Essential Running Gear and Tips for Summer Training

Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer, bringing longer daylight and warmer weather that changes the running game. For many runners, it’s a time to enjoy community races, adjust training plans, and upgrade gear to handle the heat and humidity.

After months of battling cold and icy conditions, summer races like the TCS London Marathon and the RBC Brooklyn Half present new challenges. High temperatures and humidity require runners to rethink hydration, sun protection, and clothing choices to maintain performance and safety.

Choosing the Right Socks for Comfort and Performance

Socks might seem like a small detail, but they can make a huge difference in your running experience. Feetures’ Elite socks offer targeted compression and durability, making them a favorite for training and racing. For cooler or wet spring days, wool socks like Smartwool’s Run Low Ankle Socks keep feet dry and comfortable without shrinking after washes.

Finding the Perfect Running Shoes

Shoe choice is deeply personal. Comfort, fit, and the type of race all matter. The Brooks Glycerin 22 is praised for comfort in long races like the London Marathon, while lighter, speed-focused shoes are better for shorter distances. Advanced fitting technologies, such as AI-powered 3D foot scans at stores like Fleet Feet, help runners find the ideal shoe tailored to their unique feet.

Post-Race Recovery Footwear

After pounding the pavement, recovery shoes like Kane’s provide much-needed relief. Their comfortable, supportive design helps swollen feet breathe and recover, making them a staple for post-race comfort. Available in fun colors and waterproof versions, they’re also popular for athletes in other sports.

Visibility and Safety Gear for Early or Late Runs

Even with more daylight, many runners find themselves out in the dark. Reflective gear and lights like the Noxgear Tracer2 LED vest enhance visibility up to a quarter mile, while the optional Tracer Lamp illuminates the path without blinding others. For music lovers, the 39G wearable Bluetooth speaker lets you enjoy tunes safely without blocking ambient sounds.

Lightweight and Functional Apparel

Choosing the right apparel can boost comfort and performance. Flipbelt’s Air Mid-Weight Leggings combine storage and durability, while 2XU’s Light Speed React Compression Tights offer performance-enhancing compression. A quality waterproof jacket like the Brooks High Point Waterproof Jacket 2.0 keeps runners dry and mobile during unexpected rain.

Sunglasses to Shield Your Eyes

Wraparound reflective sunglasses protect eyes from sun and wind while staying secure during runs. Budget-friendly options like Tifosi Optics’ Vogel SL and Knockaround’s Kinetics offer comfort and durability. For a premium feel, Adidas Dunamis Evo models provide lightweight, vented lenses that resist fogging and fit smaller faces better.

Hydration and Nutrition Essentials

Proper hydration is crucial as temperatures rise. Hydration vests like Nathan’s Pinnacle Pro hold over a liter of water and offer ample storage without chafing. For shorter runs, soft insulated flasks provide easy access to fluids. Fueling with natural options like UnTapped’s coffee-spiked maple syrup or Skratch Labs energy chews helps maintain energy without artificial ingredients.

Summer running demands thoughtful preparation and gear choices. From socks to sunglasses, hydration to recovery footwear, the right equipment helps runners stay safe, comfortable, and competitive. As the season heats up, investing in quality gear tailored to your needs can transform your running experience.