LetsRunNow

Running Gear Guide

What to wear, carry, and fuel with — from your first 5K to your first marathon. Suggestions, not sponsorships.

Start with shoes. Add the rest as you go.

You don't need everything on day one. Buy gear when a real need shows up — heat, distance, chafing, or weather — not because an ad told you to.

Apparel

Running Shoes

The single most important purchase. Running shoes are built for forward motion, impact, and breathability — not gym training or casual walking.

Before your first run. Everything else can wait.

What to look for

  • ·Thumb's width of space at the toes
  • ·Snug heel with no slipping
  • ·Comfortable out of the box — no long break-in
  • ·Replace every 300–500 miles

Suggestions

  • Brooks Ghost — Reliable daily trainer — soft, forgiving, great for beginners.
  • ASICS Gel-Nimbus — Extra cushioning if you want maximum impact protection.
  • Saucony Ride — Balanced feel — not too soft, not too firm. Good all-rounder.
  • New Balance Fresh Foam 880 — Comfortable neutral shoe; wide widths available.
Shirts & Tops

Skip cotton — it holds sweat and causes chafing. Technical fabrics wick moisture and dry fast.

As soon as you run more than a walk around the block.

What to look for

  • ·Polyester or merino blends — not cotton
  • ·Flat seams to reduce rubbing
  • ·Relaxed or athletic fit based on preference
  • ·UPF protection for sunny days

Suggestions

  • Nike Dri-FIT Miler — Classic beginner top — light, breathable, affordable.
  • Under Armour Tech 2.0 — Soft feel, good value, widely available.
  • Patagonia Capilene Cool — Great for hot weather and sustainability-minded runners.
  • Merino base layer (Icebreaker / Smartwool) — Odour-resistant and comfortable for cool-weather runs.
Shorts & Bottoms

Running shorts are lightweight with a built-in liner so you don't need extra layers underneath.

When gym shorts start feeling heavy or rubbing.

What to look for

  • ·Built-in brief or liner
  • ·Lightweight, quick-dry fabric
  • ·Side split or length that suits your comfort
  • ·Small pocket for a key or gel

Suggestions

  • Nike Challenger Shorts — Simple 5" inseam with liner — a safe first pick.
  • Tracksmith Session Shorts — Premium feel with a classic look if you want to invest.
  • Lululemon Pace Breaker — Comfortable liner and phone pocket; popular for everyday runs.
  • SOAR Running Split Shorts — Light and fast — better once you're running regularly.
Tights & Leggings

Full or ¾-length tights keep muscles warm in cool weather and reduce wind chill on your legs.

Below ~50°F (10°C) or when shorts feel too cold.

What to look for

  • ·Moisture-wicking fabric with some stretch
  • ·Flat waistband that won't dig in
  • ·Reflective details for low-light runs
  • ·Phone pocket on thigh or hip if you carry one

Suggestions

  • Nike Pro Warm Tights — Solid cold-weather staple with good warmth-to-weight ratio.
  • Lululemon Fast and Free Tight — Multiple pockets and a comfortable high waist.
  • Under Armour ColdGear Leggings — Brushed interior for winter mornings.
  • 2XU Compression Tights — Snug fit — some runners like the supported feel on long runs.

Tracking & Apps

Apple Watch

The do-everything wrist computer. Great if you already live in the Apple ecosystem and want running data alongside texts, music, and daily health tracking.

When you want one device for runs and everyday life — and you use an iPhone.

What to look for

  • ·Built-in GPS (all current models)
  • ·Water resistance for sweaty and rainy runs
  • ·Heart rate sensor for easy-pace guidance
  • ·Apple Watch SE for budget; Series 9/10 for brighter screen

Suggestions

  • Apple Watch SE (2nd gen) — Best value — full GPS running features without the premium price.
  • Apple Watch Series 9 / 10 — Brighter always-on display; easier to read mid-run.
  • Apple Watch Ultra — Overkill for beginners — consider only for trail ultras and multi-day battery needs.

Pros

  • +Seamless with iPhone — calls, texts, Apple Pay, and music on your wrist
  • +Automatic workout detection and a familiar, polished interface
  • +Strong health features: heart rate, sleep, fall detection, ECG (model-dependent)
  • +Huge app ecosystem beyond running
  • +Syncs runs to Apple Health and Strava easily

Cons

  • −Battery lasts ~1–2 days with GPS — needs nightly charging
  • −Less running-specific depth than Garmin or Coros (no native training load / race predictor)
  • −Requires an iPhone — no Android support
  • −Premium price compared to dedicated running watches
  • −Smaller GPS antenna than most running watches — fine for roads, less ideal for dense trails
Garmin

The gold standard for dedicated running watches. Built for athletes who want deep metrics, long battery life, and data that actually helps training.

