Talk to any female-identifying person who runs and she’s happy to share favorite running gear for women. I’ve never considered myself a runner but after 10 years of running St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend as a St. Jude Hero, it’s time to admit that I am!
I have a collection of race medals on my office wall, wear athleisure most days, and currently have 3 pairs of running shoes in rotation. I’ve logged countless miles on the roads around our house and on the treadmill that have put my gear to the test.
Favorite Running Gear for Women
Whether you’re a runner or just getting started on your running journey, I’m sharing my favorite running gear for women in honor of today being Global Running Day. Below you’ll find my training essentials and recovery tools that I hope help you achieve your run goals.
Essential Gear
When it comes to my gear, I’m a creature of habit. Once I figure out what works, I’ll use it repeatedly then reorder the current model of the same product again once the previous one wears out. Since it can feel tricky to figure out what works, I’m sharing the bras, shorts, shoes, insoles, and more that have worked well for me as part of my favorite running gear for women.
Lululemon Hotty Hot Lined Shorts ($68)
Believe the hype- Lululemon Hotty Hot shorts are worth the spend! I didn’t believe the hype until I got my first pair of Hotty Hots and now won’t buy anything else. (Also, I’m a creature of habit when it comes to running gear!) I love the lightweight fabric that wicks sweat, dries fast, and never clings whether I’m on a training run, at OrangeTheory, or hiking with our dogs. The waistband stays put without ever bunching and the wide leg openings are meant for my thick thighs. I’ve never used the pockets on the side seam or liner but they’re very low profile and it’s nice to know they’re there.
Brooks Ghost Running Shoes ($150)
When I ran my first race, I got fitted for a pair of running shoes at a local running store. They looked at my feet, how I stepped, and the support I needed to figure out what would be the best shoes. This process led me to Brooks Ghost and in the 10 years I’ve been running races, I’ve never strayed. Everyone’s feet are different and what has worked well for me for years, might not work well for you.
I highly recommend visiting a specialized running store with experienced staff to get fitted for running shoes. Experienced runners and running shoe manufacturers recommend replacing your shoes every 300-500 miles. I get a new pair of shoes about every year unless I notice the treads on the bottom of my shoes is worn, cushioning is breaking down, or I’m experiencing pain before I hit the 300 mile mark. I just got a pair of Brooks Ghost Max 2 for Mother’s Day and am loving the extra cushioning!
Vionic Active Orthotic Insoles ($39.99)
The first thing I do when I get a new pair of running shoes is take out the insoles they come with and replace them with a new pair of Vionic Active Orthotic Insoles. Vionic Active Orthotic Insoles provide maximum support for my feet thanks to a design that features a stabilizing heel cup with shock-absorbing foam to reduce fatigue and a reinforced shell for support. I honestly won’t run without them! I also wear heels and loafers by Vionic that feature the same footbed to keep my feet healthy when it’s not appropriate to wear my running shoes.
St. Jude Activewear (starting at $19.99)
View this post on Instagram
As a St. Jude Heroes Ambassador, I run for those who can’t. Wearing St. Jude branded activewear during runs, OrangeTheory classes, and strength training workouts reminds me why I fundraise, train, and run and brings awareness to St. Jude’s lifesaving mission. If you’d like to make a tax-deductible donation in support of this year’s race, here is my fundraising page.
Lululemon Energy Bra ($58)
Supporting the girls is important but especially so during high impact activities like running. I was a forever fan of Brooks Juno running bra until they changed the style and finally discontinued it. After trying on many bras that would never make my favorite running gear for women list, I was thrilled to find Lululemon’s Energy Bra.
Molded foam cups provide coverage and shaping without creating a monoboob. The adjustable double-crossback straps not only look great under tank tops but also provide comfort and support without digging into your shoulders. There are 3 rows of hook and eye back closures to help customize the fit even more. I love how comfortable, stylish, and supportive this bra is. It’s definitely a favorite that I hope Lululemon keeps in their product line forever!
