How to Pick the Right Clothes and Shoes for Race Day

The last thing you need to worry about the morning of your race is what you’re going to wear. But the clothes and gear you choose can make or break your race experience. The best solution is to take time and effort before the big day to find quality shoes and apparel that can go the distance. It’s essential to do this prep well ahead of toeing the starting line. That way, all you have to worry about come race day is busting that PR.

Follow these guidelines when deciding what to wear on race day.

3 Tips for Selecting the Best Gear for Your Race

Follow these tips to plan your best race day outfit, from running shoes to running shorts, regardless of race length or weather conditions.

1. Check the forecast. Keep an eye on the weather forecast during the weeks leading up to the race. Keep in mind that weather predictions change, so be sure to check regularly.
2. Go light. “A rule of thumb is to dress for running like it’s 15 to 20 degrees warmer than it actually is,” says Amie Dworecki, MA, CEO and head coach of Running with Life. You may feel cooler at the outset, but your body will heat up once you start running.
3. Practice, practice, practice. “Make sure to practice wearing what you plan to run in to avoid any race day surprises,” says Nicole Gainacopulos, CSCS, running coach, and founder of Momentum of Milwaukee. Try to wear your race day outfit in different weather scenarios and note how successful the outfit was in your workout log or activity tracker. “That is a great way to catalog, so you’re not guessing each time the weather changes,” Gainacopulos says. Take your race day shoes for a few practice runs, too.

What to Wear Post-Race

Don’t get so wrapped up in your race outfit that you forget to pack anything for after the race. “After your race is done, you'll want to change out of your sweaty clothing quickly and put on some dry clothing,” Gainacopulos says.

Many races even have drop bags so you can pick up fresh clothes after you cross the finish line, Dworecki says.

Stow these items in your post-race drop bag:

• Dry socks and shoes. These can be especially handy if it’s expected to be rainy or muddy. This way, you’re not squishing around in wet socks and shoes all the way home, Dworecki notes. If it’s cold outside, you may also want to bring a dry pair of gloves and a hat or headband.

• Small towel. Use this to wipe away sweat, mud, and tears. Or, bring cleansing face and body wipes if you prefer a deeper clean.

• Sweatshirt and pants. If you don’t plan on changing near the race site, be sure to pack something you can quickly pull on over your race outfit. Otherwise, bring a full change of clothes.

• Toiletries. You may want to refresh your deodorant and sunscreen once you’ve toweled off.

• Snacks. You’re bound to find plenty of post-race goodies such as bananas and energy bars at the finish line. But if you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to pack foods you know you can handle.