THE London Marathon takes place this weekend, and with around 50,000 runners due to take part, and the ever-growing popularity of Run-Tok, it feels like running is everywhere and taking part in a 5K, 10K, half marathon or full marathon.
Whether you're new to running or feeling inspired to pick up your trainers, it can be difficult to know where to start, so we've checked in with the runners amongst the team and asked the Sun Shopping team to share their favourite running gear and products that they find the most helpful.
Just started Couch to 5K? Looking to make the jump to a half marathon?
Whatever your distance or your challenge, some new running gear can make a real difference to your performance.
Having started Couch to 5k just over nine weeks ago, I'm now out of the plod-along-the-pavement stage and consider myself a bit more of a real runner.
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I'm looking to take the next step, however, I'm looking for a bit of advice on where to start, what helps, and the products that make all the difference, so I've asked the running experts among the Sun Shopping Team about the running gears that help them make the most out of their miles.
Whether it's tracking their runs on the latest gadgets, running gear to make the run more comfortable, or even trainers to help them go faster, these are Sun Shopping's top picks of the best running gear.
So if you're feeling inspired ahead of the London Marathon, look no further.
Optimum Nutrition Clear Protein
Optimum Nutrition Clear Protein, £39.99 £49.99
Reviewed by Natalie Chui
I've been increasing the intensity of my training due to having a few competitions lined up this year and have been running more frequently than ever.
As such, I've taken fueling myself more seriously because I expanse so much energy during my workouts and it aids my recovery.
I've been consuming protein shakes for the past few years but have recently switched to clear protein, and have found a personal game-changer, Optimum Nutrition's Clear Protein which has 20g of protein and 3.6gs of BCAAS in each serving.
I use it after every run and not only does it easily blend with water, but it's super tasty - Lime Sorbet is my personal favourite as it tastes exactly like juice, and even sort of feels like a mojito if I shut my eyes.
I've found that this clear protein is easier to drink because it's completely plant-based, plus I've never had any issues digesting it as opposed to whey.
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It's super refreshing after a sweaty run and having gone through two tubs of it, I'm immediately planning on getting more.
SHOKZ OpenRun bone conduction headphone
SHOKZ OpenRun bone conduction headphone, £129.95
Reviewed by Aaron Dowler
I love to run outside but I have a distinct lack of spatial awareness which makes me a running target (quite literally) for cyclists and cars.
I prefer noise-cancelling headphones for day-to-day but when it comes to working out and needing to know what is happening around me, so I love the SHOKZ OpenRun Headphones.
The bone conduction tech in these headphones uses angled transducers to ensure optimal placement on the cheekbones, so you can listen to audio, while also being able to hear cars and sounds around you.
This placement allows for more dynamic bass, higher volume and less vibration.
If you have ever listened to 8D music, this is a very similar experience, it’s almost like the music is playing in another room.
Plus, if you’re a sweaty runner these are great because they are IP67 water and dustproof and have button controls for when you need to skip that grating pop artist who tends to turn up when they are not wanted.
They are super light at 26g and utilise quick charge meaning that just 10 minutes of charging will give you 1.5 hours of use and on a full charge, they’ll last you the entire working day at 8 hours.
Gelia Running Vest
Gelia Running Vest, £32
Reviewed by Zoe Bennetts
As someone who, despite not being able to run a 5K, signed up to run a half marathon at the beginning of June, I am beginning to feel like I embody the phrase 'all the gear, no idea'.
When I first registered for the race in December I had every intention of training seriously, however since then, tonsilitis and flu have struck me down more than once, and the first three months of the year have come and gone with only a handful of runs completed.
As the 9th of June D-Day approaches, I've quickly realised that if I don't up my game there will be no race and my mum's money on a local Premier Inn will be wasted, so with this in mind I bought a running vest and ran 10K.
Now, I'm not necessarily saying that the vest was the singular reason how I was able to run 10 kilometres without having to stop or walk; despite never (in all my 25 years) having been able to run further than a rogue 6k back in 2023, but I do think it contributed to my success.
Firstly, the simple act of wearing it made me feel a bit more 'legit'.
The thought that passers-by may assume that I'm a serious long-run-kind-of-girl and am finishing up a casual 20K because I'm wearing a running vest was just the push I needed to keep me going when I was tired and sweating at 2K.
