You see it more and more often: athletes running with a narrow strip across their nose. Perhaps you thought it was something medical, or just a hype. But nasal strips are no trick. In fact, more and more recreational runners are discovering what a big difference it can make to breathe freely during exercise.
If you struggle to breathe through your nose while running, or feel like your airway is "blocked," you're not alone. Many runners experience this, especially during cold weather or allergy seasons. Fortunately, there's a simple, non-medicinal solution: the nasal strip.
What does a nasal strip actually do?
A nasal strip is a small, flexible strip that you stick over the bridge of your nose. Inside, there are resilient bands that gently lift the nasal wings. The result? Your nostrils remain open, allowing you to breathe more easily through your nose.
And that's not a minor detail. Nasal breathing has direct benefits for athletes:
- Better oxygen uptake
- Less shortness of breath during running
- Lower heart rate at the same exertion level
- More focus and less fatigue
Why nasal breathing is so important during exercise
During exertion, many people automatically switch to mouth breathing. Understandable, but not ideal. Nasal breathing provides:
- Warmer, humidified air (less chance of dry throat or irritation)
- Better filtering of dust and allergens
- More nitric oxide production, which ensures more efficient oxygen uptake in your lungs
However, do you suffer from a blocked nose, a narrow nasal cavity, or swelling of the nasal mucous membrane? Then nasal breathing is hardly possible. And that's where the nasal strip comes in. Read more about nasal vs. mouth breathing during running.
Nasal strips and running: the benefits at a glance
Most people associate nasal strips with snoring. But in the sports world, especially among runners, cyclists, and triathletes, they are rapidly gaining ground. The benefits of nasal strips during running:
1. You get more air in
Especially during long runs, you'll notice the difference: you don't have to gasp for breath as quickly, and you feel less 'constricted'.
2. Better focus and rhythm
Breathing through the nose helps to find a calm, controlled breathing rhythm. You get less out of breath, and run more consistently.
3. Fewer mouth and throat complaints
Nasal breathing prevents a dry throat or coughing during running, especially in cold weather.
4. More comfort without medication
Unlike nasal sprays or medication, a nasal strip has no side effects. You stick it on, and it works.
Are nasal strips also suitable for recreational runners?
Absolutely. You don't have to be a top athlete to notice the difference. Especially if you:
- struggle to breathe through your nose while running,
- often suffer from a blocked nose,
- or get out of breath while your pace is relatively low...
…then a PurelyGoods nasal strip can significantly improve your breathing. And the best part is: you often notice it from the very first training session.
What makes the PurelyGoods nasal strip unique?
The PurelyGoods nasal strips have been specially developed with comfort, strong adhesive power and athletic performance in mind:
- Soft, skin-friendly adhesive that stays put, even when sweating
- Strong elasticity for maximum opening of the nasal wings
- Thin profile that is barely visible, useful during competitions
- Hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin
Our experience during the NN Zevenheuvelenloop (15 km)
Last weekend, we, Jelle Boeije (picture) & Floris Boeije, ran the NN Zevenheuvelenloop in Nijmegen, a 15-kilometer race through a hilly course, with fresh autumn air and a lot of sweating.
Of course, we wore our own PurelyGoods nasal strip, and the difference was immediately noticeable. No bloated feeling, less panting, and most importantly: peace of mind due to a stable breathing rhythm.
🎯 Important tip: wipe your nose thoroughly dry before applying the strip. This ensures it stays firmly in place, even during an intensive race like this.
Conclusion: should you also try a nasal strip?
If you, as a recreational runner:
✅ struggle with nasal breathing
✅ get out of breath more easily
✅ or are looking for a natural way to run more comfortably...
…then the answer is: yes. A nasal strip can be a small tool that makes a big difference in your running experience.
Want to try it yourself? Then choose the reliability of PurelyGoods, developed by and for athletes who know what matters.
Order your nasal strips today
👉 View the PurelyGoods Nasal Strips in our webshop
What is your experience with nasal breathing during exercise?
Leave a comment below, we are curious if you notice a difference with or without a nasal strip!
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