One of the most surprising things about running a marathon is the sheer amount of stuff you need to be as successful and comfortable as possible.In the beginning, it might seem like the right running shoes and outfit are enough.
But as you start upping your mileage, you’ll likely find yourself looking for fueling, hydrating, recovery and even chafing solutions.I know from experience that the absolute best recommendations come from professional marathon runners who’ve seen it all on the 26.2-mile course, so that’s exactly who I talked to.Below, I curated a list of marathon training, race day and recovery must-haves that Olympians, running coaches and personal trainers swear by.
They’re mainly helpful for beginner marathoners, but anyone about to get their Six Star Medal might find a hidden gem too.Experts also shared their words of wisdom for the race overall, and what they wish they knew sooner.Selected.Our top picksBest anti-chafe balmBody Glide For Her Anti Chafe Balm$undefined$10.99AmazonLearn moreBest running sunglassesGoodr Bolt G Polarized Running Sunglasses$undefined$45.00AmazonLearn moreBest running socksFeetures High Performance Max Cushion Ankle Sock$undefined$16.00AmazonLearn moreBest energy gelBare Performance Nutrition Go Gel$undefined$29.99AmazonLearn moreBest running headphonesShokz OpenRun Open-Ear Headphones$undefined$129.95AmazonLearn moreBest compression bootsTherabody JetBoots Prime$undefined$549.99AmazonLearn moreSee 3 MoreRelatedselectedselectedYou’re probably wearing the wrong running shoes for your arch type — here’s how to find your perfect fit Want more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.Marathon must-haves for training and race dayTo curate a list of marathon must-haves for training, race day and recovery, I spoke to seven running experts, including Olympians, coaches and personal trainers, who recommended products they’ve used first-hand.
As an avid runner myself, I also share...