Running accessories: 30 must-have items in 2023

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Features:

• Active noise cancelling
• On-device controls
• Transparency mode – stay aware of your surroundings

Designed for comfort, the Beats fit pro is great for running. With a choice of active noise cancelling or transparency mode, you can choose to be in your zone or actively aware of what’s around you.

You get up to 6 hours of listening time on one charge, and up to 24 hours when used with the portable charging case.

Features:

• Increase blood flow to the muscles
• Reduce muscle vibrations & fatigue
• 50 + UV protection

Compression calf sleeves reduce vibrations and stabilise the lower leg when running – great for those longer sessions.

The skins sleeves use moisture management technology to keep you dry, comfortable, and focused on your run. But you can also wear these in the gym or in any other workout.

Features:

• Training status updates (e.g. overtraining, undertraining)
• Measures advanced running dynamics (cadence, stride length, and ground contact time)
• Safety & tracking features to share your location with select contacts

When it comes to running accessories, there’s nothing quite like a top-of-the-line GPS running watch. The Forerunner 245 is the ultimate piece of kit, measuring various metrics you never knew you needed and helping you take your training to the next level.

Features:

• Sweat-wicking and anti-blister compression design
• Ideal for long-distance running
• Recommended by Olympic athletes

You can’t beat a good pair of running socks. This pair of anti-blister socks from Danish Endurance is great for everyday training sessions – they’re even recommended by Olympic athletes.

There’s plenty of cushioning and support, and you’re spoilt for choice with six colour options.

Related: Best running socks for increased comfort.

Features:

• Latex-free
• Recyclable fabric
• A different pattern on each side for alternate grip levels

Yoga and stretching go hand in hand with running.

Work through those tight muscles with the Flow yoga mat – with alternate grip levels to help you get the most out of each session.

The mat only weighs 2kg – light enough to carry around, but firm enough to stay in place when working out.

Features:

• Reflective strip for increased visibility
• Compatible with several devices
• Includes storage for small items, including cash, lipstick, and keys

Every year we see more and more running accessories released. However, a favourite for many is a classic phone holder case. This one by Gritin is compatible with numerous devices, both iPhone and Android included. You’ll also benefit from the small storage pocket for valuables, keeping them dry and secure on your run.

Features:

• HeiQ Fresh odour control technology
• Dedicated smartphone pocket
• Made from recycled materials

The Rockay performance run tights are our best overall running tights for men. With a dedicated smartphone pocket and a recycled design, there’s not much more you can ask for.

Oh, and you also benefit from the fresh odour control, allowing you to run multiple times before washing if you really want. We won’t tell if you don’t.

Features:

• Fully reflective 360-degree design
• Internal waterproofing and insulation

A pair of running gloves are a must-have running accessory come the colder months.

Getting out of the house to run is one thing, but having freezing cold hands while running is another – it’s a solid no from us. The Proviz running gloves contain 360-degree reflectivity and an insulated design – they’ll keep you warm and visible year-round.

Features:

• Anti-odour technology
• Created using 100% recycled materials
• Anti-blister construction

The Rockay compression running socks are a must-have piece of kit for any runner. Increase your performance and improve your recovery by switching out your socks. They’re also great for lounging around the house!

Want to find out more? Read our full review of the Rockay Vigor compression running socks.

Features:

• HeiQ Fresh odour control technology results in a breathable and quick-drying fabric
• Secure pocket for your smartphone
• Made from recycled materials

Comfortable, stylish, and designed to go the distance – the Rockay performance women’s running tights tick all the boxes.

The athletic fit is supportive, and the secure pocket keeps your valuables on hand.

Features:

• 100% polyester
• Two-sided brushed fleece
• Neck warmer

The Hoka transport gaiter is perfect for early morning excursions – whether trail running or commuting through the city.

The fabric is soft but toasty warm, and the coloured-blocked hues increase visibility.

Features:

• Measures basic running metrics ( pace per mile, distance, time, etc.)
• Smart notifications & wrist-based heart rate monitoring
• VO2 Max recovery estimates

The Garmin Forerunner 35 GPS running watch is a little less advanced than the Forerunner 245.

But this is expected because of the noticeable price difference. The Forerunner 35 contains plenty of features though, including smart notifications, recovery estimates, and more!

Features:

• Three pockets (one large zipped pocket for your smartphone)
• Fits waist sizes from 23.5″ to 43″
• Highly reflective design

Store all of your favourite running accessories in the Rockay running belt – designed to fit all runners. With a sleek and stylish design, it’s not only practical, but you’ll look good while doing so.

Features:

• Improves muscle recovery between runs and workouts
• Reduces your risk of injury
• Choice of three colours

Foam rolling is an excellent recovery tool for runners. It can help reduce your risk of injury and improve performance.

This product also includes a guide with exercises to get you started – there’s no excuse not to get started!