Noxgear Phone Holder ($29.95, regularly $49.95)
One year I ran a half marathon with my phone in a waist belt. I thought it was secure but the day after the race I had a huge bruise and lots of soreness where the corner bumped against the small of my back for 13.1 miles. Not wanting to risk this injury again, I bought NoxGear’s Phone Holder and have been using it ever since.
Designed to be worn on the left hand, the phone attaches with silicone straps that hold it in place. Two adjustable Velcro straps secure the holder to your left wrist and over the knuckles on your left hand. I loved how accessible my phone to take a photo or pause my Spotify playlist while running. The hidden compartment to store my ID and credit card and the small stretchy pouch at the end can easily accommodate lip balm or energy gel holds exactly what you need for the race securely. I personally purchased this product and have never regretted it because it’s the best way to hold a phone during long runs and races.
BibBoards bibSnaps ($12/set of 4)
It’s not easy to safety pin your race number to your gear and thankfully with BibBoards bibSnaps, you don’t have to! I got my first set of bibSnaps from St. Jude for running as a St. Jude Hero years ago and have been a fan ever since. (You can see them in the race photo of me with my Noxgear phone holder!) bibClips are a safe and secure way to attach my race bib to my gear for race day. The plastic pieces snap together to easily attach your bib to your shirt without leaving any marks. They’re reusable so I’ve been able to use my original set for years and if you lose one, or just a part of one, you can order replacement pieces! Save 25% with the code DADRUN25
Goodr Sunglasses ($25 and up)
I’ve been wearing Goodrs for years and honestly had forgotten that not all sunglasses were the same until I lost a pair of Goodrs on vacation and made an emergency purchase of another sunglass brand. I immediately missed my Goodrs the second I put them on and they slid down my nose. I didn’t even need to run in them to know they wouldn’t work. *insert sad face here*
Thankfully when I got home, the new pair of Goodr Glam Gs I ordered were waiting for me. Oh, how I missed the reflective mirrored lenses, comfortable fit, the fact that they never ever slip (yes, even when coated in sunscreen for a week on a boat in the Florida Keys). I love how the polarized lenses reduce glare and protect my eyes from UVA and UVB rays whether I’m walking the dog, on the beach, kayaking in Alaska, or driving on a sunny day. There’s nothing better than Goodrs and for the price, they really can’t be beat! Plus, with so many different styles and colors to choose from, I’m always stalking the Goodr site to see what pair I might need next!
Garmin Vivoactive ($299)
Even though I’m tech savvy, when it comes to gear, I don’t always want the latest and greatest which is why I’ve used my discontinued Garmin Vivoactive 3 for years. When I bought this watch in 2019, I was beyond thrilled that I could store music on it and run without my phone, along with other things. It did exactly what I wanted it to do then and continues to do now.
Recently I tried to upgrade to the Vivoactive 5 but it didn’t perform the way I wanted it to. It kept guiding me through strength and HIIT workouts when all I wanted it to do is connect to my OrangeTheory heart rate monitor and gather data. I returned it just within the 30 day return window but now that the Vivoactive 6 is out, the reviews look promising and it would be nice to have a watch that doesn’t have to be charged every day. While I usually link to Amazon, I highly recommend buying Garmin products directly from the Garmin website because of their amazing customer service! I love that when I’ve had to call, I get connected to a real person and they’re always super knowledgeable and able to help!
Earbuds?
I’m currently looking for a new favorite pair to replace my Jaybird Vista 2s since Logitech discontinued the Jaybird line. Leave a comment if you have recommendations that are not Apple Airpod Pros!
Training Essentials
These training essentials keep me healthy and motivated to keep running.
OrangeTheory Membership (price varies according to studio and membership level)
View this post on Instagram
When I trained for my first race, I just ran. I followed a training plan and gradually increased my mileage so I knew I would be able to finish a half marathon come race day. What I didn’t know then but know now is how much more in shape I am now thanks to OrangeTheory. I’ve been an OrangeTheory member for 8 years and love the the cardio and strength training I get during a 60 minute class.
