Sports Kit Guides

£200 might feel expensive for a hobby that requires mostly
physical energy however, this includes a race entry fee of anywhere between
£24-75.

1. Race Entry Fee (£25-£75)

Budget: £25-£75 

Set aside £25-£75 for the race entry fee. Local races are

often more affordable and a great way to start.

Remaining Budget after Entry Fee: £125-£175 

2. Running Shoes (£60-£80)

Cost: £60-£80 

Good running shoes are the most essential part of your kit.

Look for beginner-friendly models that offer cushioning and support without

breaking the bank.

Recommended beginner models:

• Asics
  Gel-Contend 7 - £50-£70
• Asics
  Patriot - £40-£60
• Nike
  Revolution 7 - £50-£60

3. Running Apparel (£30-£40)

Running Shirt – £10-£20

• Nike
  Running Dri-FIT - £15-20
• TCA
  Actomic kit (Decathon) £15-20
• Puma
  Run Kit - £10-£15

Decathlon might not be the first choice for runners but it’s
you looking to budget, it’s certainly a good place to look as their equipment
is a moisture-wicking shirt which keeps you dry and comfortable on

runs.

Running Shorts or Leggings – £15-£20 

• ASOS
  4505 - £15-£20
• Nike
  Running Challenger Dri-FIT - £10-£20

Look for lightweight, quick-dry materials that prevent chafing and provide comfort.

4. Hydration and Accessories (£20-£30)

Water Bottle or Basic Hydration Belt – £10-£15 

• Under Armour Playmaker - £8-£10
• Nike Refuel Squeeze - £8-£12
• Karrimor Running Water Bottle - £3-£4 (this bottle is a handheld
  and some might find it easier to run with rather then your standard bottle)

For longer training runs, having a way to stay hydrated is
essential and hydrations vests can help with this however, they can become
fairly expensive so for the purpose of this budget they are not included.

Running Cap or Headband (Optional) – £5-£10 

• adidas Aeroready Mesh Runner Cap - £10-£12
• Running AEROREADY Four-Panel Mesh Cap - £20 (if you’re looking
  to splash out a little extra)

A cap or headband can help with sun protection and keep
sweat out of your eyes.

 

5. Basic Running Tracker or App (Free to £10)

Cost: Free to £10 

Tracking your pace and distance helps with motivation and
monitoring progress. Many free apps are available, or you can invest in a basic
running app upgrade if desired.

Recommended free options:

• Inspo Training Programmes – Free Download
• Strava or MapMyRun (basic tracking and training features) – Free
  - £11.99 per month
• Nike Run Club (free, with guided runs and community
  challenges)

Budget Breakdown

| Item                          | Estimated Cost   |

|-------------------------------|------------------|

| Race Entry Fee                | £25-£75          |

| Running Shoes                 | 60-£80         |

| Running Apparel               | £30-£40         |

| Hydration and Accessories     | £20-£30         |

| Running Tracker/App           | Free-£10         |

| Total                    
| £135-£235   |

Additional Tips for Staying Within Budget

1. Look for Sales and Last Season’s Models: Running shoes
and apparel are often discounted when new models are released.

2. Prioritise Comfort Over Brand: Affordable brands like
Decathlon or entry-level options from Asics, Nike, and Kalenji are often
suitable for beginners.

3. Focus on Essentials: For your first race, only invest in
what’s necessary, and build up your kit as you gain more experience and insight
into your preferences.

This kit will provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience
for both training and race day, keeping you within the £200 budget as a
beginner runner. Let us know how your training goes and your first race!