Below are my favorite running gadgets and gear! I literally use these products on every. single. run. Check them out!
1. Running Shoes- Mizuno Wave Rider
I cannot stress enough how important it is to invest in a quality pair of running shoes for distance running. After visiting my local running store, having my foot and gait evaluated by a professional, and trying on basically every type of shoe in the store, I purchased the Mizuno Wave Rider. I’ve been wearing this brand and model for years now and have run through countless pairs. A quality running shoe should last you between 300 – 500 miles. I highly suggest visiting your local running shop to be fit into the best shoe for your body by a professional.
2. Running Water Bottle
If you’re running for over an hour, you definitely need to be hydrating during your workout. Since my running routes don’t always pass by a water fountain, I like to carry my water with me. I’ve tried out lots of fueling options, but my favorite has been this handheld water bottle. This particular bottle is shaped to fit the curve of your hand and the strap keeps you from having to grip the bottle.
3. Airpods
I was so reluctant to hop on the Airpod trend (one of my pet peeves is buying an upgraded version of something I already have), but I’m so glad I did. After ripping my headphones out of my ears one too many times as a result of getting tangled in the cords, I bit the bullet and bought the pods. Yay for Bluetooth technology! Running life (and working life) forever changed.
4. Apple Watch
Another Apple trend I was so against when it was first released. That being said, in the spring of 2017 I was in the market for a quality GPS watch, and I ultimately decided on the Apple Watch for it’s workout to everyday wear versatility. My first Apple Watch lasted me three years and countless workouts. I loved my first one so much I recently upgraded to the Series 5. A GPS watch is a total game changer for tracking speed, distance, and heart rate during your runs.
5. Road ID
My dad gifted me my road ID tag for Christmas last year, since I often go on solo runs and walks. The road ID is basically a mini form of identification you can wear so you don’t have to carry your license while working out. It’s an added layer of security in case you were to get hurt while working out. I personally have the model that slides onto my apple watch band, and I wear it every day, not just while working out. There are many different styles of Road ID tags out there, so you can get the one that works best for you. My favorite part of my Road ID is the little motivational quote my dad selected to have engraved under my emergency contact information. It reads, “Never make a decision at the bottom of a hill.” It’s a great reminder when runs (or life) gets tough.
6. Running Belt
Since I typically run with my running water bottle (mentioned above) in one hand, I prefer to have my other hand free. That’s where this running belt comes in handy. I select my podcast, playlist, or Peloton outdoor run and then slide my phone in the belt and strap it around my waist. It also has a convenient clip inside so I won’t lose my key, and I even stuff fuel for long runs in the belt. My belongings stay secure and my hand stays free! Win win.
7. Body Glide Balm
A lifesaver in the form of a mini, deodorant-like tube. Prevent painful chafing by applying on your inner thighs, under your bra or tank top straps, and anywhere you’ve experienced discomfort from rubbing during running.
8. Microfiber Towel
If you’ve ever run in the south in the summer, you know how hot it is. Even during my early morning runs, the heat makes me capital “S” sweat. A lot. To avoid sweat running into my eyes, I just tuck one of these microfiber towels in the waistband of my biker shorts and use it as needed throughout my run. I love the microfiber, as it pulls the sweat away quickly without soaking through the towel.
Pro Tip: If you have long hair, wear it in a braid so it doesn’t stick all over your back, shoulders, and arms when you sweat!
I hope you enjoyed this post on my eight favorite running items! Try some of them out on your next run, or let me know what your favorite piece of running gear is in the comments below or on Instagram @havenspanyer!
