The best running gear, straight from expert coaches

Category: Shoe Sizing: 5.5-11 | Ingredients/fabrics/materials: Shoe upper is made with at least 20% recycled materials, nitrogen-infused NITROFOAM provides additional responsiveness and cushioning in a lightweight shoe, Carbon fiber PWRPLATE stabilizes the midsole to maximize energy transfer | # of Colors: 6 | Standout feature: Carbon fiber PWRPLATE

One of the latest trends in long-distance running shoes is the rise of "super trainers," which have followed the popularity of carbon-plated racing "super shoes" among competitive runners. Most runners reserve these high-performance racing shoes for race day, as they tend to be pricey (averaging around $250 per pair) and wear out quickly. However, some runners like to use them on long runs to benefit from the carbon plate's ability to aid recovery and reduce muscle soreness.

The PUMA Deviate Nitro 3 is a super trainer with a carbon fiber internal plate that stabilizes the midsole for maximum energy transfer, and nitrogen-infused foam offering the bounce and cushioning needed for easy and recovery runs.

This is the third super trainer I’ve tried, and it's by far the most comfortable. I wore it during the bulk of my easy runs this summer while training for the Chicago Marathon and found that it held up much longer under heavy mileage compared to others I've tried. The only downsides are the narrow fit, which often requires sizing up (a common issue with carbon-plated shoes), and the slightly higher price tag than standard, non-plated trainers.

Category: Clothing Sizing: Small, medium, large (corresponding with size ranges from 4 to 13 | Ingredients/fabrics/materials: 74% polyester; 21% nylon; 5% spandex | # of Colors: 10 | Standout feature: "The Perfect Toe," designed to prevent irritation

With so many running sock options available, one thing most have in common is their higher price tag compared to the everyday socks you might reach for. However, investing in the right pair is crucial to avoid discomfort during your runs, particularly if you're training in warmer (sweatier) climates.

These socks provide targeted compression and maximum cushioning for added comfort. They're a favorite for races and long runs for Vanessa Peralta-Mitchell, an RRCA Level 1-certified run coach in Norristown, Pa. She prefers this particular tab ankle sock style and its performance materials when she's training for a race, because she doesn't have to think about blisters, chafing or other potential foot discomfort as she's logging her miles. An added bonus is that, like with most of Feetures' sock offerings, there's a wide range of color and design options to choose from.

"I love the durability of these socks given the amount of miles I put in, and they remain comfortable and in place throughout my run," she says. "I also like the anatomical design, as I have a designated left/right sock which makes the fit comfortably snug."

Category: Clothing Sizing: 2-14 | Ingredients/fabrics/materials: Distance woven polyester | # of Colors: 2 | Standout feature: Two zip pockets for secure storage

The Oiselle OG Distance Shorts have been a go-to of mine for years — literally more than a decade, when Oiselle was still making a name for itself in the running scene.

I love these shorts for a variety of reasons. For one thing, the cut is flattering for women without being overly poofy or short. For another, even though I tend to stick with my tried-and-true standard black, the color options won't turn transparent with heavy sweat (like many lighter or neon colors). But my absolute favorite feature is the front and side zipper pockets, which provide ample room to store things like keys and credit cards on an everyday run and plenty of energy gels during a marathon, eliminating the need to wear an external running belt.

Oiselle has updated this style and switched to numbered sizing over the years, but the general fit has remained constant, which is why I've kept buying them.

Category: Nutrition | Ingredients: Carbohydrates for energy, electrolytes for hydration, BCAAs to protect working muscles | # of Flavors: 5 in the 24-pack | Standout feature: Compact pouch is easy to carry

As with most running items, I've tried my fair share of energy gels, chews and electrolyte solutions over the years. While many are perfectly fine in terms of texture and taste, I find myself always going back to my tried-and-true GU. I've run my best races when I've taken them consistently throughout.

For endurance athletes, proper nutrition — whether in the form of energy gels, chews or drinks — is essential to avoid hitting the dreaded "wall" and struggling to finish the race once your energy stores are depleted. During long training runs, I typically take a gel every 45 to 50 minutes (about every 5 miles). However, during a race, I take them every 30 minutes, as the faster pace burns energy more quickly.

The gels come in various flavors, from classic vanilla, chocolate and triple berry to specialty flavors like birthday cake and the current seasonal offering, pumpkin spice. My personal favorite is salted watermelon, as it has additional sodium and other electrolytes, which are key for heavy sweaters like me. I also prefer GU's thicker consistency, but preferences vary, so it's a good idea to experiment during a training cycle to figure out what sits well with you.

Category: Clothing Sizing: XS to XXL | Ingredients/fabrics/materials: 100% polyester | # of Colors: 7 | Standout feature: UA Tech to keep you cool

Tia Pettygrue — an RRCA Level 2-certified running coach in Tampa, Fla. — knows the importance of wearing high-quality materials for running to stay comfortable in a less-than-ideal climate. That's why she gravitates toward Under Armour's offerings, which are durable and tend to last for years. 

These tanks offer a wide variety of color options, a key consideration for many runners once they’ve prioritized fit and materials. With UA Tech fabric, they help keep you cool, wick away sweat and dry quickly, ensuring comfort during your run.

"I love these tanks because the fit is perfect for what I like — they're fitted but not compression-tight, so they're still a bit flowy," Pettygrue says. 