Features:

• Acugrip handles for targeted relief
• Convenient and portable design
• Reduces muscle tightness and soreness

Sometimes you can’t quite reach that tight spot with a foam roller – this massage stick is ideal for those hard-to-reach spots, small in size and ideal for travel.

Features:

• Medium-support bra
• A lightweight spacer increases breathability
• 3 mesh-lined pockets

Stay comfortable, feel confident, and remain focused on your run with the Nike Swoosh women’s sports bra.

The bra contains 3 mesh-lined pockets to hold your phone, keys, or other essentials. And the sweat-wicking tech keeps you cool on your run.

Features:

• Top-quality ECG measurement
• Pair to multiple devices at the same time
• 400 hour battery life

The Polar H10 heart rate monitor is a favourite among pro athletes. It’s highly accurate, fully waterproof, and contains Bluetooth and ANT+ connection.

You can also pair it to your smartwatch, whether that’s a Garmin, Suunto, Apple Watch, or Nike.

Features:

• Temperature regulation
• Keep your hair in place when running
• Stay warm on those colder runs

Push your performance, keep your hair in place, and keep your ears warm on those cold weather runs with the On Running Merino wool headband.

Features:

• Signature Nike Dri-Fit technology
• Ideal for racing

If you’re looking for a race day pair of running shorts, then look no further.

At only 2 inches in length, they look – and feel – quick. You’ll get improved freedom of movement and extra breathability. But the pockets run small – you’ll only really be able to fit a bank card and a set of keys.

Features:

• Inner dedicated smartphone pocket
• 5-inch length
• Recycled fabric design

Made with recycled fabric, these women’s running shorts from Rockay are perfect year-round.

The dedicated smartphone pocket secures your phone for when you need it most, whether that’s an emergency, or checking those Strava segments.

Features:

• Mesh back and overlay increases ventilation and air-flow
• Deep underband ensures a comfortable fit
• Adjustable multiple padded straps

When you’re out running, you want as few distractions as possible. The Higher State women’s sports bra does exactly that, keeping you comfortable mile after mile. The adjustable padded straps are designed to fit all, allowing you to adjust as necessary for that precision fit.

Features:

• Battery-powered
• One size fits all (adults and kids)
• 45-degree tilt

Nothing quite says winter running accessory quite like the trusty head torch. Without one, you’ll struggle to log those early morning or evening runs. This head torch provides a 200-lumen brightness and a choice of three different beam modes.

You can also view our full round-up of the best head torches for other options.

Features:

• Regular or extra wide fit
• Everyday running shoe
• Improved comfort (foot, arches, and toes)

The Nike Zoom Pegasus 40 is the same running shoe you’re familiar with, but with improved comfort in the toes, arches, and feet.

A highly responsive design improves running economy and helps you get the most out of each step. The cushioning is medium – great for everyday running, but also lightweight enough to go fast, whether an interval session on the track or a tempo run around the park.

Features:

• Jacquard Mesh is moisture-wicking and breathable
• FlyteFoam blast provides a softer and more responsive stride
• 30g lighter than the Novablast 2

The Asics Novablast 3 is the perfect shoe for everyday training. A step up from the previous model (and 30g lighter), you can expect a fast, responsive, and cushioned ride.

Features:

• Compact & portable design
• 150-minute battery life
• 3 Speed settings

Reduce tension, eliminate knots, and improve your recovery with the most portable Theragun (massage gun) yet.

This massage gun is more affordable than other options, yet small enough to bring with you to your next race day. Although, we wouldn’t recommend running with it – save it for that post-race massage.

Features:

• Release tight and sore muscles
• Compact and super portable – great for travelling
• Reduced risk of injury

Far too often, runners get injured because of overtraining and a lack of stretching and strength work.

A simple spikey massage ball is great for eliminating tight spots and works wonders in massaging the plantar fascia.

Features:

• Reduce and prevent shin and knee pain, and plantar fascia pain/discomfort
• Deep heel cup absorbs impact each step
• Anti-odour & long-lasting design

Many runners think running insoles are for those with some sort of pronation or an injury. But this is not true!

This pair of insoles are designed for the neutral runner – they reduce pain and provide extra cushioning to improve comfort and reduce your risk of injury.

Check out our blog post on the best running insoles for other options.

Features:

• Fixed front wheel provides extra stability
• Lightweight
• 5-point safety harness and rear suspension increases safety

Don’t miss out on your run, and get a great workout in with a running stroller. Its lightweight design makes running feel effortless, but it doesn’t compromise on safety. The fixed front wheel provides exceptional stability – even on bumpy terrain – and the 5-point safety harness has your kid strapped in like a Formula One driver.

Features:

• Adjustable (one size)
• Technical and sweat-wicking

The Hoka all-day hat is just as good for running, as it is for everyday use. It’s technical and sweat-wicking to keep you dry, but stylish enough to wear on its own.

To help answer questions surrounding men and women’s running accessories, we’ve put together a short FAQ below: