Browse links
US residents can opt out of "sales" of personal data.
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Muscle pain? Canceled. Chafing? Also canceled. Dehydration? You guessed it — canceled.
Promising review: "I went on a run with this hat, and I was pleasantly surprised. It is very lightweight. The hat completely covers my head from the front and reaches around a low pony tail, which is why I love it. It is reflective too. The really cool part is how it folds. There are two creases on the bill, so it can completely fold up. And when you’re wearing the hat, the bill stays firm and in place. I was just trying to get a good price on a running hat, but I was pleasantly surprised by the high quality and features. I would recommend this hat. I’ll be getting another one for my friend." —Calista Brown
Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in seven colors).
The UV sanitizer part of the water bottle works on a charge for 99.99% sterilization, and also works on face masks, phones, tablets, toothbrushes, and other small items, so you really get a UV bang for your buck.
Promising review: "This is a fantastic product. I love the fact that I don't have to clean the inside of the bottle, and the cap kills germs and viruses. I like the very sleek 17 oz bottle, it's easier for me to hold as I have tennis elbow. The larger bottles are difficult for me to hold without having pain. The bottle comes with a drawstring bag and I carry it around with that!!! The charge lasts a long time. Buy it!" —Rebecca
Get it from Amazon for $69.95 (available in three colors).
I bought these in the plain black for running two months ago and WHOOPS, I wear them all the time. Very comfortable, just the right amount of compression for short *and* long runs, and they wash up really nicely.
Promising review: "Gone are the days of slathering vaseline on my thighs before my long runs! These shorts don't slip down, they don't ride up, and they have pockets that actually fit my entire hand. I'm training for a summer race and these shorts seriously saved my life. Best running shorts by I've tried by far." —J. Madrian
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in 15 styles and women's sizes XS-3XL).
CultureFit is a Black-owned business established in 2018 with activewear that incorporates West African print designs, and the company invites people from all backgrounds to celebrate their culture and other cultures around the world 🌍.
Promising review: "My experience was great. I loved the higher waist band because when you are bending, exercising and squatting you don't have to worry about showing anyone your goods. The overall fit was true to size and I can't wait to buy another pair." —Tee G.
Get it from CultureFit for $44.99 (available in women's sizes XS-L).
It also keeps its chill for hours and will immediately get chilly again when you soak it in water and repeat the process.
Promising review: "These are wonderful and work! Purchased to use for Disney trip and they were perfect. They have no chemical smell. You just add water and ring them out. Each comes with its own case and clip. Stayed cool for hours. Great for heat and nausea. Just wrapped around neck and instant relief!" —Christina Hatfield
Get a set of four from Amazon for $14.99.
This one is designed so you never have to grip it — the lightweight strap adjusts to your hand, so it won't fall off while you're running. These are especially handy now that many people don't have public water fountains at their disposal the way they would most summers — even if you're just going on a teensy run, it never hurts to be prepared!
Promising review: "Since most women's shorts do not offer pockets to hold anything more than three pebbles, my daughter has been on the hunt for a way to carry her phone. She does not like arm bands and fanny packs aren't her thing. She had been carrying the phone in her hand. This product provided multiple solutions to critical runner problems — hydration and all benefits of having a phone during a run (safety, tracking, music, etc.). Her iPhone 7 was a snug fit, but it did fit — even with a Life Proof case. The size of the water bottle is perfect for providing hydration without feeling like you're holding a gallon jug. She loved this product so much, I'm considering abandoning my arm band for this simpler, multisolution product." —JWeld
Get it from Amazon for $34.99.
The straps are also comfy and adjustable and made with a machine-washable nylon fabric that won't overheat you. *Plus*, it comes with storage for things like keys, credit cards, and ever important snacky snacks.
Promising review: "I needed a sturdy water pack for daily hiking trips. This thing carries about two liters which, for a simple day hiking or a quick run, is more than enough. I've yet to run out and that's with me basically keeping the tube between my lips and having a drink every minute or so. Both of the straps adjust perfectly and running or climbing hills it doesn't bounce at all. The bladder has a big opening to fill. It's big enough that I fill about half of it with water and the other half with ice cubes so I have cold water all day long." —Amazon4Me
Get it from Amazon for $22.98 (available in five colors).
Promising review: "Wonderful socks. They have a little extra padding on the back that keeps me from getting blisters. They are thick in the right areas and thin and breathable in the areas where you need it. They feel like an expensive sock." —Terra
Get a pack of six from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in four color combos and sizes S-L).
Promising review: "I love this product! Typically when I run more than two to three miles I get some hot spots, irritation, or a blister and this made my whole run enjoyable! I got one of my best times during a 5K while using this product. I could focus on doing a great job rather than worrying about my feet." —A. Adams
Get it from Amazon for $7.99.
