The best NYC running routes and gear to go the distance, per real runners

The New York City Marathon is today, and runners are gearing up to take their victory lap across five boroughs.Amid the anxiety (aka “taper crazies”) of race week, it’s easy to forget the months of training, hundreds of miles logged and dozens of products tested to build the perfect race-day routine.I, for one, can’t tell you how many different running gels I’ve tasted, shoes I’ve sprinted in, and anti-chafing sports bras I’ve worn.In honor of the big day, we gathered favorite route recommendations from real NYC runners, as well as the products they can’t live without for long training days.My friends always make fun of me for wearing big, clunky headphones while I’m running, but they’ve become my signature.

I’ve always considered long runs a moving meditation, and the AirPods Max’s noise-cancelling technology really helps me lock in and focus on the road ahead.Of course, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings in NYC, which is why I usually turn on Transparency mode to allow some outside noise in.

My favorite route I took my headphones on this summer while training for the Berlin Marathon was the West Side Highway — long, paved roads with stunning views that remind me why I love this city so much.“I’m a rookie runner training for my first marathon.The Bandit Women’s Stamina High Waist 5” Compression Shorts are the only pair — of the many I tried — that I was still comfortable in when distances hit double digits, and have enough pockets for me to ditch my nemesis, the running belt,” said Sarah Berman, senior strategist, audience optimization & discovery at the Post.“I notoriously carry many trinkets when I run, and these Bandit shorts are the only ones where the items not only don’t bounce, but also don’t make my shorts move around.

At first, I was skeptical of the piece tag, but these quickly solved my frustration with other running shorts.Yes, the ride-up prevention grip is worth the hype and will k...