Where to Buy Running Clothes on a Budget

After you’ve established a running habit, you may realize that your cotton T-shirts, sweatpants, and socks just aren’t going to cut it anymore. It's time to invest in some good quality, technical fabric running clothes that will wick away sweat and feel better on your skin as you run. You can even find inexpensive watches and fitness trackers.

Before you shop, though, remember that it's not always smart to go for the lowest-budget items. That's especially true for running shoes. It's always better to buy them in person and to get fitted at a running specialty store because your shoes can be one of the biggest factors in both enjoying your runs and preventing injury. Plus, a good running store is an excellent resource for runners, whether they are just starting out or have years of experience. Get on the mailing list for your store to receive promotional discounts and find out about special events.

Women will also need a good sports bra. This is particularly important if you have larger breasts and/or you run long distances. Look for moisture-wicking fabric, quality construction, and covered seams. Bras need to be sturdy because you will wash them frequently.

You don’t have to break the bank by shopping at higher-end athletic wear stores like Lululemon or Athleta. Try these less-expensive options instead.

The Old Navy Active line offers a great selection of tops, shorts, capris, and pants for running. Old Navy's performance fleece line also has some great pieces, such as jackets and vests, for outdoor winter running. Old Navy regularly runs 30 percent and even 40 percent off sales, so time your purchases accordingly.

Target's C9 by Champion line of technical fitness wear is reasonably priced but still very high in quality and performance. And the inexpensive price tag doesn’t mean that they’re not stylish—the line includes some fun, trendy colors, and styles.

The choices for running gear on Amazon.com can be overwhelming, and you can waste a lot of time wading through the options. And then there’s the whole problem of not being able to try anything on. The best way to use Amazon for running gear deals is when you need new running shoes. If you've found a shoe that works well for you, check Amazon when a new model is introduced. You'll often be able to find the previous model at a discounted price.

Kohl’s has some name-brand running gear such as Nike and Champion at discounted prices. The chain also has its own line of quality workout apparel, Tek Gear. Plus, there are even bigger deals to be found, since Kohl’s is one of those stores that always have coupons. Even if you don’t have a Kohl’s charge card, you can usually find online codes or coupons to use.

Shopping for running clothes at Costco can be hit or miss, but it’s worth a look when you’re there shopping for other things. If there’s no Costco in your area, you may be able to find similar deals at other warehouse stores.

Sierra Trading Post's​ website ​has great deals on running clothes and gear and often has discount codes for additional discounts. Sign up for their email alerts so you can keep track of sales and coupon codes.

TJ Maxx and Marshall's have racks of discounted name-brand fitness apparel, sometimes as much as 50 percent off the department store price. If you shop at the end of a season, you can find even bigger deals.

Holabird is another​ website that offers apparel and shoes at prices way under the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. Check out their Closeout section for the biggest discounts on high-quality, name-brand gear.

A fitness tracker or running watch can be a helpful, motivating tool for runners. You can find inexpensive options at some of the sources above. A Timex Ironman Triathlon watch, for example, is just $25 at Amazon. If you're looking for more features, try shopping for past models when a new upgrade is introduced.

Remember that your smartphone probably has fitness tracking features, such as a step counter/mileage record. You can also download a free or inexpensive app, such as MapMyRun, Runkeeper, Endomondo, or Strava.

Like watches, headphones are available in a wide price range, and you may be able to find the comfort and features you need in an inexpensive model, an older model, or during a good sale.