I’m a Trail Runner Who Has Tested the Best Running Gear — Here’s What I Recommend if You’re New to Running

For a shoe that can make everyday runs feel easier, try the ASICS Novablast 6. It combines a cloud-like cushion that softens each landing and creates an almost trampoline-like effect for extra bounce with each step. The outsole provides good traction, while the lightweight mesh keeps your feet cool on those hot, midday runs.

I found the Novablast 6 comfortable right out of the box. The cushion reduces the impact without making the shoe feel heavy, and the bounce helps guide me forward with each stride. This has become my new favorite running shoe for daily training, easy runs, and longer road miles.

Considering wearing regular cotton socks on a run? Think again. Running socks should contain moisture-wicking, breathable materials — either synthetic or wool — to help prevent blisters, Silva says. The merino wool in this pair fits the bill and also regulates your temperature, keeping you warm in the winter and cool as the seasons change.

This pair should be in every runner’s wardrobe. Vargas appreciated how the high-rise supported her stomach and core without rolling or feeling too snug. Despite the firm compression, these leggings move easily while you run. The four-way stretch fabric holds you in, while minimal seams and laser-cut edges prevent unwanted pinching and uncomfortable digging. With three inseam options, petite and tall runners alike can find the right length without having to venture into new styles. It is worth noting that the pants don’t have a fleece interior like some other brands, so these may not be appropriate for very cold temps.

When choosing gear, always keep the type of fabric in mind. Cotton is a no-go because it absorbs moisture, says Silva. This short-sleeved shirt features a polyester and spandex blend that is moisture-wicking, breathable, and lightweight — all features you want in a running shirt.

In addition to the must-have features, Vargas found this top also offers some light compression, which helped her feel streamlined and light during testing. Unlike some other brands she’s tried, the shirt looks and feels well-constructed, with thick and sturdy fabric and a four-way stretch that allows you to move freely.

Let’s not forget that looking good makes you feel good, so she was happy to see a variety of color options like rose pink, red, and army green. The shirt also comes in long-sleeve and long-sleeve crop options. Note that this top runs a little small, so you might want to size up. You’ll also want to layer it with a sweater in cold weather.

Finding running underwear that stays in place but isn’t too snug, wicks away sweat, and holds up wash after wash is no small task. The Runderwear Women’s Running Hipster Briefs stood out for their supportive and truly chafe-free feel. “With no tags or raised seams, there was nothing to rub or irritate my skin while running or hiking,” shared writer and editor Lili Ladaga. Instead, the sizing, fabric, and care information are printed directly inside the waistband. The medium-weight fabric felt soft and breathable, and provided enough support to keep the briefs in place without needing constant readjustment.

“The fit runs snug, particularly around the waistband. I sized up because I expected running underwear to fit more closely than everyday briefs, but I could have comfortably gone up two sizes,” Ladaga noted. We suggest washing these briefs in cold water and air-drying, so they continue looking new run after run.

A good running bra should provide the strongest support possible so you stay contained mile after mile. That’s exactly what this pretty, feminine Energy Bra from Lululemon did. The strong support style kept Vargas feeling snug with minimal bounce and had comfy, sweat-wicking fabric that felt good against her skin.

The bra comes in sizes 32B up to 40D, so it’s suitable for women with a variety of chest sizes. Vargas was able to get that “just right” fit thanks to the bra’s adjustable double-cross back straps and appreciated the foam cup design because it reduces the dreaded uni-boob effect of many sports bras. An attractive running bra is hard to find, so for that alone, Vargas gave this one five stars. Just keep in mind that you have to reach behind you to hook it, and it’s also not the most affordable option.

A place to store things like keys and chapstick is a running essential, but finding one that doesn’t bounce can be a challenge. This sleek option features a zippered pocket and three openings for 360-degree storage, so weight is distributed evenly (no flopping). It also has plenty of storage — Vargas easily stashed her phone, keys, and chapstick, and could have added a few more items like an ID and earbuds. She also found the belt to be comfortable.

Unlike some other options, it’s not adjustable, and you don’t clip it in place but rather step into it like a pair of pants. That said, it seems strong enough to withstand a bit of stretching, and it comes in sizes XS to XXL, so you can find the right fit. Also, while the zippered pocket held her phone, it was a bit of a struggle to squeeze it in. As a result, changing music and answering calls were a little cumbersome.

Some prefer a belt; some prefer an armband. Either way, the goal is to keep your hands free when running. The Amphipod ArmPod SmartView Sumo Armband makes it easy to carry your phone without having to hold it while running. “Although it takes up a fair amount of space on the arm, I still found it comfortable while running outside on a warm day,” said runner and editor Alexandra Klausner. “My phone stayed securely in place, and the clear cover allowed me to use the touchscreen without removing it.”

Storage beyond the phone compartment is limited, but there’s enough room for small essentials such as a key, ID, or credit card—perfect for grabbing a post-run latte.

