By Sarah Hauge
Cover photo courtesy of Morgan Zaro
I think of myself as a pretty low-maintenance runner, but in truth, my must-haves add up quickly: Asics Novablasts, AirPods, Goodr sunglasses, sunscreen, Body Glide, Nathan water bottle, Strava app, etc., etc., etc. My gear is not particularly fancy, but it helps make every run more comfortable and enjoyable. Curious what other runners find essential, I reached out to several locals to learn their favorites.
Leanne Patterson
Leanne began running at the age of 39 when she trained for the Spokane Marathon. Now an avid trail runner, she considers the Rocks of Sharon her favorite spot. “Mountains are my joy,” she says.
Favorite gear: “My favorite running gear is simple, reliable and ready for every adventure. On longer trails that take a few hours, I never head out without my Salomon Skin 10L running vest with flasks to carry everything I need, transitional sunglasses by Tifosi to keep my vision clear in changing light and Arc’teryx Sylan trail shoes for comfort, grip and confidence on every trail.”
Tom Okura
Tom has been running for about 10 years, completing his first marathon last fall. His favorite routes take him along the Spokane River.
Favorite gear: “For the past five years, I have gone on every run with my FlipBelt. I don’t run with a watch, so it is a great way to carry a key and phone (which I use to track my run). I have fit a ton of stuff in there, including eight gels and a whole water bottle. It is very durable and comfortable. Running can be expensive to start. Good shoes (which are super important) can be expensive, but I try to find models from past seasons to save a little. Running can be intimidating, but it’s such a great way to exercise. Especially once you stop comparing your skill level to everyone else’s and get out there with the mindset of doing your best.”
Rochelle Hopp
Rochelle has been running since she could move, but considers 7th grade cross country the official kick-off of her running life. Her favorite route is the Bloomsday course.
Favorite gear: “Peloton Tread. It’s convenient, and the variety is endless (for a treadmill). I will only run outside if I have someone to run with—I hate running outdoors alone! That’s primarily because of safety. That being said, I would always prefer to run outside because it’s more joyful.” Runner-up fave? “Body Glide. I do not have time for gross chafing scratches and scars during summertime when I’m trying to look good in a sleeveless at work. #professional.”
Brian Zaro
Brian is the father of three kids ages 1, 3 and 7. He previously ran in the context of soccer but now enjoys running for its own sake.
Favorite gear: “We currently have a single BOB stroller we’ve put hundreds of miles on. Our current BOB stroller was actually a gift from my brother-in-law in penance after he accidentally told my mother-in-law we were expecting our first kid before we had the chance. I’m quite grateful he did that every time I take one of my kids out for a run.”
Other essential gear for kids?
“My favorite phase with kids was when I’d toss two of them the Bluetooth speaker and let them choose the playlist. It was fun for me and kept them entertained. I also have good memories of little hands reaching up to get more snacks. Sometimes, none of my tricks work and I’m left with unhappy, hungry, angry, crying kids several miles from home. The silver lining is I usually PR on the way back. I figure we are all developing some resilience.”
Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
Sarah Hauge is a writer and editor who lives in Spokane with her husband and two children. This fall, she plans to run The Boulevard Race, the Sundae Sunday 10-Miler and the Spokane Half Marathon.
