The Ultimate 2024 Half Marathon Gear Checklist: Top 22 Picks from Running Experts

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For many runners, their first big milestone race is a half marathon. It’s just long enough to require a training plan, but not so long as to completely upend your schedule. Signing up for a race is step one. Then comes picking a training plan for beginners and maybe even adding in some additional strength training for runners. However, part of the process that’s crucial to your success and often isn’t covered as in-depth is the gear required to train and cross the finish line.

At Shape, we thoroughly review everything, from the best running leggings to the best running shoes for beginners, and thanks to all of our testing, we put together a checklist for everything you need to excel during half-marathon training and on race day. This includes tested and approved fitness trackers, our favorite functional and fashionable athletic shorts, and high-quality electrolyte powders to help with recovery.

Read on below for the only essential half-marathon gear checklist you need.

Here’s what you need to train for and run a half marathon with our top pick for each item. Use this list as a guide to make sure you are prepared, then read more about each item below.

A long-distance race requires a lot of hours on your feet. The best sneakers for you can help protect muscles and joints, avoid blisters and chafing, and provide comfort and support. Now, the best option to find your long-distance running shoes is to visit a shoe retailer, such as Fleet Feet, where they can complete a customized reading via pressure plate reading and gait analysis to help you find your perfect fit. “Some people’s feet are kind of flat, while others have higher arches. Oftentimes one foot is slightly larger than the other. It’s good to know those things before making a purchase,” says Caroline Bermel, Content Marketing Specialist and head shoe reviewer at Fleet Feet. “It's also good to know that no matter the shape of your feet, there is a shoe out there for you.” If a customized experience isn’t in the cards for you, we have recommendations based on some common concerns.

You may want to also consider having two pairs of running shoes that you can alternate each day of your training. “Different shoes can serve different purposes, for example, a lightweight, responsive trainer can be used for speed workouts and tempo runs, while a softer, more cushioned shoe can be worn for longer, slower runs and recovery days, ' explains Bell. “Switching between shoes also gives the foam time to decompress between uses, which can help make your shoes last longer.”

Sizes: 5-12 | Width: Standard and Wide | Toe drop: 10 mm | Weight: 8.8 oz.

Shape editors love Brooks running shoes for stability and support. They're a relatively lightweight cushioned shoe that provides some stellar energy back to your feet with every stride. If you don't like a super high stack height but still want less impact on your joints during road running, these are solid running shoes for you.

'I wear these shoes during long training runs or slow recovery miles,' says Summer Cartwright, Shape's senior commerce editor and resident marathon runner who, in 2023, ran a half marathon every single month. 'They're a workhorse staple in my closet that will always and forever be in my rotation — I'm begging Brooks to never discontinue this model.'

Sizes: 5-13 | Width: Standard and Wide | Toe drop: 4 mm | Weight: 6.1 oz.

You may have heard of carbon-plated running shoes — they're known for being super fast thanks to the stiff carbon plate constructed in the midsole that gives your feet this bouncy feeling that can help shave some seconds off a PR time. While these New Balance shoes aren't the lightest carbon-plated shoes out there, they're our favorite since they have a flatter toe drop (which is beneficial for people with flat feet or high arches) and provide more structural support to the ankle during long runs.

The subtly curved soles encourage a propulsive gait that'll help push your tired legs forward and is an easier shape on your joints and tendons. 'I wore these during my second marathon and shaved off six minutes for a new PR,' says Cartwright. 'They kept my feet comfortable and pain-free during the 26.2 miles and helped me require less recovery time afterward.'

Sizes: 5-12 | Width: Standard | Toe drop: 10 mm | Weight: 8.8 oz.

If you prefer trail running and have a race coming up in the woods, you can't go wrong with these Asics. Editors say they're super comfortable and surprisingly lightweight for how much support they supply. Made for neutral runners or people who underpronate (also called supinate), these have impressive shock absorption and are specifically designed to be used on trails or streets, so if you dabble in both terrains, you're set.

