Whether they’re shopping for some new gear for themselves or as a gift for someone else, runners love to get recommendations for running gear from other runners or fitness-minded people. So it makes sense that we’d scrutinize product reviews on sites like Amazon before committing to buy a new pair of running shorts or try a new running belt.
The following popular, must have running gear have thousands of positive reviews, many with multiple paragraphs of glowing words. As an avid runner and running coach, I’ve personally used many of these items and can attest to their effectiveness and excellent performance.
From armbands to running socks to massage roller balls, here are some popular running products that won’t disappoint.
Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks for Men and Women
Finding the right pair of running socks can be as hard as meeting your perfect mate. But many runners have found perfection in Balega Hidden Comfort socks. They’re extremely durable and made of stretchy, moisture-wicking fabrics, so your feet stay dry, comfortable, and blister-free.
Why Runners Love Them: Fans of Balega socks appreciate that they’re not too thick or thin, and their high heel tabs and extra-deep heel pockets keel them from sliding down. They also feature a high-volume, impact-resistant cushioned bottom that can hold up no matter what you put them through.
Flip Belt
The FlipBelt is a comfortable and easy way to carry essentials on the run. Made of machine-washable high tech Spandex-Lycra blend material, it features four pockets that let you stash your phone, keys, gels, and credit cards. You then flip the belt inside out and everything gets locked in place.
Why Runners Love It: Because there are no clasps or buttons, you simply pull the belt on like a pair of pants and wear it wherever it feels most comfortable. It doesn’t move, jiggle, bounce, or chafe and you could easily forget it’s even there. Weighing just 3 ounces, the FlipBelt is so sleek you can even wear it to go out under your clothes so there’s no need to to carry a wallet or purse.
Women’s Tech Stretch Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt
Amazon has its own line of inexpensive but high quality clothing and their technical T-shirts get high marks from runners.
Why Runners Love Them: In addition to their budget-friendly price, these sport shirts offer a flattering fit, and the moisture-wicking tech stretch fabric keeps you comfortable and dry.
Knockaround Polarized Running Sunglasses
Quality running sunglasses can be pricey, but these Knockaround Polarized Sunglasses offer excellent protection at an affordable price.
Why Runners Love Them: They’re very lightweight and stay in place as you’re running. Plus, they feature impact-resistant lenses, in case you drop them. They come in a variety of color options, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.
Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks for Men & Women
These compression socks are perfect for runners, or anyone else who spends a lot of time on their feet. They provide maximum comfort and superior muscle support, helping to alleviate the aches and pains that go along with long runs or high mileage weeks.
Why Runners Love Them: Runners like that they’re machine-washable and don’t lose their compression when washed. They’re available in several different colors and styles.
Lock Laces
When you’re trying to get out the door for a run, these convenient no-tie shoelaces will save you time and hassle.
Why Runners Love Them: Quick to install and easy to use, they conform to your foot for a custom fit. They’re also perfect for young kids.
BodyGlide
A go-to remedy for many runners, BodyGlide is a lubricant that’s designed to prevent blisters and/or chafing in vulnerable areas, such as your feet, inner thighs, sports bra lines, and underarms.
Why Runners Love Them: Unlike petroleum jelly, Body Glide is not sticky or messy, and it’s very easy to apply.
TRIBE Cell Phone Armband Case
Many runners love to carry their phone on the run, but finding a comfy and functional phone carrier can be tough. Despite its inexpensive price tag, this popular TRIBE cell phone armband case keeps your phone protected, while also giving you easy access to it. You can see the screen and use your fingers or facial recognition to operate your phone.
Why Runners Love Them: The armband comes in several different sizes, so there’s definitely one big enough to accommodate even the biggest phones. We also love that it’s water-resistant, in case you get caught running in the rain, and it has a reflective band.
Massage Roller Balls
These massage roller balls can help runners relieve sore muscles, loosen up tight spots, improve blood circulation, and improve overall health.
Why Runners Love Them: You simply lean on the massage ball and use your own body weight and gravity to relieve muscle knots and tension. Perfect for use at home or on the road, they’re small, portable, and easy to use.
Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags
Runners often have some areas at home that need some odor elimination. These nontoxic and fragrance-free bamboo charcoal bags are totally effective at eliminating odors and absorbing moisture.
Why Runners Love Them: You can stick one in your gym bag, closet, drawers, and wherever you store your running shoes. They’re also reusable for up to two years.
More: Best Running Safety Gear
Running coach, avid runner, and fitness writer Christine Luff is an RRCA-certified running coach and ACE-certified personal trainer. Founder of the website Run for Good and author of the book Run for Good: How to Create a Lifelong Running Habit, she coaches runners, from beginners to advanced, who are training for races, from 5Ks to marathons.
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