Get set, go: What to wear for a marathon
Warm up, stretch out and run 42km in the best gear on the market
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I’m running the London Marathon this year. My first-ever full-blown, legs-going-to-burn 26.2 mile sporting event. I’m nervous, excited, and everything in between. Alongside some 56,000 other runners expected to complete it (the largest participation number to date), I’ve been training, fueling up and getting the miles in come rain or shine. I’ve also been thinking a lot about the all-important question of what to wear on race day (as I bet you have too, fellow marathon-runners).
Now, it may seem obvious what to wear for a marathon – sweat-wicking, breathable fabrics and bouncy, supportive trainers – but fine-tuning your kit with some speed enhancing bells and whistles can, I’m told, truly make all the difference. Eager to know more (and, ideally, avoid debilitating blisters), I’ve done the hard work for us runners and looked into the best tops, bottoms, and trainers to wear for a marathon, plus the key accessories that will have you crossing the finish line in style (and hopefully with a PB). As ever, however, remember it’s important to train in the same gear you’ll wear on race day — no one wants to discover their brand new trainers are half a size too small at the start line.
But you don’t just have to take my word for it. I’ve also tapped the expertise of Michael Meier, head of product at sports and fashion brand Falke, who explains that having the right running kit will “help you achieve your goals and enjoy the run.” He says that the perfect outfit will help “avoid any kind of discomfort and problems, such as overheating or an uncomfortable fit. All your energy should go into your athletic performance without having to worry about clothing and shoe choices.”
Discover my findings, and some of Meier’s tips and recommendations, below. Whether tackling the iconic London race or another European marathon, I’ll see you at the finish line.
The best trainers for a marathon
Arguably the most important piece of kit for getting you through a marathon, having the right pair of sturdy and supportive, springy and speedy running trainers is paramount. Meier explains, “A perfect fit is the basic requirement for good running shoes. They should not be too tight, but not too loose either. The decisive factor is which socks are worn with them. They keep the soles of your feet dry and minimise blisters. A good sock/shoe combination can make all the difference in the race.”
Look for lightweight designs that promise flexibility, cushioning that will keep your stride comfortable and bouncy, grippy soles for stability, as well as breathable materials to keep your feet cool. Popular among athletes this season are new launches and trusty styles from Asics, Brooks, Saucony and On Running.
Asics Novablast 5
The newest design from running shoe hero Asics, the Novablast 5 is built for speed. Super responsive with FF Blast Max foam, the cushioned, gripping design might even help you get a PB. Definitely my style of choice.
Brooks Glycerin Max
The Glycerin Max is designed for road running and features nitrogen-infused cushioning to enhance the spring in every stride. The brand is also championing sustainability, with this design made from 66 per cent recycled materials.
Saucony Endorphine Speed 4
Propel yourself to the finish line in Saucony’s latest trainer. Speed technology paired with elite foam cushioning and winged nylon plates means you’ll be whizzing your way around the course in comfort and with a lot of bounce.
On Running Cloudsurfer 2
Breathable, cushioned, durable and smooth, lace up On’s most recent Cloudsurfer iteration for effortless running, right up to the 42km mark. With an updated design, featuring improved ventilation and super foam technology, they’ll keep you energised throughout.
Sports bras
Listen up ladies – don’t neglect your breasts when running. Like you would with a pair of trainers, invest in a good sports bra to provide comfort and optimum support while on the move, for that held-in, minimum-movement feeling. As running is a high-intensity sport, look for high-support varieties in sweat-wicking, quick-drying fabrics that will keep you cool and everything in place for the utmost control. Meier also recommends choosing a style that is “as seam-free as possible to prevent unnecessary pressure points, with a support function at the back to provide additional stabilisation for the spine.”
Lululemon Energy bra
Available in B to DD cups, choose Lululemon’s Energy bra for full coverage, shaping and that locked-in feeling. Complete with double-cross back straps and a soft underband, use the hook and eye closure to tailor the fit specifically to you and keep bounce under wraps.
Nike Indy bra
Providing strong support with sturdy, adjustable straps, Nike’s Indy bra will keep everything in place. Made with Nike Dri-Fit technology and available in black, blue, green or red, this easy breezy sports bra is sweat-wicking and fast-drying for top performance.
Running bottoms
Keeping your strides slick and streamlined while staying cool and supported is key when embarking on long runs. Whether choosing shorts or leggings (potentially weather dependent), look for styles that offer compression and comfort as well as sweat-wicking and fast-drying fabrics.
Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity women’s running shorts
Keep cool and streamlined in Sweaty Betty’s signature shorts. The Zero Gravity’s are specifically designed for running, cut from a high-compression fabric that is lightweight, supportive and breathable, with a handy side and back pocket (ideal for gels). They’re my favourite and for good reason.