Sizes: 5-13 | Width: Standard and Wide | Toe drop: 12 mm | Weight: 9.1 oz.

If you're on the hunt for the best running shoes for bad knees, you can stop your search with these Brooks. They're made with a supportive and impressive cushioned sole that absorbs shock that might otherwise bother your joints. Wear them for whatever type of run you want — though we recommend these for recovery runs.

Sizes: 5-11 | Width: Standard | Toe drop: 10 mm | Weight: 8.1 oz.

There are lots of cushioned running shoes out there, but our favorite for half marathons are the On Cloudrunner 2s. These have lots of impressive features, especially the brand's signature Helion superfoam, which is soft, flexibility, and supportive. It provides a lot of structure to keep your foot in the right spot with every step.

When you first start a running hobby, it’s common to just wear whatever athletic clothes you already own. By the time the runs get longer and you start thinking of training for a race, you may have identified pain points with your current wardrobes. After testing hundreds of what we believe to be the best workout clothes for women, we narrowed down our favorite running-specific gear. These options can span the weather gamut to get you across the finish line with clothes that fit and perform.

Colors: 5 | Sizes: 34C - 42DDD | Materials: 76% Nylon, 24% Spandex

It's hard to find a running sports bra that limits bounce while keeping you comfortable — nothing's worse than feeling constricted when you need to breathe — but this Champion bra has an ideal mix of support, construction, and softness needed while running. Bonus: we've experienced zero chafing while wearing this on double-digit runs. It's an ideal sports bra for large breasts, but also works well for people with a 34C and above.

Colors: 2 | Sizes: 0-14 | Materials: Nylon | Special Features: Pouch sleeve pocket

Finding a rain jacket is easy, finding a rain jacket for running... not so much. Thankfully, this Lululemon design exists. The ventilated waterproof jacket is breathable, lightweight, yet still stands up against heavy rain. We love that it comes with a handy pouch that attached to one arm and can either hold your essentials, or be used to store the jacket itself. That's right, it's so lightweight and flexible that you can fold the jacket into the tiny pouch that comes with it for optimal storage.

Colors: 2 | Sizes: XS - XXL

If you're running a half or full marathon, you better be fueling properly with gels, candies, fruits, or your choice of carbs and sodium. To store all of that in one spot that's easy to reach, we recommend these running shorts. They have a 360-degree pocket system that stores a lot. 'I kept my iPhone XL, AirPods, keys, and 8 gels in these during my last marathon,' says Cartwright. 'Nothing fell out, and better yet, the built-in spandex prevented thigh chafing.'

Colors: 3 | Sizes: 6-15 | Materials: 54% Nylon 41% Polyester 3% Elastance

These might be low-rise socks, but they pack in the features like cushioned soles, a compression arch band, and a vented top. These design elements keep feet comfortable, free from blisters, and provide all the support needed for every step of the race.

Colors: 5 | Sizes: XS - L | Materials: 57% Nylon 43% Elastane

These silky smooth compression leggings from Tracksmith come with all the fixings necessary for race day (read: pockets). The large thigh pocket fits gels and larger items like phones while the small pocket in the waistband is solid at storing keys. Comfy and flattering, you don't have to worry about these leggings moving around during tempo runs or faster stretches.

Colors: 4 | Sizes: 0-20 | Materials: 76% Nylon, 24% Elastane

Colors: 1 | Sizes: S-L | Materials: 1% Nylon 52% Polyester 17% Lycra

Runners are divas, so consider this your official welcome to the diva club. Often, we have very specific tastes that depend on things we can't control (i.e., weather). These gloves have stood the test of time for our editors thanks to their durability and smart design that allows you to switch from fingerless to mittens in seconds thanks to magnetic flaps.

Training gear is the category you turn to when you’re looking to splurge. It’s all here: The running watch our editor swears by, the headphones that allow you to still hear traffic, and the energy gel that might prevent stomach distress mid-race.

