Gear That Actually Makes Running More Enjoyable

[@JuanReyes-rl9sx]

So refreshing to watch someone focusing in what is important and not to sell something. Keep the good work and never change!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Really nice to hear I'm not the only one with this view!

[@cuddlingcoachingwithkyle3673]

I agree!!!❤

[@markol_86]

Thanks. Very helpful info . I thought about buying expensive jacket got cheap one . Need to comsiderste it one more time. Is there a point of invest in it.

[@zahirig]

I agree! So many ultramarathoners are promoting high end gear when the price to benefit ratio is probably not quite there. A pair of good fitting shoes and a good headlamp are places to spend money.

[@jt.8144]

Thank you for this PRACTICAL AND REALISTIC episode. No hype . No sales pitch. Just RAW , GRASSROOTS 'principles' when it comes to the Real Passion for Running.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Nice to see others share this view on running!

[@BryanErskine]

Great video! Those Patagonia shorts (Strider Pro) are my go-to short and I have several pairs. The best part is Patagonia guarantees their products for life, and I've swapped out several pairs when holes developed in the inseam from excessive wear.

[@jamesday1]

Oh wow! I didn't know they had a lifetime guarantee! That's a bit of a game changer.

[@la2atl]

I’ve been running regularly for over 7 years and agree with everything you said. One thing I like to do is look for good quality items on sale. Look for last year’s model of the shoe you like. Lululemon marks down their items on Thursdays. Make a list of things you want/need and purchase them on Black Friday/Amazon Prime Day/etc. I also recommend thinking in color: look for running gear in colors that make you feel good. You’ll stand out in a crowd and good looking running gear will excite you run more often.

[@JWag]

The Naked running band was a real game changer for me. Easily holds everything you could want- phone, keys, gels and even a couple of soft flasks (all at the same time!) with minimal bounce. Very specific sizing and not cheap- but one of those things that I’m glad I invested in.

[@colinmcc8564]

Agreed, I live in a very hot/humid client so I am skeptical of clothing and gear recommendations because less is almost always better, but the Naked band is worth it compared to the cheaper belts out there.

[@jamesday1]

Interesting! I've used Salomon's but have found it sometimes adds pressure on my hips or stomach. Maybe I just need to find a better fitting belt!

[@mrwallie5490]

Decathlon has those plain black running shorts with a zip pocket in the back for a phone for around 15-20 euros. My phone does not fit there because it quite large, so I stuff it in the inside pocket at the front, but medium sized phones should fit I reckon.

[@jamesmacefield2801]

Was just coming to the comments to say this. Love Decathlon gear - really durable, high quality and affordable.

[@NeilHannam]

Was also coming to say the same. The built-in pocket clip for your keys is also a very handy touch. Quickly become a big fan of decathlon gear. Good quality and great value. Only thing is I find you need to go a size up from your Nike/Adidas/New Balance type brands

[@phy2sll]

Yeah, the decathlon 'evadict' shorts and tights (the tight fitting, stretchy ones) are the best for keeping stuff on you. They have something similar to the old 'flipbelt' thing built in. 👍

[@craigwood9294]

The decathlon evadict shorts are excellent. Large phones fit into the back pocket (fits My Samsung Galaxy s22 ultra). Very comfortable and only £25

[@jamesday1]

Thanks for the recommendation! I'll check them out!

[@iterato1]

Good news about Patagonia brand is that while expensive they do have a forever warranty. I recently exchanged a worn-out jacket completely for free

[@jamesday1]

Amazing, I didn't realise this about Patagonia. Definitely makes me more likely to buy more gear from them!

[@hassanwaqar1445]

most honest opinions i have ever heard,this guy is a gem

[@brendofriendo7]

Hey James, thank you for being refreshingly real and unbiased. Agreed, who cares what brand and the cost. The question is, does it make running more enjoyable and help you reach your goals. I bought my first pair of Hokas a year ago and INSTANTLY I could get an extra 3 miles out of my legs and joints. Good cushioned running shoes are a must for long distance. I do like the weird colors though, so Hoka is perfect for me 😂

[@jamesday1]

Thanks for the feedback! Yeah, I agree that good cushioned shoes can make the recovery easier. 😅 those Hoka colours are wild!

