Running Gear & Resources I Actually Use

These are products I've personally used and recommend. Some links are affiliate links - if you buy through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep the calculators free.

My policy: I only link to products I'd recommend to a friend. No pay-for-placement, no sponsored products.

🍯 Fueling & Nutrition

Energy Gels

GU Energy Gels

The reliable workhorse. Wide flavor variety, good caffeine options, easy to find everywhere. My go-to for training runs.

Maurten Gel 100

Premium hydrogel technology. Easier on the stomach than traditional gels. What I use for races when performance matters most.

Spring Energy Gels

Real food ingredients (rice-based). Great for runners who can't tolerate traditional gels. Tastes like actual food.

Huma Gels

Chia-based, all natural. Good middle ground between traditional gels and real food. Nice texture.

Electrolytes & Hydration

LMNT Electrolytes

High sodium, no sugar. Perfect for salty sweaters or hot weather running. I use these before and after long runs.

Nuun Sport Tablets

Low calorie electrolyte tabs. Great for shorter runs or when you want hydration without extra carbs.

SaltStick Caps

Salt capsules for long efforts. Essential for marathons and ultras in hot conditions.

Recovery Nutrition

Skratch Recovery Mix

Real food ingredients, not overly sweet. Good protein-to-carb ratio for post-long-run recovery.

Tailwind Recovery

Complete recovery drink with protein. Easy on the stomach when you can't face real food after a hard effort.

🔧 Recovery Tools

Foam Rollers

TriggerPoint GRID

The gold standard. Firm enough to be effective, hollow core so it doesn't flatten. Lasts for years.

Amazon Basics Foam Roller

Budget option that works. Not as durable as TriggerPoint but fine for getting started.

TriggerPoint MB1 Ball

For targeted work on glutes, calves, and feet. More precise than a foam roller for specific spots.

Massage Guns

Theragun Mini

Compact and powerful. Perfect for travel. My daily driver for quick recovery sessions.

Hypervolt 2

Quieter than Theragun, multiple speed settings. Good mid-range option.

Bob and Brad Q2 Mini

Budget-friendly and surprisingly effective. Great if you're not sure about massage guns yet.

Compression

CEP Compression Socks

True graduated compression (not just tight socks). Wear during long runs or for recovery after.

Normatec 3 Legs

Pneumatic compression boots. Expensive but genuinely feels amazing after long runs. Splurge item.

💧 Hydration Gear

Nathan SpeedDraw Plus

Handheld bottle with storage. My choice for runs under 90 minutes when I need water but not a full vest.

Salomon Active Skin 8

Hydration vest that fits like a second skin. Minimal bounce, great for long runs and ultras.

Nathan VaporAir 2.0

More storage than Salomon, still comfortable. Good if you carry more gear on long runs.

❄️ Cold Weather Essentials

Buff Merino Wool

Versatile neck gaiter/headband/beanie. Merino regulates temperature and doesn't get stinky.

TrailHeads Running Gloves

Touchscreen compatible, reflective details. Good warmth without bulk. Under $20.

For more cold weather recommendations, see our complete cold weather gear guide.

🔦 Visibility & Safety

Noxgear Tracer2

My absolute favorite for dark runs—I won't run without it. 360-degree LED visibility, multiple color modes, lightweight and rechargeable. Cars see you from blocks away.

LED Safety Lights

Clip-on lights for extra visibility. Attach to your shorts, hat, or vest. Cheap insurance for dark runs.

🧴 Anti-Chafing

Squirrel's Nut Butter

My absolute favorite. All-natural ingredients, stays put for hours, and actually smells nice. Works on every chafe-prone area.

Body Glide

The classic choice. Easy stick application, widely available. Solid performer that's been trusted by runners for decades.

About These Recommendations

I've tested dozens of products over 11 marathons and 70+ half marathons. These are the ones I keep coming back to.

Your needs may differ - body type, sweat rate, climate, and personal preference all matter. Use these as a starting point, not gospel.

Affiliate disclosure: Links on this page are Amazon Associates links. If you purchase through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This supports LongRunLogic and keeps the calculators free. I only recommend products I personally use and believe in.