Colors: 2 | Battery life: 7 days | Special Features: GPS, training plans, V02 max

A running watch can make a huge difference to your training. The additional specs, such as cadence, mileage, and pace became crucial to track as the weeks and miles add up ahead of race day. Garmin is a heritage activity watch brand and a go-to for many runners on staff. The Forerunner 245 is essentially a running coach on your watch — it suggests workouts, can help plan training, and gives you estimates for what your race times will be at different distances. It also will tell you how much time you need to rest after hard workouts in order to get back out there feeling fantastic.

Colors: 4 | Sizes: 2 | Charging Port: Magnetic, USB-C

These are hands down the best headphones for outdoor runs — they use bone conduction technology to transfer mini vibrations through your cheekbones to your inner ear. Yep, these bad boys sit outside your ears and the sound quality is impressively clear. Since it isn’t plugging your eardrum, you can still hear your surroundings like cars, fellow runners, or your cheering fan club during a race. The two size options ensure a bounce-free, snug fit and the eight-hour battery life lets you run long without stopping for a recharge.

Colors: 9 | Polarized: Yes | UV Protection: Yes

At just $25 per pair, Goodr sunglasses are perfect for runners who don't want to break the bank for glasses that might break during some action (though, in our experiences, these durable beasts can bend, fall, crash, and get drenched without fail). With polarized lenses, UVA/UVB protection, and a no-slip frame, these specs stand up to their more high-tech competitors. The fun colors and product names, like Sunbathing with Wizards or Lilac It Like That, are the cherry on top. 

Colors: 12 | Sizes: XXS - XXL

A running belt is a great option if you have too many items to carry or don’t have leggings with a pocket deep enough for your phone. You typically either step into or clip on the body-hugging belt and it sits flat against your body as you move. The Flipbelt falls into the latter and the name comes from the motion that hides your essentials — you flip the fabric to reveal the pockets. There’s a little clip for your keys and the pockets are stretchy enough to fit a large phone, too. For extra security, you can check out the zipper version as well.

Size: 12 oz. | Special Features: Pockets and hand grip

As your long runs climb into the double digits, a running water bottle becomes a saving grace. This Nathan option allows you to run with a relaxed grip while holding the bottles thanks to its shape and strap. The pouch is great for holding excess gels, too.

Pack: 12, 24 | Flavors: 8 | Calories: 100 | Energy Source: Chia seeds, fruit, natural sugars

If you haven’t used it before, energy gels provide quick energy in the form of carbohydrates and are in a format that is easier to digest to try and prevent bloating or gastric distress. However, the source of that energy can vary gel to gel — and how you react to each formula depends on the person. Huma uses fruit, brown rice syrup, and chia seeds as the base of their gels and the all-natural ingredients are gentler on your stomach. The texture and flavor are similar to a scoopful of jam and our editors agree these are easier to get down compared to other options on the market.

Application: Spray | Protection: SPF 70

The sun exposure from a daily run adds up quickly. Finding a sunscreen formula you actually like is the key to applying it every day. This formula from Neutrogena is a go-to for Cartwright. 'You can use it everywhere, from your face to your shins, and it dries super quickly, doesn't sting your eyes, and works like a charm,' she says. Not to mention, you can get two big bottles for under $30.

Application: Rub | Size: 2.12 oz.

While the right leggings or shorts can help prevent a lot of thigh chafing, it unfortunately is not the only area prone to irritation. Chafing occurs when skin rubs against itself or your clothing and that friction becomes red and irritated. Add some sweat into the mix and that pain-meter just went up a notch. Trust us, we've chafed in lots of random spots, from the back to the armpits to the underboobs. An anti-chafe product, like MegaBabe, gives your skin something to glide against and acts as a barrier against friction. You apply the stick to any areas where skin or clothing may rub (think: your armpits, inner thighs, or ankles). 

Gear for recovery is optional — plain ol’ water and simple stretching can also prep your body for muscle repair. It’s not a bad idea to take that downtime a bit more seriously when you sign up for a long-distance race and these picks can take half-marathon running recovery during training and post-race to the next level.

