Beginner running gear can quickly become overwhelming. Learn what’s worth spending on, what you can save on, and how to build a simple, comfortable setup without breaking the bank.
Starting running often comes with a surprising amount of gear pressure. Suddenly, it feels like you need the right shoes, the perfect leggings, the best running watch, and a long list of accessories – before you even take the first step out the door.
For beginners especially, this can quickly become overwhelming – I know it was for me. It’s hard to tell what actually matters, what’s just nice to have, and what’s mostly hype and marketing. And the usual advice: “invest in the essentials” or “you don’t need fancy gear” sounds reassuring, but it doesn’t really explain where spending makes a real difference, and where it’s just not worth it.
In reality, some must-haves are easy to save on, and some optional items are absolutely worth spending on once you need them. The easiest way to think about running gear is this:
Spend where gear directly affects comfort, consistency, or injury risk. Save where it doesn’t. Upgrade only when a problem or a need appears, not before.
This approach removes the pressure to buy everything at once, before you even really know what you need. It also helps you build a setup that grows with you, and keeps the focus where it should be: making running feel easier, more comfortable, and easier to repeat.
Essential running gear worth spending on
These items are the must-haves – basic gear you need to start running and stick with it long term. They directly affect your comfort, injury risk, and whether running feels sustainable over time. If they’re wrong, running may quickly become uncomfortable, frustrating, or hard to come back to – no matter how motivated you are.
Running shoes
If there’s one thing truly worth spending on, it’s the shoes. Running shoes absorb impact, protect your joints, and influence how you entire body feels during and after your run. Poorly fitting, unstable, or worn-out shoes can lead to discomfort, pain, and even injury.
That said, “worth spending on” doesn’t mean buying the newest, trendiest, most expensive pair on the shelf. Choose shoes that fit your feet well, feel comfortable from the first run, and suit the type of surface you’ll run most often on. A well-chosen mid-range shoe that feels right is far better than a premium model that just… doesn’t.
If you’d like to learn how to find your perfect first pair of running shoes without breaking the bank, read Beginner running shoes for women.
You don’t need a full shoe rotation to start. One well-fitting, versatile pair is more than enough at the beginning.
One smart way to save without compromising on quality is buying last season’s models. Running shoe updates are often minor, and older versions usually perform just as well – at a significantly lower price.
Sports bra
For women, a supportive, well-fitting sports bra is another non-negotiable. It affects comfort, confidence, and how relaxed you feel while running.
A bra that doesn’t provide enough support can cause not only distraction, but discomfort and pain – which often shortens runs or makes them feel harder than they need to be. On the other hand, research shows that a too-tight sports bra can impair breathing mechanics. In the study, runners consumed less oxygen at the same running speed when the bra band was loosened, suggesting that excessive restriction can make breathing less efficient at the same pace.
In this case, fewer truly good bras are far better than a drawer full of mediocre ones. Finding one or two that fit well, feel comfortable, and provide the right level of support takes time, but it’s absolutely worth the investment.
Protective outer layers
Outer layers aren’t essential for everyone, but when you run in wind, rain, or cold conditions, they can make the difference between skipping runs and staying consistent.
A well-designed jacket or shell protects you from the elements without trapping heat or moisture, helping you stay comfortable in challenging weather. If you regularly run in bad weather or colder climates, this is one area where quality tends to pay off – not for aesthetics, but for comfort and reliability when conditions aren’t ideal. A well-chosen and cared-for one will last you literally years.
Related post: Best rainy weather running gear.
Essential running gear you can save on
These are must-haves you need to run, but you don’t need them to be premium to do their job. For many pieces of basic running gear, a higher price doesn’t automatically mean better performance, especially when you’re just getting started.
Leggings and shorts
Leggings and shorts are essential, but they’re also one of the easiest places to save money – unless they cause friction for you specifically. If they stay up, don’t chafe, and don’t distract you while you run, they’re doing exactly what you need them to do.
Many runners (myself included) run comfortably in basic, affordable leggings without any issues. Upgrading only really makes sense when problems appear – constant slipping, inner-thigh chafing, waistbands digging in. Until then, there’s no need to replace something that already works.