[@rizzopat9892]

For running at night (especially near traffic/on streets) I would also recommend the Runlight from decathlon. It’s kind of a harness with an adjustable front light on your chest and a blinking red light in the back.

[@jamesday1]

Interesting! I've seen a lot of people wearing them but never thought about the back light with traffic. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@philipking3010]

As a self confessed running gear geek this was wonderfully refreshing and pretty much spot on advice. As mentioned below, a good running belt is useful for days when you don't need a full pack.(Naked is by far the best I've used) And agree completely on the waterproof top comments, the only reason to have one is to check off mandatory kit lists.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Philip! I've got the old Salomon running belt before they changed the design and increased the price. I find it can be a bit uncomfortable so the running shorts have been a big improvement. Been tempted to try the Naked belt but pretty happy with the shorts right now.

[@AlbinSandström]

I´m learning a lot from your channel mate! Currently laying the base for my first ultra. Lycka till med svenskan!

[@jamesday1]

Tack så mycket! Good luck with your first ultra! I hope it goes well!

[@markjohnson4237]

I use Nike or Under Armour compression shorts as they cover the chaffing issue and they have pockets. I run every run in them and never have any issues. The other piece I won't compromise on now is merino running tops. No nipple chaffing and they don't smell, ever.

[@jamesday1]

Nice! never heard of Merino before. Will check them out!

[@markjohnson4237]

@@jamesday1 merino is the material rather than a brand. It's merino wool, various brands available but as long as the base of the fabric is merino, you can't go wrong really.

[@barrydalton9051]

@@markjohnson4237 Would it not be very hot in summer weather?

[@markjohnson4237]

@@barrydalton9051 I guess that depends on where you live but I've never had any heat issues with merino tops or compression shorts

[@KelpandFern]

A few people have mentioned Decathlon, can highly recommend, especially the TR2 trainers. They cost £60, often on sale for £30 or £40 and i'm on my fifth pair now. My previous four pairs have all done well over 1200+ miles before the tread went flat and uppers all still intact on them. At about 600 miles I swap the insole out for a new one just for a bit of freshness.

[@jamesday1]

Interesting! Never thought about trying Decathlon's shoes! Will take a look.

[@peterdeboer5773]

Completely agree with the running hat against rain. Very useful especially if you wear glasses! 🤓

[@jamesday1]

Yeah, I imagine glasses getting wet and fogging up is an added challenge!

[@HoytMcBeth]

James, I just love the first five minutes of this video! Love your ultra videos!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Glad you are enjoying them!

[@bev9708]

Some really good quality winter running clothes totally changed my world in that suddenly i was happy to run in any temperature, totally worth the price!! And I use coconut oil for my chafe areas, works a treat!!

[@jamesday1]

Interesting! I've always just gone for layers with winter running. I typically just add extra layers when the temperature drops. Never really thought to try high quality winter clothing.

[@bev9708]

@@jamesday1 Yeah I used to do that but my guy bought me some Odlo gear one winter … woowww!!! Like night and day!!! Sooo light-weight, so well fitting without being restrictive, whips the sweat away and dries so quickly , and soooo soft on the skin!!! Since then I happily run in ALL weather!!

[@dan-zo4eb]

​@@bev9708Which Odlo items would you recommend please?

[@tomchase2954]

Excellent video James. I think new runners often get bombarded and overwhelmed with gear, especially the idea of "shoe rotations". I know I did. I was lucky enough to find a trail runner I really like that does everything well, and the same for a road shoe. I eventually got some race shoes for halfs/marathons and that's all I need. Saves me money and makes running much more enjoyable.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Tom! Agreed, I've never really felt like most runners need a shoe rotation. Nice to see others share this view!

[@Nyelands]

@@jamesday1 I believe it can be beneficial to have different shoes for easy and faster runs and races. And I also believe it is good for your legs not to run in the same shoe every day so you so you hit the ground a little different. And lastly a shoe will last you longer if the foam has time to rest and re-expand 1-2 days between runs.