Container size: 12 servings per pack | Calories per serving: 10 calories | Key ingredients: Salt, potassium, magnesium

Our editors love LMNT for its ability to quickly replenish electrolytes and outlast long, sweaty workouts. 'I drink one of these before a long run during marathon training, and one after,' says Cartwright. 'I used to experience headaches and feel so gutted after long runs but once I started incorporating LMNT into my routine, I felt so much better and no longer experience those symptoms.'

For the record, these mixes are supremely salty, so they don't taste fantastic — but the salt is the point. The huge amount of sodium (1,000 mg) in each pack is meant to give your body the boost it needs before, during, or after workouts. Our testers like the raspberry salt and watermelon salt flavors the best, adding that the watermelon tastes a bit like a flavored margarita sans the alcohol. It's recommended to mix these with 16-32 oz of water or tea or to add it to smoothies.

Colors: 6 | Dimensions: 3.94 x 5.12 x 5.12 inches

Foam rollers are a must-have for runners. They help soothe aching muscles and ensure that your legs recover as quickly as possible. Feeling pain around your knees or feeling tight in your calves? Foam rollers can help. This TiggerPoint model is a favorite among Shape editors thanks to its raised grid that encourages as much tissue aeration as possible.

What you wear on race day is largely dependent on the weather. There is one rule for running races: nothing new on race day. No matter what the temperature or weather, be sure your picks have been worn on runs in your training, so you know how they fit, chafe, and perform. Our general rule is if it's above 50 degrees, wear a short sleeve or tank top and shorts. If it's below that temp, we have lots of cold weather running gear recommendations. Remember: dress as if it is 20 degrees warmer outside than the temperature says as your body temperature will still rise, even if it’s cold and rainy outside.

When you’re gathering your items to bring on race day, keep in mind that same golden rule: these should all be items that you have personally tested before. For many runners, a watch, headphones, and sunglasses or a hat are the essentials. If you have additional gear to store, such as energy gels, your keys, or a phone, you may also want to bring a running belt.

Most races will provide water, electrolyte drinks, and even energy gels along the course. However, if you have a specific plan for when you want water or gels or trained with a specific brand or flavor (especially if traditional energy gels upset your stomach), then you may want to pack your own. Apply your face sunscreen and body SPF to all exposed skin before you ditch your bag. And be sure to put on an anti-chafe product to any areas that need it — like inner thighs, along your sports bra, and on your toes, heels, and ankles.

The first step to curating this list of the best half marathon gear was expertise: Our editors have run more than 30 half marathons combined. But it's not just our staff that contributed — we have access to an NYC-based testing lab that conducts thorough weeks-long experiments on Lululemon leggings, sneakers, massage guns, and more.

We also picked the brains of the running shoe experts, the folks at Fleet Feet, for more information about long-distance running shoes for a half marathon. We have conducted extensive testing on running shoes over the last few years — over 300 unique styles have been tested so far — and are experts in the category. We even have an annual Sneaker Awards to showcase the best pairs.

We poured over a year's worth of testing results and hundreds of products to find the ones that stood out among the rest and are worth your money. Training for a race and investing in the necessary products and gear can be expensive, these items are the ones that we would recommend to our best friend.

Summer Cartwright is a marathon runner, certified cycling instructor, and the senior commerce editor at Shape. She has raced in the Chicago Marathon, Houston Half Marathon, Brooklyn Half Marathon, Columbus Marathon, New York Mini 10k, and dozens of other events. She has expertise in running shoes, performance gear, and recovery equipment. Previously, she's worked with brands including Cosmopolitan, InStyle, Real Simple, Well + Good, and Best Products.

Shannon Bauer is a senior commerce editor for the brand and has seven years of experience in the wellness industry. She has also run four half marathons and one full marathon. Shannon is currently in training for the Shape + Health 2023 half marathon. Many of these recommendations come from her own experience with product testing and reviewing running products, with the Best in Fitness Awards, our NYC-based testing lab, and the experts at Fleet Feet, giving insights to round out the list.