Plus, a premium logo or a higher price tag doesn’t guarantee a superior fit. It’s always worth trying the gear on before buying – different pieces fit different bodies in different ways.
Tops
The same applies to tops and t-shirts. Old gym tops, simple technical tees, or affordable long sleeves are perfectly fine for most runs.
As long as the fabric is breathable, dries reasonably quickly, and feels comfortable against your skin, expensive branding doesn’t add much – unless that’s something you personally care about. If a cute top makes you enjoy going out to run more and helps you stay consistent in your routine, it can absolutely be worth the price.
Base layers for mild conditions
In mild or cool conditions, base layers are easy to save on. Lightweight long sleeves or basic thermal tops only need to fit well, be breathable, and allow sweat to escape. They don’t need a high price tag to work.
Higher-end materials become more relevant in true cold or harsh weather, but for everyday running in moderate temperatures, simple options are more than enough.
Optional running gear you can save on
This is the low-risk gear that can make running more convenient or comfortable, and cheap versions usually work just fine. There’s no need to overthink it, especially early on.
Hats, caps, and headbands
Hats and headbands are useful for sun protection, rain, or keeping hair out of your face, but they really don’t need to be expensive to do their job. As long as they fit comfortably and don’t slip around, affordable options work just as well as premium ones.
Gloves
For cooler weather, gloves can make runs far more comfortable – but they’re another area where spending big rarely adds much value. Simple, inexpensive gloves often work surprisingly well for most conditions, and they’re easy to replace if they get lost or worn out.
If you’re planning to run in freezing temperatures, they may be worth upgrading – read Winter running essentials to get my recommendations.
Socks
I remember being surprised how many options are there for running socks – and how expensive they can get. For most people, basic running socks are perfectly sufficient. You don’t need a drawer full of high-end options to start. As long as they’re comfortable and don’t cause blisters, affordable pairs are great.
If you do start dealing with hot spots, blisters, or irritation, that’s a good signal to upgrade – but until then, there’s no need to spend more than necessary.
Basic storage
Early in your running journey, simple storage solutions are usually enough. Leggings and shorts with pockets, an armband, or a bum bag can comfortably carry your phone or keys on shorter runs.
More advanced storage options become relevant later, but at the beginning, saving here makes sense until you find out what you really need and want.
Optional running gear worth spending on
None of these items are required at the start (or ever, really), but once they solve a real, recurring problem, quality matters. This is the gear that often feels unnecessary at first and then suddenly becomes indispensable when your running routine changes.
Buy these only when you need them – but buy them well when that happens.
Hydration vests
Hydration vests are a perfect example of optional gear that’s absolutely worth investing in when you actually need it. Once your runs get longer or the conditions get difficult, carrying water comfortably can be a game-changer.
I wasted so much money on cheap vests, and never found one that doesn’t bounce or chafe and fits just right. A well-designed vest that fits your body properly needs to sit close, distributess weight evenly, and almost disappear while you run. If you’ve reached the point where you need hydration (or more storage), this is the one area where quality pays off quickly.
Running belts
Running belts fall into the same category. Once you start carrying a phone, keys, or fuel, a belt can make runs far more comfortable – but only if it fits well.
Low-quality belts tend to bounce, twist, or dig in, which becomes distracting fast. If you find yourself constantly adjusting or annoyed mid-run, it’s a sign that upgrading makes sense. Until then, simple options are usually fine.
A high price or a name brand doesn’t guarantee a good fit though, so try to test multiple options and see what works for your body.
Additional shoes
One pair of shoes is enough at the beginning. Additional pairs only start to make sense once your running becomes more varied or more frequent.
Extra shoes can be worth investing in when they serve a clear purpose, such as:
- a second daily trainer to rotate and extend shoe lifespan
- trail or hybrid shoes for off-road running
- a lighter shoe for faster runs or racing
These aren’t upgrades you need early on, but once your training calls for them, choosing quality makes a noticeable difference in comfort and durability.
Sunglasses
Not everyone likes running in sunglasses, and they’re not essential in all conditions. But when sun, glare, wind, or rain becomes an issue, a good pair can make runs far more comfortable.