Each class features variable-intensity intervals on the treadmill, rower, and weight floor that help me burn calories and boosts my metabolism, and allowed me to build lean muscle mass. I also love the 50 minute Upper or Lower Body Strength classes that have helped me achieve strength I never knew was possible, especially in my upper body. I’m addicted to OrangeTheory in the best way and have loved what the workouts have done for my overall health and wellbeing.
If you’ve thought about trying an OrangeTheory class but have been hesitant, leave me a comment or send me an email through my contact page. I’ll share what I know to help you prepare for your first class!
St. Jude Water Bottle ($32)
To remind me of my why, a glass bearing the St. Jude logo sits on our kitchen table and my St. Jude water bottle is my OrangeTheory workout companion. Having these items visible throughout the day reminds me why I fundraise, train, and run as a St. Jude Heroes Ambassador to end childhood cancer. If you’d like to make a tax-deductible donation in support of this year’s race, here is my fundraising page.
Strava (free)
From training plans, race routes, insights, and challenges, Strava is a must-have. I use the free version to record my activities and for the safety features and haven’t felt the need to upgrade to a paid subscription. The few features I use come with the free version and since I use Garmin Connect, the combination of both provides just what I need.
Nuun Electrolyte Tablets ($7.49 for a tube of 10)
Water is only so helpful to staying hydrated. The truth is when you sweat, your body loses important electrolytes so even if you’re drinking water, you can still exhibit signs of dehydration which is why you need Nuun Hydration Tablets. I’ve been using Nuun for as long as I can remember to keep myself healthy and hydrated. Their tablets come 10 to a tube and with only 1 gram of sugar and 10 calories. There are lots of delicious flavors (like Grape, Kiwi Strawberry, Blueberry Tangerine, Kona Cola-a seasonal fan fave) and so many more to choose from.
While all Nuun products are designed to replenish important electrolytes, within the Nuun family there are tablets designed to give you a boost after a workout (Sport), help you stay healthy (Immunity or Vitamin), or even super charge you with the addition of caffeine (Energy). My 18 year old loves the Lemon Lime to help him stay hydrated when hiking, backpacking, or skiing. I rely on the Sport line (Raspberry Lemonade is my fave!) to replenish electrolytes after a run or following an OrangeTheory workout. Full disclosure- I’ve been a Nuun Ambassador for the past 6 years but have using their products for much longer. They are my hydration solution of choice over all the other brands!
NAKED Overnight Oats from Naked Nutrition ($29.99)
The best fuel for your body is food that supports lean muscle, stable energy, and optimal digestion and Naked Oats checks all those boxes and is delicious too. Naked Oats is a tasty and healthy way to start your day thanks to premium natural ingredients like whey protein and minimally processed gluten-free oats that require less than 30 seconds of prep time. Add two scoops of Naked Oats to 8 ounces of milk, shake, and chill five hours in the fridge to wake up to perfect overnight oats. It couldn’t be easier to have a delicious shake or oatmeal ready for you before a work, school, or a workout! Choose from 7 flavors: cinnamon roll, chocolate peanut butter banana, green apple cinnamon, blueberry cobbler, chocolate peanut butter, double chocolate, or strawberry cream. My personal favorites are cinnamon roll and blueberry cobbler!
Recovery Tools
Because recovery time is just as important as training, here are my favorite tools that help speed recovery so I can feel better faster.
Foot Performance Essentials from Alleviate ($134)
View this post on Instagram
When I first started training for half marathons, I developed Plantar Fasciitis and 10 years later it’s back. Wearing orthotics in my running shoes worked for years but a month ago my PF symptoms flared up again and I immediately reached for Alleviate’s Foot Performance Essentials bundle.
