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    30 Products That Make Running A Little Less Awful

    Leggings that don't ride up or slip down, anti-chafing balm, and more.

    Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

    1. A pair of soft high-rise running shorts designed to wick away excess moisture on those ultra-hot days and provide a bit of compression without being too tight on your legs. They're *just* long enough to prevent chafing, and they also happen to be made from recycled plastic bottles, a small win for the environment as well.

    model wearing the black high rise running shorts
    different model demonstrating a squat in the dark green high rise running shorts
    Girlfriend Collective

    While these shorts are intended to have some compression, note that many reviewers still recommend sizing up, especially if you're on the curvier side or have thicker thighs.

    Promising reviews: "I usually hate running in tight shorts due to waistband bunching, chub rub, etc. Super happy to report that I wore these for a 4.5-mile sweaty tempo run on the treadmill and had none of these issues! I'm not sure how they'll hold up on super long runs, but so far I love them and can't wait to grab more to replace my worn-out traditional running shorts. Bonus: They look cute for lounging around." —Kelly W.

    "Cute, perfect fit, perfect for running. Most spandex running shorts ride up a bit so that the bum shows during a run, but these have the perfect length to prevent that from happening. They also make my butt look good, so what's not to love about that?" —Bailey M.

    Get them from Girlfriend Collective for $48 (available in sizes XXS–6XL and nine colors).

    2. A stretch-out strap for helping you get your stretch on pre- and post-run, because it can be extremely difficult to perform certain stretches without it, especially if you have limited flexibility. It's not just helpful for prevent running-related injuries, though — this handy strap can help you get nice and limber for all sorts of workouts, from Pilates to yoga.

    Promising review: "I’m a very inflexible runner and this strap has definitely been very helpful in increasing my mobility, stability, balance. I would recommend for anyone wishing to become more flexible athletes. Stretching regularly has reduced my injuries tenfold." —Mike

    Get it from Amazon for $15.95.

    3. A pair of running shorts worthy of living in your gym bag full-time. Made of 100% moisture-wicking polyester, these roomy shorts don't ride up uncomfortably but still give you a super cute look.

    reviewer wearing the loose running shorts in dark green, showing a front and side view
    the same running shorts in pink with a white stripe down the side and black edging

    Promising review: "I am an amateur runner training for my first races alongside my husband. This short is as good as any other name brand running short! It fits perfectly as advertised and contours with my legs, hips, and rear while I run. They don't leave you feeling exposed but are cut in a way that you still look cute, sensible, and functional. There isn't a better short on Amazon for the price." —Amanda E.

    "Perfect for a big butt! With a 49-inch hip measurement, I have struggled for years to find shorts in this style that fit. I took a chance on these and LOVE them. The XL fit just like they're supposed to and the inseam is long enough that they don't ride up despite my larger thighs. Will be buying so many more!!!" —Rebekah

    Get it from Amazon for $16.09+ (available in sizes XS–4XL and 11 colors).

    4. A pair of calf compression sleeves to help with one of the most annoying parts of getting into running: shin splints. The light compression helps increase blood flow through your leg muscles and provides extra support to help counteract the increased pressure on your legs. It's a big help for not just newer runners but also long-distance runners, who could use the extra support as well.

    runner wearing black compression sleeves
    runner's legs with hot pink compression sleeves from their ankles to below their knees

    Promising review: "I wore these compression sleeves during the 2019 Chevron Houston Marathon, and they worked just fine. I ordered a small, and they fit as expected. I never had any issues with shin splints or calf tightness. Good quality and nice material. I highly recommend these for any distance running." —Pon Bath

    Get them from Amazon for $10.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and 16 colors)

    5. And compression foot sleeves that target plantar fasciitis, arch pain, or any other foot pain you may be experiencing while running. You can wear these right under your socks for targeted compression that alleviates swelling and provides extra support. Even reviewers with chronic pain swear by these!

    Promising review: "The most helpful product I've ever used for my plantar fasciitis. I had basically stopped running for four years, opting to swim and bike instead, because of the constant pain I have in my Achilles. I tried basically every product and stretching technique and while the latter helped, after a couple of weeks of consistent running, I would have days where I could barely walk. These socks were the single best product I have ever used to prevent the pain. Obviously you still need to stretch before and after the run, but these have made the pain virtually imperceptible while running. I can run everyday now, completed my first half marathon earlier this year, and plan on competing in a triathlon (to take advantage of what I'm better at) in the next six months. If you've tried everything else and nothing has worked, give these socks a shot." —Casson A. Wilson IV

    Get a pair from Amazon for $9.95+ (available in four sizes and nine colors).

