Written by Lydia Burdett /
Half marathon training season is really upon us, with the frequency that races hit the calendars really ramping up in springtime and beyond. Whether you’re planning to run your very first half this year or are pushing for a PB on the right course, you’ll most likely have your training plan locked in and, perhaps, even underway. What matters next is the equipment you have on hand to see you through it, and trust us when we say that the right gear can make all the difference between an enjoyable training block and weeks of niggles and setbacks.
With this in mind, we’ve compiled our top half marathon training essentials, carefully picked so that you’re confident you have everything you need to feel good when you cross the finish line.
It should go without saying that the first thing you need for any kind of long-distance running is a dependable pair of running trainers. These shouldn’t just be any kind of sports shoes you have hanging around in the back of your cupboard, but rather a high-quality pair of shoes tailored to the terrain (road or trail) that you’ll be training on.
Invest in your trainers early in your training, rather than once you’ve developed an injury. This will mean that you can get used to how they feel gradually, rather than hoping for a miracle once you’ve already developed a problem like shin splints or plantar fasciitis. If you’re not sure where to start or what to look for, see if you can get a gait analysis, which will identify the right fit for your body and running style. And remember, definitely don’t wait until race day to break in a new pair. By training in the same shoes throughout your training block, you can be sure you’ll be comfortable when it matters most.
Training for a half marathon is a pretty impressive time commitment, and you’ll probably be out stepping early in the morning, later in the evening, and when the weather isn’t at its finest. This makes a reliable changing jacket a half marathon training essential, letting you get in and out of your kit whatever the weather and without having to awkwardly peel off layers pre- and post-run.
Our Pursuit Lightweight Changing Jacket is perfect for this purpose, as it's lightweight, waterproof, and incredibly portable. You’ll have no problem carrying it to the track or to the trail, and be able to stay warm when waiting to start your session or recovering after it, thanks to its moisture-wicking grid fleece lining.
You’ll naturally be breaking a sweat pretty often during half marathon training, meaning that moisture-wicking and breathable clothing is a must-have. Not only does this type of performance clothing help to keep you cool on warmer days and during your higher intensity sessions, but it also helps you to stay dry.
Our Performance T-Shirts are designed with advanced dri-release technology, which is perfect for the temperature changes your body will go through during a run. This technology pulls sweat away from the skin to prevent clinginess and chafing, whilst still giving plenty of stretch to allow for freedom of movement during training. Because it’s lightweight, it also sits comfortably under a mid or waterproof layer for those wetter, windier, and colder sessions.
Much like its wise to have shoes specifically designed for the demands of running, give some thought to your socks too. It sounds silly, but never underestimate the difference a good pair of running socks can make to your comfort when training. With moisture-wicking fabrics and cushioning in the right areas, these types of socks are designed specifically to reduce slipping, rubbing, and the blisters that might follow so that you can keep going without discomfort. Even the shortest runs can become uncomfortable with the wrong socks, and you don’t want to cause an injury that might hamper the rest of your training plan.
Proper training is just as much about what you put in your body as it is about what you wear to protect it. You’ll need to find pre-training fuel that feels good and keeps energy levels high, then focus on protein and complex carbs to help muscles recover post-run.
During your long runs, energy gels and electrolyte drinks can be a game-changer, helping to replenish vital nutrients and keeping you hydrated when it’s most important. Staying hydrated is crucial, too, and this means that a reliable water bottle is most definitely a half-marathon training essential, with ours keeping your drink cold and refreshing.
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