When you're serious about pace, heart rate zones, and following a structured plan beyond a 5K.

What to look for

  • ·GPS + heart rate built in (avoid non-GPS models)
  • ·Garmin Coach or training plan support on watch
  • ·Battery life matching your longest run
  • ·Forerunner line = best for road runners

Suggestions

  • Garmin Forerunner 165 — Colour AMOLED screen, beginner-friendly — great first Garmin.
  • Garmin Forerunner 255 / 265 — The sweet spot for half and full marathon training.
  • Garmin Forerunner 55 — Cheapest entry point — basic but reliable GPS tracking.

Pros

  • +Week-long battery on many models (no daily charging)
  • +Running-specific metrics: VO2 max estimate, training load, recovery time, race predictor
  • +Excellent GPS accuracy on roads and trails
  • +Works with both iPhone and Android
  • +Syncs directly to Strava and most training platforms

Cons

  • −Interface has a learning curve — not as intuitive as Apple Watch
  • −Fewer smart features (limited texting, apps, payments on lower models)
  • −Garmin Connect app can feel overwhelming at first
  • −AMOLED models (165, 265) drain faster than older MIP-screen watches
  • −Overkill if you only run 2–3 easy miles a week
Coros

The fast-rising challenger — premium running watch features at a lower price than Garmin, with exceptional battery life and a clean, simple interface.

When you want Garmin-level running data without Garmin-level pricing.

What to look for

  • ·Dual-frequency GPS on newer models (Pace 3, Apex 2)
  • ·Battery rated in weeks, not hours
  • ·Strava and training plan compatibility
  • ·Coros EvoLab for fitness and fatigue tracking

Suggestions

  • Coros Pace 3 — Best beginner pick — light, accurate GPS, weeks of battery.
  • Coros Pace 2 — Still solid if you find it discounted — slightly older but capable.
  • Coros Apex 2 — Step up for trail runners who want maps and sapphire glass.

Pros

  • +Outstanding battery — often 2–3 weeks between charges
  • +Excellent value vs Garmin and Apple Watch
  • +Fast GPS lock and reliable tracking
  • +Clean, uncluttered software — easier than Garmin for beginners
  • +Strong Strava integration and free EvoLab training insights

Cons

  • −Smaller brand — fewer retail stores for try-before-you-buy
  • −Less third-party app support than Apple or Garmin
  • −Smart features are basic (notifications yes, apps no)
  • −Fewer model choices and accessories in local shops
  • −Customer support and repair network not as widespread as Garmin
Strava App

The social network for runners. Record with your phone or sync from any watch — then analyse pace, routes, segments, and progress over time.

From day one. Free to start — use phone GPS before buying a watch.

What to look for

  • ·Free tier covers GPS tracking, pace, distance, and elevation
  • ·Works with Apple Watch, Garmin, Coros, and 500+ devices
  • ·Connect to LetsRunNow dashboard for streaks and coaching tips
  • ·Strava Summit subscription optional — not required to begin

Suggestions

  • Phone-only tracking — Start here — just open Strava and hit Record before your run.
  • Strava + Apple Watch / Garmin / Coros — Record on your watch; sync automatically when done.
  • LetsRunNow dashboard — Connect Strava in your account for streaks, route comparisons, and HR tips.

Pros

  • +Free to track runs with GPS, pace, and distance
  • +Huge community — segments, kudos, clubs, and local routes
  • +Syncs with virtually every watch and app
  • +Works on iPhone and Android
  • +Pairs with LetsRunNow for personalised dashboard insights

Cons

  • −Phone-only tracking drains battery and is less accurate than a watch
  • −Advanced features (training plans, relative effort, route builder) need subscription
  • −Public profiles expose your routes — check privacy settings
  • −Can encourage unhealthy comparison if you chase kudos and segment PRs
  • −Depends on a device to record — Strava itself doesn't have GPS hardware

Accessories

Caps & Headwear

Keeps sun off your face, absorbs sweat, and holds hair out of your eyes. A simple running cap beats a fashion hat every time.

Sunny days, sweaty summer runs, or anytime glare is an issue.

What to look for

  • ·Lightweight, breathable panels
  • ·Adjustable back strap
  • ·Curved brim for sun protection
  • ·Machine-washable — you'll sweat in it

Suggestions

  • Ciele GOCap — The cult favourite — light, stylish, great sweat management.
  • Nike Featherlight Cap — Budget-friendly and does the job well.
  • Buff UV Headband (winter alternative) — Covers ears in cold weather without overheating your head.
  • Smartwool Merino Beanie — For freezing temps when a cap isn't enough.
Sunglasses & Eye Protection

Running sunglasses stay put, block UV, and cut glare on bright roads and trails. Regular fashion shades often bounce and slip.

