When I started running more consistently, I was always searching for running gear that could improve my comfort, performance, and motivation. That experience inspired me to write this post, where I’m sharing some of my favorite running gear essentials that have helped me along the way.
1. Fitness Watch
I feel a fitness watch is one of the most beneficial tools in running as it can track mileage, heart rate, cadence, and many other things to help progress your training. I have used the Garmin Forerunner 735XT, Garmin Venu, and currently use the Coros Pace 4.
Coros Pace 4
I wear my COROS Pace 4 on a daily basis. It connects seamlessly to your smartphone and displays all notifications directly on the watch. While you can’t answer calls or reply to texts like you can with an Apple Watch, that’s not something I was looking for in a fitness watch anyway.
The COROS Pace 4 is first and foremost a performance-focused activity tracking watch with helpful smart features. It allows you to track a wide variety of activities and gives you the ability to program workouts ahead of time, which is a feature I use for all of my runs. The watch provides detailed activity data and performance metrics to help you track progress and improve over time.
COROS offers several great watch options depending on your needs and training style, but the Pace 4 is the one I chose. I’ve been very happy with it and have had zero issues so far.
2. Running Shoes
Finding the right running shoes is essential when you’re just starting your running journey. One of the best ways to ensure a proper fit is by visiting a local running shoe store, where experienced staff can help assess your foot type, gait, and comfort needs. Many specialty running stores use foot scanning technology to analyze your feet and recommend shoes that provide the right support and cushioning.
Most running stores encourage you to try on several pairs of shoes and often have a treadmill available so you can test how they feel while running. This hands-on approach helps you find a shoe that fits comfortably and supports your stride. Over time, I’ve tested multiple popular running shoe brands, including Hoka One One, Nike, and ASICS, and each offers unique features depending on your running style and preferences.
My Shoe Favorites
For my everyday runs, I personally prefer wearing the Hoka Clifton or the ASICS Novablast, both of which offer excellent cushioning and comfort for daily training. When it comes to speed workouts and race day, I’ve really been enjoying the Nike Vaporfly Next%, which provides a lightweight feel and responsive performance ideal for faster runs.
3. Running Socks
Running socks play an important role in preventing blisters and keeping your feet comfortable during runs. My current personal favorites are Darn Tough and Feetures running socks, as they offer excellent toe and heel support, moisture control, and a secure fit that helps reduce friction.
4. Open Ear Headphones
Being able to listen to music or podcasts while running without sacrificing awareness of my surroundings is important to me. I enjoy listening to my favorite playlists and podcasts while still being able to hear what’s happening around me for safety. One of the best ways to do this is by using bone conduction open-ear headphones, which allow ambient sound to pass through while delivering clear audio. They stay securely in place during runs, so you barely notice you’re wearing headphones at all, making them a comfortable and safe option for runners.
5. Handheld Water Bottle
Staying hydrated while running is essential, and a handheld water bottle can make it much easier. I personally use a Nathan handheld water bottle and have had no issues with comfort or usability. It fits my hand well and doesn’t feel cumbersome while running. Nathan offers a variety of options depending on how much water you want to carry, and some models even include zipper pockets for small essentials like keys or energy gels.
I haven’t heard of the Feetures socks or the bone conduction open ear headphones, but will check them out. These sound like good tips for equipment–some of these could probably work well for walkers.
It’s helpful for someone that uses the gear to share their opinions. Having the proper fitness watch, shoes, etc. will help motivate people to be active.
I like using my Fitbit to at least see how many steps i get per day. Then rely on my garmin on my bike as it picks up my mileage speed Heart rate etc and it pairs with a garmin tail light that Beeps when a car is approaching behind me.