Running Gear I Actually Use
Gear I’ve tested while training for half marathons as a dad of two. No BS, just stuff that works.
Note: Some links are Amazon affiliate links. If you buy through them, I earn a small commission at no cost to you. I only recommend things I actually own and use.
Running Shoes
Speed Work: Saucony Endorphin Speed
What I use it for: Everything!
The nylon plate gives you a little pop without feeling unstable. Fast enough for race day, durable enough for training.
Why it works for busy parents: Makes you feel fast even when you’re tired. The propulsion helps on those 5am runs.
Long Runs & Easy Days: Saucony Pro
What I use it for: Track workouts, tempo runs, race day
My go-to for challening track workouts and when I need all the help I can get to PR on race day.
Why it works for busy parents: Your legs will thank you when you’re running on minimal sleep.
Running Watch
Coros Pace 3
What I use it for: Daily training, tracking workouts
Lightweight, incredible battery life (weeks, not days), accurate GPS. Simple interface that just works.
Why it works for busy parents: Charge it once a month and forget about it. No fiddling with settings mid-run.
Coros Pace Pro
What I use it for: Advanced metrics, longer races, detailed training data
If you want deeper analytics and more features. Better screen, more detailed training insights.
Budget option: The Pace 3 does everything most runners need. The Pro is for data nerds (like me).
Previously Used: Garmin Forerunner 255 Music
Why I switched to Coros: Better battery life, simpler interface, better value for money.
If you already have a Garmin, it’s great. But if you’re buying new, check out Coros first.
Accessories
Flip Belt
What I use it for: Every run over 4 miles
Holds my phone, keys, and gels without bouncing. I’ve tried other belts—this is the one I actually use.
Sunglasses
Oakley SI Radar EV Path
What I use it for: Sunny runs, race day
Crystal clear optics, don’t slip, great coverage. The SI (Standard Issue) version is the military/LEO model—super durable.
Investment piece: Expensive but they last. I’ve had mine for years.
Tifosi Sunglasses
What I use it for: Training runs when I don’t want to risk my Oakleys
Budget-friendly, good optics, replaceable lenses. If you lose or break them, you won’t cry.
Why it works for busy parents: Cheap enough to not worry about, good enough to actually work.
Nutrition & Fueling
Maurten Gel 100
What I use it for: Long runs (8+ miles) and race day
Easiest on my stomach. Science-backed hydrogel technology. No weird aftertaste. 100 calories per gel.
How I use it: One gel every 45 minutes starting at mile 4-5 on long runs.
Tailwind Nutrition (Hydration Mix)
What I use it for: Hydration during long runs and races
Mix it with water. Provides calories + electrolytes in one. Easy to digest, doesn’t need to be taken with water like gels do.
Why it works for busy parents: One product instead of juggling gels + electrolytes.
BPN Electrolytes
What I use it for: Post-run hydration, daily electrolyte supplementation
Clean ingredients, tastes good, no sugar crash. I drink this after every run and sometimes during the day.
Cold Weather Gear
Gloves: Smartwool
What I use it for: Winter runs (below 40°F)
Warm without being bulky. Merino wool wicks sweat and doesn’t get stinky. Touchscreen compatible so I can change music without taking them off.
Gloves: Craft
What I use it for: Really cold runs (below 30°F)
Windproof, insulated, serious cold weather protection. These are the “it’s freezing but I’m running anyway” gloves.
My Actual Running Kit
Summer:
- Shirt: Any moisture-wicking tee
- Shorts: REI Swiftland 7” Running Shorts
- Socks: Bombas or Bandit
- Shoes: Saucony Endorphin Speed or Saucony Pro
- Sunglasses: Oakley or Tifosi
- Watch: Coros Pace Pro
Winter:
- Shirt: Long-sleeve base layer + running jacket
- Pants: Any running tights
- Gloves: Smartwool (40°F+) or Craft (below 30°F)
- Hat: Any beanie that stays on
- Shoes: Same as summer
- Watch: Coros Pace Pro
Budget-Friendly Starter Kit
If you’re just starting out and don’t want to drop $500 on gear:
- Shoes: Saucony Guide or Ride (~$100-140)
- Watch: Coros Pace 3 (~$230) OR use your phone with Strava (free)
- Clothes: Target or Amazon moisture-wicking stuff (~$40)
- Flip Belt: ~$25
- Socks: Bombas 3-pack (~$40)
Total: ~$250-450 depending on watch choice
You don’t need the expensive stuff to start. I ran my first half marathon in $15 shorts.
What You DON’T Need
Stuff I tried and didn’t love:
- Running belt with water bottles - Too bouncy. Flip Belt + handheld bottle works better.
- Compression socks - Didn’t notice any recovery difference.
- Expensive base layers - Cheap ones from Amazon work just as well.
- Running-specific phone apps that cost money - Strava free version does everything you need.
How I Test Gear
- Minimum 50 miles before I recommend anything
- Multiple conditions (rain, heat, cold, treadmill)
- Works for parent life (can I wash it and wear it tomorrow?)
- Would I buy it again? (If not, it doesn’t make this list)
Questions About Gear?
Email me: martin@hey.com
I’m always testing new stuff. If you want updates when I find something good, subscribe to my Substack.
Last updated: January 2025