What’s the best running gear for a marathon?

As a beginner runner, you might be wondering what to wear for your first marathon. Fear not; we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will be discussing the best marathon running gear, from shoes and socks to gadgets and the ever-popular protein powder. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the ultimate marathon gear list to keep you running smoothly from start to finish.

What to wear for a marathon

Let’s start by discussing the most crucial aspect: what to wear on race day. Whether it’s your first or tenth marathon, prioritising comfort and functionality in your running attire is paramount. Avoid trying out new items at the last minute. Ideally, you should have already tested your shoes, clothing, and accessories extensively to avoid any surprises on race day, especially if this is your first marathon! If something has proven effective during training, it will work during the race as well. Above all, make sure that whatever you choose to wear on race day is comfortable for you. Keep an eye on the weather conditions and ensure you have a few options in case of unexpected heat, cold, wind, or rain.

Best marathon running gear 

Curious about the essentials for marathon runners? Look no further! Our handy checklist will help you prepare for the race and cross that finish line with a beaming smile.

Marathon gear checklist

• Comfortable running shoes
• Massage gun
• Anti-friction cream
• Running bag with water bladder
• Running light
• GPS running watch
• Headphones
• Insoles
• Protein powder

Shoes

First things first, investing in a good pair of running shoes is key to avoiding blisters and injuries during the marathon. Make sure they are well-fitted and have enough cushioning for your feet. It’s always better to invest in quality shoes rather than risk discomfort or pain on race day.

Here are our recommendations:

1. Men’s Adidas Adizero SL: These ultra-lightweight shoes offer a perfect balance of cushioning and support for long-distance runs. The breathable mesh upper keeps your feet cool on the go, and the responsive Boost midsole returns energy with every step. Buy them here: Adidas Adizero SL, priced from £109.

2. Men’s New Balance Fresh Foam: Designed for comfort, these shoes feature plush cushioning made from Fresh Foam technology. This unique construction provides a super soft ride that will help keep your legs feeling fresh as you tackle the marathon. Buy them here: New Balance Fresh Foam, priced from £129.

3. Womens ASICS Gel-Kayano 29: With its impressive stability and cushioning, this shoe is ideal for overpronators. The ASICS Gel System provides excellent shock absorption, while the Dynamic DuoMax Support System maintains stability and support. Buy them here: ASICS Gel-Kayano 29, priced from £169.

4. Women’s Mizuno Wave Rider 26: This versatile shoe offers a smooth and responsive ride. The famous Wave technology gives both cushioning and stability, while the breathable upper ensures that your feet stay cool and dry throughout the marathon. Buy them here: Mizuno Wave Rider 26, priced from £139.

Accessories

To enhance your marathon experience and ensure the utmost comfort, we highly recommend considering a selection of essential accessories. Here is a curated list of our top recommendations:

1. Massage gun: To help with muscle recovery, a massage gun is a must-have. Regularly massaging your muscles post-run can help increase blood circulation, reduce soreness, and speed up recovery time. Buy it here: Decathlon Mini Massage Gun, priced from £59.

2. Anti Friction Cream: To avoid skin irritation during long runs, investing in a good quality anti-friction cream is essential. Apply it on the high-chafe areas to reduce blisters and rashes. Buy It here: Anti Friction Cream, priced from £5.99.

3. Unisex Running bag with water bladder: Staying hydrated during a marathon is crucial. A running bag with a water bladder ensures you have easy access to fluids without having to hold a water bottle. Buy it here: 15L Unisex Black Ultra-Trail Running Bag – Sold with 2L Water Bladder, priced from £69.

4. Running Light: If you have early morning or night runs, a running light will help you see and be seen by others on the road. The Runlight 900 USB Pectoral Running Light boasts a powerful 900 lumens, providing a bright, daylight-like illumination that can reach up to 30 metres ahead of you. Its adjustable beam ensures optimal visibility for your feet while running. Buy it here: Runlight 900 USB Pectoral Running Light, priced from £49.

5. Garmin Forerunner 245: This GPS watch, the Forerunner 245, is your perfect companion in achieving your marathon goals. It effortlessly tracks your pace, distance, and elevation, while providing valuable real-time insights. With this watch, you’ll have access to personal training data and recovery analysis, empowering you to make informed decisions about your training sessions and effectively prepare for your next race. It even measures your VO2max and assesses how heat and altitude impact your performance. Let this advanced timepiece elevate your training experience and propel you toward success. Buy it here: Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS HR Smart Watch – Grey, priced from £199.

6. Shokz Bone Conduction Headphones: Enjoy your favourite tunes without worrying about blocking ambient noise. These headphones allow you to listen to music and stay aware of your surroundings. Buy them here: Shokz OpenRun Bone Conduction Sports Headphones, priced from £129.

7. Strike Running Insoles: Add these shock-absorbing insoles to your running shoes to reduce the impact on your joints and prevent injuries. The Sorbothane Double Strike insoles are endorsed by physiotherapists for individuals with neutral or over-pronator strides. These insoles are specifically crafted for activities that subject the forefoot and heel to significant impacts, ensuring maximum effectiveness and support. Buy them here: Sorbothane Double Strike Insoles, priced from £14.99.
   
   If you suffer from Plantar Fasciitis, consider trying the Plantar Fasciitis Arch Support Orthopedic Insole by iFitna. These insoles offer stability to your feet, helping to maintain proper alignment and balance.

8. Plant Protein Powder – Chocolate flavour: To aid muscle recovery, including a protein shake in your post-run nutrition plan is beneficial. A quality protein powder will provide your muscles with the necessary nutrients to rebuild and repair after a tough run. Buy it here: Healthspan Elite All Blacks Plant Protein Vegan Blend, Chocolate Flavour, priced from £34.

Time to Gear Up and Go!

Now you’re equipped and we’ve answered the question: what’s the best running gear for a marathon? So, it’s time to lace up those shoes, grab your favourite marathon running gear, and embark on your marathon journey. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter below to get more exclusive discounts on running gear.

Don’t let the thought of a marathon intimidate you. With the right gear and training, anyone can conquer this ultimate challenge. Remember to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and rest when necessary.

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About this review:

We purchased this shoe with our own money. Our review contains affiliate links, where we may earn a small fee from a purchase. All our reviews are honest and fair.