The great thing about this vest is that it comes with two little water bottles that slot into the front pockets, and it also has a small backpack zip section and smaller zip pockets around the front. This meant that I was able to take two bottles of water, an energy gel, plasters, AirPods, keys, a phone, sunglasses, lip balm and even a jumper, which made me feel prepared for every eventuality.
Of course, I didn't end up needing most of what I'd packed, but I think just having them made the run feel more manageable.
I am now using my vest for every run just because it's really comfortable and really convenient, but it isn't a complete necessity for everyone.
My boyfriend does 10K+ with no belongings aside from a key and phone, whereas I'm now taking my two water bottles everywhere.
Despite what social media and 'Run Tok' may lead us to believe, running isn't super easy and natural for everyone, so I think it's about finding what makes it the most enjoyable experience for you - and for me, it's a £32.99 running vest.
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Liquid IV Hydration Electrolytes
Liquid IV Hydration Electrolytes, from £4
Reviewed by Natalie Chui
If you're increasing your running distances, it's important to stay hydrated to sustain your aerobic capacity, especially if you're training for longer races.
I've been working on my endurance for longer runs and have introduced electrolytes into my routine.
Electrolytes have seen a huge surge in popularity among marathon runners and are essential minerals that work to help keep your body hydrated for longer.
Before I go on my long slow runs, I love mixing a packet of Liquid IV's Hydration Electrolytes with water and aim to drink it 2-3 hours before my run.
It blends easily with water, tastes refreshing, not artificial, and I've found that consuming electrolytes has helped me maintain high energy levels throughout the long run, even under the sun.
Plus, I love the lemon and lime flavour, and it tastes even more refreshing than the sports drinks I used to enjoy.
Polar Fitness Watch and Heart Rate Monitor
Polar Fitness Watch, £294
Reviewed by Joel Watson
If you want to take your running a bit more seriously and you'd like some guidance to help you achieve your goals, I'd recommend giving Polar a look.
Polar's training programmes are built around monitoring your heart rate to help you train properly while improving your performance and avoiding injury.
The H10 chest strap heart rate monitor gives you a far more accurate reading than an optical heart rate monitor (the flashing light on your smartwatch) and it easily syncs with the Ignite training watch to give you real-time feedback about your pace, telling you to speed up or slow down depending on your training session.
I used these products to hold my hand through my transition from occasionally running a 5k to running a marathon, and I loved how the app planned my training for me, adjusting the sessions depending on how hard I'd worked in the days before and even how well I'd been sleeping.
If you like the idea of running a 10k or further, but you're not sure how to train for it, Polar's products can be a massive help.
- Polar H10, £86.50 - buy here
- Polar Ignite 3, £294 - buy here
Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings
Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings, £45
Reviewed by Harriet Flook
They say all you need to get running is a pair of trainers and a pair of leggings, and over the last couple of weeks, I have realised quickly that not all leggings are made equal.
My favourite pairs without a doubt are my Gymsharks Vital Seamless 2.0 Leggings (in black, always), which I have found don't roll down as I run - because is there anything more annoying than having to keep pulling them up?
All this, while still being long enough for my 6ft frame, and flattering thanks to the dotted pattern that runs down the side (I can't do anything about how red my face is, but I can ensure my fit is fresh).
They are also super soft, and I found the sweat-wicking, and breathable material kept me cool as I ran too.
A special shout-out goes to My Protein, who I also have on high rotation and I only haven't included as my favourite pair is now out of stock.
HOKA Bondi 8 Road Running Trainers
HOKA Bondi 8 Road Running Trainers, £150
Reviewed by Zoe Bennetts
When I moved house six months ago, I vowed to take my health and fitness more seriously, so during the Black Friday sales I invested in a pair of HOKAs.
I'd heard so many great things about these cult trainers, and despite my boyfriend repeatedly advising me to do a gait analysis, I knew that no matter what they told me I would want to get a pair of HOKAs so just bought a pair in their early access member's sale.
I normally play it pretty safe with my running gear and go for dark colours or just plain white, but I loved some of the brighter colourways so opted for the 'Outer Space / Bellwether Blue' combo.
HOKAs are narrow shoes (something I didn't know when I ordered), I have quite narrow feet so I didn't go for the wide version however if I were ordering again I would go wide.
I've found that walking or running shorter distances have been fine and my feet haven't suffered, however, when I ran my 10K, my right foot (which I think is slightly bigger than the left) started running in the arch against the side seam of the shoe.
