearing a hat while running protects you from sun and glare. (No, not a floppy sun hat you'd wear on the beach.) Not everyone wears a hat while running, but if you do, these will keep you cool while protecting you from the sun.

HeadSweats Performance Race Hat

The HeadSweats hat is made from Eventure which is a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric. The headband is made from the same fabric, as well. You can machine wash this hat without worrying about shrinking it or having it lose its shape.

TrailHeads Women's Race Day Performance Hat

The TrailHeads hat is specifically designed for women. It's made from a polyester wicked fabric that'll keep away moisture while keeping your head cool. The reflective trim will help people see you when you run in low light conditions.

Running Jackets

Having a jacket for your run is always a good idea. You should always check the weather before you go running, but sometimes those clouds can be a little unpredictable.

Brooks Canopy Jacket

The Brooks Canopy Jacket is breathable, windproof, and water-resistant. This makes it a versatile piece of gear. The cuffs stretch and have thumbholes to keep your hands warm and eliminate the need for gloves.

Salomon Agile Wind Jacket

This jacket keeps you protected from the wind, but also allows you to keep cool if you are running in slightly warmer weather. A snap button at the top allows you to keep the jacket from flopping around as you run. There are also vents under the arm to give you additional airflow.

Running Shoes

Instead of putting on any old pair of sneakers, invest in some running shoes. Running shoes have extra cushioning and a higher heel to withstanding stronger impacts, a heel flare for stability, and more flexibility by flexing at both the arch and the forefoot.

Don't be afraid to spend a little extra money on a good running shoe. It's possibly the most important piece of gear you can buy.

Adidas Adizero Boston 9

The Adidas Adizero fit like a glove and have plenty of cushioning for comfort. The shoes have plenty of support so you can run long distances.

Saucony Kinvara 11

These shoes are super soft and breathable. The forefoot has additional flex and mesh so it molds to your foot and keeps you cool.

Lightweight Gloves for Running

If you run during the winter months you will want some gloves to keep you warm. This might be in addition to any protection your jacket gives your hands.

TrailHeads Women's Running Gloves

These gloves have a smooth and durable outer layer to protect you from the wind. The inside is a super soft, brushed layer that wicks away moisture. You can use any touch screen device with these gloves on, which means you can easily pull up your favorite workout playlist on your smartphone.

Under Armour Men's ColdDear Infrared Fleece 2.0 Gloves

These gloves have Under Armour's ColdGear Infrared fabric to keep you warm by trapping and holding your body heat in the gloves. The fabric of the glove goes well past your wrists so you can stay warm. The fingertips have Tech Touch so you can use them with touchscreen devices.

Let's Go for a Run

If you're a serious sprinter, you want to have equipment that will keep you warm without weighing you down as you run. Luckily, the perfect running gear isn't hard to find and or overly expensive.