[@kaneshoots]

Great video, i got shorts from decathlon, they start to do some great stuff especially here in France. phone pocket at back and a mesh belt all way around for gels, snacks, keys, the lot

[@belahu]

The Decathlon product range is available throughout most of Europe, I think. Up here in the Netherlands we get the same stuff you have in France.

[@michaelgamble8101]

On the back of your shorts with pockets comment, the biggest improvement for me was getting a good running belt. Then it doesn't matter what shorts you buy. I can just go for whatever is cheapest/most comfortable and I still have all the utility that I need.

[@mfowlie1]

Not the cheapest but Saysky's 2in1 Pace Shorts have been an amazing buy for me. The zipped back pocket for phone and multiple smaller options for keys/gels. Inner lining great at stopping chafing to. Come in black!

[@jamesday1]

Nice! I've seen Lloyd from Run4Adventure wearing their kit. Will check them out!

[@tomac1020]

amazing video. subbed purely because this isnt a sponsered video, with 50 affiliate amazon links in the description. (which i dont mind people doing, but it is so refreshing to see someone make a great video where i dont have to second guess the motives)

[@JacquesThebeau]

Have learned a bunch from your vids! Thankyou much! 58 and just getting into Ultra running! Love it… your vids have helped me very much …

[@jamesday1]

I'm glad they are helping! Good luck with your ultra journey!

[@paulcromie5785]

I got a Salomon running belt last Christmas and its fantastic for holding things. I know its not a short but even if i had shorts with great pockets i would still run with the belt. Great for when you want to head out for a good length trail run

[@jamesday1]

Interesting! I have their older model but it looks like they've completely redesigned it now!

[@grumpyjonze]

Alpkit Koulin Trail shorts are almost identical to the Patagonia Strider Pro (which I think yours are). The elastic side pockets are two wider ones rather than two pairs of smaller ones, and they're a 6" inseam rather than a 7". I've got both and hardly ever wear the Patagonia ones now. Alpkit have been out of stock for ages, but when they're available they're well worth getting. Best shorts I've ever worn. Love the videos!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Will check out the Alpkit shorts. Not a brand I've heard of before!

[@Bogdanux]

I started running last year, so my first pair of running shorts was from Decathlon, a 2 in 1 one with several pockets around the waist, very good for 15 euros (bought at a discounted price). But this year I found a local seller which sells a couple of Mizuno products very cheap, so i've got myself a pair with 360 mesh pockets for only 10 euros, without liner but much more confortable both with boxers or tights.

[@kjobbengaming]

This vid is really cool! And I totally agree with the colouring of the clothing and shoes. That was actually a main driver of which running shoes I recently bought. Went with the the brand that had black ones.

[@funkyfragrancelover2979]

My best shorts are Ronhill Marathon shorts. Also has a back pocket for a phone (can fit an iPhone Pro 14). Either side of the back pocket are two open vertical pockets to fit a gel in each one. Best of all it has a non chafe thigh liner which has a stretch pocket on each side, big enough to securely hold a phone or any other small items. Cost about £30 but well worth it. I also recently got a Compressport Run Free Pro stretchy waist band. It’s made of soft material can hold everything you need for any type of run including a 500ml soft flask, poles, head torch, phone, packable water proof and more. No bounce and has 2 year guarantee so designed to last £50

[@jamesday1]

Thanks. That 2 year guarantee is great. Big fan of products that actually last!

[@danhoare2557]

Yep another vote for Ron Hill Marathon shorts - an impulse buy at London marathon expo but always used for longer runs and races and have lasted years

[@saintsfisherman]

great video. Thanks for staying on subject and giving useful advice. I am just getting into longer runs so this was very helpful.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks!

[@PhilMUK]

First video of yours I’ve seen. Great attitude and advice. Harrier is a good brand for high quality at a reasonable price - I have their hydration vest and waterproof jacket and would recommend.