These also work great for wired EarPods!
Promising review: "Couldn’t be happier with my purchase! I’ve never been able to wear EarPods because they always fell out. These Earhoox have completely solved that problem. They work so well, in fact, I can’t imagine what activity could make them fall out. 100% satisfied, would recommend and would definitely buy again." —bern
Get a set of two pairs (one small, one large) from Amazon for $9.99 (available in three colors).
Promising review: "I'm a runner with medium length, thick hair. I have tried lots of hair tie options and these are by far my favorite. They hold well, don't stretch out bad, and aren't painful to take out. A great value and the last hair tie pack you'll have to buy!" —Nestle
Get a set of 10 from Amazon for $5.03.
Art Of Your Success is a UK-based Etsy shop established in 2014 that specializes in gifts for for runners, cyclers, triathletes, and more.
This spiral notebook includes 52 weeks worth of blank pages, so you can start at any date, along with spaces for personal inspiration and mantras, race reflection, personal bests, and pace tables.
Promising review: "This is the most thoughtfully designed runner's journal I have ever owned! It has everything I have ever wanted to write already in print! Thank you, Sarah, for knowing that running isn't always great, sometimes it's hard, and that it would be great to know know where I want to improve. I love the pace tables and mantra list. It's perfect!" —Carisa Vincent
Get it from Art Of Your Success on Etsy for $22.10 (available in three styles).
Athleta is also donating 100,000 nonmedical masks to a major healthcare organization.
Promising review: "Really comfortable and I feel I can breathe in these and can use while working out without struggling for air or hyperventilating because the shape and construction keeps the fabric from sucking back to your mouth on inhale. Love the way they enabled adjustable ear straps so it will stay on if running or doing something really active." —BossLadybc
Type Of Fit: Adjustable elastic ear straps
Pocket For Filter: No
Fabric Type: Polyester/spandex with cotton liner
Shipping Time: Standard shipping
Get a five-pack from Athleta for $30.
Just a heads-up — as far as face mask and coverings go, this is only one layer (the CDC recommends two to three layers for full coverage). Some barrier is better than no barrier, though — just be particularly mindful about maintaining social distance while wearing this (as you should with all mask types). You can check out BuzzFeed's rundown of the CDC's face mask guidelines for more details.
Promising review: "At first I thought was too small but I stretched it out a bit with my hands and while I rode my bike with it on it stretched to be awesome! I can breathe with it on and not fog up my glasses! I don’t feel like I’m suffocating in it! Best summer mask! Got three more." —Petunia
Get it from Amazon for $10.95+ (available in seven colors).
Promising review: "I have suffered from chronic knee pain while running for years now after experiencing an injury. With running being one of hobbies, I thought I’d never run again without being in extreme pain. These little contraptions have changed my life.. I now run without even the slightest pain in my knee... the only thing is that it’s kinda uncomfortable without long pants on. But that’s a sacrifice I’m willing to take for no pain. I’d highly recommend." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $13.88 (available in four colors).
Plus, these babies have a built-in mic for calls and punch 16 hours of battery life before they need to recharge, so they'll get you through the whole day if you need 'em.
Promising review: "This wireless Bluetooth headphones are AMAZING. For some time I've been searching for comfortable affordable headphones and this are it. I've always had issues with the headphones slipping from my ear and as a runner you don't want that. These headphones stay inside your ears and are super conformable, like you are running with nothing inside your ears. The performance is really amazing, clear sound music or phone calls. I'm definitely buying another pair." —Synapse
Get it from Amazon for $29.74.
TBH, I swear by these not just for running, but a whole slew of period-related things (you can read my full review of Thinx underwear for more deets). But truly one of my biggest fears as a runner is surprise (!!) leakage during summer runs (since usually a pair of leggings would hide it in the winter), and these are both very comfortable and truly do not budge while you're running.
Promising review: "I have three pairs of Thinx now and I have been able to stop using tampons completely! The heaviest is usually the first three days for me and these underwear save me. They are super comfortable, they don’t ride up and are extremely absorbent. Thinx washes really well too. Without fail, these are my go-to during my period. I actually can’t believe I didn’t purchase them sooner." —Gabriella B.
Get it from Thinx for $34 (available in seven colors and women's sizes XXS-3XL).
Promising review: "As a runner with sensitive skin, I can't live without body glide. I almost never leave the house without putting it on somewhere. It is especially great for the summer when wearing dresses." —Vanessa P Shkuda
Get it from Amazon for $7.99.
