The Running Gear Brit & Katie Actually Use & Love

You do NOT need to spend a fortune to start running. But having the right gear can make a real difference, especially when you're building a new habit and you want every run to feel as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

We asked our two Sweat run coaches, Britany Williams and Katie Martin, to share the running essentials they genuinely use and rely on. Between them, they've logged an enormous number of kilometres, and they've both developed strong opinions on what's actually worth buying and what you can skip.

The most important purchase: running shoes

Both coaches agree on this one. Of all the things you can invest in, getting the right running shoe is worth taking seriously.

When it comes to shoes, though, they don't have recommended brands or pairs.

"Running shoes are super individual," says Katie. "My recommendation is to go see a sports podiatrist and get fitted for a pair of shoes that work for you. What works for me won’t work for everyone."

Alongside Brit's experience as a runner, she worked in the running footwear industry for 12 years and truly believes there isn't a single brand or shoe that works for everyone.

"The best approach is to go to a running specialty store that can do a gait analysis and watch you run in an array of types of shoes and brands of shoes until you find that one that works best for you," she says.

Brit also recommends replacing your shoes after roughly 400 miles (650km), which includes any kilometres you've walked in them.

What to wear: bras, shorts and what makes a difference

If you've already got activewear you love and are comfortable in, you're good to go. But if your wardrobe is empty, or you're finding that your current options aren't cutting it, a few key pieces can genuinely improve your comfort when running.

Brit recommends high-impact racerback bras with adjustable straps and a supportive band. If you're prone to thigh chafing, a longer biker short (5 inches or longer) is worth trying instead of loose shorts. And on socks: don't just grab whatever's in the drawer.

"Moisture-wicking socks make a huge difference. Don't just wear a generic cotton sock. Pay for a running sock. Generally, that goes for everything - buy moisture-wicking garments. They do truly make a difference," she says.

As a lululemon ambassador, Katie has tried and tested so much of their gear, and these are her go-tos for running:

• Running shorts: Fast and Free High-Rise Classic-Fit Split Short 3"

• Running tights: Fast and Free High-Rise Tight 25"

• Running singlet: Swiftly Tech Racerback Tank Top 2.0

• Running T-shirt: Swiftly Tech Short-Sleeve Shirt 2.0

• Running cap: Fast and Free Running Hat

• Running belt: Fast and Free Running Belt

• Running bra: Energy Bra High Support

• Ponytail cap: Fast and Free Ponytail Running Hat

Headphones: what to look for and what our coaches use

Playing music, a podcast, or one of the audio-guided runs in the Sweat app can completely transform your running experience for the better, but your safety matters too. Leave your noise-cancelling headphones for the gym and instead choose earphones for headphones that don't sit directly in your ear canal so you can still hear traffic and your surroundings.

Katie runs with Apple AirPods, while Brit recommends the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 or the Shokz OpenFit Pro, preferring the wrap-around style because it sits much more securely when running.

"There is great technology these days that allows the headphones to not sit directly in your ear, which allows you to still hear your surroundings for safety, which is always necessary when running."

Do you even need running gels?

Probably not, unless you're training for longer distances. For most people just starting out or building a regular running habit, staying well-hydrated before and after your runs is enough.

"I've never had a gel a day in my life, even when I was running 75 miles a week," Brit is happy to admit. "I don't think it's necessary unless you're marathon training or dealing with cramping or stomach issues."

If you do happen to be looking for gels or want to see how your body feels, Katie recommends Maple running gels (and you can use her discount code KATIE).

The one thing most runners forget: anti-chafe

It sounds unglamorous, and it is. But if you've ever come home from a longer run with raw, red, stinging skin between your thighs or even around your bust, you'll never skip it again.

Katie keeps Vaseline Petroleum Jelly in her kit, and it does the job for thighs, underarms and anywhere your clothing rubs.

Run to a playlist that actually moves you

It's not exactly running gear, but if you were looking for Brit and Katie's running playlists, we've got you.

• Britany's running playlist

• Katie's running playlist

Start with the basics and build from there

You don't need everything on this list to begin your running journey or start training with Katie or Brit in the Sweat app. A decent pair of running shoes, comfy clothes and a supportive sports bra will take you a long way. Add pieces as you go and pay attention to what makes your runs feel better.

If you're looking for a structured program, Ignite Running with Brit and Run Stronger with Katie both include a mix of audio-guided runs and targeted strength workouts.

While both programs are beginner-friendly and focus on running and strength training, Run Stronger uses more equipment and is geared more towards those who are already running and looking for an achievable routine to level up their performance, power, and strength. Ignite Running is great if you’re looking to start your running journey with a fun, varied, confidence-building program using minimal equipment.

The gear helps. The program gets you there.