Shoes
Your shoes are your most important equipment for the running aspect of triathlon. As with bike shopping, there are several different options available with running shoes. You’ll want to try different brands and styles to find the fit that is right for you. If the arch feels like a lump – even a little bit – that shoe doesn’t match the contour of your feet.
There are different types of running shoes available, each designed to fit certain styles of feet. Much of what determines the best fit for you will be your arches and pronation tendencies. Cushioning Shoes are designed for runners who are biomechanically efficient as they are. Stability Shoes are designed for runners who are mild to moderate pronators and would benefit from the added support. Motion Control Shoes are designed for those runners who have severe pronation, often bigger or heavier runners.
It may also be a good idea to forego the big box stores in favor of a specialty running store to ensure you get a shoe that is right for you. The staff at a specialty store is more likely to be a runner themselves than a minimum wage teenager working at a big chain. They’ll be able to answer your questions and make recommendations based on personal experience.
Running Apparel
You’ll also want to pick up some attire specific to running. If possible, stay away from running in a cotton t-shirt. There are so many options now in more breathable moisture-wicking fabrics, there is no reason to run in a heavy cotton tee. There are enough brands, colors, and styles to fit any triathlete’s personal taste and budget. You’ll also want to pick up some pairs of running socks which are low-cut, moisture-wicking, and protective in the areas blisters are most likely to occur.
Other Useful Equipment
Much like the bike computer does for your bike, a good sports watch can help you maximize the efficiency of your runs. You’ll be able to track important statistics such as total time, split times, and – if running on a track – lap number. Today’s more advanced watches can sync directly to your computer and transfer data. This is a great way to very accurately gauge your performance from day to day. A heart rate monitor (HRM) is another useful tool for performance gauging. Many watches have an HRM built into their functionality.