Running Essentials: Everything You Need To Run Your Best

While there’s plenty of debate around running vests, we firmly believe that you should do (and wear) whatever is most comfortable for you. This versatile vest is loaded with pockets and accessories, and while it’s been designed with the trails in mind, it works just as well on the city streets thanks to its reflective design. 

The elasticated sternum straps ensure the pack stays secure, so you don’t need to worry about any uncomfortable bouncing and the endless selection of pockets can fit everything from a water bladder, to walking poles, snacks, your phone and more.

Our top pick for investing in a running watch is the Coros Pace 3. Its intuitive design and approachable interface cater to everyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes, ensuring you’ll get exactly what you need (and want) out of this watch. 

Beyond tracking training and recovery, it boasts a suite of impressive features, including Turn-by-Turn navigation, Dual-Frequency GPS for precise data, multiple sports modes, advanced training tools, and a cutting-edge optical heart rate sensor. But it’s not just about the tech. Its lightweight design ensures comfort around the clock, and the impressive battery life means you’ll spend more time enjoying your activities and less time charging. Plus, it syncs seamlessly with your favourite apps like Strava, Runna, and Nike Run Club—an absolute must for any runner.

While there are plenty of running-specific headphones on the market, we personally find them unnecessary. Instead, we prefer to stick with a pair we can use beyond our runs, like the Apple AirPods. The in-ear detection and touch commands let you focus on your run without having to fiddle with your tech, and the latest version also boasts an extended battery life and fast charging—ideal for when you forget to charge them post run. 

Both the AirPods and the case are sweat and water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about getting caught in rain. Plus, with Siri setup, you can hear notifications or take calls on the go, ensuring you don't miss anything important when out on those long runs.

Say goodbye to outfit dilemmas and discomfort with this all-in-one running onesie, designed for distraction-free comfort during your workouts. The built-in bra has been designed for A-C cups, however it can be easily layered over an additional sports bra for extra support.

Pockets? It’s got you covered. Secure side drop-in pockets are ideal for your phone, snacks, and keys, making sure you have everything you need on the go. Plus, the luxe compression fabric and flat-locked seams ensure no chafing, while keeping you feeling supported and looking snatched.

Every runner has a nightmare chafing story to tell, making an anti-chafe product an absolute essential.

Our go-to is this soothing anti-chaf balm, crafted to combat friction with a blend of Jojoba, Lemon Myrtle, and Tea Tree. Apply it to hotspots like the inner thighs, upper arms, and under bra straps to create a protective barrier against unwanted rubbing and keep chafing at bay.

Are you even a runner if you haven’t felt the urge to cry while using a foam roller? We think not! Essential for easing sore muscles and aiding in recovery, a foam roller is a must-have in any runner’s kit.

Our top pick? The Celsius Soft 90cm Therapy Roller. This extra-long roller makes it a breeze to target larger muscle groups, and its durable design ensures it’ll be a staple in your routine for years to come.

While a running hat is an ideal way to show of some of your personal style, sometimes you just need an affordable option that will get the job done. This classic black cap from Nike will keep the sweat, sun and rain out of your eyes thanks to its advanced sweat-wicking fabric and breathable side panels. 

The elastic drawcord and toggle fit makes getting the hat on and off easy, plus the low-profile and four-way stretch design gaurantees a comfortable and secure fit without reducing visibility. 

Finding running socks that strike the perfect balance between comfort, durability, and style can be a challenge, but Feetures makes it easy. These performance running socks are not only affordable but also top-notch in terms of performance and durability.

The mini crew cut will cater to your aesthetic needs, while the anatomical design, seamless toe, compression fit, and light cushioning ensure they feel as good as they look. Plus, the brand's iWick fibers draw away sweat to keep your feet dry—even in the heaviest downpours, we've stayed blister-free.

Designed to solve one of the biggest gripes with women's running clothes—the lack of pockets—Bandit's signature Scoop Neck Run Bra is a game-changer. This is not only an excellent running bra, but it is also loaded with storage options.

Featuring three pockets in total, two under the arms perfect for storing gels and one large pocket in the center back that can hold an iPhone, you’ll have easy access to everything you need during your run. The bra is made from Bandit's award-winning Stamina™ fabric, which feels stretchy, yet supportive and butter-soft against the skin. 

If you need a high-support running bra, look no further than the Endurance Bra from On. Designed specifically for high-impact activities like running, this bra is made from a smooth stretch fabric that feels incredibly comfortable against the skin.

The encapsulated cups, bonded seams, and longline design minimises irritation caused by unwanted movement, bouncing, and rubbing. Plus, the adjustable racerback straps allow you to customise the fit to perfection.

Designed with runners in mind, the Nike Stride Shorts deliver the kind of lightweight comfort and unrestricted movement you can normally only get from a super-short split short. Wearable beyond run club, these shorts feel ultra-smooth to the touch and are designed to wick sweat away from the skin, keeping you feeling dry and comfortable even on the hottest days. 

Need to take your phone and keys? There's a dedicated pocket at the back with an internal moisture barrier just for that.

Finding the perfect pair of running shorts can sometimes feel more challenging than the training itself. Our top pick? This half-tight design from On Running, which we wear on repeat.

Crafted from lightweight fabric, these shorts stay cool even on the hottest days while still proviing plenty of support and coverage. The shorter length means they stay in place throughout your run, so you won’t have to worry about them riding up. Plus, they feature two deep side pockets perfect for snacks and a larger pocket on the lower back designed to comfortably and securely hold your phone.