[@zacmunroe5534]

T8 makes some “Sherpa” shorts that have a bungee pocket built in. Their sizes run small for what it’s worth, size up unless you’re a really slim build.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I'll check them out.

[@Bulldogrunner]

Crucial winter running kit: a gilet. When it’s cold it keeps the body warm but you don’t overheat after a few miles like you do with extra layers.

[@jamesday1]

Never thought about running in a gilet. Always just gone with extra layers. Might need to try one out!

[@guciolini123]

14:03 In summer I use white close if possible or reflective color. So no black- cause of the heat. I also recommend some universal scarf (buff fake) on head to remove sweat form forehead and protect neck from sunburn. A breezy T-shirt is also good thing in public places or when running with a west (I run without T-shirt in summer if possible) In winter I use any sport pants with a string in the belt, running short leggings form summer, a cheep mesh undershirt, normal running t-shirt and a running jacket. Two scarfs usually will do for head, but sometimes (when very cold) I use running hat. Running anti-wind gloves are also very pleasant and cheep. I always use some kind of reflectors or eye-catching colored clothes and active lighting (even in forest). Running in winter is generally more demanding when it comes to clothes.

[@TheDavbi]

I first started running before the advent of Bluetooth and hated wires. So I invested in a pair of earphones with an integrated MP3 player and have been brand loyal since. Once in a while I'll go on bandcamp and find something new to add, which provides an added bonus of supporting artists a bit more directly.

[@sturgmanrunning8546]

Great advice and your becoming my favourite running channel lately 🙌

[@jamesday1]

Wow, thanks! Really kind of you to say!

[@obenzo128]

I know it's probably not the cheapest, but I bought a Salomon running belt and it's been an absolute game changer. Can fit all my gels, phone, keys in it. As well as a soft flask or a running jacket. Then I just wear any cheap, comfy running shorts. Could be worth a look!

[@jamesday1]

Yeah, I have one of the Salomon belts, but I have an older model which was really affordable but isn't the best. I often found it put pressure on my hips and stomach so the new running shorts have been a big improvement on the old Salomon belt. I saw they increased the price with the new models but I might take a look and see if it's an improvement.

[@saalfmade]

really enjoyed that! thanks for the breakdown :)

[@TheDanielsweden]

What made a huge differences for me was compression sleavs whith a high degree of pressure. Chronic shinsplints aswell as edema disappeared as if a switch was fliped when i put them on. Men annars, billigt är bra ;)

[@matt.baller]

Great video cheers 👍. I’ve got the same squishy water bottle and it’s a game changer. So nice not hearing water sloshing around every step, and gets progressively easier to hold as it empties 🙌 Also my Saucony Axon 3 are black on white soles - they also do triple black 👍

[@BrandonNop]

Thanks for this video man! I'm trying to get into running this year and found this useful.

[@jamesday1]

Glad it was useful! Good luck with your running!

[@romadmike1]

I've bought a similar pair of shorts (I believe they were in the trail running section) from Decathlon. They are really thin and the fabric is slightly stretchy and they have a similar pocket at the back and one in front with a zipper for keys. I use them for running around the city and they cost the equivalent of ~17£.

[@Andrii_Shved]

Thanks for advices! I got a chip pair of shorts a few years ago. It’s not so pretty or special, but it has one little advantage-two pockets with a zipper on a both sides, where I can put my phone keys and case from my airpods. So it definitely worth it.

[@Kelly_Ben]

Great, no hype video! I absolutely recommend finding running websites, and trolling the clearance section. I get most of my gear that way, so I'm able to get top notch gear with my tight budget. I rarely spend more than $65 on ANYTHING... shoes, vest, compression tights, etc. Ialso find incredible brands in like new condition at thrift shops and mountaineering shops. One more bit of advice... if you go to your local running store to try on items, with the plan of leaving and buying them online, please remember to buy SOMETHING from them. They have a lot of money invested in overhead, stock, employees, etc, and if people just use them to try gear before buying elsewhere, it's terribly rude and unfair. Support local, even if it's not via the $140 shoes.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks. I'm a big fan of finding discounted and last season running gear on the cheap. Great advice about supporting local running shops!

