HALF MARATHON KIT LIST
You've done it! You've signed up for the half marathon and are ready to run all 13.1 miles to the finish line. Now you just need the kit to help get you there.
Running your first half marathon is an exciting prospect. Regardless of how large scale the event is that you’re taking part in, it’s good to be surrounded by runners of all abilities looking to complete the 13.1 miles ahead.
In addition to making sure you’ve trained correctly for a half marathon, you need to make sure you’ve got everything you need on the day. We’ve put together a Half Marathon kit list to help you get your race bag packed and reach that finish line.
Arguably the most important part of your running set-up, getting the right shoes on your feet is a must-have for your half marathon. Whether you're planning to run in old favourites or looking for a new lightweight pair, it's crucial you choose a pair of running shoes that are comfortable and fit you well. That means wearing and training in your trainers BEFORE the big day - the day of your half marathon run is not the day to wear new running shoes.
Make sure you've got the right shoes by heading in-store for a gait analysis appointment to ensure you get the best fit for how you run, along with expert running shoe recommendations. Discover your nearest store and book an appointment today.
If it wasn’t obvious already, we’re not recommending you pack you flip flops to run in. Once your half marathon is over, having a pair of flip flops or recovery shoes to change into will help to air your feet, prevent blisters, and give you a welcome break from your trainers.
If you want a recommendation, we love the recovery shoe range from OOFOS. Designed to aid recovery by absorbing a percentage of the impact of hard surfaces, OOFOS shoes reduce the stress on your feet, body, and soul to help you recover faster.
Although we always prioritise the running shoes we put on our feet, the same can't be said about socks. Running socks are essential for preparing your feet for the 13.1-mile endeavour of a half-marathon, and finding the right pair is essential not only to your running comfort, but also your performance.
When it comes to exercise, cotton socks are always a bad idea. Cotton traps water and holds it against your skin, increasing friction, heat, and moisture causing painful blisters and sores. We recommend running socks made from synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester. These materials are designed to wick away moisture, dry quickly, and remain breathable.
If you want to go further, look out for extra features including seamless constructions to prevent chafing, compression socks to boost blood circulation and reduce fatigue, and cushioning and padding to help provide some welcome comfort. Learn more about compression here.
For more advice, we recommend checking out our Ultimate Guide To Buying Running Socks.
When running your half marathon, we recommend wearing lightweight, breathable, comfortable clothing. Make sure you're prepared from the bottom up with suitable, well-fitting underwear to avoid chafing and discomfort and a well-supported sports bra should you need one.
Like socks, avoid cotton and opt for moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics such as Merino Wool and synthetics like nylon and polyester.
Top tip: When running a half marathon you WILL warm up quickly, so opt for shorts, t-shirts, and vests over jackets and mid-layers.
Unfortunately, you can never guarantee the weather on a race day. Make a judgement call in the morning on what to wear and whether you need to add any extra base layers for warmth. Taking a lightweight, water-resistant running jacket with you helps you stay prepared for any last-minute weather changes - ideal for the changeable British weather!
We also advise packing a warm, thermal layer to change into after the race. As your body temperature cools as you stop running it’s likely that you will start to feel cold and may want to change into something clean and dry before the journey home.
Energy gels and energy bars are a fantastic way of bringing a compact, easy-to-store energy boost to your runs. However, if you haven’t trained with gels or energy bars before, avoid trying them out on race day and instead try and train with them in the weeks leading up. Take the gels you know you like and avoid any that give you an upset stomach (you'll thank us later.)
For hydration, most half marathon events have dedicated water stations to help keep you hydrated and on the go. However, if you really want to carry your water, we stock a range of hydration bladders and purpose-built running handle water bottles which make it easy to take the water you need with you on your training runs and race days.
Many runners also choose to use isotonic drinks before, during, and after a race to keep energy levels high throughout the race. However, as with energy gels and bars, please ensure you aren’t trying anything new on race day.
- Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen before your race. Remember: even on dull days the sun can still cause damage. Consider packing a running cap and sunglasses to protect your head and shield your eyes from unwelcome rays.
- Chafe balm – Carry chafe balm or a similar lubricant to prevent sores on areas prone to rubbing. Lather before the race and re-apply after your post-race shower to ensure your sores heal quickly.
- Safety pins – Most race organisers provide safety pins, but it’s never a bad idea to carry extra to ensure your race number is securely attached.
- Support and taping – If you’re running on an old injury or notice twinges, ensure you have support and taping. Shop taping here.
- Plasters – After running 13.1 miles, it's likely you'll have some sore spots and blisters. Enjoy a more comfortable time after the finish line by packing blister plasters.
- Post-run recovery – Treat yourself to some post-run pampering with a roller or massage gun for instant tired muscle relief.
- Post-race fuel - Eating after your race helps aid muscle recovery. Take a recovery drink and snack in your bag and eat it within 20-30 minutes of your race finish.
A smartwatch is a fantastic added accessory for all runs. Leading designs can do everything, tracking your times, heart rate, health, and more. During half marathons and events your time is always tracked by race operators for you, however, a smartwatch is still a worthwhile accessory to help you keep track of your pace.
While running, it's easy to set off at your tempo before discovering after several miles that you're running too quickly and fatiguing yourself. Wearing a running watch allows you to watch your pace and slow things down, ensuring you have the energy to finish. For an expert recommendation, we suggest checking out the Garmin Forerunner series.
If you're a fan of listening to music and podcasts - then there's no question you'll want a pair of headphones. Having a good pair of running headphones in your kit bag helps prevent any mid-race technical issues and keep you running to your favourite playlist and tempo without missing a beat.
Our experts always recommend Shokz Headphones. Shokz revolutionizes the open-ear listening experience with their advanced Bone Conduction Technology for situational awareness. These top-tier sports headphones come with wireless bluetooth technology, up to 28 hours of battery life, and a comfortably open-ear fit. And for the triathletes and swimmers, there are the Shokz Open Swim Pro Headphones for comfort and superior sound quality even underwater.
Top tip: Always check that headphones and mobile devices are permitted on the course before you get started.
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