    6. A protective balm to defeat public enemy number one when it comes to running: chafing. Running inevitably involves body parts rubbing against fabric repeatedly, so it's a recipe for pain unless you come armed with some of this stuff, which protects your skin without leaving a mess behind.

    pink deodorant-like tube that reads
    reviewer's hand after using the anti chafe balm, showing that there is no film left on their skin

    There are two formulas: an original and a "For Her" version. The pink kind has vitamins A, B, E, and F for moisturizing so if you're a person of any gender who's into that, go for it.

    Promising review: "I run over 40 miles a week where it's awfully hot and humid, so I sweat a ton and everything chafes. I started getting really badly irritated spots where my shorts and skin had contact. This product is great. I have no more irritation and the added ingredients really help keep my skin soft and healthy." —Lorraine

    Get "The Original" balm from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in three sizes and in two-packs) and the "For Her" balm for $8.99+ (available in two sizes).

    7. Or a pair of anti-chafing bands you can wear underneath your running shorts to prevent thigh chafing. Reviewers say they do a great job of staying in place and remain breathable enough for hot, muggy days.

    reviewer wears black anti-chafing lace bands with running compression shorts
    reviewer poses with black lace anti-chafe band on thigh
    reviewer wears solid black anti-chafe thigh bands under black running shorts

    Promising reviews: "I have a pair of the lace ones that I've loved wearing underneath my dresses and skirts. I just purchased the non-lace ones to wear when I run, because the seams of my shorts rub in this humid weather! These worked freaking fabulous for my run and stayed in perfect place. They were so much cooler than compression shorts or spandex, and kept the sticky thighs away from each other! Definitely give them a try! I know I appreciated not having to be constantly readjusting my shorts!" —Michaela

    "As a male endurance athlete with tree trunk-sized legs, my thighs rub together in a way that causes chafe. Horrible, horrible chafe. When I'm out for a long run or hike, at the first sign of irritation I don these fancy thigh bands and experience immediate relief. I can put them on without even taking off my shoes or running shorts. Just slide them on and friction is banished! The silicone rings on the top and bottom keep them in place relatively well, all things considered. They're very breathable and I forget I'm even wearing them." —Lint

    Get them from Amazon for $18.95+ (available in sizes S–3XL and 17 styles).

    8. And a pack of NipEase stickers because chafed, bleeding nipples after a long run are something no one should ever have to experience.

    NipEase packaging. reads
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I sweat a ton when I run. As a result, every glide-on or tube solution breaks down for anything longer than a 5K distance. Enter NipEaze — they just work. I don't have to take any days off after long runs due to chafing. They go on like stickers on the nipples and areola and I'm convinced they'd stay on forever if you didn't manually remove them. They are essential equipment for me on any runs longer than a 5K. Get the 'extra' size if your areolas are larger than dimes." —Jon Snow

    Get a 15-pack for $6.97 or a 62-pack for $23.97, both from Amazon.

    9. A sports bra designed to support big boobs and make running a much more comfortable experience in the process. It skips the pesky underwire in favor of full-coverage, non-stretch cups and a breathable mesh camisole design that helps everything stay put with minimal bounce.

    person wearing a white sports bra
    person wearing a grey sports bra

    Promising review: "Big boobs and you run? No problem! The size fits true and the coverage is there. The material is lightweight and there is no underwire. The top part that looks like a shirt underneath is mesh and I believe it is also there to keep your puppies up and stable because that's what happens! The whole bra is also great at wicking sweat, which is good. D cups unite! Get this cheap bra! It works!" —TheKrautMonster

    Get it from Amazon for $21.43+ (available in sizes 34C–50J and nine colors).

    10. Or a high-impact sports bra with front-facing adjustable straps so you can easily tweak the fit if your size tends to fluctuate. Mesh inserts allow for good heat dissipation so you stay cool, while molded, padded cups and a wide band prevent that uncomfortable shifting and bouncing while you run.

    model adjusts strap of red high-impact sports bra
    model showing the back of the bra and it's adjustable size
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I'm large-chested and broad shouldered, and a daily runner. This is the most comfortable, sturdy, and reliable sports bra I've ever owned. It's true to size and adjustable to accommodate monthly size fluctuations. This is better than the big brand names, and I've tried them all. You won't regret buying this!" —Kelly C

    Get it from Amazon for $28+ (available in bra sizes 32B–44F and 25 colors).

