I've been running for 10 years now, and for most of that time, I've been a broke student or frugal post-grad. I enjoy the competitive element of running, so I typically invest only in pieces that affect my performance. While shopping, I commonly ask myself: Will this make me a better runner, or would it just be nice to have?

Here's my hard-earned wisdomfrom head to toe-about where to splurge and where to save a few bucks.

HATS → SAVE

I rarely buy hats. And if I do, I buy them for cheap. Caps are a utility to me, and as long as they keep my face shaded and head ventilated, I don't care too much about appearances. Plus, I sweat regardless, so the fancy ones that claim to be extra breathable seem pointless to me. Each time I go to a major marathon for work, I feel like I come home with at least one new cap. They're a common freebie at brand events and expo booths.

SHIRTS → SAVE

This is another place where I save dough. I don't obsess over fancy features like UV protection or worry if the material is ultra-breathable. I just wear sunscreen and go shirtless on a hot day.

I still have tech tees that my mom bought me in high school at the outlet mall, and some of my favorite tops have been clearance-rack finds at Marshalls. And you know those "free" shirts you get for signing up for a race? I wear them! Even if they're ugly. Finally, I'm not afraid to wear cotton-it gets a bad rap, but there's something poetic about sweat stains proving that you put in some effort.

SHORTS → IT DEPENDS

For split shorts, I buy them cheap. For half tights, I splurge.