10 Pieces of Running Gear That Can Transform Your Training
Running may look like a sport that needs nothing more than shoes and determination, but most runners quickly discover that the right gear makes a huge difference. The essentials of shoes, shorts, and a running shirt get you started, but there are items just outside the “must-have” list that elevate your comfort, recovery, and safety in ways that can change your entire running experience.
Below, we break down ten pieces of running gear that consistently prove their worth. Each has been chosen not just for novelty but because of the tangible benefits they bring to everyday training.
1. Shoe Dryer – Keeping Your Trainers Ready to Go
Few things dampen enthusiasm like slipping into wet shoes. Whether from a downpour, snow, or sweat from a long session, soggy trainers are uncomfortable and can cause blisters. Worse still, moisture allows bacteria to thrive, leading to strong odours and even faster shoe breakdown. A shoe dryer solves all of these problems in a way that airing them out on the radiator never will.
A modern shoe dryer uses gentle heat and circulating air to dry shoes overnight without damaging the materials. Unlike direct heat sources, which can warp midsoles or melt adhesives, a purpose-built dryer maintains the structure of the shoe while ensuring it’s fresh for the next run. Runners training daily find this especially useful: there’s no need to rotate between multiple pairs of the same shoe just to have a dry option.
The benefits extend beyond comfort. Dry shoes last longer because moisture weakens fabric fibres and shortens the life of cushioning foams. Over time, investing in a shoe dryer pays off financially as well as practically. If you run in all weather, this tool becomes one of the best “quality of life” upgrades you can make.
2. GPS Running Watch – Data and Freedom in One
Carrying your phone while running isn’t always convenient. It bounces, gets in the way, and even the best running bands feel restrictive after a while. A GPS running watch solves this by giving you all the performance tracking you need directly on your wrist. Watches like the Garmin Forerunner 265 or the Apple Watch provide accurate distance, pace, and heart rate without the bulk of a smartphone.
But these watches are more than just trackers. For structured training, they let you program intervals, tempo sessions, and long runs with pace alerts, vibration cues, and real-time feedback. You can glance at your wrist and instantly know whether you’re hitting your target splits. This keeps training purposeful and helps you develop better pacing strategies—something critical for half marathons and marathons.
There’s also freedom. Many watches now support offline music storage and contactless payments, so you can run unencumbered. This makes them an essential tool for urban runners and long-distance enthusiasts alike. When every run is automatically logged, analysed, and stored, your watch becomes more than gear—it becomes your coach, motivator, and training log in one.
3. Running Belt – A Smarter Way to Carry Essentials
Keys, a phone, and a couple of gels—none of these are heavy, but they can ruin your rhythm if not stored properly. For years, runners relied on arm bands or bulky waist packs, but these options often bounce, chafe, or restrict movement. A running belt, such as a FlipBelt, changes everything by sitting flat and snug against the waist.
The design is deceptively simple: a stretch fabric loop with hidden openings for items. Yet that simplicity is exactly why it works so well. There’s no bounce because the belt hugs the body, distributing weight evenly. You can stash valuables without them shifting or digging into your sides. For runners who don’t like the look or feel of waist packs, the belt is a discreet alternative that doesn’t break up your stride.
Some belts even come with integrated hydration flasks or reflective detailing for night runs. Whether training for a marathon or just heading out for a quick 5k, this is one of the few accessories that instantly improves comfort. Many runners who switch to a FlipBelt find they never return to arm bands again.
4. Anti-Chafing Balm – Small Tube, Big Impact
On short runs, you might not notice it, but once mileage creeps up, chafing becomes an inevitability. Sweat, repetitive movement, and poorly placed seams create friction that leaves raw patches of skin. Anti-chafing balm like Body Glide solves this with one quick application before you head out the door.
The balm forms a protective barrier on the skin that prevents friction without feeling greasy or staining clothes. Applied to inner thighs, underarms, or even feet, it makes long runs significantly more comfortable. For marathon runners, it’s an absolute essential, saving not just your skin but your race day performance. No one runs well when they’re wincing with every step.
What makes this gear special is its preventive nature. Unlike other recovery tools, you won’t notice Body Glide when it’s working—but you’ll notice immediately if you forget it. For a product that costs only a few pounds or dollars, the payoff is enormous.