Daytime outdoor runs — especially on roads, snow, or open trails.

What to look for

  • ·UV400 protection
  • ·Lightweight frame with grip on the nose and temples
  • ·Interchangeable or tinted lenses for different light
  • ·Polarized lenses reduce road glare

Suggestions

  • Goodr — Affordable, fun colours, no-slip fit — perfect starter shades.
  • Tifosi Swank — Light, budget-friendly, solid UV protection.
  • Oakley Sutro Lite — Premium option with excellent clarity and stability.
  • Julbo Fury — Great for trail runners who want wraparound coverage.
Sunscreen

UV exposure adds up mile by mile — especially on long runs, midday sessions, and reflective roads. A sport sunscreen stays on when you sweat.

Any daytime outdoor run longer than 20 minutes, year-round on exposed skin.

What to look for

  • ·Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (SPF 50 for long summer runs)
  • ·Water- and sweat-resistant label (80 min minimum)
  • ·Non-greasy formula so it won't run into your eyes
  • ·Apply 15–20 min before you start; reapply on runs over 2 hours

Suggestions

  • Neutrogena Sport Face SPF 70 — Sweat-resistant and less likely to sting eyes than body formulas.
  • Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 — Budget-friendly, widely available, solid for arms and legs.
  • Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 — Light feel, no white cast — good for daily training.
  • Sun Bum Original SPF 50 — Popular sport formula with a pleasant scent; reapply on long runs.
Chafing Creams & Balms

Friction happens — thighs, nipples, armpits, sports bra lines. A good anti-chafe product prevents hot spots before they become bloody disasters.

Before long runs, hot weather, or any time you've felt rubbing.

What to look for

  • ·Glide-on stick or cream — apply before you run
  • ·Petroleum-free options if you have sensitive skin
  • ·Water-resistant formulas for sweaty days
  • ·Reapply on runs over 90 minutes

Suggestions

  • Body Glide — The classic stick — apply to thighs, feet, and anywhere that rubs.
  • Squirrel's Nut Butter — Natural anti-chafe balm; popular with trail runners.
  • Bandelettes or Nip Guards — Physical barriers for nipple chafing on long runs.
  • Vaseline — Cheap and works in a pinch — not ideal for fabric stains.

Hydration & Fuel

Hydration Tablets

Electrolyte tablets replace sodium, potassium, and minerals lost in sweat — especially on hot days or runs over an hour.

Runs over 60 minutes, hot/humid weather, or if you cramp easily.

What to look for

  • ·Sodium content — most runners need 300–600mg per hour in heat
  • ·Low or zero sugar options for easy days
  • ·Dissolves cleanly in water bottles
  • ·Test in training — never race day first

Suggestions

  • Nuun Sport — Light, fizzy, easy on the stomach — great starter electrolyte.
  • LMNT — Higher sodium — popular for heavy sweaters and hot climates.
  • Precision Fuel & Hydration — Customizable sodium levels to match your sweat rate.
  • SaltStick FastChews — Chewable electrolytes if you prefer not to mix drinks.
Energy Gels

Concentrated carbs in a small packet — fast fuel when your body runs low on glycogen during longer efforts.

Runs over 75–90 minutes, half marathon training, and race day.

What to look for

  • ·20–30g carbs per gel is standard
  • ·Caffeine gels for late-race boosts (if you tolerate caffeine)
  • ·Take with water — gels need fluid to absorb
  • ·Practice your timing: every 30–45 min on long runs

Suggestions

  • Maurten Gel 100 — Gentle on the stomach — popular with marathoners.
  • GU Energy Gel — Wide flavour range; easy to find at races and shops.
  • Huma Gel — Made with chia and fruit — good if standard gels upset your gut.
  • Spring Energy — Whole-food style fuel for runners who want real-ingredient options.
Hydration Packs & Vests

Hands-free water carry for long runs, trails, and hot days when looping back to a fountain isn't practical.

Runs over 90 minutes, trail runs, or summer long runs without water stops.

What to look for

  • ·1–2L capacity for most long runs
  • ·Snug fit — shouldn't bounce when you run
  • ·Front pockets for gels and phone
  • ·Easy-to-clean bladder or soft flasks

Suggestions

  • Salomon Active Skin 8 — Light race vest — popular for half and full marathon training.
  • Nathan VaporHowe 2.0 — Comfortable women's-specific fit with good storage.
  • Osprey Dyna LT — Hybrid pack/vest — great for trail beginners.
  • FlipBelt or handheld bottle — Simpler option for shorter long runs — no vest needed yet.

New to running? Start with our shoe guide · training plans · connect Strava