10 Best Running Gadgets You Can’t Live Without

Running is a pretty simple activity, but you can revamp your workout routine with gadgets designed for the sport. That’s why we’ve researched the 10 best running gadgets you can’t live without.

1. Garmin Fenix 6x Pro Running Watch

 

How-Do-I-Know-If-Im-Overtraining-Garmin-Fenix-6X-Pro-Body-Battery
Garmin Fenix 6x Pro – Body Battery Mode
How-Do-I-Know-If-Im-Overtraining-Optimal-Training-Status
Garmin Fenix 6x Pro – Training Status

This is the running watch that I use myself (the pics above are my actual Garmin Fenix 6x PRo. This multisport GPS watch has everything runners need, including grade-adjusted pace guidance pulse sensors, and extensive battery life. It features smart notifications, sleep monitoring, training status estimates, and multiple GPS system supports (Galileo, GPS, GLONASS).

It has a Proprietary operating system with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, making it the ultimate wireless smart gadget for running.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Screen size: 1.4-inch sunlight readable LCD display screen (over 30% larger than previous models)
  • Materials: bezels coated in titanium, stainless steel, and DLC
  • Weight: 3.20 ounces (extremely lightweight for enhanced portability)
  • Dimensions: 2.01 x 2.01 x 0.59 inches
  • Power source: Battery-powered with 1 rechargeable lithium polymer battery (included in purchase) that can extend with solar power

Things we like about this gadget:

  • Extensive battery life, including up to 21 days in smartwatch mode, an additional charge when solar charged in 50,000 lux conditions
  • Features support for contactless payments with Garmin Pay
  • Music storage and streaming with 3rd-party subscriptions
  • Special navigation features included

Things we don’t like about this gadget:

  • Apple users might prefer a native based ios Apple watch

For a complete review of the best smart running watches click here.

2. Jabra Elite 85t True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds

Jabra_85t_Elite_Earbuds
Jabra Elite 85t – Image Courtesy of Amazon

Jabra’s Bluetooth noise-canceling earbuds take running with your favorite playlist to the next level, with the ability to use both call and music functions. Without the messy cords of traditional earbuds, you don’t have to worry about getting tangled up in your music, literally. The Jabra Elite 85t Are a step above the Jabra Elite 75t Active earbuds that I use shown below:

Jabra-Active-Elite-75t
My Jabra Active Elite 75Ts (with additional Silicon Case)

Some specs of this item include:

  • Speaker size: 12 mm
  • Microphone: 6 mic technology
  • Power source: 3 lithium-ion batteries (included) and charged with a USB-powered charging case
  • Ear gels: 3 sets
  • Weight: 6.4 ounces
  • Dimensions: 5.24 x 4.37 x 1.54 inches
  • IPX rating: IPX4 (dust and rain resistant)

Things we like about this gadget:

  • Up to 25 hours of battery (ANC on)
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Only 15 minutes of charging to achieve 1 hour of battery life
  • Works in the rain

Things we don’t like about this gadget:

  • Right ear only one ear option (only the right earpiece can be used for phone calls)

For a deeper dive review into other earbuds that won’t fall out when you run click here.

3. Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks for Men and Women

Balega Unise Blister Free Running Walking Socks
Balega Unise Blister Free Running Walking Socks – Image Courtesy of Amazon

These short-cut polyester blend unisex running socks come in a variety of colors. They feature Proprietary Drynamix moisture-wicking technology and microfiber mesh ventilation so your feet stay cool and dry while running.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Thread count: 200 needle count fabric
  • Materials: 84% DRYNAMIX POLYESTER, 11% NYLON, 3% NEOFIL, 2% ELASTANE
  • Sizes: Small to X-Large
  • Weight: 2.4 ounces
  • Sex: Unisex

Things we like about this gadget:

  • Designed for comfort with under sole cushioning for even long runs
  • Heel tab to prevent socks from slipping into the shoe
  • Seamless toe closure for less blister risk

Things we don’t like about this gadget:

  • Not tailor-made for men and women individually

4. Water Buffalo Hydration Pack Backpack – Water Backpack – 2L Water Bladder

Buffalo Hydration 2L Pack
Buffalo Hydration 2L Pack – Image Courtesy of Amazon

The 2L Water Buffalo Hydration Pack Backpack is actually an Amazon’s Choice product. It features adjustable bungee cord straps, visible reflector strips, ventilated shoulder straps, a push/pull bite valve, and a hose outlet.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Dimensions: 15.6 x 9.1 x 2.6 inches
  • Material: 400D nylon honeycomb Ripstop
  • Volume: 2 liters
  • Weight: 1 pound (when empty)
  • Closure: Zipper
  • Who is it for Women and children

Things we like about this gadget:

  • 30-Day Guarantee; Lifetime Warranty
  • Keeps water cool up to 5 hours
  • BPA-free
  • Includes a safety whistle
  • Budget-friendly

5. Nitecore NU20 360 Lumens Rechargeable Lightweight LED Headlamp with USB Cable and Lumen Tactical Adapter

Nitecore NU20 Headlamp

This battery-powered LED headlamp is perfect for nighttime running. It has single-button control of 4 brightness settings and 2 modes. You can tilt the lamp over 50 degrees, with 100 degrees of light coverage.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Light source: CREE HP-G2 S3 LED
  • Light strength: 360 lumens with 87 yards of throw
  • Weight: 1.66 ounces
  • Power source: Battery-powered with built-in lithium-ion USB rechargeable battery (100 hours of runtime at full charge)
  • Beam intensity: 1600 cd
  • Impact resistance: 1.5 meters
  • IPX rating: IPX7
  • Dimensions: 2.18” × 1.29” × 0.82”

Things we like about this gadget:

  • It’s budget-friendly
  • It’s incredibly lightweight and portable
  • It’s very durable with a high IPX rating

Things we don’t like about this gadget:

  • You only get the full 100 hours of runtime on the low (1 lumen) setting
  • Only covers 100 degrees wide

6. Under Armour Women’s Fly By Running Shorts

under_armour_flyby_womens_running_shorts
Under Armour Flyby Shorts – Image Courtesy of Amazon

There are tons of options for running shorts on Amazon, but these Under Armour Fly By shorts have incredibly high ratings by over 8,000 customers. This lightweight yet durable women’s shorts come in a variety of colors with a sweat-wicking design and mesh panels for coolness while running.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Material: 100% polyester
  • Closure: Elastic
  • Pockets: 2 front hand pockets and a hidden back storage pocket
  • Sizes: X-Small to XX-Large

Things we like about this gadget:

  • Extra pockets make it convenient for running with a key, ID, or other small objects
  • Good balance of elasticity and comfort
  • Moisture-wicking for when you get sweaty while running

Things we don’t like about this gadget:

  • Material is somewhat sheer/see-through

7. Columbia Women’s Switchback Iii Jacket

Columbia_Womans_Switchback_Running_Jacket
Columbia Woman’s Switchback Running Jacket – Image Courtesy of Amazon

This is another budget-friendly top-rated Amazon running gadget. The Columbia rain jacket is great for running, featuring lightweight yet waterproof Hydroplus technology and a unique design with a comfortable range of motion.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Materials: 100% Nylon shell, 100% Polyester lining
  • Washing instructions: Machine washable
  • Colors: 37 colors
  • Sizes: X-Small to 3X

Things we like about this gadget:

  • Comes with a protective hood to guard you against heavy downpours while running
  • The cuffs and hem are both adjustable
  • Pockets can get zipped shut to protect phones and other electronics from the rain while running
  • Can easily tote the jacket around

8. TRIBE Water Resistant Cell Phone Armband Case Running Holder

Tribe Smartphone Running Case
Tribe Smartphone Running Case – Image Courtesy of Amazon

