When it comes to running gear, your essentials will change over time. What you carry on a short 5K jog won’t be the same as what you need for a half marathon training run. Over time, you’ll fine-tune your running kit based on your distance, goals, and preferences.
Whether you’re running light with just a water bottle or gearing up with a full hydration vest, here’s a look inside my personal running kit — and my top 10 running must-haves.
🥇 1. Good Running Shoes
This should always be your first investment. As I mentioned in my post Running for Beginners, quality running shoes help protect your legs and feet, reduce the risk of injury, and improve your overall comfort.
I run in the Brooks Ghost Max and absolutely love them. One tip I learned early: always size up by half a size. It helps prevent toenail damage — a common issue among runners.
🧦 2. Running Socks
Don’t underestimate the power of good socks! Proper running socks help prevent blisters, support your arch, and offer added compression. I’ve found they make a big difference, especially on longer runs.
Some of my favorites are:
👉 Lapulas Athletic Running Ankle Socks
👉Hylaea Compression Running Socks
🎒 3. Running Vest
Perfect for long runs, a running vest gives you room to carry water, fuel, your phone, keys, and anything else you need. I personally prefer a vest with a back bladder vs front bottles — it feels more balanced.
⚠️ Make sure your vest fits snugly to prevent chafing.
I use the Nevo Rhino and love its storage capacity and comfort.
🎽 4. Running Belt
For shorter or faster runs, I switch to a running belt. It’s lighter and less bulky than a vest, but still fits my phone, a couple of gels, and even mini water bottles.
I recommend this PYFK Upgraded Running Belt with Water Bottles,— it has great stability and minimal bounce.
🎧 5. Headphones
A good playlist or podcast can transform your run. Just make sure your headphones stay in place and don’t cause distractions.
- For outdoor runs: Try bone conduction headphones (like Shokz) or wear just one earbud for safety.
- For treadmill runs: Over-ear headphones work well but can get hot.
I currently use JBL Tune 230NC TWS – True Wireless In-Ear Headphones and have my eye on the Shokz for my next pair.
⚡ 6. Running Gels
When you’re running longer than 45–60 minutes, you’ll need to fuel. Gels provide quick-digesting carbs to help keep your energy levels up.
📌 Take your first gel around 45 minutes in, then every 30–45 minutes after that.
My go-to gels are GU Energy Gels and Honey Stinger Gels — both are easy on my stomach and taste great.
🧴 7. Anti-Chafe Gel
Chafing is the enemy of long runs. I apply anti-chafe balm anywhere my clothing or skin rubs — especially under my sports bra.
Getting in the shower with chafing wounds is not fun. Trust me.
I use Body Glide and find it very effective for preventing irritation.
🧢 8. Hat or Sunglasses
Sun protection is essential, and both a lightweight running hat and non-slip sunglasses can help. Hats also come in handy when it’s raining.
Make sure your sunglasses fit well and don’t bounce — pressure points can cause soreness over time.
I recommend these MEETSUN Polarized Sports Sunglasses that are super comfortable and stay in place.
🔒 9. Pepper Spray
If you run alone, I highly recommend carrying pepper spray for peace of mind. I hope I never need to use it, but I feel safer knowing it’s there.
I use SABRE Runner Pepper Gel that straps securely to my hand — no need to carry it.
☀️ 10. Sunscreen + Chapstick
Protect your skin and lips from the elements:
- Use a sweat-resistant sunscreen for long outdoor runs.
- Keep SPF chapstick on hand to avoid dry, cracked lips — especially if you’re breathing through your mouth.
I use Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen from Walmart and this Chapstick.
⌚ Bonus: Don’t Forget Your Fitness Watch
While not technically a “must-have,” my fitness watch has become one of the most valuable tools in my running kit. From tracking pace and distance to monitoring heart rate and rest days, it helps me train smarter — not just harder.
Whether you’re just starting out or training for a race, having a watch that fits your needs can make a big difference in staying motivated and consistent.
👉 Check out my full guide to fitness watches here to find out which features to look for, and which ones I use and love
Final Thoughts: Build Your Kit Over Time
You don’t need everything at once. Build your kit gradually as your training progresses. Your needs will shift depending on your distance and the day:
- Easy recovery run? Just a bottle and a playlist.
- Long training run? Fuel, vest, sunscreen, and more.
Most importantly, find what works for you. Test gear during training — not on race day.
Run steady and run strong — your journey is just beginning. Until next time!
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