Foot Performance Essentials includes Performance Compression Socks ($45) to prevent fatigue and tightness, Arch Massager, and Recovery Balm. The Arch Massager ($79) is nothing short of magic! The two peaks and valley design works to massage away knots, tension, and pain in the hardest parts of my foot that my massage therapist can’t always fix in a session. I keep it by the couch so I can end my night by massaging my feet. It’s made a world of difference, especially when used with the Recovery Balm. Recovery Balm ($12) helps my foot glide smoothly across the Arch Massager as it breaks up scar tissue to promote healing. I also like that the Recovery Balm doubles as an anti-chafe stick for runs. Products are also available to purchase separately but I highly recommend getting the Foot Performance Essentials bundle to use the products together.
Bracelayer Knee Stabilizing Compression Pants (from $95)
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve become very protective of my knees because keeping them healthy is essential for daily mobility. Bracelayer’s Knee Stabilizing Compression Pants for men and women provide improved knee support and stability so I can keep doing what I love. Their leggings and pants feature built-in compression knee braces that offer unparalleled levels of stability, balance, pain relief, and recovery capabilities when compared to traditional compression tights.
Bracelayer products feature their unique Tri-Tech Support Layer, which incorporates a thin layer of medical-grade, perforated neoprene around the knees and hips. This extra layer of compression helps to relieve knee pain and to provide extra support, stability, and protection to active and recovering knees. As someone who has worn knee compression sleeves under pants and doesn’t love the bunchiness, I love how Bracelayer combines compression tights with the functionality of knee sleeves to help people with active knees through their different product lines.
I’m a big fan of their KS Collection KS1 Vent 7/8 Knee Support Compression Pants. This line features knee support and built in support with luxurious StabiLuxe+ compression fabric bases. The KS collection has discreet logos, comfortable yoga-style drawstring waistbands, and convenient pockets for your phone and essentials.
For winter recovery or as a ski base layer, I prefer the Bracelayer’s Alpine Collection features fleece lined thermal compression base layers in both KX and KS styles. The Women’s KS1 Alpine Boot Cut 7/8 Thermal Base Layer with Knee Support I have were super cozy when worn under my ski pants in below freezing temps and great to wear after winter workouts to promote recovery.
Runner’s Knee Essentials from Alleviate ($239)
In addition to Bracelayer Compression Pants, my secret weapon for recovery is Alleviate’s Runner’s Knee Essentials that includes the Massage Blade and app-based Guided Recovery Program. This specially designed blade works to reduce pain from runner’s knee by activating muscles that support the knee joint to prevent flare ups and reduce muscle tension through deep tissue work.
If DIY recovery sounds a bit daunting, the app-based Guided Recovery Program walks you through using the Massage Blade and a six-level exercise program that builds strength and stability in your lower kinetic chain easily and effectively. I found that using the Massage Blade with the Guided Recovery Program for 15 minutes a day greatly helped my runner’s knee so I can keep doing what I love.
Bath Salt Soak from Formulary 55 ($35)
A good soak in a tub does wonders for your muscles, especially when using Formulary 55’s natural Bath Salt Soaks. Each of the 3 scents (Sea Salt & Sage, Jasmine & Marigold, and Palo Santo & Oud) feature muscle-soothing and skin softening benefits of Epsom salt, calming effects and promotion of better sleep with magnesium, and mineral-rich nourishment of pink Himalayan salt for hydration. I love how Formulary 55’s Bath Salt Soak helps rejuvenate muscles and are also free from phthalates, parabens, SLS or dyes, and are also cruelty-free and vegan,
Dr. Doug’s Magnesium Balm ($15 and up)
Magnesium is an essential mineral known for its calming properties and Dr. Doug’s is a new favorite must-have for recovery. Massaging Magnesium Balm into my skin helps relieve tension and any muscle pain. I love that the non-greasy formula made from beeswax, coconut oil, olive oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil absorbs quickly and has a gentle, soothing scent. The Mini Twist Up (0.35 oz) is perfect to keep in my travel toiletry kit while the 8oz jar lives at home.
