Cool running

Looking to switch up your leggings and trainers for the colder months? LAUREN TAYLOR tests some best buys

AUTUMN is arguably the best time of year to pull on some trainers and go for a jog; the temperatures are much more runner-friendly than summer, parks take on pretty red and yellow hues and stamping through crunchy leaves is satisfying no matter how old you are.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, comfortable running kit and handy accessories can make all the difference when it comes to motivation.

This season you’ll need quick-dry, high quality material in case of rain and supportive trainers that will see you safely over wet or muddy ground. We put these 10 picks through their paces...

Women’s Infrared Running Core 3.0 Leggings, £80, Kymira Sport

WHO knew leisurewear could be so high-tech? These are made from ‘infrare demitting fabric’ to help regulate body temperature, dissipate heat and evaporate sweat. They also claim to increase ‘oxygenation and glycogen storage in the blood’, to help you run faster, for longer.

I can’t tell whether it’s the technology, but these are easily one of the best pairs of leggings I’ve ever run in. The fabric’s super-soft, the waist band’s supercomfy, they don’t raise up or slip down; I barely notice I’m even wearing them. The sleek design is also really eye-catching, and I get an unusual amount of compliments while in them. Pricey, but they feel like the kind of quality that will last.

Libratone TRACK Air+ True Wireless Earbuds, £179, Amazon

I HAVE to admit I’m a wireless newbie. I’ve spent years running with the long cord getting in my way. These new noisecancelling wireless earbuds could do with a few more instructions when you set them up – but not having a cord flapping around is really freeing as I set off.

The earbuds sit in my ears comfortably without any danger of falling out and, crucially, the sound quality is epic. The decent noisecancelling element makes me feel like I’m in my own little bubble, without outside distraction, but does mean the sound of my own steps is somewhat amplified too (and remember – if you use noise-cancelling to run, stick to safe places without cars).

GORE R5 Women Sleeveless Shirt, £59.99, gorewear.com

THIS time of year calls for a little more coverage, but I’m still reluctant to wear long sleeves for running until deep into winter. With mesh inserts, this top feels airy – it’s designed to be ‘highly breathable’ and specifically engineered for running. It doesn’t stick to my skin and still keeps me dry and comfortable, even on a faster, sweaty run.

Women’s UA HOVR Infinite Running Shoes, £120, Under Armour

DESIGNED for long distance running, the technology claims to produce a ‘zero-gravity’ feel to help eliminate the effect of impact after impact – and I can’t disagree.

These rival my trusted Saucony Guides in terms of comfort – I find there aren’t many running trainers that have a slipperlike softness inside and they feel cushioned to run in. With genderspecific designs, these are contoured to mould specifically for women’s feet with a high-tech sounding ‘ergonomic EVA sockliner’.

The shoe even has an inbuilt sensor that connects to Map My Run to track progress, so they could be a great marathon training choice.

Beachbody Go-To Twist Women’s Training Shorts, reduced to £10 from £40, Activinst

AUTUMN might not mean you want to forego shorts altogether; many runners find them more comfortable. These are uberlight and don’t rub at all when I’m on the move. They would be suitable in warm temperatures, too.

They’re quite short, which you might want to consider if you’re on the taller side (but I’m 5ft 9 and I’m sold).

Runderwear Original Support Running Bra (A-E cup), £45

SPORTS bra quality can vary hugely, especially if you’re doing anything high-impact. This Runderwear one is specifically designed for runners; it has a really soft first layer that sits next to your skin, so no rubbing or chaffing, and importantly, it gives enough support even for my longer weekend jaunt.

Dream Spin Leggings, £47, ILU Fitwear (left)

THESE are so soft and comfy, I could easily wear them on a lazy Sunday around the house – but as their primary purpose is for workouts, I give them a go on a longer Sunday jog.

They stay in place perfectly, and feel ever so slightly thicker than my usual leggings, keeping the cold breeze out.

The curved design, with a stripe down the legs, also makes them nice and flattering.

I’ll be wearing these for yoga on cold mornings, too.

Darn Tough Women’s Vertex No Show Ultra-Light Clover Running Socks, £14.40, Trekkit

IF you’re still wearing your everyday pop socks with your trainers, you need to pick up some running-specific ones. Your feet need all the cushioning they can get, especially if you run on pavements rather than softer ground.

These padded ones are made with merino wool for extra warmth, while still managing to be breathable when you work up a sweat.

Domyos 120 Women’s Fitness Cardio Training Leggings, £10.99, Decathlon

I HAVE to admit, I wasn’t expecting much from leggings for a tenner – but these really surprised me.

The waistband sits higher than most, there’s added support around the middle and I found them especially comfortable to run in. They’re part of Decathlon’s new Leggings For Everybody range, designed to suit a diverse range of shapes and fitness abilities, going up to an XXL. Best of all, there’s a handy smartphone-sized pocket on the side of the left thigh, which it turns out is a really comfortable place to carry a phone, rather than pocket-height or in a running belt.

361 Sensation 4 Running Shoes, £118.47, 361 One Degree Beyond

WITHOUT doubt the most important piece of kit for any runner, the right trainers, suited to your individual feet and running style, will help enormously. These offer plenty of ventilation across the front of the foot, and most noticeably, substantial support on the underside.

The fit is snug and supportive in all the right places – which is in part thanks to the padded tongue (under the laces).

My only complaint is that there’s not as much noticeable rebound as some other brands I’ve tried.

A very solid choice, though.

Get ready for the winter with some fit new kit