    11. Or! A medium-support Nike sports bra that's nonpadded to keep you snug and secure while your feet hit the pavement. It's super comfy thanks to wide straps and light, moisture-wicking fabric, and its classic racerback design goes with any pair of bottoms.

    model wears black medium support sports bra
    Nike

    It's also made from recycled water bottles!

    Promising review: "I started working out recently and realized how little support I was receiving with other bras. I am a 40DD and they just flew out with every bra I had purchased. I ordered this bra in a 2XL and it fit perfectly. I can cycle for an hour and still be comfortable with no back pain." —Nike Customer

    Get it from Nike for $20.97 (originally $30) (available in women's sizes 1X–3X and in eight colors).

    12. A roll of KT Tape designed to reduce pressure on your tissues while supporting muscles and joints, helping alleviate all sorts of painful issues associated with running, from knee problems and shin splints to blisters. You can leave it on for up to a full week, even through showers and humidity!

    reviewer wearing the black sports tape around their knee for support
    person wearing the tape in red and blue underneath their thigh for support

    Promising review: "My runner's knee was eradicated from using this tape. Knee pains and aches were erased. Additionally, my husband started developing charley horses in his calves at mile 29 of the Keys 100 Ultra Marathon. We applied KT tape to his calf muscles the way the official KT Tape YouTube channel instructed and he finished the 100-miler with no more charley horses in his calves. Through the rain, and 71 miles, the tape never came undone. This tape is not a gimmick. Watch the videos and apply the tape." —lavonne

    Get it from Amazon for $14.65+ (available in 10 colors).

    13. A muscle roller stick that helps you really work out the kinks in your tight muscles to help reduce stiffness and pain after a long run. It's small enough to keep in your gym bag and take on the go! Of course, it can help with muscle recovery after all sorts of workouts, not just running.

    person using the black muscle roller stick on their thigh
    reviewer using the same muscle roller stick on their upper thigh

    Promising review: "I'm a distance runner, and of all the gadgets and accessories I've bought myself, this is hands-down my favorite! Before this stick I had a solid stretching routine and proper diet, but even so, after my weekly long runs I could feel it. I was constantly dealing with tight quads and shin splints. Then I got this thing. I started rolling my legs for about five minutes before and after runs, and it's been a game changer! Stiffness and soreness is gone, and I've seen my pace drop significantly. Also, this thing is lightweight and easily fits in a small gym bag. And at the price point, this is a no-brainer." —Bryan

    Get it from Amazon for $8.73 when you clip the 6% off coupon.

    14. A four-pack of LED armbands so you don't have to worry about being visible to cars and bikes when you're running at night. It's a simple safety precaution that gives you one less thing to fret over, especially if you run on a street or near traffic.

    model wearing blue led armbands on their biceps and ankles
    close-up of the LED armbands in green, pink, blue, and orange
    Amazon

    Each pack comes with four one-size-fits-all bands — be sure to check the dimensions if you plan to wear it around your bicep, but you can also wear these around your wrist or ankles. Each armband measures 35 centimeters long and 4 centimeters wide, and they slap onto your wrist like one of those retro slap bracelets. The replaceable batteries (included) last for 50–70 hours!

    Promising reviews: "Due to my work schedule, I run most often after dark. After recently narrowly avoiding being squished by a car, I realized I needed to be more visible. These work extremely well, and four of them for around $10 is a great deal. They have multiple modes of flashing and solid light, are reasonably well made, and have a replaceable battery (takes CR2032), making it much, much safer to run at night." —Midnight

    "Me and my partner tried these out this morning and did a 5K run. They were extremely bright and other runners complimented us on them. We both felt safer on the road as we ran as vehicles could see us better. Very happy that I purchased this product." —Frankie B.

    Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (comes with four different colors).

    15. A UPF 50+ protective running hat to shield your face from the sun and keep sweat out of your eyes on those long summer runs. It also happens to be reflective for extra visibility and folds up neatly, making it super packable.

    reviewer in orange hat
    A reviewer holding the hat folded up neatly, showing its reflective quality in the dark

    A lot of runners steer clear of hats because of the whole "you lose the most heat through your head" thing, but that's actually a myth! The sun protection they provide makes them a really good idea, especially if you're planning to run in the middle of the day.

