Parkour is a physically demanding sport involving a lot of running, climbing,
swinging, vaulting, and jumping. Like any other sport or athletic activity, what you
wear can make a huge difference in your performance. Though parkour is typically more
laid-back in terms of attire and doesn’t require any special uniform, it still pays to
ensure that your clothing provides for the utmost comfort, a wide range of movement,
and the right flexibility and weight to boost your confidence so you can unleash your
full potential while avoiding injuries. There are no set rules to what you should wear, but
considering the crucial aspects needed for parkour can help you create the best outfit.
Here’s what you should look at to nail the perfect parkour attire.
Comfort
The last thing you want when choosing clothes for parkour is discomfort. When
you’re moving around, you don’t want to be held back by ill-fitting clothes or ones
with poor material. Loose-fitting clothing can help you get a wide range of movement
while still being comfortable. A breathable t-shirt can do the job, but hoodies are also
a good option for comfort without feeling restrictive. Hoodies made for sports
performance usually use lightweight materials and can keep you dry and warm. A
crewneck is also a good option if you don’t want to feel held back by a hood. If you
wear them over a shirt, you can keep it on or take it off when you see fit.
Motion
Parkour involves your whole body, so you’d want to avoid restriction at all costs.
Since you’d be doing a lot of running, jumping, or flipping, your legs should be a
main focus when considering your parkour attire. Like with your top, lightweight and
breathable material is best. Many traceurs use athletic shorts since they’re stretchy
and light and don’t limit movement. If you’re out in colder weather, you might want
to wear a pair of sweatpants, which can still provide a wide range of motion while
still being lightweight. They can also provide an extra layer of protection in case of
falls and scrapes.
Performance
Your shirts, pants, and other accessories are crucial things to consider for attire, but
your shoes are the essential parkour gear. Looking at aspects like cushioning, traction,
weight, and breathability can help you find the best parkour shoe. You will want a
pair with just the right amount of cushioning to protect your feet during big jumps. A
light shoe can also prevent your feet from weighing you down during training. You
also need traction with the ground to avoid slips, and shoes with a durable traction
pattern can help it resist wear and tear. Finding the right parkour shoes can boost your
performance and won’t hold you back.
Safety
If you’re a beginner, safety gear can help prevent injuries when you’re still training.
Protection around the joints and impact points can be helpful, though it’s important to
consider flexibility so your movement isn’t limited. You can use neoprene around the
elbows and knees instead of pads so they won’t restrict your movement. Once you
improve your skills, you can remove them to allow for better motion. If you’re still
concerned about safety, use your clothes, like the ones mentioned above, to add a
barrier to protect your skin if you fall.
Parkour is all about freedom and pushing your limits, and your attire should enhance
those aspects. You don’t need to overthink your clothes and gear as long as you find
what feels best for you.
