Any experienced runner will tell you that having the right gear is crucial for making the most of your run. Whether you are a novice runner or a seasoned triathlete, these are some of the top essentials for maximizing your running experience.
Headphones
Music has the power to inspire and motivate you while you run, allowing you to push your body harder and further than you may have thought. This is why having the right headphones is so important. The last thing you want is to battle cords or struggle to keep your headphones in your ears! For running headphones, the main features to consider are the style (i.e., earbuds vs. over-ear), sound quality, sweat resistance, and battery life.
Our Picks:
Beats Fit Pro Earbuds ($199, shop here)
Bose Sport Earbuds ($179, shop here)
Smartwatch
A smartwatch that measures your mileage and speed is important for running, especially if you are training for a race. Many devices also track your running route and heart rate. The ideal running smartwatch has a long battery life (at least 25 hours), Bluetooth compatibility, and a sweat-resistant band.
Our Picks:
Garmin Forerunner 255 Music ($399.99, shop here)
Polar Grit X ($429.95, shop here)
Clothing
Wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is something else you should consider. For example, stick with lightweight shorts or spandex and a light tank top or short-sleeve shirt on warmer days. For colder months, layers are important to save energy. So bundle up with running leggings, a long-sleeve sweatshirt, a hat, and gloves. You should also invest in a supportive sports bra.
Shoes
What you have on your feet is arguably the most important element of your run since unsupportive or ill-fitting shoes can put you at risk of injury. When selecting a running shoe, fit and arch support are crucial. And don’t forget to change your running shoes about every 300-500 miles!
Our Picks:
Hoka Clifton 8 ($140, shop here)
Brooks Glycerin 20 ($160, shop here)