This waterproof mobile phone armband makes it easy to take your smartphone on your runs so you can still access your music, GPS, apps, phone, and other functions. It comes with an adjustable strap, key pocket, anti-tangle headphone cord organizer, extra-wide plush armband, and reflective strip for safety in low-light conditions.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Phone compatibility: iPhone Pro Max Plus Mini SE (13/12/11/X/XS/XR/8/7/6/5), Galaxy S Ultra Plus Edge Note (21/20/10/9/8/7/6/5)
  • Materials: Lycra, Faux Leather, Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Nylon, and Neoprene
  • Dimensions: 11.5 x 1.1 x 5.8 inches
  • Durability: Water- and sweat-resistant
  • Colors: 11 colors

Things we like about this gadget:

  • It enables Face ID/Face Unlock for front-facing cameras
  • Water-resistant TPU screen cover
  • High tensile brushed PU for extra durability

Things we don’t like about this gadget:

  • Only compatible with smartphones up to 6.5 inches

9. GoxRunx 6 Pcs Reflective Bands for Arm/Wrist/Leg

GoxRunx_Reflective_Running_Walking_Bands
GoxRunx Reflective Running/Walking Bands – Image Courtesy of Amazon

These reflective bands are for your limbs while running. They make running in low-light conditions safer, and they come in green and pink. They are adjustable for adults and children, easy to slap on, and require no power source.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Dimensions: Large size is 15.7 in x 1.6 in, small size is 13.7 in x 1.6 in, bag is 7.5 in x 9.8 in
  • Weight: 3.7 ounces
  • Visibility: 360 degrees
  • Materials: Soft velvet fabric backside, steel core inside, reflective PVC tape outside

Things we like about this gadget:

  • You can tap lightly to automatically bend and tighten the strap
  • It’s versatile
  • Comes with carrying bag
  • Quick-drying
  • Lightweight

10. Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm

Bodyglide_anti_chafe_balm
Body Glide Anti Chafe Balm – Image Courtesy of Amazon

This is a non-technological gadget, but it’s still ideal for runners. This anti-chafe balm is plant-based and allergen-free for effective and long-lasting protection from chafing in both wet and dry running environments.

Some specs of this item include:

  • Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ozokerite Wax, Glyceryl Behenate, Stearyl Alcohol, Allantoin, and Tocopherol (Vitamin E)
  • Added ingredients: None
  • Fragrance: No
  • Designed for use on Chest, feet, arms, thighs, buttocks, groin, underarms, nipples, shoulders, and neck

Things we like about this gadget:

  • No messy petroleum, mineral oils, or lanolin
  • Vegan approved
  • Child safe
  • Never tested on animals
  • Allergen-free
  • For use on any commonly chafed body area

Things we don’t like about this gadget:

  • No fragrance added

Check Out My Other Reviews:

Best Running Watch For Half Marathon/Marathon Racing

Best Earbuds For Running That Won’t Fall Out

Best Cross-Training Stationary Bikes For Runners

Best Foam Rollers For Runners

Best Headlamps For Runners

Best Hydration\Water Packs For Runners

Best Massage Guns For Runners

10 Running Gadgets You Can't Live Without!

Best Running Shorts For Women

Best Energy Gels For Half Marathons

Best Race Medal Display Ideas For Runners

Best Waterproof Running Jackets

Best Ways To Carry Your Phone While You Run

Best Protein Recovery Drinks For Runners

Best Mineral-Based Sunscreens For Runners

Best Ankle Braces For Peroneal Tendonitis

Best Ultramarathon Running Shoe

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Coach Scott's Credentials:
  • Published Author
  • RRCA Certified Running Coach (Level 2)
  • RRCA Certified Youth Running Coach
  • NASM CPT (Certified Personal Trainer).
  • NASM CNC (Certified Nutrition Coach)
  • NASM WLS (Weight Loss Specialist)
  • ACE SFC (Stretching and Flexibility Coach)
  • ACE GFI (Group Fitness Instructor)
He has published over 20 books including, Beginner's Guide to Half Marathons: A Simple Step-By-Step Solution to Get You to the Finish Line in 12 Weeks! (Beginner To Finisher Book 3), which has become an Amazon International #1 bestseller. Scott specializes in helping new runners become injury-free race finishers. He recently completed his 22nd half marathon race. 

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