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Energy gels are a concentrated (and gooey) source of carbohydrates – mostly sugar – and electrolytes, which are great for tackling long distances allowing you to refuel on-the-go, and without interrupting your stride.
If you've decided to give running a red-hot crack (thanks to #runtok), congratulations. You're on your way to unlocking the many benefits that come with having a liiiitle more pep in your step.
You also might be wondering what essential gear you need. What you need can be dependent on your goals, like whether you plan to go for casual runs or step it up to compete in your first half or full marathon. But to help you get started we've rounded up 10 items bound to boost your running experience.
1. Running Shoes
A pair of well-fitting shoes is a must for any runner. Not just any pair of shoes, running-specific shoes. Performance running shoes are not only built with the latest innovations and tech to help push you forward when you need it the most, but they're equipped with adequate support, cushioning and stability to help reduce lower limb injuries such as shin splints or stress fractures, ouch.
Running shoes aren't one-size-fits-all – some people have wide feet, narrow feet, some pronate and there are varying arch heights – so it's a good idea to learn about how to choose the right running shoe for you.
Choose running shoes from leading brands such as Nike, Hoka, On, adidas, Asics and more. Also read the best running shoes for 2024 for every type of runner.
2. Moisture-Wicking Apparel
Of course, you can run in any attire or workout gear. Still, if you sweat, clothes made from lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics will help draw away moisture from your body, keeping you dry and comfortable while you run, rather than a soggy and uncomfortable mess.
Aside from also keeping you cool when it's warm and warm when it's cold, breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics can help prevent chaffing and irritation.
From sports bras to running shorts, tights and running t-shirts, there is a range of moisture-wicking apparel to choose from.
Need help choosing the right sports bra or leggings? Check out our guides here, and here.
3. Running Socks
Say goodbye to blisters and keep your feet happy with a pair of running socks. No, these aren't your ordinary type of socks – they've got cushioning in all the right places, higher heels and support to prevent blisters, bunching, and slipping, and made from moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics to keep your feet cool.
Depending on which socks you choose you may find they also help ward off stinky feet through the use of antimicrobial technology to fight odour-causing bacteria.
4. Sunglasses and Caps
If you plan on running during the day (because hey, we all need vitamin D), you may want to invest in a running cap and a pair of running sunglasses for extra protection from the harsh UV rays – on top of your usual application of SPF. When shopping for the right pair, choose polarised, make sure they fit snug on your face (a head strap will help) and don't slip when you move.
Check out our entire range of sports sunglasses from Oakley here.
5. Fitness Tech
If you have the budget to invest in a smart watch, it's unlikely to disappoint. From tracking your sleep patterns, and heart rate, to delivering workouts, phone calls, and music straight to your wrist, they're not short of cool tech and metrics.
Depending on which you choose, different models will offer different features, but you may want to look at those with GPS navigation to accurately map your routes, pace, and distance without the need for a smartphone. With real-time tracking, you can also analyse your performance, set goals, and track improvements over time.
Take a look at our guide on how to choose the right sports watch.
6. Anti-Chafe Balm
If the dreaded chafe (hello jogger's nipple and thigh rub) has ever caught you out, you'd know how important applying an anti-chafe balm pre-run is, it's a rite of passage. It's also a good idea to stash one in your running belt – or running bag – because you never know when you will need to tackle the on-the-spot discomfort.
7. Hydration Gear
First and foremost, nothing good comes from dehydration – muscle cramps, lethargy, decreased performance, heat exhaustion, the list goes on. So, staying hydrated and having the right gear to do so is a top priority when doing any exercise. Think: drink bottles and hydration packs; which come in the form of backpacks, belts and handheld bottle holders. These will allow you to replenish any fluids lost from exercise.
8. Energy Gels
Ask any dedicated runner what's one nutrition staple they stash in their belt for long runs, and they'd likely list energy gels (like GU).
Energy gels are a concentrated (and gooey) source of carbohydrates – mostly sugar – and electrolytes, which are great for tackling long distances allowing you to refuel on-the-go, and without interrupting your stride. These gels provide a rapid infusion of energy, helping to stave off the depletion of glycogen stores (prevent cramping) and sustaining performance during a marathon or long run.
9. Recovery Gear
You may have yet to run your first 5 or 10K but know that your legs can go from swift little beasts to completely incapable of movement as soon as you halt. So, to ensure you can still roll out of bed the next day, it's a good idea to invest in the right recovery gear. From foam rollers to massage balls and percussion guns, give love back to those tired, achy legs.
If you need some help choosing, our guide on recovery gear can help.
10. Running Accessories
From your anti-chafe balm to sunscreen and energy gels, where will you store it all? Enter running belts. Their sleek and snug fit designs mean they shouldn't interfere with your run and are big enough to pack all the essentials – keys, bank cards, phone and more. If you just need somewhere to store your phone while you run, then an armband is your best bet.
Check out our full range of running accessories here.