I would suggest that if you have normal to semi-narrow feet opt for the wide, however, if you do have a slightly wider shape maybe these aren't the trainers for you.
Other than that, I've found my HOKAs to be really comfortable and supportive which is something that I've not always had.
I've previously suffered from sore, swollen knees, shin splints and tender ankles when I've not worn the right trainers, however as the Bondi 8s are designed for road running, they have been perfect for my half marathon training.
Overall I would say that the HOKA hype is well-deserved and the combination of bright fun colours, along with great support makes them a great contender for any runners out there.
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26
ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26, £180
Reviewed by Harriet Flook
When I started running I just dug a pair of old trainers out from the back of the cupboard. But now I'm up to 5k distances, I felt it was time to invest in some better gear.
I've been testing out the ASICs Gel-Nimbus 26s, and as my first pair of running shoes goes, I'm pretty impressed.
Firstly, I feel like I'm balancing on air thanks to incredible cushioning, their FF Blast Plus Eco foam delivers "a softer landing and extra cushioning to keep you feeling comfortable on hard surfaces", which for me, mainly running on roads around London is perfect.
I've noticed a difference straight away, this helps me feel bouncier, lighter and as a result faster, and I found since swapping I could run my furthest distance yet - it was more comfortable too with less impact on my joints.
The upper material feels like a strong mesh to deliver a comfortable fit, but won't let water in.
They are also not too chunky, something I appreciate with size 43 feet, and found the fit to be pretty fair and generous.
I'm still pretty new to the game, but these have helped me feel a bit more of a real runner, and if anyone is looking for a good pair of all-rounders, I don't think you could go far wrong with these.
Adidas Running Waist Bag
Adidas Running Waist Bag, £28
Reviewed by Natalie Chui
I don't carry much on my run, only my phone and keys, but I struggle to find jackets or shorts with pockets that comfortably fit these items without interrupting my stride.
Instead of opting for a vest, I've found that using a running belt has been an excellent alternative for me.
I love using the Adidas running waist bag and have used it on 5K and 10K runs without any issues whatsoever.
I've got a small waist and have found in the past that belts can slip down, but this one from Adidas has one of the widest adjustability so you can really fasten it around yourself and loops prevent the straps from flapping about.
It's got a flat design that sits comfortably at the back of my waist and its compact size fits a phone, keys and even energy bars without it being bulky.
Plus, it's got compression fabric that secures items inside the bag so you don't feel them move while you run.
How to start running?
Many first-time runners will start with an app to help them.
Couch to 5K is one of the most popular choices for new runners.
I finished it a couple of weeks ago, and can't fault it as an app that provides you with structure, and motivation and is free. It's also recently been updated to include runs for post Couch to 5K graduation (something I didn't spot when I attempted running a couple of years ago).
For those looking for a premium, personalized plan, why not try Joggo or Runna? These have a monthly cost, but runners have a personalised plan depending on goal, ability and much more.
New runners can also try apps such as Nike Run Club, and Strava - but these may be better suited to runners who are looking to track their runs.
What are the best running shoes?
Running shoes are a personal choice, and one you shouldn't rush.
Most runners will rotate between several shoes and will have a pair that suits short and long runs etc.
It's recommended that you don't just buy running shoes because everyone else is, but instead that you get your gait and running style tested.
This will help you figure out which type of runner you are and what shoes you should buy.
Do I need a running vest?
Running vests have soared in popularity recently, and while they are primarily made for long-distance runners to help carry water bottles, they are also an easy way to carry your essentials, keeping them close to your body.
Some runners may find this more comfortable than a belt, and safer than carrying in your hands.
There's a huge range to buy on Amazon, as well as Decathlon, Lululemon and more.
How to tie shoes for runners?
Have you heard of the runner's loop? This is one of the best ways to tie your shoelace as a runner to make sure you're super secure and stop your feet from sliding around.
To tie the runner's loop you simply,
- Lace your shoes normally, until you reach the second eyelet below the top on each side.
- Rather than crossing over again as normal, pull each lace up on the same side, and insert it into the top eyelet on that side; you’ll form a loop.
- You then pull each lace end across and through each loop you've formed on the opposite side of the shoe.
- Then pull the lace ends up and out a few times to shrink down the loops so that they hold the lace securely on each side.
- Finish by tying your shoelaces in the usual way.
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