Beginner Running Gear – The Essentials You Need!

Running is an amazing way to exercise because it does not require a lot of gear. You can step out the door and just run. It’s wonderful. But! If you’re new to running and are curious about what beginner running gear might be worth buying, you are in the right place.

I’m not going to list a bunch of expensive things. Heck, I’ve been wearing half of my running gear for 10+ years and the other half is from the thrift store. (A bit dramatic; I do have some new things.)

But I do a weird amount of research on running. I read a lot about it because I’m always trying to be a better runner.

This list is coming from someone who remembers being a beginner runner and who has now run 6 marathons and 1 ultra. I don’t wear expensive stuff, I do a lot of research if I’m buying new running gear, and I’ve been running for 20 years. I know what you need to get by.

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So here are the best beginner running gear items that you actually need:

Clothing — Beginner Running Gear

For clothing, try to avoid cotton if you can. It’s hot, can cause you to chafe more easily, and the sweat just soaks into it. You likely have some “athletic” clothing in your house that will be just fine for beginner running clothing.

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money: Head to your local thrift store or use facebook marketplace to buy some running clothes. If you don’t like it, you can just re-donate it. Or just buy the absolute basics on amazon or during sales at Dicks Sporting Goods, Kohls, etc.

If you want to spend a lot of money: Buy some new stuff! Runners World often has lists of “the best” running items. Start there if you’re looking for a new running shirt, sports bra, etc.

Running Shirts

Yes, you need shirts. Own a tank top, a t-shirt, and a long sleeve. You truly could just own one of each and wash them between runs.

Running Bottoms

Shorts and pants. I love shorts with liners so I don’t have to wear underwear with them. You’ll develop a preference, but I love to run in shorts; I’ll only run in pants if it’s cold enough to need to wear them.

Capris are meh… if it’s cold enough, just wear pants. If it’s warm enough, wear shorts. Capris aren’t necessary unless you love them (I will never understand this).

Underwear

Only necessary if you’re wearing pants. You can get by with just wearing your normal underwear. But if you want to be a bit more comfortable, you can upgrade to running underwear.

Running Jacket

If you’re training somewhere cold, you do need a decent running jacket. One that will keep you warm and cover your neck. Thrift stores always have running jackets for cheap.

Socks

As long as they’re not giving you blisters, you can run in whatever pairs of socks you want.

I juuuust bought myself a pair of running socks. They’re great, but I survived 20 years of running in regular socks, specifically the saucony ones from amazon.

Sports Bra

You do need a quality sports bra that keeps your boobs from bouncing. Your runs won’t be comfortable if your sports bra doesn’t do what it’s meant to do. Try these on, jump up and down with them on, and pick one that really works.

When I find the perfect sports bra, I’ll add it to this post. I thought I had found my go-to sports bra, but they cause chafing on long runs. Womp Womp.

Extreme Half Marathon in Northern Ireland cliff view
Here I am after an “extreme” half marathon in Ireland. I highly recommend running while traveling!

Shoes — Beginner Running Gear

There are a ridiculous amount of articles written about running shoes. And there are a ridiculous amount of running shoes available.

Don’t skimp or thrift on this one.

Go to a running store, have them look at your feet and make recommendations, and buy decent shoes.

One way to save money on running shoes is to buy the “old” version of a pair that you like. You can sometimes save $50+ doing this, and the shoes are still great quality.

You really only need one pair if you’re a casual beginner runner. If you start marathon training or running long distances, own 2 pairs and trade them out during the week.

My favorite running shoes:

Accessories — Beginner Running Gear

These are optional or whatever your preferences are. If something on this list makes you love running more, own it.

Headband

This can be a buff or just a thin headband that holds your hair back.

Hat

They make running baseball hats that are thinner and UV blocking.

Sunglasses

I always think people look really cool running in those goodr sunglasses, but I hate having anything on my face while I run.

Running Watch

This one is definitely optional and definitely not necessary. If you love tracking your runs and wearing a watch will motivate you to run more, buy one. Otherwise, just use your phone and the Strava app.

I did a bunch of research and just bought a Coros watch before my last marathon. It’s cheaper than the good Garmins but has great reviews. I. Love. It. It’s in the $200ish range and has tons of great features. But I survived with Strava on my phone for YEARS and ran just fine.

Headphones or Airpods

Kudos to you if you can run all the time without listening to anything but your own thoughts and the birds chirping. Seriously. You’re a better runner for it.

But if you want/need the distraction of music, audiobooks, or podcasts, you need this item.

Headphones are fine. Yes, the cord can be annoying, but you can manage.

If you have the money, though, Airpods are amaaaazing. More amazing than I thought they would be.

Anti-Chafing Balm

Only necessary if you experience chafing but definitely necessary if you find a spot that rubs and hurts.

Reflective Gear

Only needed if you’ll be doing runs in the dark. If so, please wear reflective gear so car drivers can easily see you.

Sunscreen

Apply before any sunny runs!

Sort of Necessary Things — Beginner Running Gear

These are the random things you should probably use while running.

Your Phone

Yes, we all hate phones and how much they’ve taken over our lives. And I’m not recommending that you look at your phone while running. But a phone can be helpful if you have an emergency and need to call someone, for music, and for tracking a run.

A SpiBelt

I have been running with this since my first marathon 12 years ago. It’s a stretchy waist belt that can hold your phone, running gels, and more. Tighten it so it doesn’t bounce, and it’s the best thing to store your “stuff.”

Beginner Running Gear Essentials

I hope this list helps you in your running journey! I love love love running and want everyone to enjoy it. If you have any random running questions that you want a normal person (me) to answer, add a comment below.

Happy Running!!

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