Adidas by Stella McCartney Truepace women’s running shorts
Keep your pace up and style on point in these shorts from Adidas’ collaboration with designer Stella McCartney. Vibrant in colour and breathable in design, with laser-cut holes for added ventilation, wear to ace your marathon in style.
Hoka Novafly men’s running shorts
Whether wearing solo or layering with another pair of looser shorts on top, thanks to the Novafly’s tight-fitting silhouette, there’s no chance of chafing here. Cut from a moisture-absorbing fabric and complete with a zipper pocket, make functionality and form a priority.
Under Armour Launch 2-in-1 men’s running shorts
A highly-rated style for a reason, Under Armour’s Launch shorts will allow you to move freely and comfortably for the full length of the marathon. Featuring an internal shorts liner for extra coverage, the design is supportive, breathable and highly practical for racing.
Lululemon Swift Speed women’s leggings
If opting for longer bottoms, turn to Lululemon’s Swift Speed leggings. A reliable pair made from a slick, soft and sweat-wicking fabric, they feature an internal drawcord for a customisable fit that feels like a second skin.
Adidas Own The Run men’s leggings
If you’re swapping out running shorts for leggings, make them these ones from Adidas. A streamlined design in a tight fit with a drawcord waistband, the sleek silhouette will keep you supported on the move, and has useful pockets for your phone, gels and keys.
Running tops
You may very well be doing your marathon for charity and therefore have been provided with a top. If not, best to opt for super lightweight, sweat-wicking, fast-drying designs that won’t ride up and won’t slow you down. Whether you choose long or short sleeves or tank top varieties, sports brands such as Adidas and Lululemon have your back (quite literally).
Sweaty Betty Breathe Easy women’s running vest
Sweaty Betty’s classic running vest has had an update. A super-stretchy design that skims the body with its sweat-wicking fabric, it’s available in nine different colours so there is something for everyone, whether a bright green, icy blue or classic black takes your fancy.
Lululemon Swiftly Tech women’s top
A slim fit that sits securely on the hip, this top is perfect for marathon running thanks to its lightweight feel and mesh construction for breathability. Long-sleeved for cooler days or to protect from the sun, layer on and get to it.
Adidas Adizero men’s running top
Look and feel the part in Adidas’ Adizero tank. Ultra-light and breezy, made from 70 per cent recycled materials, the slim fit design has perforated holes to keep you cool and adjustable side seams to reduce chafing. Rendered in a vibrant orangey-red with the iconic Adidas stripes, hit the road looking like a pro.
Brooks Atmosphere 3.0 men’s running top
A long-sleeved option for colder temperatures or for those who prefer a more covered-up style, Brooks’ Atmosphere 3.0 top is the perfect top layer. A weightless, second-skin feel, the quick-drying fabric features odour-resistant technology to ensure you’re still fresh at the finish line.
Running accessories
Once you’re kitted out in all the gear, from your top and bottoms to trainers, it’s time to think about the nitty-gritty details. They may be the final, finishing touches, but trust me, they can be the winning ingredients to take your run from average to the best yet.
Balega unisex running socks
The last thing you want is blistered or cut feet holding you back during the marathon. Opt for a pair of high-quality, high-performance running socks, like Balegas, which are designed with extra deep heel cushioning, for added support and resistance to avoid any trainer rubbing while also keeping feet fresh and bouncy.
Falke RU5 Race running socks
Meire recommends Falke’s RU5 race range of running socks: “These ultra-light running socks combine a quick-dry material with optimal fit and moisture-wicking 3-layer construction,” he explains. With comfortable but light cushioning to prevent overheating, they’ll provide a well-ventilated, supportive fit to put you through your paces.
Salomon ADV SKIN 5 running vest
Yes, there definitely will be hydration stations throughout your marathon (if signed up to an official event), but that doesn’t mean having your own supplies on you will hurt. Slip on Salomon’s running vest and carry water, gels and any other essentials with you for the ultimate in convenience and sharp design.
Lululemon Fast and Free running belt
Lightweight and compact, you’ll barely notice Lululemon’s running belt, but packed full of the necessities – from gels and jelly sweets to your phone and keys – you’ll be very grateful it’s there.
Oakley Radar EV sunglasses
Don’t forget to protect your eyes (and be able to see where you’re going) with a decent pair of running sunglasses. Designed to stay in place while sprinting, make Oakley’s lightweight frames your go-to for a sleek and practical look.
Lululemon Fast and Free running hat
If you’re used to running with a hat on, make Lululemon’s cap your choice for marathon day. The unisex style is made from a naturally breathable fabric with a sweat-wicking interior to keep you cool and dry, and featuring a lightweight brim, it will give you optimal shade if required.
Read more: Europe’s best marathons