    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 six colors).

    16. Or! A UPF 50+ high ponytail running cap with adjustable X straps so you can rock a high or mid pony (depending on which hole you use) that stays out of your way during your run. It's stretchy, breathable, and, most importantly, keeps the blazing sun off your face.

    Model in a blue baseball cap with a high ponytail coming out of the back
    Model showing back of the hat where there's a cross hatch design to support a high ponytail
    Vimhue/Etsy

    Vimhue is an Arizona-based, woman-owned small business that specializes in uniquely engineered running hats. 

    Promising review: "Weather was warm enough to wear my new hat on a run over the weekend. There was rain in the forecast so I thought it would be the perfect time to test it out. It was so great!! I cannot express how much I LOVE being able to run with my hair in a high pony like I prefer. I absolutely love the deep sea color and it matched my running shoes, which made me extra happy. I think my running club friends may be future customers now that they've seen mine." —Christina Garcia

    Get it from Vimhue on Etsy for $29 (available in 16 colors) or from Vimhue's site for $29 (available in 25 colors). 

    17. A multipack of Gu Energy Gel for days when you need that extra boost of energy to make it to the final mile marker. These slim packets easily fit in your pocket or hip pack and tear open easily — you don't even have to stop running. Because there's nothing worse than heading out for a run, only to realize you don't have the energy to see it all the way through.

    the assortment pack of Gu Energy Gel in different flavors
    someone holding a blackberry Gu packet

    Each pack has 100 calories and is packed with electrolytes, maltodextrin, and fructose to help give athletes extra energy.

    Promising review: "I have trained for three marathons, and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THESE THINGS. They boost my energy and keep me running. They're easy to store in my water belt, and I also sometimes tuck them in my bra strap. If you are a runner, you know what places we can fit things. They tear open easily while I'm running, even with sweaty hands (I don't stop to open them). Can't rave enough about how great these things are. I know there are a lot of different types of energy gel brands, but if you are trying one out for the first time, try these!" —Bri Reilly

    Get a 24-pack from Amazon for $10.68+ (available in four flavors or an assortment pack with six flavors). Plus, you can find more fruity flavors here and more dessert-y flavors here

    18. A FlipBelt so you don't have to clutch your phone and keys while you run, or deal with them distractingly jangling around in your pockets. It has four pockets, perfect for stashing your phone and other small essentials, and it pulls on without any snaps or zippers so you don't experience chafing. 

    model slipping a phone into their yellow flipbelt attached at the waist
    reviewer wearing a black flipbelt

    The FlipBelt is machine-washable and dryable, and it's also reflective for safe use at night!

    Promising review: "Love love love my FlipBelt. I cannot stand arm bands so for the past year, I have been running while holding my phone (I know, awful). I was running with my coworker, and she suggested I get a running belt. Having run a couple of half marathons in the past, I have used running belts but they tend to bounce around and just be an annoyance. I happened to stumble on the FlipBelt on Amazon and had to give it a try. It fits my iPhone 7 that has an OtterBox on it, and did not budge once during my six-mile run. At the four-mile mark, I even tried adjusting it because I thought there's no way this thing is staying in place so well, and it was still in the exact same spot as when I started my run. I also noticed I was able to run faster than usual and I think it's because I was concentrating on holding my phone with its massive case on it. If you're in between sizes, I suggest going a size down. Can't wait to wear this for my upcoming half-marathons in the fall!" —kel07

    Get it from Amazon for $23.43+ (available in XXS–XL and 13 colors)

    19. Or a simple, lightweight phone armband for holding your phone in place, attaching to your arm without feeling bulky or heavy like other options on the market. You'll need to take it out to use it, but if you're the type who puts on a podcast or playlist for the whole run (or use your earbuds or smartwatch to control it), you'll be good to go.

    Promising review: "This is the most comfortable armband I have ever worn. No irritation, no bulk, put it on your arm and go! It’s very sporty and sleek, fits my iPhone 8 with the case and a PopSocket attached. Only downside I would mention for anyone who typically wants access to their phone while running, this case is not designed for that. It’s basically a pouch for your phone and once it’s in there and on your arm, it’s not accessible. My wireless headphones are all I need to adjust volume/skip songs, but if you want to do anything directly on your phone, you have to stop, remove the armband and remove your phone. I measured my bicep as suggested, ordered a medium and am pretty happy with the fit. It is secure and tight enough that it doesn’t bounce around during a 45-minute run." —T

    Get it from Amazon for $14.39+ (available in sizes S–XL and 24 styles).

