The Best Running Gear for Beginners

What to Look for in Gear for New Runners

•Comfort: Finding clothes and gear that make you comfortable and confident is key. If something doesn’t feel good at home, it’s not going to get better once you start moving.

•Moisture-Wicking: If your body is moving, it’s also sweating, so look for clothes made of polyester, nylon, or merino wool. These fabrics draw moisture from your skin to the outer layer of the clothes, where they dry. Best of all, they also prevent chafing.

BROOKS Ghost 15 Running Shoe

From my first day of running, I've been wearing BROOKS Ghost sneakers. They offer comfort, stability, support, and just enough cushioning for my feet. The Ghost 16 is the current shoe, but I found last year's model on sale at a few places, so you can save some cash.

Nathan Running Belt – The Zipster Lite

I like to carry my phone, keys, sunscreen, and some body glide when I run, which is why this running belt is perfect. It's breathable, quick-drying, and stays comfortably on your waist while you move (with no bouncing).

Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Stick

Sunscreen is so important when you're running outside. Sun Bum is my go-to brand, and I love their face stick. It's small and portable enough to pack in my running belt for reapplications on a long run and it's thick enough to not get into my eyes. It's a win win.

SHOKZ OpenRun - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones

Lightweight and wireless, these headphones are comfortable, sweatproof, and can give you 8 hours of run time. Plus, they use bone conduction, which uses vibrations to transmit sound through your cheekbones into your inner ear. This means you can listen to music but also hear your surroundings (super important when you're running outdoors).

BALEAF Women's Rain Jackets

The proper running jacket is crucial. This can make it so much easier to run in all kinds of weather. I love that this option is water-repellant, breathable, and has zippered pockets to keep your essentials secure.

adidas Women's Superlite Sport Performance Visor

Wearing a visor is a great way to keep the sun out of your eyes, but to also keep your hair from getting matted down. This sweat-wicking visor from adidas comes in a lot of colors and reviewers report that it stays comfy and snug while you move.

Amazfit Band 7 Fitness & Activity Tracker

There are a lot of fitness trackers out there, but when I first started running, I wanted something simple and affordable -- like this option. The battery lasts for 15 days on a single charge and you can even wear it swimming and showering, plus, it can track your activities, sleep, menstrual cycle, distance, heart rate, calories burned, and up to 11 sports.

Ban Thigh & Body Anti-Friction Balm

Every runner needs this body glide. It helps your thighs, around your sports bra, or any place you don't want to chafe. The stick glides on smoothly and it's mess-free.

Saucony Women's RunDry Performance Heel Tab Athletic Socks, 8 Pairs

A pair of sweat-wicking running socks can keep your feet dry and cool as you start to heat up. Plus, this option has targeted arch compression, so you feel supported and comfy. Best of all, it comes in an 8-pack.

THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants with Pockets

MIRITY Women Racerback Sports Bras, 3-pack

Old Navy PowerSoft Racerback Tank Top

Priced at just $4.96, these sweat-wicking running tops are a great deal. They're stretchy with a high neckline for comfort and so breathable.

BALEAF Women's UPF 50+ Sun Shirts

Whether you're winter running or running at the gym, this long-sleeve shirt comes in handy. It can provide warmth, sun protection, and sweat-wicking when you need it the most.