[@minorlion1327]

I really love the CEP Running belt. You can put a lot of things in it is very secure and you don’t feel it

[@One.Castaway]

Salomon Cross 5” Shorts are amazing. Got the back pocket and super soft and lightweight. Highly recommend!

[@jamesday1]

Thanks for the recommendation!

[@jillswan9654]

For a mid-range pair of shorts, I like the Adidas Terrex agravic trail running shorts. Has a built-in flip belt and loops for your poles. Expensive for shorts, but not when it can replace a running belt!

[@jamesday1]

Ahh interesting. Never needing running poles before and hadn't thought about storing them on the back of shorts!

[@1989Tod]

Hey James, Happy to have stumbled upon your channel, and happy to subscribe, Thank you for the insignt of the gear that you are using, seems very simple, that just does the job! Thanks again and happy running :)

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Todd! Really nice of you to say!

[@desmorris3628]

At last. I totally agree. Get some stuff and run. You dont need to be a consumer to run. I have some kit i have ran in for over 30 years, it still works.

[@jamesday1]

Agreed! I'll keep using my gear until it's literally falling apart. If it still works, I'm not replacing it.

[@mattfabyonic8448]

That's really helpful. Thanks, James. Where are you at re running poles? Thinking I should get some foldable ones, but you haven't mentioned them in this video.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Matt! I've never used poles before but I've not really run an ultra that needed them. For a long mountain ultra, I think they are pretty essential.

[@JasonGreen91]

Definitely relate about the colourful shoes 😂 I only ever wear black and can’t stand the bright colours

[@jamesday1]

Haha I'm glad I'm not the only one!

[@neilsyard]

Love the honesty and the approach. Well done you. However, Runderwear are the best. I suffered the pain of chafing but since runderwear, no problems ever.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Totally agree on Runderwear. Made such a big difference for me.

[@NinjaElephant]

I agree, I like most people just overthought on the gear part of running. After some years I turned to practical stuff, like a baseball cap (great for rain and sun!), I use AirPods Pro for podcasts and music, shoes keep it simple, with foot size 15 US (50 EU) my options are limited but I also did a 5 k run in crocs in 19 minutes, and some barefoot runs, everything seems fine. In terms of chafing I like to add simple fat creme like Nivea or Vaseline to my nipples for all runs over 20k. Great video!

[@jamesturner2403]

The Decathlon Kalenji men’s running breathable shorts dry+ have the same pockets. Not sure the back pocket is elastic but I can fit in an iPhone 12 mini. Only £16 too.

[@johndepledge1811]

Another vote for Decathlon Kalenji shorts. Back posket is elastic and zipped. Have multiple pairs.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Lots of recommendations for Decathlon.

[@kooshxl1311]

Decathlon makes running shorts with a back zip pocket. They are really good quality and affordable. I have a pair of shorts which I bought 2 years ago and I still wear it.

[@johanhamidon8448]

Janji has a short tights that have pockets that can hold proper water flasks. They are expensive. But they are the only pair I have found that help take me away to any running adventure I want to go. I dearly love my pair.

[@jamesday1]

I'm impressed that they can hold water flasks! Will have to check them out!

[@samuelarmatage6679]

I use a Salomon running belt. It's super light and it'll hold my phone as well as 2 soft flasks. I'd recommend trying it if you want to be able to have your phone on your waist while wearing whatever shorts or pants you want.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks for the recommendation. I do have Salomon's older model from 7 years ago but I think they've made a lot of changes since that model.

[@bigchief2331]

For tshirts you only need a $4 one from Kmart. All polyester is the same. All keep you dry. Cheap is best! But I do like to spend up on good 2 in 1 (lined) running shorts. Shoes I buy last season usually for less than $80. Most i've spent on a shoe is $320 for Superblast 2 and that was worth it because it feels amazing to run in.

