A good marathon requires more than a good pair of shoes – check out this list of running essentials to get you ready for race day. (iStock)
Training for a marathon is only half the challenge of getting ready for the big race. Ensuring you have the right running essentials is equally crucial to getting you to the finish line.
Whether it’s your first or twentieth marathon, these essentials will keep you comfortable on your run. You can find them all on Amazon, and they can be delivered to your door in 24 hours if you’re an Amazon Prime member. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to shop.
Men’s and women’s running shoes and socks
Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoe $99.95
Top of your marathon running essentials list should be a pair of comfortable shoes to help you run more efficiently and faster. Runners looking for support can keep their form aligned with the Brooks Women’s Adrenaline GTS 22 Supportive Running Shoes. These sneakers are number one on Amazon’s list of best-selling women’s running sneakers. Shoppers praise them for their support, making them an excellent option for overpronators.
On Women’s Cloudmonster Sneakers $186.93
On Women’s Cloudmonster Sneakers are an option for runners seeking a highly cushioned ride. They come with a distinctive design crafted to push you onward; a forefoot rocker ensures a natural gait for those longer distances and helps keep your feet and legs feeling refreshed. You can find men’s sizes here.
Saucony Men’s Endorphin Pro 3 Sneaker $224.95
Runners looking to clock their personal best will be propelled on the route wearing these Saucony Men’s Endorphin Pro 3 Sneakers. The shoes’ SPEEDROLL technology and robust carbon-fiber plate will push you forward for effortless speed. A thicker stack of PWRRUN PB foam cushioning gives runners more pop underfoot for the ultimate go-fast experience. The perfect blend of cushioning and responsiveness will give runners an edge in their performance.
Balega Hidden Comfort Performance Running Socks for Men and Women $15.99
Socks may be somewhat of an afterthought for some, but they should take center stage regarding foot health. They are just as important as shoes for running because they provide support and cushioning, reduce friction, and wick away moisture. These Balega Hidden Comfort Performance, No Show Athletic Running Socks for Men and Women, can help keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout long runs. The sock’s moisture management fiber dynamix works to keep your feet cool and dry all day and reduces friction to minimize the risk of blisters.
Feetures Elite Max Cushion No Show Tab – Running Socks $18.00
Reviewers boast that the Feetures Elite Max Cushion No Show Tab – Running Socks for Men & Women – Athletic Compression Socks are the best socks on earth. The socks are designed with extra protection in high-impact areas with high-density cushioning and come in a variety of fun and vibrant colors.
Electrolyte and energy gel essentials
Huma Chia Energy Gel Variety 12 Pack $29.95
Beyond the comfort of your feet, you’ll also have to think about on-the-go hydration and nutrition to keep you running. Long-distance runners should consider stocking up on energy gels like this popular, stomach-friendly Huma Chia Energy Gel. The gels are chia seed-based, and reviews say they are a little less thick than other popular brands.
SaltStick FastChews Electrolytes – 60 tablets $16.95
Try these SaltStick FastChews Electrolytes for on-the-go hydration without weighing your body down with water. The salt tablets are packed with sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium in an easy, chewable electrolyte tablet form. They provide fast hydration to help stave off leg cramps on the big day.
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier $22.28
Mix this Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier into water after a long run to restore your body’s electrolytes and maintain proper hydration. Every serving contains five essential vitamins: B3, B5, B6, B12 and C. Plus, they come in convenient single-use packets and several different flavors.
Running smartwatches and fitness trackers
Garmin Forerunner 45S $169.99, now $141.05
As far as accessories go, a good watch will make tracking your miles and speed a breeze. The Garmin Forerunner 45S sports easy-to-use features including a built-in GPS, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, sleep and stress monitoring, incident detection and remote assistance.
Garmin Forerunner 245 $349.99, now $249.95
Or you could opt for the more advanced Garmin 010-02120-20 Forerunner 245, GPS Running Smartwatch, which is highly rated for its accurate mileage tracker.
Essential running accessories
Body Glide For Her Anti-Chafe Balm $9.00
One accessory you can’t do without to reduce problematic chafing is the Body Glide For Her Anti-Chafe Balm. Apply before you put on clothes, on your inner thighs, around your (sports) bra and wherever your skin is sensitive to rubbing.
Athle Sport Running Belt with Vertical Bottle Pocket $24.95, now $17.99
Another thing that runners should consider is where they plan to store their belongings, like car keys and money. This Athle Sport Running Belt with Vertical Bottle Pocket is light, comfortable and won’t weigh you down as you run. The straps are adjustable to secure it tightly for minimal movement. Owners say it’s the most comfortable waist pack they have ever owned!
Nathan SpeedView Flask, Handheld Water Bottle & Phone Case Holder $36.99
Don’t forget to plan for on-the-go hydration. This Nathan SpeedView Flask, Handheld Water Bottle and Phone Case Holder hold 18 ounces of water and doubles as storage. The hand strap features a large, expandable, zippered pocket for your phone or other essentials.
Adidas Men’s Superlite 2 Relaxed Adjustable Performance Cap $26.00, now $14.10
Remember your sun protection and gear to reduce glare on the road. The Adidas Men’s Superlite 2 Relaxed Adjustable Performance Cap is made of a lightweight stretch fabric with perforated side panels for added ventilation.
TrailHeads Women’s Race Day Performance Running Cap $22.00
TrailHeads Women’s Race Day Performance Running Cap is another excellent option with a dark under-bill to keep light from reflecting into your eyes.
Goodr OG Polarized Sunglasses $25.00
The Goodr OG Polarized Sunglasses are another great option to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The shades feature a unique grip coating that eliminates slippage when sweating, and the snug, lightweight frame fits comfortably on the face to prevent bouncing. They come in a variety of designs and frame colors to choose from.
You’ll also want to take a close look at what you wear. Uncomfortable running gear will quickly stop you in your tracks, but the opposite could help you reach a personal best. Check the forecast in the days leading up to your race to plan the perfect outfit.
Essential men’s and women’s running clothes
TLRUN Men’s Ultra Lightweight Running Shirt $17.99
On a warm day, TLRUN Men’s Ultra Lightweight Running Shirts will help keep you dry and comfortable by wicking away sweat.
SmartWool Women’s Merino Short Sleeve Shirt $75.00
This SmartWool Women’s Merino 150 Baselayer Short Sleeve is another highly-rated option that delivers insulation in colder climates and manages heat and moisture in warmer weather.
CRZ YOGA Women’s High-Waisted Running Shorts $28.00
These CRZ YOGA Women’s High Waisted Running Shorts feature built-in underwear and are crafted from lightweight, fast-drying fabric. They also have a handy zippered pocket to store your phone or other essentials.
Nike Women’s Victory Compression Sports Bra $38.66, $36.45
This Nike Women’s Victory Compression Sports Bra provides a snug compression fit to minimize bounce. It’s made of jersey fabric and wicks away sweat.
Adidas Women’s Marathon Translucent Jacket $53.01
If you are running in cooler weather, the Adidas Women’s Marathon Translucent Jacket will help keep you warm and dry. The jacket is exceptionally water-resistant and features an adjustable hood.
Under Armour Women’s HeatGear High Waisted Ankle No-Slip Leggings $27.53
Cooler weather may also call for leggings. Under Armour Women’s HeatGear High Waisted Ankle No-Slip Leggings are compressive enough to stay in place during your run but not so much that they’re uncomfortably tight. The leggings have one pocket on the outside right of the thigh area, which is great for carrying a phone, keys, or a small hand wallet. Remember to invest in a good sports bra.
