Running kit can be very expensive. A lot of research and design work goes into the key developments that major brands put out each season and if you want to enjoy these innovations, then you have to pay for them.
However, it can be argued that running kit is just running kit and that as long as it does a few basic things, then job done. This is the Aldi approach and their bargain running kit is not to be scoffed at. We've been trying out some key pieces -
Men's gear - Ben Hobson
Published: 06 October 2014
As the weather is changing, this base layer from Aldi becomes a very useful and cheap bit of kit to add to your arsenal. It's features some different density of weave in its panels on the front, under the arms and on the back so that the hotter areas can cool quicker, whilst the polymide and elastane mix gives it the tight, form fitting look that you want from a base layer. It is quick thick
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At £15, this jacket is all that you could hope for. It features YKK zips, a vent on the back to help keep you from over heating, it packs down into the back pocket and has a very useful elastic clip belt so you can wear it like a mini bum-bag when not running in it. It's not breathable,
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Everyone loves a snood. These are £3. They're as you'd expect, it's a nice elasticated light layer around the neck that you can pull it up over your head if you get really cold.
Women's gear - Annie Rice
Demo run: On Cloudboom Strike
This simple vest is remarkable for its price. It’s super comfortable and fits snugly. The design is flattering as it nips in at the waist and skims the hips. It is ultra lightweight so can be worn on its own or warm days or underneath another layer or two. I can’t really fault it for the price but would say it doesn’t have the sweat wicking or ergonomic features of other products on the market.
Resting heart rate
Another great value product, this lightweight top is comfortable and well fitting. It wouldn’t fair well on a long run though as it doesn’t have breathability or sweat wicking properties. It is however great to pull over on top of sweaty kit after a run or workout or useful for shorter runs. Comes in a mens version too.
Shoes - Kerry McCarthy, RW Gear Editor
"I was staggered when I learnt that these shoes are £14.99. For less than 15 nicker you'd expect something made of cardboard and a wodge of used chewing gum but having had these in my hands (no test sample in my shoe size) I can see that they have a wide mesh for breathability, an external heel counter to stop the shoe slipping at the back, a reinforced toe section to guard against stones and decent traction on the outsole. Brilliant bang for buck."
The Aldi running collection will be in stores on the 9th October for a limited time only, so if you want a bargain, thursday is the time.