Category: Accessory | # of Colors: 36 | Standout feature: Large pocket holds most phones

The SPIbelt is known as the original running belt, first released in 2006. Nearly two decades later, it's still a go-to for many runners, particularly those who prefer to run with their phones, as it expands to hold even the largest models. 

Nikkia Young — RRCA Level 1-certified run coach in Richmond, Va. — has been a fan for over a decade and still owns the first one she purchased in 2014. She particularly loves how easily it can be customized to suit your needs.

"I use the dual pocket belt for all my runs, because one pocket can hold my keys and phone, while the other pocket can hold things like my fuel or a Chapstick, and once I put it on, it does not move or bounce," she says. "The belt is light but supportive and adjustable, and you can add bib clips to hold race bibs, or get bottle attachments to make it a fuel belt."

Category: Technology | # of Colors: 6 | Standout feature: Music storage

As a competitive long-distance runner, I find a GPS watch is essential for my marathon and half-marathon training. However, I don't need the most expensive, top-tier model designed for everyday wear, since I only use my watch for running. My must-have features include tracking real-time distance, current pace, average pace and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity to upload data post-run. I also rely on the ability to pre-program speed intervals and workouts, so I don't have to worry about manually lapping during training sessions.

I've been using Garmin GPS watches since training for my second marathon in 2011, and have gone through various models as technology has advanced. This watch ticks all the boxes for my needs. An added perk is its music storage, allowing you to sync playlists to wireless headphones and leave your phone behind or preserve your phone's battery during long runs.

Other notable features include sleep and recovery monitoring and one of my personal favorites: the race predictor. Based on your current training, it estimates race times for distances like the 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon. Fun fact: The previous Garmin Forerunner 245 Music predicted my marathon personal best within a second the day before my race!

My only minor complaint is that I miss the sleeker colored wristbands from the Forerunner 245 Music, which are no longer available. 

Category: Accessory Sizing: N/A | Materials: Polyester sweat-wicking fabric | # of Colors: 8 | Standout feature: DRI-FIT polyester sweat-wicking fabric

Many runners prefer wearing a hat or visor alongside sunglasses, not just for sun protection but also to keep their heads and faces dry during light rain or even heavy downpours. Beyond adding style to any running outfit, the Nike Featherlight Dri-Fit hat is designed to handle various elements, thanks to its breathable, sweat-wicking materials that keep runners cool and dry.

"This hat is a staple part of my running gear. What I love most about this hat is that, just as the name implies, it is light as a feather, which makes it easy to wear, pack and store," says Sharon H. Mosley, RRCA Level 1-run coach in Durham, North Carolina. "In addition to not holding moisture, it is durable and has held up well in the wash and dryer for the past three years. I love it so much that I purchased a second one as a backup."

Category: Clothing Sizing: XS-XL | Materials: Recycled polyester/Lycra | # of Colors: 2 | Standout feature: Compression and support in a simple design

As a less-endowed runner, I prefer simplicity in sports bras — compression without padding, and that’s it. I love this bra for its stylish open racerback design and high neckline, which offers extra coverage. This is perfect for me, especially since I often run in just a sports bra, thanks to Houston's heat and humidity, where an extra top layer would just get soaked with sweat.

These simple features are becoming harder to find in a market full of sports bras with added padding and heavy-duty adjustable straps. While I can't speak for other body types, if you have a slim build and prefer minimalist designs, this would be my go-to recommendation.

Category: Hydration Sizing: 18 oz. | Materials: BPA-free plastic, nylon, spandex, polyester (for the handle) | # of Colors: 4 | Standout feature: Insulation and collapsible capability

When I moved back to Houston in 2011, I was training for my second marathon and quickly realized that staying hydrated on the run was essential — local water fountains just wouldn't cut it. 

Over the years, I've tested various handheld bottles from different brands, but I usually stick with Nathan Hydration options. 

Their collapsible bottles, like this 18-ounce one, are unbeatable. They're compact, lightweight and easy to store in a pocket if you don't want to carry it in your hand the whole time. Plus, it's insulated to keep your water colder for longer and can be filled and frozen beforehand, melting down quickly in the summer heat to provide refreshing cold water.

Lens materials: not specified | Frame materials: Proprietary O Matter| UV Protection: 100% UV protection | Lens tint options: Ruby, Black, Tungsten, Sapphire, Deep Water, 24k, Dark Golf, Golf, Field, Road, Clear to Black Iridium | Polarized: Yes (select colorways) | Standout features: Unobtainium nosepads and earsocks

It's no surprise that the Oakley BiSphaera made this list. Oakley is a respected veteran in the sport sunglasses space.

At first glance, it's clear these frames are designed for running. With an ultra-sporty wraparound style and bright, colorful lenses, they stand out. But the vibrant lenses aren't just for show — the bronze-base lens on the pair we tested is specifically engineered for bright light conditions, offering only 11% light transmission and enhanced color contrast.

The view on this pair of glasses is very clear, and the wide frame helps block out additional sunlight, improving visibility in bright conditions. In addition to visibility, feel and grip are key for running sunglasses. These glasses are perfectly lightweight, while still feeling well-made, and don't slip down during even the hardest run.

The sport-forward aesthetic and price tag are certainly not for everyone. For a lower key (and lower cost) pair of running shades, I also really liked the Nathan Polarized pair. At just $18, they won't break the bank and they do a good job of staying put and blocking out the light.