So you want to be a runner, hey? Well, I say, "Time to go shopping!".

I’ve asked that million-dollar question too: do I need the gear? Take a look around Vancouver and you can’t miss them: fashionable runners hauling butt over the Burrard Street Bridge, decked out head-to-toe. Now, these hot new threads everyone's wearing have a purpose, sure, but aside from that, wow, is it ever fun to shop for running clothes! I feel like a running rock star when I step out in all the right gear, and through some sort of magical osmosis, I run faster too!

This isn't just a "girl thing", dudes are dressed for success too. On the functional side, it lets your skin breathe! Wearing the proper shirt, shorts and pants go a long way when you start to sweat. And the cut, fit and colours of this stuff! Endless shopping pleasure.

But it doesn't stop at the outer layer. There's nothing like a soft-cushioned, breathable sock that, ironically, "fits like a glove". I had no idea how rewarding finding the perfect sock could be, but trust me, good times. How do you know you've found the sock of all socks? There's little moisture while you run and they subtly become your second skin.

The finishing touch: a good pair of shades. Cool sunglasses take your running look up a few notches in the "hot duds" category. On the practical side, they block the rays and keep glare to a minimum.

So get yourself outfitted and hit the pavement... running, of course, and lookin' oh-so-fine!