14 Must-Have Running Accessories You Need in 2021

More people are taking up running than ever before. In 2020, over 7 million people in the UK went running at least twice per month - 500,000 more than the year before.

If you have recently taken up running and want to up your game, investing in running accessories can be a good move. While shoes and appropriate clothes are essential for an effective run, investing in additional running accessories can make your run more enjoyable, productive and efficient.

Here are the 14 best running accessories you should consider investing in.

Here are 14 running accessories for men and women that you should consider investing in to get more from your workout.

1. Running watch

Running watches are some of the most revolutionary accessories to have entered the world of running in recent years. Each running watch is different, but most use GPS to precisely track your routes, speed and distance covered. They can also monitor other things, such as your heart rate. Some running watches work in tandem with your mobile phone - so you need to carry it while running - while others work on their own.

Running watches are super helpful for tracking your workouts and monitoring your pace. They can be especially useful if you're trying to build your speed as they can provide precise splits.

2. Running sunglasses

A pair of specially designed running sunglasses will keep the sunlight out of your eyes, making your workout more comfortable. Running sunglasses are designed to avoid slipping when you perspire and are also lightweight to avoid discomfort and rubbing.

3. Running socks

Many people simply choose basic ankle socks to go running in. However, it might be worth investing in a pair of running socks which are specially designed for this activity. Running socks provide extra cushioning and are designed to prevent blisters and wick away sweat so your feet stay dry even on the longest runs.

4. Running headphones

Listening to music whilst you go jogging can help you to concentrate and run further and faster. Today, the best headphones for running are generally wireless - this avoids an irritating cable bouncing around or getting caught on bushes as you run by.

5. Running sweets and gels

If you are running long distances such as a half marathon or beyond, carrying running sweets or gels in your pocket or in a running belt can be a necessity. Refueling mid run provides your body with the nutrients it needs to carry you further without tiring.

6. Running headband

A running headband sits comfortably across your forehead and above your ears and is designed to keep uncomfortable sweat out of your eyes.

7. Running lights

If you ever run after dark, a set of running lights can be extremely valuable for your safety. Running lights clip onto your back and front, and make you more visible to other road users and pedestrians. If you are ever running through a dark park, running lights can be particularly useful for finding your way.

8. Running belts

Do you find it distracting to carry your keys, phone, wallet and other personal effects in your pockets or in a running phone holder on your arm? Running belts are the perfect solution. These handy running accessories fit comfortably around your waist and allow you to hold all your belongings in an easily accessible place without shaking around too much.

9. Running bra

Running bras are crucial running accessories for women. They keep your chest stable and avoid uncomfortable movement and pain. Correct sizing is key as you want to be supported without additional pressure being placed on your sternum.

10. Running nipple guards

Nipple protectors are popular running accessories for men. Nipple guards are applied over your nipples and prevent rubbing and chafing on this sensitive area.

11. Running face cover

Running face covers allow you to exercise comfortably whilst helping to avoid the spread of COVID-19 as well as reducing the amount of air pollution that you inhale. Especially popular with gym goers who want to stay safe and keep others protected while running on treadmills, running face covers are becoming a must have running accessory for 2021

12. Running kneepad

Running kneepads keep your knees stable and are a popular running accessory for people who have had injuries.

13. Running gloves

If you are training in winter, a pair of running gloves is absolutely essential. Running gloves prevent your fingers from becoming too cold and minimise distraction while you are exercising in the colder months.

14. Running phone holder

A running phone holder allows you to strap your mobile phone to your upper arm where it is easy for you to view and control (letting you, for example, change the music you are listening to). A running phone holder means that you don't have to carry your phone in a pocket where it might move about awkwardly.

Find the right running accessories for you

If you are looking to make your workout more comfortable and productive, running accessories can make all the difference. Browse ASICS' running accessories for women and men to find the gear you need.