1. Run a Marathon in Comfortable Shoes
Shoes are the single most important clothing accessory when dressing for a marathon running race. Uncomfortable feet can make for a long 26.2 miles. Be sure your running shoes fit properly. A too tight fit causes discomfort and constricts blood flow. Shoes that are too loose foster blisters and poor balance. Select a lightweight model that supports your ankles and feet and gives them breathing room. Never wear new shoes on race day. Test-drive them during training, especially on longer routes, to ensure their comfort.
2. Repel the Wind in GORE-TEX?
Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing that moves with you. If you are running a marathon in warm or hot weather, avoid cotton fabrics. The material retains perspiration and does not dry. Add a light cap, visor or sunglasses to deflect the sun's glare. If you're going to be running in cold weather, wear multiple layers of clothing. This allows you to eliminate layers if you find yourself overheating. Nylon or GORE-TEX? fabric will repel wind, release heat and keep cold air out. Look for apparel with closures instead of zippers to prevent air and cold rain or snow from leaking through the fabric.
3. Stay Cool in CoolMax?
Check the local forecast to find out what type of weather to expect for race day. Factor in the anticipated air temperature, wind gust speed and weather conditions when dressing for your marathon. A prediction of rain or snow calls for wearing a water-resistant, quick-drying top layer. For windy conditions cover your legs with tights that combine polyester and Lycra?. If the weatherman predicts temperatures and also mentions a heat index, then plant don a lightweight, wickable fabric, such as CoolMax?. Visit Runner's World website to key in your area's weather and get a detailed list of the recommended clothing for those conditions.
4. Cover Your Skin
Blisters and skin chafing go hand in hand with marathons, especially for first-time racers. Prevent your skin from rubbing raw by applying petroleum jelly or BodyGlide to your feet, inner thighs, underarms and other susceptible areas. Stay away from cotton socks. They are a breeding ground for blisters. Avoid any articles of clothing, including socks and footwear, with raised seams that may rub your skin the wrong way. Apply sunscreen if you are racing in hot weather and put petroleum jelly on your face if weather conditions are cold and windy.
5. Don't Forget Your Fanny Pack
Consider wearing a small backpack or "fanny pack." Fill it with band-aids, personal identification, your cell phone or other PDA in case of an emergency, energy bars and a small water bottle. Check with race officials before packing your iPod or mp3 player. Many races, particularly marathons, prohibit their use.
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