Shielding your eyes from harsh UV rays on runs is non-negotiable. A good pair of running sunnies will reduce glare and keep your vision sharp for the road ahead – for this, we like the budget-friendly Goodr Sonic G.

Other key performance-focused features include frame vents to reduce fogging, an adjustable nose piece, a no-slip grip, and a flexible nylon frame. Although the sunglasses may not be prescription-compatible, they’re a strong choice for runners seeking an affordable, secure pair for road or trail runs.

A hat can be especially useful on long runs, providing added sun coverage, absorbing sweat, and keeping hair out of your face on windy days. The Lululemon Fast and Free Running Hat combines a barely-there feel with the secure fit runners need. Its lightweight, four-way stretch fabric and mesh-like construction allow heat to escape, while the interior sweatband wicks away sweat. The extended bill provides ample shade for your eyes and face, and reflective details enhance visibility in low-light conditions.

Vargas found the hat stayed in place even during windy runs, an annoying challenge with some lightweight hats. She also appreciated the vibrant color options and streamlined design, making it stylish enough for hiking, trail runs, or everyday wear. Although she didn’t wash-test it, the quick-drying fabric should make routine care relatively simple.

Having a reliable headlamp gives more flexibility to your running schedule, allowing you to fit in an early-morning run or late-night walk even when the sun isn’t up. The BioLite Range 400 delivers crisp light in a comfortable design that works for dark walks, runs, camping, and more. “The sweat-wicking headband stayed securely in place without digging in, while the tilting light made it easy to direct the beam toward the path ahead,” said writer Grace Gallagher. Lighting options include a dimmable white spotlight, white strobe, red flood, and red strobe. The red settings are especially useful when you want light without significantly disrupting your night vision.

Gallagher also appreciated features such as a lock mode, brightness memory that returns to the last-used setting, and a three-light battery indicator. The headlamp charges quickly, too: An eight-minute charge provides up to an hour of brightness, while a full charge takes approximately 30 minutes.

While essentially a step-tracking pedometer, the Fitbit Inspire 3 also tracks heart rate levels, calorie burn, and “active zone” minutes, which are divided into fat-burning, cardio, and peak performance zones. Vargas found all of the information helpful and used it to push herself a little further most days.

The Daily Readiness score was her favorite feature. It calculates what level of workout you’re ready for based on your sleep quality, how much you pushed yourself the day before, and your heart rate variability (HRV). The score made deciding between taking a rest or a run day a no-brainer. It also has a pre-installed run setting that tracks distance, pace, active-zone minutes, and time spent in various heart rate zones. With your Fitbit Inspire 3 purchase, you also get six months of free premium membership access, so keep in mind that once that trial ends, you’ll no longer have access to some of the device’s sleep data (such as a monthly sleep profile) as well as the guided meditations and workouts.

Vargas wore this hydration pack on a long beach run for which she knew she’d want to stop and have a nice break to enjoy the view. She was happy to find that, in addition to providing ample water, this pack also had plenty of storage space for her sweater and snacks, plus room to spare. The pack was comfortable, light, flexible, and functional, with breathable mesh and microfiber material at the contact points. The hydration nozzle was a bit long, and it flopped up and down during runs, but even though it was a bit irritating, she wouldn’t consider it a deal-breaker by any means.

If you’re allergic to nuts or don’t want to invest in a 2.2 lb bag of trail mix, try a smoothie with banana, protein powder, and milk; eggs and sourdough toast with avocado; or Greek yogurt with berries and honey, says Silva.

Whether between the thighs, around the waist, or where bra straps meet skin, painful chafing takes the fun out of running. While some people use Vaseline or baby powder to prevent irritation, the slightly more expensive Body Glide Anti Chafe Balm is designed to prevent this nuisance.

Vargas used this protective, sweatproof, nongreasy barrier to reduce friction around her bra straps. The unscented, deodorant-like stick is easy to apply and really lived up to its chafe-fighting reputation. She also loved that it can be used for a variety of activities, such as dancing at music festivals or body surfing during the summer. 

A weighted vest can increase the intensity of a running workout without requiring you to pick up the pace. Vests can be especially useful for experienced runners, incorporating hills, short conditioning runs, or race-specific training that involves carrying equipment.

For running, look for a vest that fits your torso snugly and distributes the weight evenly. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric is also essential. The OMORPHO G-Vest Icon checks these boxes with flexible neoprene, adjustable shoulder straps, and a side cinch. Its six-pound base weight can be increased to 12 pounds (sold separately) if needed.

“Unlike the stiffer, more tactical-looking vests I’ve tried, the G-Vest Icon was soft and moved comfortably through my runs and HIIT workouts,” shared fitness writer Madison Freeman. She found the contoured design fit her body well and remained secure without restricting her range of motion. At nearly $300, it’s a substantial investment, but its comfort and thoughtful construction may justify the price for dedicated runners, ruckers, or athletes who will use it regularly.