What are the best running shoes for marathon training?

For training miles, go with a well-cushioned trainer rather than a race-day super shoe. Look for responsive foam and a higher stack height to protect your joints over long runs. Most marathoners rotate at least two pairs — a max-cushion daily trainer and a plated one for tempo or long-run days.

Should you run a marathon in carbon plated shoes?

Yes, if you're chasing a PR and have already trained in them — they genuinely improve running economy and speed. But they're firm and less forgiving over 26.2 miles, so many runners prefer a softer, unplated shoe for comfort. Either way, test your race shoe on several runs beforehand; never debut it on race day.

Which hydration accessories are best for marathon training?

A handheld bottle works for runs under 90 minutes, while a hydration vest is better for longer runs where you need several hours of fluid. A waist belt is a good middle ground if you don't like anything on your shoulders. Whatever you choose, pair it with electrolytes and test the whole setup on long runs before race day.

Are compression socks good for marathons?

They're popular, but the evidence for a performance boost is mixed rather than proven. Many runners like them for reduced muscle vibration and post-run recovery, particularly for swelling on travel days. They're low-risk to try, but test them in training first, not for the first time on race day.

Which Garmin is best for marathon training?

The Forerunner 265 is the best pick for most road marathoners — it balances performance, comfort, and price. If you want more data and mapping, step up to the Forerunner 970, which adds full-color GPS and deeper training/recovery reports. The Fenix 8 is better suited to trail or ultra runners who need rugged multi-day battery life, and is overkill for most marathoners.

How many gels do you need for a marathon?

Most runners need about 4–6 gels, taken roughly every 30–45 minutes after the first 45 minutes to an hour. The real target is 60–90g of carbs per hour, so check gel labels rather than just counting them. Practice your exact gel schedule and brand on long training runs so your stomach is used to it on race day.

Marathon Shoes, Clothes & Accessories for 26.2

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Our collection of marathon essentials includes cushioned road shoes and technical clothing engineered for distance running. High-mileage marathon running shoes use dense foam midsoles that absorb repeated impact on tarmac and return energy through each stride. Technical marathon clothes combine lightweight running tops, split running shorts, technical running socks and weather-resistant running jackets. These garments feature moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics and flatlock anti-friction seams to protect skin from chafing during wet or humid training blocks.

Endurance marathon accessories provide practical hydration, sun protection, and pacing feedback over 26.2 miles. Breathable running hats and caps shield your face from rain and sun glare, while lightweight running sunglasses stop eye strain on bright roads. Ergonomic running hydration vests distribute the weight of soft water flasks evenly across the chest, letting runners carry nutrition energy gels without bouncing. Advanced GPS running watches track heart rate, split times, and running cadence to help runners maintain a steady pace.

Runners rely on marathon gear during sixteen-week training cycles, weekly Sunday long runs, and official road races. First-time marathon entrants, half-marathon runners stepping up in distance, and competitive club racers need dependable equipment to avoid dehydration, painful blisters, and muscle breakdown. Using reliable gear gives runners total confidence from the start line to the finish.

Find marathon shoes, technical running clothing, and race accessories at Runners Need to complete your long-distance kit bag.

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MARATHON AND RACE ESSENTIALS