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Everyone knows that all you need to get started running is a good pair of running shoes, right? While that may work to start, there is some great gear available online and from your local running store that will help make your running experience much more enjoyable.
A Good Sports Bra
The overstretched sports bra you’ve had since you graduated college is probably not going to cut anymore as you increase your mileage. It may take some trial and error to find the best sports bras for you. I personally love this Syrokan wireless high impact bra for my speed workouts and long runs. It comes in a wide range of colors and sizes and is easily adjustable. For easy runs or days when I am cross training or doing strength, I prefer this Syrokan racerback mesh bra.
Sweatproof Headphones
You’ve spent hours crafting the perfect playlist to get you pumped during your runs. Good headphones will let your music shine. I am a huge fan of Shokz OpenRun headphones (formerly known as AfterShokz.) They don’t cover your ears and instead work through bone conduction technology. This means that you can feel safer on your runs you can hear sounds going on around you like approaching vehicles, bicyclists, dogs, etc.
Running Belt for Your Keys and Phone
It’s sometimes hard to find shorts or pants with pockets to carry all your essentials, so I’ve found that a stretchy running belt is the next best thing. I love and own several running belts from FlipBelt and StashBandz. They are both so comfortable, I even forget they are on my body after a while and they are also incredibly secure.
Running Water Bottles
If you don’t have a running route with plenty of water fountains, you will want to start carrying water of your own. A handheld water bottle might just do the trick for the majority of your runs. I use the Nathan Speedshot Plus handheld water bottle. You can read my full review here.
If you are training for longer distances like a half marathon or a full marathon, you may want to upgrade your hydration gear to a vest. The Osprey Dyna 1.5 running hydration vest is incredibly comfortable, functional and mid-range as far as pricing goes. Check out my full review. My husband, on the other hand, loves his Nathan TrailMix running hydration vest.
Comfy, Moisture Wicking Socks
There is nothing more annoying than having to adjust your socks mid-run because they are either slipping down into your shoes or rubbing in funny ways causing blisters. The right sock will stay put and keep your toes comfortable during the sweatiest parts of your runs. I like wearing no-show socks when I run, and Feetures socks check off all my requirements.
A Good Running Watch
If you go out on a run and do not track it, did you even run? Of course you did, but if you want to easily see how you’ve improved over time, a good running watch is a great tool. I’ve been wearing Garmin watches for 10 years now. I highly recommend the Garmin Forerunner 45 for barebones tracking. If you want something powerful for every day wear, the Garmin Venu 2 is a beautiful all around smartwatch, and Garmin’s answer to the Apple Watch.
Running Sunglasses
Protect your eyes and look great while doing it with colorful sunglasses. Sure, you can just wear one pair over and over again, but you could have so much fun matching your sunglasses to your outfit or mood. I am a huge fan of Knockaround Premium Sports Sunglasses. They are very comfortable for wearing during runs of 2 hours or longer and come in great bright colors.
Sports Sunscreen
Did you know you should wear sunscreen every day? Yes, even on winter days. Yes, even when it’s cloudy. When we are out running we are especially vulnerable to the effects of the sun, so wearing sweat resistant sunscreen is extremely important. I’ve been wearing Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen 70+ SPF for years. It’s fairly sweatproof and spreads really well, so you don’t end up with a white mask on your face. Over the last several months, I’ve been using Supergoop Play sunscreen for my body. It spreads well and smells really great.
Reflective Running Gear
Being seen is key if you are running before the sun rises or after it sets. Reflective running gear comes in all shapes and formats to ensure you are visible no matter where you run. You can choose from simple stretchy reflective vests, rechargeable running headlamps, or my favorite, the Noxgear 360 rechargeable illuminated running vest.
Anti-chafing Balms
Prevent unwanted shower surprises. Chafing happens to all of us in the most unexpected places, so slathering your tricky spots in some anti-chafing balms is key. I personally use Body Glide especially under my sports bra band, but I know lots of runners who also swear by Squirrel’s Nut Butter.
What other gear do you find essential for your runs?
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