The best marathon running kit pieces- in pictures

With just a couple of weeks to go before the Virgin Money London Marathon, you’ll most likely be tapering off and mentally preparing yourself for the big day, which makes this the perfect time to make sure you’ve got the right kit.

As you’ve racked up the miles each week, you might’ve started to notice certain foibles in your running gear. Even if the problems seem small – maybe a slight tug here or bit of chafing there – they can end up totally dominating your race.

Keep your mind on your strategy instead of on your outfit by investing in the most comfortable and practical training wear.

Tops 

Nike Sphere Element Running Top

The difficulty of the timing of the marathon is that you never know what the weather is going to be like. The Nike Sphere running top offers some insurance against fickle weather as it helps retain body heat but is breathable too. Lightweight fabric ensures you won’t feel bulky and it won’t get in the way if you end up tying it around your waist.

Brooks Men’s Dash Reflective Top

When you’re getting ready in the runners’ area pre-race, opt for a lightweight long sleeve top to keep you warm like this Brooks one. Made with a high-vis super soft fleece fabric, it wicks sweat away from the body and is hard to miss which is great if you’re taking it in turns to queue for the toilets with someone. Thumb holes and hidden pockets are handy extras.

Odlo Zeroweight Running Jacket

As you may have gathered from the name, this jacket is light shell jacket is virtually weightless. Designed with mapping technology to move with your body, the chances of chafing are minimal with here. Wear after the race as your body cools down to make the most of the fast-drying windproof technology.

Iffley Road Lancaster Chevron Vivo Vest

Made famous by Sir Roger Bannister and his four minute mile, Iffley Road offers great inspiration to get that PB. The sports brand is British made and includes a range of understated and retro pieces perfect for the runner that wants to up their sartorial game. The red and white classic running vest is both stylish and well made with the company’s signature dri-release fabric . The armholes are generous too, reducing the likelihood of friction rashes- this is an ideal shape to wear under your official race vest.

Bottoms

2XU G2 Pace Compression Shorts

Lycra can pose something of a dilemma for runners. Whilst it’s clearly the most streamline and lightweight material to wear, it leaves little to the imagination and can make you feel exposed. 2XU’s shots provide the perfect solution; layering loose fitting pace shorts over a compression liner. Not only does this keep you feeling secure, but it also stabilises muscles, helping to stave off fatigue.

Adidas Techfit Tough Long Tights

Tough patches in the race call for reinforcements, which is when you need to turn to fabrics such as the Adidas Climalight. Built to dry quickly, it’s ultra-smooth, so it’ll feel like you’re running in a second skin. The techfit aspect works with your muscles to maximise endurance whilst the flat seams make them less likely to rub.

Iffley Road Thompson Shorts

If you struggle to find shorts that fit over larger thighs, Iffley Road has the answer. Its new Thompson short has been designed with a wider fit and includes an elasticated rear and draw cord for getting a great fit. A zip inner pocket on the one side will keep your essentials safe and the side slits help achieve maximum comfort.

Reebok Running Legging

Slim fitting rather than tight like the compression leggings, there’s enough stretch in them to stay comfortable even if you pick up the pace. There aren’t any annoying ankle zips either, meaning you’ll barely notice them as you run.

Socks

Thorlos Thick Running Socks

For those who like a lot of padding, Thorlos socks have been clinically proven to protect against blisters and impact, which is essential for marathon running. The flatknit instep and thinner cushioning in the arches allows for a better fit, helping to support your foot as it hits and travels across the ground.

Happy Socks Athletic Flash Low Sock

For a little motivation, a thunderbold from Happy Socks doesn’t do any harm, reminding you to step on it and keep the speed up. Part of its athletic range, they have a cushioned sole and a light compression to support the foot as you stride.

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