[@jean-phil]

hmm I've running tshirts from adidas, hoka and new balance, all feel very different. "NB Impact Run" tshirt uses 100% Polyester knit mesh fabric. It's not the softest but I like the fit, weight and breathability. "Hoka Airolite Run Short Sleeve" is 20% elastane, most lightweight but also most expensive and most see-thru. Lastly, Adidas, they have so many choices. A lot I don't like (mostly because of too long sleeves for tshirts) but a lot I like. They often have sales and great return policy so it's my favorite brand of the 3 for clothes. Adidas uses "AEROREADY tech" ... apparently it absorb sweat via a process called capillary action. "The nearly invisible holes in AEROREADY gear work like capillaries to attract sweat". Google "apexmills what is polyester", they explain that not all polyesters are created equal.

[@Overworkt]

Thanks for this - definitely good to hear some clarity amongst the noise.

[@matthewwatson9279]

Decathlon’s evadict range has a pair of shorts that has similar pockets to the ones you’ve got in the video. Think they’re 25 quid a pair.

[@jamesday1]

Great! Thanks for the recommendation.

[@orsygodri1155]

I just bought 5 running shorts from decathlon each like 12 bucks and they have the pocket on the back, 2 pockets on the side, one has a smaller pocket on the inside for gels and a string for keys. Best shorts ever!!!!

[@MrMuddyhands]

Thank you for a refreshing take on this subject

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mausozzi_outdoors]

I bought a cheap ASICS shorts with the rear zipper pocket and regular pockets. Great video thanks.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I'll check out ASICS.

[@bookreadingbilly8329]

I use a flip belt for gels, key, phone and cash card. It means your shorts don’t feel like they are falling down with the extra weight.

[@jamesday1]

Interesting! I've got a Salomon belt but I find it can be uncomfortable on my hips and stomach. I guess the fit of the belt is probably the issue.

[@nursekathleengreen]

Thanks for this video James!

[@jamesday1]

You're welcome Kathleen!

[@krilin84]

Kolla in path projects, tror du skulle gilla stilen och de säljer såna shorts med fickor som du visade, och även som byxor. Jag älskar även deras muir keps. Superskön! Bra jobbat om du kunde läsa detta 😉👏

[@jamesday1]

Tack Kristoffer! Jag gillar verkligen stilen på Path Projects kläder! Jag läste den med lite hjälp av Cecilia!

[@JackeeBoyy]

SHORTS - Nike trail shorts, regular but also do half tights; have an elastic zip pocket at the back for a phone that doesn’t bounce, also has zip side pockets in the normal pocket placement, as well as smaller gel pockets on each hip that holds ~2-3 gels each side, a true game changer short and so comfy

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I didn't realise the Nike trail shoes had the zip pockets as well! Always found Nike gear super comfy so will check it out.

[@HeyItsJace]

Those kind of running shorts are always around on Chinese Shopping apps, you just have to be persistent to find it. It usually ranges from 4 to 20 dollars

[@Mixwell1983]

Not a runner but as a bigger dude Goldbond friction defense stick was a game changer for chaffing between the legs. It looks like a deodorant stick that goes on your inner thighs. I've been meal prepping and starting to walk/jog. Signed up for a mile fun run coming up in a month and want to start some 5ks and see how I like jogging/running

[@leerunsultras]

Chafe is the biggest concern for me, especially when it gets wet. I've found that runderwear is good as an added protection I do use run butter. ❤ but totally agree with everything ypu say about cost most of my running shorts are karriomor and most of my tshirts are race t shirts or some primany special £4 tops. As for socks, my everyday are bulk bought off ebay. Race socks I do use injinji ❤ hope your well mate. My daily trainers are the reebok floatrides which as ypu would know I don't shut up about and you can get them for less than 50 quid

[@leerunsultras]

Added I use a flip belt from amazon for 8 quid

[@jamesday1]

Thanks for the recommendations. Yeah chafe is a big one for a lot of runners. Will check out Karriomor.

[@hanswurst8986]

Lots of Nike running shorts do have the zip pocket in the back. There is also a special Trail running Version with plenty of pockets!