    Psst — if you're interested in a touchscreen panel armband, try this popular option!

    20. A good pair of Beats wireless headphones that won't get sweaty and fall off your ear, causing you to bend down and pick them up off the gross ground. These sweat-resistant buds have an ear hook that keeps them in place, and the sound quality is great, with up to nine hours of listening time on a single charge.

    BuzzFeed editor Emma McAnaw wears white Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earphones while working out at the gym
    Emma holds same pair of compact headphones in hands
    Emma McAnaw / BuzzFeed

    BuzzFeed Shopping editor Emma McAnaw loves these headphones and says, "These Beats headphones have been a real game-changer for me. The sound quality is SO MUCH better than my cheap headphones, which has actually really improved my experience while working out. I find it easier to stay motivated now that my music is *crystal clear* (and I can't hear myself wheezing on the treadmill). They can hold a charge for a pretty long time, as long you always store them in their charging case. I usually use them for a full work day without needing to re-charge them." Check out her full Powerbeats Pro Wireless Headphones review for more!

    Get them from Amazon for $169.95+ (available in six colors).

    21. A cooling sweat rag so you can wipe up the sweat that drenches your body and stings your eyes after a long, intense run. You can also wear this around your neck to help you stay cool on hot days — just get it wet before you head out, and it'll stay cool for up to two hours! 

    reviewer holding the little mesh bag with a green cooling towel inside
    person wearing a blue sweat rag around their neck

     It also folds up into a teensy bag that makes it easy to transport.

    Promising review: "I purchased this towel for its ability to cool me while running. And I am pleasantly surprised by its performance at this price point. It is perfectly lightweight and the material dries relatively fast. I have purchase several of these and would purchase more in the future. Great buy!" —K.M.

    "I get heated quickly and get very uncomfortable with the heat while I run or work outdoors and having this around my neck has helped significantly. Even with the body and temperature heat, it still stays cool. I have also put ice in it and wrapped it around my knee due to an injury. The length makes it pretty versatile. I would buy it again." —Beth Mich

    Get it from Amazon for $6.95 (available in 13 colors)

    22. A pack of lightweight headbands to wick away sweat *and* keep your hair completely out of your face, because no one has time to be adjusting their bobby pins or deal with stinging eyes while trying to focus on their breathing and pace.

    model wearing a gray headband next to eight different headbands in shades of black, blue, and gray
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "I don't know if it's the shape of my head or merely its size, but I have NEVER EVER NEVER had headbands that fit. I was skeptical and eager to try these after reading the reviews. I can absolutely attest that these stay on without the aide of bobby pins while I'm rowing, running, and weight lifting. They are so absorbent that I rarely have to dab my head, and I had to dab often before. I will not share these with hubby. :)" —Tiffany Dodds

    "I loved these. I run distance, and during the summer sweat drips in my eyes, and my glasses slip off my nose. These really, really helped both. I had no sweat dripping, and the band slightly helped hold my glasses in place. I ran 15 miles on a humid day with minimal shade, so it held up really well! I'll definitely be buying more." —nomadheart

    Get an eight-pack from Amazon for $14.99 (includes a variety of black, gray, and blue shades).

    23. Extra-strong hair ties actually capable of holding up long, thick, and curly hair and keeping it off your neck + out of your face during a run. They're really stretchy and don't hurt your scalp either!

    model with thick hair in a ponytail jogging on a beach
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I have very thick hair and I’ve always had problems with hair ties staying in my hair. Even the 'nonslip' ones never stayed put. These are the only hair ties ties I’ve ever used that actually stay, even during a workout. These won’t disappoint!" —Eiffel Y.

    Get a pack of 20 from Amazon for $7.29

    24. A pair of breathable mesh capri leggings designed to stay cool thanks to their soft (yet strong) mesh cutouts. Plus, you can shake your running wardrobe up with this super fun print, so you'll feel extra cute (and maybe a little more motivated) as you hit the track.

    A model in pink West African-inspired print leggings with diagonal black mesh panels at the knees
    CultureFit

    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: "They are beautiful, but I bought them to actually use as performance wear and they live up to the test. The wide waistband was perfect for running. No slip or sag the entire time. The only thing I'd love would be a pocket for my phone!" —Danielle Z.

