Thrifting and Running

Since running is such a popular sport, it's easier than ever to find running gear in thrift stores.  I'm a sucker for a good deal--I've found all kinds of brands of basically new running jackets, tights, tops, etc.  Before the summer started, I found this exact jacket in like new condition for $7!  Sure I won't be able to wear it for at least another month and a half, but I just could not pass up a high quality running jacket that could be worn in various weather conditions. But there are a few pieces of running clothing I won't buy or even bother looking at for various reasons.  Examples:

• Sports bras, unless they're new with tags.  Most of the time they're usually stretched out to the point where they're no longer supportive.  It can make a run very uncomfortable!
• Running shoes.  Only rarely do I ever find a pair of shoes that are practically new, and I have yet to find a pair of running shoes that didn't have worn down treads.  Wearing your own worn down running shoes can lead to injuries.   If you must get shoes on a budget, running stores typically have clearance sales a few times throughout the year and some will even sell shoes that were returned.  But if you walk into a discount retailer, don't expect to get quality similar to high end running shoes.
• Socks.  Yes, I have seen socks at thrift shops.  That's another place I draw the line.  Make the investment in a good pair of socks and they'll last a long time.  (My personal favorites are balegas!) Many running stores will have sales on them at different times of the year and at running expos before a race.  If you don't want to shell out $10-14 for a pair of socks, there are others out there that are less expensive.  It's just a matter of trying a bunch of different kinds and finding out what you like!

What are some great deals that you've found while out thrift shopping?  Are there any items that you will just NOT buy at a thrift store?

...And we're back!

Sorry for the silence for the last few days.  I got to go on vacation for the first time in two years--a big family vacation to the Outer Banks!  While there I got to run a race with most of my family that was there.  It was pretty good, but some of the logistics were overlooked.  Like closing streets for the race.  Understandably, they couldn't do it since it was mostly through a neighborhood in a fairly busy area.  But it would've been nice to have more than just a few arrow signs and to not have to worry about cars coming through the area.  (Some of the disgruntled residents stole some of the arrow signs pretty early on in the race, and runners had to keep an eye out for drivers who were fairly agitated.)  Despite all of that, it was totally worth it for the bling!  

Last week's early 5k on vacation in the OBX definitely calls for some caffeinated nuun! Love the bling and the PR! #nuunlife #runcation

A photo posted by The Thrifty Runner (@thethriftyrunner) on Jul 14, 2015 at 11:59am PDT

 And I PR'd for my 5k time by 22 seconds!  (I finished in 32:52, my previous record being 33:15)