The Best Spring Running Gear Suggestions by Mill City Running
Ah, spring! That lovely time of year when the leaves grow back on the trees, the air is crisp but not cold, and running outside is once again an enjoyable way to spend your time. I love spring for all the promise and hope it offers. It symbolizes new beginnings and limitless possibilities for a summer and fall full of fast times and new PRs.
We’re gearheads here at Minneapolis Running (at least I am), and while there isn’t any running gear you absolutely need (aside from maybe shoes), there are plenty of fun things out there. We asked our good friends at Mill City Running in Northeast Minneapolis to share a few of their top picks for spring gear this year. Check out their suggestions!
Note: at Minneapolis Running, we always encourage you to shop locally. A local running store is so much more than just a place to buy shoes. It’s the heartbeat of the running community! Stop in and support them with your wallet. That said, we know not everyone lives close to a local running store. If that’s the case, use the links below to buy online. Some of them go to Amazon, and a tiny fraction of your purchase goes to support our site, at no extra cost to you.
Related: More Spring Gear Suggestions
Duluth Pack Market Tote
Everybody needs a good bag they can throw their running gear in and take to a race, or group run. This one looks especially cool. Sara says,
“Duluth Pack products have been handmade in Duluth, MN since 1882. Ruggedly stylish, with a lifetime warranty, the Market Tote is big enough to fit your running gear, your post-workout snack, your wallet and maybe even your dog.”
Rabbit Speed Sleeves
If you don’t have a high-quality long sleeve t-shirt, it’s time you treated yourself to one! MCR has found a new company in the running apparel space, and it looks pretty sweet! The name of the company is Rabbit.
“[Rabbit was] started by a run specialty store owner and her friend. Made for runners by runners, Rabbit features soft performance fabrics, a no-nonsense design aesthetic, and a sustainable manufacturing ethos. (All of their products are made in Los Angeles, California.)”
“The Rabbit Speed Sleeves long sleeve tee for men is perfect for those in-between spring mornings in Minnesota. Super-soft and at just the right weight, the Speed Sleeves will keep you comfortable as you warm up, and allow the sweat to wick as you run faster.”
Brooks Cascadia Shell
I said there wasn’t anything on this list you need, but a lightweight shell is pretty clutch in the spring. This one from Brooks is top notch. Sara says it’s, “Packable. Expandable. Wind and water-resistant. Designed with and tested by ultra trail running legend (and native Minnesotan!) Scott Jurek. Need we say more?”
“Available for both men and women, the Brooks Cascadia Shell is a water and wind-resistant shell with some nifty trail-specific features. It has an expandable back panel, which helps it fit over your hydration pack. It is also completely cut out along the sides, providing excellent breathability and sweat release. Finally, it packs down into the front pocket! This jacket is a must-have for any and all spring running adventures.”
Roll Recovery R8
If you don’t have a roller of some kind, you need to get one. While some may differ on whether or not rolling is essential, I have found it to feel amazing during the build up to a half or full marathon.
Sara says, “Many runners know that it’s not necessarily about what splits you hit on the track or trails, it’s what you do to recovery that takes you to the next level. Enter the Roll Recovery R8.
Yes, it looks like some Rollerblade wheels set up in a metal frame, but its patent-pending design provides the same force as a deep-tissue massage. Small, compact, and travel-ready, you can use it standing, sitting, or lying down. No more strange contortions required rolling around on your foam roller…or sitting in an ice bath with your parka on.”
Related: More Massage Tools
Your Favorite Spring Things
What are some of your favorite, unique spring running gear and gadgets? Share below.