[@IanMcalpine-ep9fc]

Nice video. I run wearing decathlon evadict trail shorts which have zip pockets at the front and rear to put your phone as well as side pockets for gels. Under £30

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Ian!

[@mark_verbos]

Patagonia Endless Run Shorts are the best for me. They are the shorts version of their Endless Run Tights. So, they're a spandex short with no bounce pockets and a "modesty front" which is just some loose fabric across the front that makes them a little more modest. I now have 3 pairs. However, Patagonia is never cheap.

[@jamesday1]

Interesting! I've never tried any spandex shorts for running. Will check them out.

[@benthebestone]

Very good advice, especially for beginners

[@Shagadin]

Hello James, Puma has made a running short in their "Seasons" trail lineup that is similar to the Patagonia short you showed in this video. It has a huge pocket in the back and several zippered others. In total, 4 pockets on the outside and 1 on the inside of the short and in my opinion it is reasonably priced. Regarding the Saucony shoes, they have "Triple Black" models in the Ride and Triumph series. Very useful video, thank you.

[@CSRaciing88]

Hello, thank you so much for your videos, they’re great! I’m new to ultra and I have my first one next year. I was wondering what vest it is that you have? (9:40) I am looking to purchase one. Thank you so much for the advice, very helpful.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! Good luck with your first ultra! It's the Salomon Advanced Skin 12 that I use. It's a great vest but there are probably more affordable options out there.

[@gianmarcobittante1290]

Try at decathlon. I got a pair of shorts from Kiprun that was like $12, with a back pocket for my phone and an internal pocket for my keys. Nothing fancy, no space for gels or flasks and my phone barely fits in the back pocket, but it gets the job done.

[@lfgg15]

I live in the Dominican Republic in where the weather is almost always the same all the time so we don't need much gear other than a pear of sneakers and short pants. As well as you I prefer black and white shoes and darker clothes, and for that reason I tend to buy Nike sneakers, even thought I wold like to try Hoka's.

[@mbasati]

I've really enjoyed watching your progression through ultramarathons and was excited to hear you mention in passing another of my hobbies (that you were also learning Swedish). If you don't mind sharing, what Swedish podcasts have you been listening to? I know there are a lot of Swedish youtubers posting running-related content (Marcus Kjellberg, Göran Winblad, Fredrik Zillén, etc.) but they mostly talk in English. Do you know of any interesting running-related podcasts in Swedish?

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! I've been really enjoying Marcus Kjellberg's channel recently! Yeah, I've recently started listening to "Spring Snyggt - med Jesus och Manne". My Swedish isn't good enough to follow the whole discussion yet so can't really say whether it's a decent podcast yet or not, but I'm enjoying trying to translate the Swedish running talk.

[@mbasati]

@@jamesday1 Tack så mycket! I'll toss some episodes on my mp3 player for my next runs (and let you know if i come across anything else).

[@mbasati]

@@jamesday1 I've found a couple other interesting Swedish podcasts related to ultra running, namely Pace on Earth and Ultraaktuellt. I've been tossing them in between episodes of Lätt Svenska med Oskar.

[@jamesday1]

thanks for the recommendations. I'll check them out. I'm on my second run through Lätt Svenska med Oskar. Such a great podcast.@@mbasati

[@guciolini123]

6:17 shorts with pockets- I use Evadict and Kiprun form Decathlon- cheep and have lots of pockets. Just don't look in to who makes them and what is the politics and stuff. I also think Patagonia models are probably more durable, but I don't know. My wife uses a belt with pockets (separate form shorts) and likes it.

[@orsygodri1155]

About the colorful shoes.... I feel you. They are too much sometimes. I like a little bit of color but I am mostly either all black or all white.

[@CMacUF]

Great intro and approach to this topic

[@jamesday1]

Thanks!

[@reloadfast]

As someone that sweats out of my eyeballs and can overheat when it's above 5ºC when running, a technical tshirt is a must. Decathlon 5€ will do fine, and then any that you get from the events, but something that will pull sweat away from your body and will dry in seconds.

