Essential Gear for First-Time Marathoners
Training for your first marathon is an exciting but challenging journey. Long runs, early mornings and recovery routines can take a toll on your body but the right gear can make all the difference. While finding the perfect running shoes and clothing is crucial, this list focuses on other essential products—hydration, recovery tools and performance tracking—that will help you train smarter, stay comfortable and cross the finish line strong.
Hydration & Fuelling
Staying hydrated and fuelled is key to performing well and avoiding fatigue. These products will help you maintain energy and hydration levels throughout your training and race day.
Salomon Active Skin
The Salomon ACTIVE SKIN 4 is a lightweight, snug-fitting running vest designed for long training runs. With soft flasks included and multiple storage pockets, it keeps hydration and essentials easily accessible without bouncing or chafing. Perfect for marathoners needing a comfortable and practical hydration solution.
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Run Lite® Running Vest
A minimalist yet functional running vest, the Run Lite® offers ample storage for your phone and gels while maintaining a featherlight feel. Its breathable design and adjustable straps ensure a secure fit, making it ideal for runners who want to carry essentials without added bulk.
Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gels
Fueling properly is key to marathon training and Science In Sport GO gels provide a quick, easily digestible energy boost. Their isotonic formula means no extra water is needed, making them a convenient option for mid-run refuelling.
Recovery & Injury Prevention
Proper recovery prevents injuries and helps you stay consistent in training. These tools aid muscle recovery, reduce soreness and keep your body in peak condition.
TriggerPoint Grid Foam Roller
Recovery is just as important as training and the TriggerPoint Grid Foam Roller is a must-have for easing muscle tension. With its durable, multi-density construction, it effectively targets tight spots, helping to improve mobility and prevent injuries.
Theragun Relief Massage Gun
This compact yet powerful massage gun delivers deep muscle treatment to speed up recovery and reduce soreness. The Theragun Relief is easy to use and perfect for first-time marathoners looking to relieve tight muscles after long runs.
BetterYou Magnesium Original Bath Flakes
Soothe tired muscles and enhance recovery with these BetterYou magnesium bath flakes. A warm soak after a tough run can help reduce soreness and promote relaxation, making this a great addition to any runner’s recovery routine.
Performance & Safety Gear
Tracking your progress and staying safe during runs—especially in low light—is essential. These products enhance visibility, monitor performance and ensure comfort on long runs.
Garmin Forerunner 255 (46 mm)
The Garmin Forerunner 255 is an advanced yet beginner-friendly GPS running watch with accurate tracking, heart rate monitoring and training insights. Its long battery life and detailed performance metrics make it an excellent investment for any marathon trainee.
Petzl Bindi 200 Lumens
For early morning or evening training sessions, the Petzl Bindi headlamp provides powerful 200-lumen brightness in a compact, rechargeable design. Its lightweight build and adjustable strap make it comfortable for long runs while ensuring visibility and safety.
SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2
Designed for runners, the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 uses bone conduction technology to keep your ears open to ambient sounds while delivering premium audio. Lightweight and secure, they’re a great choice for staying entertained and aware during long training runs.
Comfort & Protection
Preventing discomfort can make a huge difference during training and on race day. These products help eliminate common running irritations.
NipEaze - The Original Sports Nipple Cover
Chafing can be a real issue on long runs and NipEaze provides an effective, no-slip solution. These discreet and sweat-resistant covers keep you comfortable and protected, making them a small but essential addition to any marathoner's gear list.
Body Glide Unisex Anti Chafe Balm Stick
Long runs can quickly turn uncomfortable if chafing becomes an issue but Body Glide’s Anti Chafe Balm Stick is a game-changer for marathon training. Its non-greasy, sweat-resistant formula glides on smoothly to protect skin from irritation in high-friction areas like thighs, underarms and feet. Unlike messy creams, this balm stays put without feeling sticky, making it a must-have for runners tackling high mileage.