Here, comfort and fit matter much more than hype. Sunglasses that slip, fog up, or pinch quickly become annoying. You don’t need ultra-premium, influencer-priced models: mid-priced options are often the sweet spot.
I personally prefer a cap over sunglasses while running, but I used to run in an affordable pair of Bliz glasses that I absolutely loved and still use for hiking. They’re lightweight, never fog, and sit so comfortably that I often forget I’m wearing them.
Earphones
Music or podcasts aren’t essential for running, but if you do run with audio, earphones are worth choosing carefully. A poor fit that causes the earbuds to fall out can quickly ruin an otherwise good run.
This is one area where spending a bit more for secure fit, reliability, and safety (such as bone-conducting options if you run outdoors) can genuinely improve the experience.
Visibility and safety gear
If you train early in the morning, in the evening, or during winter, running visibility gear becomes non-negotiable. Headlamps, reflective vests, or clip-on lights aren’t exciting, but they’re worth spending on if you rely on them regularly.
Winter base layers
For runners who train through real cold – not just cool weather – winter base layers are one of the most worthwhile upgrades. Merino and other high-quality materials regulate temperature, manage moisture, and stay warm even when damp.
They’re not necessary for everyone, but if winter running is part of your routine, investing in one or two good base layers can dramatically improve comfort and make consistency much easier when conditions are tough.
Second-hand running gear: what’s worth it (and what to skip)
Buying running gear second-hand can be a smart way to save money and still get high-quality pieces. There’s a nuance though, as some items hold up extremely well used, while others are more personal or higher risk.
Running gear worth buying second-hand
Running clothes (leggings, tops, layers)
Clothing is one of the safest and most practical categories to buy second-hand. Leggings, tops, and layers don’t lose their performance quickly, and many pieces sold on Poshmark or Vinted are barely worn, sometimes even still with tags.
If you already know which brands and fits work for you, second-hand can be a great way to get higher-quality fabrics or better construction at a much lower price. As always, check seams, elasticity, and fabric condition, but overall this is a low-risk, high-reward category.
Watches and tech
Running watches and basic tech can also work well second-hand. Many people upgrade for new features long before their old device stops working.
If you go this route, it’s worth doing a few simple checks:
- battery health and charging
- whether the device can be reset and updated
- seller reputation and buyer protection
For runners who enjoy tracking but don’t need the newest model, this can be an easy way to save money without giving up functionality.
Accessories
Smaller items like hats, gloves, belts, or reflective gear are generally safe to buy used. They’re low-risk, easy to inspect, and inexpensive to replace if they don’t work out
Running gear better bought new
Running shoes
Shoes are the clearest category to avoid second-hand. Running shoes adapt to the original runner’s stride, weight, and movement patterns, and once the cushioning is compressed, it can’t be “reset.”
Because wear isn’t always visible, it’s hard to know how much life a used shoe has left, and poor support increases injury risk. For comfort and safety, shoes are best bought new.
Sports bras
Sports bras are very personal – fit, support, and elasticity matter a lot for your comfort. Over time, the supportive structure of a bra breaks down, even if it still looks fine on the outside.
For many women, this is simply one category where buying new makes things easier and more predictable. If second-hand works for you, that’s completely fine – for most runners though, new bras offer better comfort, support, and peace of mind.
A minimalist running gear setup
A minimalist running setup doesn’t mean owning as little as possible, but owning fewer pieces that actually fit you well and really work for you.
You don’t need a full running wardrobe to stay consistent. One well-fitting pair of shoes, a supportive bra, and a few comfortable basics are enough to get started. From there, upgrades should come slowly, intentionally, and only when something starts getting in the way of your runs.
Fit matters more than brand. Comfort matters more than trends. And taking care of your running gear properly can extend its lifespan and make it last for years, not seasons.
When your setup is simple, getting out the door feels easier. Fewer decisions, less friction, and more mental space for what actually matters: showing up and running.
Moving forward
You don’t need expensive gear or a perfect setup to start running. What matters most is choosing something comfortable enough to get you out the door, and letting your routine grow from there.
If you want help turning that first step into a habit, read How to build a running habit that fits a busy schedule. It’s a practical guide to making running work with real life, not against it.
