5 essential running accessories for every runner: running gear for your next run

Whether you’re just starting your running journey or you’ve already mastered the track, the right running gear has the potential to elevate your running experience to a whole new level.

Curious about the essential running must-haves that deserve a spot in your collection?

Look no further because you’re in the right spot. Let’s dive in and talk about the running accessories that will have you eagerly anticipating your next run.

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THE RUNNING ACCESSORIES EVERY RUNNER NEEDS

Essential running gear: running shoes

Running doesn’t demand a ton of running accessories, but there’s one essential running gear every runner must have: a pair of running shoes. 

But how do you discover the perfect fit for your feet? Should you opt for shoes that promise a cloud-like sensation or a sleek design that exudes speed?

Running shoes provide cushioning, stability, traction, and comfort. And with countless options available, the key to finding your ideal pair lies in lacing up a few and hitting the pavement. 

Before you buy a pair of running shoes, consider these questions.

• Are you planning to run on roads or trails? Trail running shoes have a grippier sole for better traction over rougher terrain. Want to know more about trail running? Find the best running trails here.
• How many miles do you run now? And how many miles will you run in the near future? Your weekly running mileage will influence the type of shoe you’ll need. 
• Do you feel stable standing on one leg? If you don’t feel stable, you’ll likely need a shoe that provides stability, such as this ASICS shoe for men and women.

Shoe shape, and material, all affect size and fit, so it’s best to use those size numbers as a guide. 

And finally, your feet will swell when you’re running, so buying a shoe that’ll fit your feet at their largest is crucial. To get the best fit and sizing, shop for running shoes in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest.

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Moisture-wicking running clothes

You’ve probably heard that you shouldn’t wear cotton when running, but does that mean you should deck out in head-to-toe moisture-wicking running clothes?

In a word? Yes.

Let’s dive into the details of moisture-wicking running clothes, in case you’re not convinced. 

Moisture-wicking gear uses sweat-wicking fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and wool to leave you dry yet cool throughout your entire run.

It’s not only the fabric fibers that keep you comfortable on the run. It’s also the way the threads are woven together, which allows moisture to move through the fabric and away from your body to help your sweat evaporate and keep you cool. 

Technical fabrics whisk away sweat and are breathable, which allows you to regulate your body temperature. And, their quick their quick-drying nature means you won’t be uncomfortable in damp clothing.

Moisture-wicking properties are vital for running clothes and even more so for running socks. 

You’ll spend more money on running socks than your regular cotton ones, but it is worth it because it can help you avoid blisters. (If you want to reduce the chances of getting a blister even more, pair your running socks with anti-chafe cream.)

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Tech running gear: running app or running watch

Should you splurge on a running watch or use a running app on your phone? That depends on what you’d like to track with your running and your budget. 

Both options—a running app and a running watch—will track your pace and distance, and there are benefits to either option, so let’s jump into the pros and cons of using a running app versus a running watch.

If you want to use a running app,

Pros:

• Affordable. You’ll have many options that are either free or affordable, such as MapMyRun, Nike Run Club, Runkeeper, or Strava.
• GPS Tracking: These running apps will use your phone’s GPS to track your route, distance, and pace to give you running data, which you can use to track your progress and performance.
• Social: Many running apps have a social aspect to them, where you can connect and follow friends, join challenges, and share your achievements. 

Cons:

• Battery drain: You might drain your phone’s battery with a running app, especially if you’re going on a longer run.
• Dependent on the phone: You’ll have to hold your phone to glance at your running stats, but you can get around this by using the app’s audio cues. 
• Accuracy: The GPS on a running app is less accurate than on a running watch because there’s a chance you could lose your signal.

If you want to use a running watch,

Pros: 

• Sturdy: Running watches are light as a feather and often waterproof (perfect for those surprise rain showers).
• Long battery life: Many running watch batteries last for days and up to weeks, depending on how you’re using your watch. For example, Garmin watches can last up to 50 days before having to recharge. 
• Instant feedback:  You’ll get live updates on your pace, distance, cadence, heart rate, and more.

Cons: 

• Expensive: Running watches will range in price from a couple hundred to several hundred, depending on the features you want in a watch. 

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Hydration running gear

You can carry water while running in a few ways, but ultimately, it comes down to how you prefer to run with water (handheld vs. a vest), how much you need to drink on the run, and the weather conditions, such as running on a hot day.

Let’s talk a little more about hydration gear for running.

1. Handheld water bottles: These running water bottles should fit securely into your hand without spilling water. You can only carry so much water without tiring your arm, so handheld running water bottles are best for shorter runs. If you need a solid handheld, this Nathan SpeedDraw water bottle has a strap to secure the bottle to your hand and a zippered pocket for small necessities.
2. Hydration belt: A running hydration belt allows you to attach small water bottles to the belt and some hydration belts can double as a running belt for other essentials.
3. Hydration vest: A hydration vest uses a hydration bladder with a tube for sipping water. This is your best hydration gear for running on trails and on long runs because it holds the most amount of water and has pockets to stash additional items.

Running belt

Running belts are typically constructed with moisture-wicking stretch materials to hold your phone, keys, and more while you run. 

A good running belt will hold all your gear for running—phone, ID, snacks— without shifting or bouncing and have an adjustable waistband to ensure a comfortable no-bounce fit. 

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I hope this list gives you a headstart on building out your must-have running gear. But if there’s one item you should prioritize from this list of essential running gear, it’s a pair of running shoes.

While moisture-wicking running clothes keep you comfortable and a running app or watch tracks your progress, none of it would be possible without a pair of running shoes.