Running Clubs Are Everywhere
Across Europe, running clubs have become part of the everyday outdoor landscape. From early-morning meet-ups in city parks, to evening runs that wind through streets, along canals and nearby trails, more people than ever are choosing to run together.
This growth is visible both on the ground and online. Strava reported that (Year In Sport: Trend Report) there was a huge 59% increase in running club participation in 2024. The report found that people were using run clubs to get a workout in and increasingly to socialise, with 58% of participants saying they made new friends via fitness groups.
This shows a shift towards a more social, community-led movement. Often these clubs are not defined by pace or performance, they are inclusive, welcoming, and built around consistency and community rather than competition. People are even skipping the bars and apps, instead using these group sessions to find romantic connections!
As running becomes a shared habit, kit is being worn more often, across more varied terrain and conditions. And that makes how we care for it, with Nikwax, more important than ever.
Nikwax is Formulated for Runners.
© Sweet Life, Unsplash
Why People Are Joining Running Clubs
At the heart of the running club boom is connection. Running together creates space for conversation, encouragement and shared experiences. It removes the pressure of going alone and replaces it with a sense of belonging, especially in a time where many people work remotely or simply feel disconnected from reality in a constantly digitally connected world. Interestingly, Strava reported a 40% average increase in activity length (runs, rides, hikes) when more than 10 people participated, versus when alone.
Accessibility plays a major role too. Most clubs are free, informal and open to all. There is no membership or contract, no specialist equipment barrier, and no expectation beyond simply showing up. Whether it’s a 5km social jog or a longer weekend trail run, the entry point is refreshingly simple.
Mental wellbeing is another powerful driver. Running with others offers accountability, routine and a shared sense of achievement, all proven to support positive mental health. For many, these weekly runs become an anchor in busy lives – a small but meaningful adventure that brings clarity and calm.
Finally, clubs offer a new way to explore. From urban routes to nearby woodland trails and green spaces, group runs turn familiar places into mini adventures! The journey and exploration matter as much as the distance, and every route tells a slightly different story.
© Greg Rosenke, Unsplash
What This Means for Running Gear
Across age groups, runners share a clear preference for coordinated kit. However, small details still divide opinion and sock length remains a generational divider, with younger runners leaning towards crew styles and older generations favouring no-show (Year In Sport: Trend Report). Whatever you wear, more frequent running in all weather places new demands on kit. Jackets are worn through rain showers and strong winds. Base layers and tights absorb sweat and muddy trail splash. Running packs are loaded, unloaded and worn again days later.
Technical running gear is designed to support movement and comfort in challenging conditions, but its performance depends on correct aftercare. Dirt, sweat and everyday use gradually affect breathability and water repellency, even when garments still look fine on the surface.
Looking after your kit should be fundamental to the running routine, keeping it performing run after run.
Caring for Running Kit
Proper aftercare helps running gear do what it was designed to do – keep you dry and comfortable. Cleaning it removes the build-up of dirt and body oils that block the breathability of fabrics, while reproofing it restores water repellency so rain beads up and rolls away.
© Lukas Lehotsky, Unsplash
Nikwax products are formulated to maintain the performance of technical outdoor and running clothing. Nikwax Tech Wash® cleans waterproof layers without compromising their function. When jackets stop beading you should use Nikwax TX.Direct® to restore water repellency, helping you stay dry and comfortable on your runs.
For next-to-skin base layers Nikwax Sports Refresh cleans away sweat, bacteria and dirt, ensuring your activewear is deodorised, with no nasty odours hiding under a synthetic fragrance. Additionally, it accelerates the drying time of activewear, reducing the opportunity for bacteria to thrive and odours to form. Not only does this keep you smelling fresher for longer, but it will also help you feel drier, and more comfortable.
When you trainers start to smell give them a new lease of life with Nikwax Footwear Refresh, a powerful deodorising cleaner designed to freshen and prevent odour build-up.
Caring for kit also means making it last longer, supporting both performance and a more considered approach to consumption.
Keep the Run Going
Running clubs thrive on shared commitment. Well-cared-for kit supports that consistency, helping runners stay comfortable, confident and ready for the next run. Because when your gear works as it should, it’s easier to keep showing up for the run, the people and the adventure.
So, forget about the great generational sock debate and just keep on running.