Promising review: "Amazing and comfortable fit! I hate doing any type of running or jumping exercises since I feel uncomfortable having my boobs jumping up and down lol. This bra is the absolute best for me, I can run and do jumping jacks without feeling uncomfortable! Great bra, very soft fabric on the breast area and is comfortable for the back and the shoulders! I am very pleased with this bra. Definitely purchasing more!" —Julie Soto
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in four colors and sizes 34C-50H).
This bb also comes with a latch lid that protects the spout so you don't have to touch it, which is especially handy for outdoorsy runners and anyone worried about disinfecting things as lockdown restrictions ease up.
Promising review: "I have to start by saying that I just don't enjoy drinking water, and for this reason I'm not very good at self-monitoring my water intake. The consequence of being dehydrated is just a terrible feeling, and so I've become really committed to the change of consistent hydration. This water bottle has really helped me. It is easy to fill, easy to drink from, easy to carry (since it fits in any standard cup holder or in my backpack pocket), and the markings on the bottle make it incredibly easy to monitor specifically where I am in my daily water intake. I like the carry strap, and the fact that I can drink with one hand if I'm driving. I would definitely recommend this." —Meow
Get it from Amazon for $18.95.
I am extremely picky about my running shoes — after shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and teensy back fractures (lol, sports), I have learned the hard way that SNEAKERS ARE EVERYTHING — but I swear by these! The padding in them is just enough to feel supported, but not like you're "sinking"; they're incredibly lightweight, but still very stable; and most importantly, as someone who often does hybrid running/walking workouts, I love that they're just as suited for both. Also, aesthetically speaking, I love that it comes in a ton of different colors (people at running stores that are all "blah blah it's about the fit not the color" are the Squidwards of the running world!!).
Promising review: "These shoes are so comfortable, they’re the only ones I want to wear no matter what I’m doing. Obviously I got them for running, but I they’ve become my preferred shoes for most workouts. The all mesh upper is so lightweight and comfortable, but perhaps not the best for lifting heavy. The bottoms are so. Cushy. Like waking in clouds. Great for someone like me who walks heavy and often had foot/heel pain just from walking around. I even told my husband I was thinking about ordering a second pair to wear around the house (which he rolled his eyes at). I did go a half size up from my typical shoe size and they fit great. Love them!" —Hilary M.
Get it from Amazon for $74.84+ (available in women's sizes 6-12 and 17 colors).
Promising review: "Amazing quality! These are super soft and keep your head cool when working out! I couldn’t believe how well they work at wicking away moisture and staying cool! They came in a super nice box that will help me to not lose them — like I’m prone to. The colors are cute and the headbands aren’t too tight at all! They have nice stretch to them if you have a larger head. This is one of the best purchases I’ve ever made on Amazon! I’m so glad I bought these!" —Amazon Customer
Get a set of ten from Amazon for $18.99.
Promising review: "This is my go-to facial sunscreen for outdoor workouts. It does make me look slightly greasy but it 100% does the job. The product doesn't clog my pores or lead to breakouts. It also doesn't run into my eyes and make them sting when I start to sweat (YAY!!!!) Most importantly, my skin is protected from the sun as long as I reapply as directed." —Laurie Gannon
Get it from Amazon for $8.97.
Black Girl Sunscreen is a Black woman-owned business established in 2016 with products that are cruelty-free and formulated without parabens or other harmful chemicals (psst — they also have sunscreen for kids on their site!).
Promising review: "I’ve tried many, many sunscreens that claim to blend and not leave a white cast when applied. This was so much better than I expected. A nickel-size amount goes a long way and blends into a smooth, dewy finish. I also didn’t notice a scent so there was no worries of walking around smelling like sunscreen." —Amber Danielle
Get it from Target for $15.99 or from Black Girl Sunscreen for $18.99.
This massage tool is ideal for waist, back, butt, thighs, calves, and other large muscle groups, and has 20 levels of intensity and six different massage heads to ensure that you get a personalized, effective massage on whatever it is you're targeting. It's also designed to run quietly, unlike comparable massage tools on the market, and comes with a one-year warranty.
Promising review: "Honestly had no clue what to expect and was significantly and pleasantly satisfied with this purchase! For a fraction of the price of a lot of similar products I find that this works just as well and is just as quiet! I love all the different attachments and as an ultra runner this is just what I need to really dig into my quads and calves. I also find that it’s been helping with my plantar fasciitis by being able to massage the bottoms of my feet. Super happy with this and will recommend you everyone I know. Have already gotten two of my friends to order just by letting them try it." —mario ciccarello
Get it from Amazon for $107.99.