[@jamesday1]

Great point!

[@4rmnothing2nothing]

I buy 3 pairs of the terra kiger, love them in the terrain where I trail run and my multi day hikes. My wife has them too but it's not good in ice but with micro spikes works great.

[@jamesday1]

I'm thinking I might return to the terra tiger soon! My first pair were perfect for me.

[@guciolini123]

10:50 Calembak bladders with camlebak vests are just as easy to open as this salomon bottles. Unfortunately those bladders won't fit as easy in to salomon ruining vest and opining them with salomon vest is not as easy as with camelbak vest. Try before you buy. Salomon vests are very nice and a standard among ultra runners.

[@wallyevans4228]

Very nicely put together

[@jamesday1]

Thanks!

[@albertpeterson4652]

Love those headphones. I minored in swedish in university, would be happy to help or practice conversing with you in swedish.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks for the offer! I've recently hired a Swedish tutor and my partner Cecilia is Swedish so I'm getting plenty of practice right now! How did you find learning the language?

[@marypagones6073]

Baleaf gear on Amazon is cheap and affordable and keeps me warm in the winter. I love the tights and thermal shirts. What are your favorite trail shoes? Specifically for wet, technical terrain. I thought a Brit would be the best person to ask!

[@wreckage0610]

What brand are those trail shoes? I love that colorway and am getting back into running once again

[@harryruns1]

I swear the standard Gymshark sports shorts are the best. £25, super comfy and have zip pockets. I own more pairs than I care to mention 😂

[@jamesday1]

I've never tried anything from Gymshark before. Might take a look!

[@davidg61]

I think Nike do those shorts for about £30-50. Not sure how much your Patagonia were. Maybe they won’t last as long either but I’ve had mine for a while and still feel good.

[@leebradburycoach]

Alpkit Koulin Trail Shorts have the same pocket set up as your Patagonia ones. I've used them for years myself on many races and rate them.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks for the recommendation!

[@GrumpyOldEd]

Thanks James. I put a wall mounted security key lock box outside the house so no more jangling/lost keys.... Probably the best 30 euros spent on running gear... 🤔. That and seamless undies from Decathlon for 10 euros...

[@jamesday1]

I would love not having to take keys with me but don't have anywhere convenient for a security key lock box.

[@GrumpyOldEd]

@@jamesday1 yep. Had that problem also. Have a good day James 👋

[@itsjeansmit]

2:30 - Found some awesome shorts on Shein that works like a charm. Dirt cheap but works exactly as you explain.

[@MyFrankHut]

Do you have a link?

[@komicsreviewer8505]

I typically wear a jock-strap when I run. Whats your opinion??

[@DegenGaming]

Gorewear shorts have the back pocket and the style I use has a built in liner that covers the chaffing areas very nicely. But yeah... still not a not cheap option. But the best stuff is NEVER cheap.

[@jamesday1]

I'll check them out! But agreed, it's just trying to figure out what premium products are worth buying!

[@robrocketeer]

Hey James. Great video. Out of interest - what is that hat you showed? I usually run in a regular trucker hat as I don’t like the style and fit of most running ones, but the mesh and brim on yours looks good.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks! It's a Ben Parkes hat. The quality is surprisingly good considering it is merch. They designed it specifically for running.

[@peterbest4795]

Highly recommend Norda 001s - might be everything you’re after in a trail shoe. Incredible grip and silly longevity.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks for the recommendation Peter!

[@Simonnnnnnnify]

Uppfriskande med en avslappnad och ärlig youtuber för en gångs skull 😅 Tack för en motiverande video och lycka till med svenskan 👍

[@shaunedwards9729]

You might like to consider Mizuno multi pocket shorts. Quite similar to the Patagonia ones at about 1/2 the price. Sportsshoes stocks them in the uk.

[@jamesday1]

Thanks Shaun! I'll check them out!

[@dan-zo4eb]

Re waterproof running hat - I've found the Vaga fell cap to be fantastic

[@jamesday1]

Never tried any of the Vaga gear but looks like decent quality.