5. Massage Gun – Recovery on Demand
Running builds strength and endurance, but it also leaves muscles tight, sore, and prone to knots. Recovery is crucial, and while foam rolling has long been the go-to, a massage gun provides deeper, more targeted relief. These handheld devices use percussive therapy to stimulate blood flow and release tightness in muscles.
The advantage of a massage gun is precision. You can target calves after hill repeats, quads after long runs, or hamstrings after speed work. Sessions can be as short as a few minutes but make a noticeable difference in reducing soreness. They’re especially useful during high-mileage training blocks where consistent recovery is needed to avoid burnout.
Beyond recovery, many runners use massage guns as a warm-up tool. A quick session before a workout loosens muscles and increases circulation, reducing injury risk. This makes them a versatile piece of gear—just as useful pre-run as post-run.
6. Road ID Bracelet – Safety That Speaks for You
Runners often train alone, early in the morning or late in the evening. While these quiet moments are part of running’s appeal, they carry risks. A Road ID bracelet is designed for these situations. Containing your name, emergency contact, and medical details, it speaks for you when you cannot.
The bracelet is durable, waterproof, and lightweight, so you forget you’re wearing it. Unlike carrying ID cards, it won’t get damaged by sweat or rain, and it doesn’t add bulk. Families of runners also appreciate the peace of mind—knowing their loved one has identification if something goes wrong on the roads or trails.
It’s one of those items you buy hoping never to use. But in the rare case it’s needed, it can save crucial minutes in an emergency. For solo runners especially, it’s a simple, affordable safety upgrade.
Browse Road ID bracelets on Amazon.
7. Compression Recovery Boots – High-End Recovery for Serious Runners
For runners pushing high weekly mileage, recovery becomes as important as the workouts themselves. Compression recovery boots are designed for this exact purpose. Using dynamic air chambers, the boots apply graduated pressure to your legs, simulating the effects of a sports massage.
The science is straightforward: compression increases blood flow, speeds removal of metabolic waste, and reduces inflammation. After a hard session or a long run, this can mean less soreness the next day and faster adaptation over time. Marathoners and ultra-runners especially benefit, as training volume leaves little room for extended rest.
They’re not cheap, but many runners view them as an investment. By keeping legs fresher and reducing fatigue, the boots allow for more consistent training. For those preparing for big races, that consistency can be the difference between finishing strong and breaking down.
Shop recovery boots on Amazon.
8. Running Shorts with Pockets – Function Meets Simplicity
Not all innovations are high-tech. Running shorts with integrated pockets solve the everyday challenge of carrying small items without extra gear. Modern designs offer sweat-resistant compartments large enough for a phone, with additional hidden slots for gels or keys.
The genius lies in balance and bounce control. The pockets are placed to distribute weight evenly, so nothing shifts mid-stride. This means you can leave belts or packs at home, keeping your kit lightweight. For short to medium runs, they’re often all you need.
Once you’ve tried them, it’s hard to go back. The convenience of slipping everything into your shorts and heading out the door makes running feel simpler, which is what the sport should be about.
See running shorts with pockets on Amazon.
9. Running Lights and Headlamps – Essential for Low-Light Runs
Visibility is critical when running in the dark. Headlamps and running lights keep you safe and allow you to train year-round without being restricted by daylight hours. A strong beam illuminates obstacles on pavements or trails, while clip-on LEDs ensure you’re visible to drivers.
Modern headlamps are lightweight with adjustable beams, offering enough power to light uneven paths without weighing down your head. Many are rechargeable via USB, saving money and waste compared to disposable batteries. When combined with reflective clothing, you maximise safety in low-light conditions.
For winter training or early-morning long runs, these lights become indispensable. They don’t just protect you—they let you focus on your running without constantly worrying about what lies ahead.
10. Hydration Gear – Stay Fuelled on Every Run
Water stops aren’t always available, especially during long solo training runs. Hydration gear bridges that gap, ensuring you stay fuelled and avoid performance dips. From handheld bottles to full vests with multiple flasks, there’s an option for every type of runner.
Hydration vests are especially popular for marathon training and trail running. They carry enough fluid for long efforts while also offering storage for nutrition and safety gear. Belts provide a lighter option for shorter runs, while handheld bottles suit those who want minimal kit without sacrificing hydration.
Some runners even freeze bottles in summer, doubling as cooling packs during heatwaves. This adaptability makes hydration gear one of the most versatile accessories. Without it, your long-run strategy is limited to water fountains or carrying cash for shops, which can interrupt training flow.