Promising review: "I’ve been dealing with severe plantar fasciitis pain for a few weeks. It’s been bad enough that every step hurts and at times I hobble around like an old person and I’m only in my thirties. I bought this thinking that at least it’s cheap and it couldn’t hurt. Well, let me tell you, I’ve only used it twice, but I’m already ready to call it a lifesaver. I just absentmindedly rolled it around with my foot for a few minutes, then got up to go do something and was shocked to find that my foot didn’t hurt for the first time in WEEKS! I didn’t even feel like I was doing anything when I was using it, but apparently I was! I’m shocked, pleased, and very grateful." —wendy
Get it from Amazon for $7.97.
Promising review: "So I have very long hair that gets tangled VERY VERY fast. I spent sooo much money getting brushes and products to keep my hair smooth and nothing seem to work. This brush was magic. I saw another that looked the same at a store and I bought it thinking I will have a spare but nope, it didn't work like this one. I love it. The best $10 I spent on my hair." —Ale D
Get it from Amazon for $9.88 (available in four colors).
Promising review: "These are the best protection I have found to prevent painful chaffing. They go on easily they stayed on for my entire triathlon through the swim, bike, run and peel off without pain. I’m not sure how they managed to make a product that is waterproof and sweat proof and still peels off painlessly, but they achieved just that." —MWigTX
Get a set of 20 pairs from Amazon for $14.99.
This works on mosquitoes, bees, wasps, biting flies, sea lice, and more (although TBH, if this list of bugs gets any longer I may just stay indoors forever!!).
Promising review: "I have always suffered, so badly, from mosquito bites. For some reason they love me and I get more bites than the average person. I get giant welts that itch for days that most anti-itch creams don’t even help. Itching turns them into open wounds, and I even have some scars from some old bites. I saw a post on Facebook about 'The Bug Bite Thing' and I bought it on Amazon as a last resort. I am absolutely in love with this product! It is the first thing I’ve used that stops the itch permanently! I am so happy I found this product. I've even used it on my children aged 2 and 7. I highly recommend this product!" —Megan
Get it from Amazon for $9.95.
Psst — a lot of reviewers mentioned this also helped prevent peeling and itching!
Promising review: "I ordered this two weeks ago after seeing rave reviews. So grateful I did. Yesterday I got the worst burn. It was unbelievable. I applied this four times over 24 hours. When I woke up this morning it was a lot better and has just gotten increasingly better throughout the day. The burn is mostly faded, and the pain is so much better. I hope to never burn this badly again, but I will be stockpiling this lotion all the same." —Carolina G.
Get it from Amazon for $7.69.
Promising review: "These are amazing. They really do totally freshen you up after a hard workout or run. I live in New Orleans and even after a long summer run, if I am in a bind for time, I can use one of these and be totally confident regardless of where I need to go. Individually packaged so you can keep one in the car, one in the gym bag, one in the desk, etc. Great to have at work if you have an after work event and don't have time to run home and freshen up beforehand. Just use a Shower Pill and you are good to go. I have turned several of my friends and co-workers on to these." —Randy C.
Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $9.99.
Psst — people also use this for chilling coffee, rosé, and white wines without watering them down, if that also floats your summer boat.
Promising review: "This was a gift to me, so I wasn't sure what to expect from it. I've used it countless times to chill room temperature water (and occasionally coffee) and it works like a charm every time! This works better than I expected!" —CI
Get it from Amazon for $24.99.
Promising review: "The mesh-ventilated sides means dirty uniforms and other lightweight gear like sweaty headbands and stinky socks can be thrown in without worrying that weird bacteria will ferment and grow before wash day. We keep two hampers in our mud room. The tall, narrow size has a small footprint, and it can be folded up and tucked away in between uses. I wouldn’t recommend it for heavy-duty fabrics like jeans and blankets, but for lightweight use – even if filled to the brim – it’s a handy little hamper. My kids carry it over their shoulders like a bag to the basement laundry room. It's not bulky, is easy to use, and you can’t beat the price." —Melanie Gilbert
Get it from Amazon for $6.99 (available in six colors).
The Trini Gee is a Black-owned Etsy shop based in Houston and established in 2017 that specializes in hand-drawn, carefully selected and/or curated products celebrating Black culture.
This tear-resistant duffel is made with a main pocket, an internal zipper pocket, and an exterior mesh side pocket. It also has customization options if it's a gift!
Get it from The Trini Gee on Etsy for $60+ (available in two sizes).
10th Floor Creations is an Ohio-based Etsy shop established in 2014 that specializes in jewelry, gifts, and personalized goods.
To personalize your charm, you can send the seller a message with a limit of two lines and ten characters per line.
Promising review: "Gift for my sister doing a 20K trail run for the first time. She loved them. Great quality, quick shipping & just as pictured." —Tracy Massey
Get it from 10th Floor Treasures on Etsy for $14.99.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.