Half Marathon Kit List

• Well-fitted, broken-in running shoes
• Moisture-wicking socks
• Lightweight, breathable running kit
• Waterproof jacket for changeable weather
• Energy gels, chews or bars you've already tested
• Water bottle or hydration flask
• GPS running watch
• Chafe balm, plasters and safety pins

Your running shoes are the most important piece of half marathon gear you'll pack. Stick with trainers you've already run in, or if you're after something new, choose a pair that fits well and feels comfortable over long distances. Break new shoes in well before race day, because your half marathon is not the day to wear them for the first time.

Book a gait analysis appointment in-store for expert advice on the best shoes for how you run. Find your nearest Runners Need store and book an appointment today.

If it wasn’t obvious already, we’re not recommending you pack flip flops to run in. Once your half marathon is over, having a pair of flip flops or recovery shoes to change into will help to air your feet, prevent blisters, and give you a welcome break from your trainers.

If you want a recommendation, we love the recovery shoe range from OOFOS. These shoes absorb a share of the impact from hard surfaces, taking stress on your feet and body so you recover faster.

We always prioritise the running shoes on our feet, but running socks matter just as much. The right pair of half marathon socks helps prevent blisters over 13.1 miles and can make a real difference to your comfort and performance.

Avoid cotton socks when you exercise. Cotton traps moisture and holds it against your skin, which increases friction, heat and moisture and leads to painful blisters. Choose running socks made from synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester, which wick moisture away, dry quickly and stay breathable.

If you want to go further, look for seamless constructions to prevent chafing, compression socks to boost blood circulation and reduce fatigue, and extra cushioning forcomfort underfoot. Learn more about compression here.

For more advice, check out our Ultimate Guide To Buying Running Socks.

For your half marathon, wear lightweight, breathable and comfortable clothing. Start from the bottom up with well-fitting underwear to avoid chafing, and a supportive sports bra if you need one.

As with socks, avoid cotton and opt for moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics such as Merino wool and synthetics like nylon and polyester.

Top tip: you'll warm up quickly once you're running, so choose shorts, t-shirts and vests over jackets and mid-layers.

You can never guarantee the weather on race day. Make a call in the morning on what to wear and whether you need extra base layers for warmth. A lightweight, water-resistant running jacket keeps you prepared for last-minute weather changes, which is handy given the British climate.

Pack a warm layer to change into after the race, too. Your body temperature drops once you stop running, so you'll likely feel cold and want something clean and dry for the journey home.

Energy gels and energy bars are a compact, easy-to-store way to boost your energy during the race. If you haven't trained with gels or bars before, don't try them for the first time on race day. Train with them in the weeks beforehand instead, and stick to the flavours and brands you know agree with you.

Most half marathon events have water stations along the course to keep you hydrated. If you'd rather carry your own water, we stock soft flasks, handheld running water bottles and running hydration vests that make it easy to take water with you on training runs and race days.

A hydration vest spreads the weight of your water across your shoulders and back rather than your hand, which is worth considering if you're running longer training miles in the build-up or prefer to carry gels, a phone and a jacket alongside your water. Handheld bottles and soft flasks suit runners who want something lighter for race day itself, when aid stations mean you're topping up little and often.

Many runners also use isotonic drinks before, during and after a race to keep energy levels steady. As with gels and bars, save anything new for training rather than race day.

A GPS running watch is a great addition to your half marathon gear. Leading models track your time, pace, heart rate and more. Race operators track your official time during the event, but a watch still helps you manage your pace as you run.

It's easy to set off too fast and fatigue yourself before you've covered half the distance. A running watch lets you check your pace and adjust it, so you've got the energy to finish strong. For a recommendation, take a look at the Garmin Forerunner series.

If you like running to music or podcasts, a good pair of running headphones belongs in your half marathon kit. They help you avoid mid-race technical issues and keep you moving to your favourite playlist and tempo.

Our experts recommend Shokz headphones. Shokz headphones use bone conduction technology, so you can listen to music while staying aware of traffic, marshals and other runners around you. They come with Bluetooth connectivity, up to 28 hours of battery life and a comfortable open-ear fit. Triathletes and swimmers can also look at the Shokz OpenSwim Pro for underwater sound quality.

Top tip: check that headphones and mobile devices are permitted on your race course before you set off.

• Test everything in training – Never try new kit, shoes or nutrition on race day.
• Check the weather – Adjust your layers and accessories the morning of the race.
• Arrive early – Give yourself time to warm up, use the loo and get settled.
• Pin your bib securely – Use four safety pins, one at each corner.
• Charge your devices – Make sure your watch and phone are fully charged.
• Stay calm – Trust your training and enjoy the atmosphere.