    Get them from CultureFit for $44.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XL, available in three styles and as full-length leggings).

    25. Or a pair of capri leggings with two all-important pockets for holding your phone, keys, and other essentials while you run. Chafe-free seams, a wide high-waisted stretchy band, and a gusseted crotch design allow for max flexibility and comfort, letting you fully focus on the task at hand without distraction.

    model wearing the high rise capri leggings in mauve color
    reviewer wearing the high-rise capri leggings in spacedye blue while out on a run

    There are dozens of different colors and styles to pick from here, so check out one reviewer's great breakdown of the subtle differences in how each style feels and fits before you purchase.

    Promising review: "Like a second skin. I wore these for the first time yesterday running and walking four miles. The moment I put them on, they felt so good. They fit so smoothly against my skin! I love the high waist as my middle is big. And I love the two deep pockets on the sides. The snake skin is fun and made me feel a little sexy. I will definitely buy another pair in the future. Note: I am 5-feet tall and these leggings hit me just above the ankles. I would not recommend the full length for us shorties! Otherwise, click the 'add to cart' button now!!" —KTPA

    Get them from Amazon for $21.98+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and many colors and styles).

    26. A pair of Thinx period-proof underwear so you don't have to worry about any accidental leakage while you're out getting in your cardio. Plus, these comfy hiphuggers won't budge even while running.

    BuzzFeed Shopping editor Emma Lord says, "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 $29.75 (originally $35; available in sizes XXS–4XL and five colors).

    27. pair of Brooks running shoes you can count on to keep your feet cushioned, stable, and ventilated, because nothing will put you off your running routine like a pair of aching feet. Reviewers say they're great for high arches and overpronation and last for years!

    close-up of reviewer wearing the pink and light green running sneakers
    different reviewer wearing the same running sneakers in white at the gym

    Promising review: "This is an excellent shoe for my pronation! I am a road runner, and my feet have been killing me in my Asics. I did not buy last year's Adrenaline because they were more bulky and heavy when I tried them in the running store locally. I saw these, and they had been reworked to be lighter, softer, and the heel cup is also cushioned, so if I put the laces in the outer hole at the top, my heels don't slip out. These shoes are so freaking comfortable! I literally called them my magic shoes. I cut a minute off my mile! That's saying something for me...I am not that fast! They are still very light despite all the padding inside. I am just so pleased that I spent the money for these! Also if you require a wider toe box these should work for you. A narrow toe box is a hard no for me!" —Gretha A.

    Get them from Amazon for $114.46 (available in sizes 5–13, including narrow, wide, and extra-wide sizes, and in 28 colors). You can find a version available in men's sizes here.

    28. Athletic socks with a heel tab design that prevents blisters and sinking down into your sneaker. They're also super breathable and provide some light compression that helps support your arches. If you're currently trying to run in your regular everyday socks, take it from me — investing in some athletic socks makes *all* the difference for a comfortable run.

    white, gray, orange, and green Saucony athletic socks with heel tabs
    reviewer showing their foot wearing a gray athletic sock with a sneaker, and the sock isn't sinking down

    Promising review: "So you know that problem when your running socks slouch below your shoe, and WHAM! Blister. This does not happen with these socks. That little tabby-thing in the back is amazing for preventing sock slippage, and these are awesome. They're not too heavy (which is great — dude, I hate bulky socks!), but they're hefty enough that you don't feel like you're going to put a hole in the sock after the first few runs. I'm crazy prone to blisters, and these are perfect." —Amy

    Get an 8-pack from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in three sizes and in 32 different color packs).

    29. sweat-resistant sunscreen because protecting your skin against the harsh sun is a *must* if you're an outdoor runner, but having sunscreen run into your eyes as you start to sweat is truly hell on earth. This stuff stays put so you get all the protection, minus the pain.

    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.

    30. Or a moisturizing, sweat-resistant sunscreen designed to blend naturally into darker skin tones instead of leaving a white cast — which is how no one wants to start their workout. Reviewers say it doesn't give you that greasy sunscreen feeling either.

    A model putting sunscreen on their hand
    Target

    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

    "The first face sunscreen that I have found that doesn’t make my eyes burn. I also worked out today and when my face got sweaty it didn’t feel the normal gross when I use other sunscreens. New favorite." —Bananapopsicle

    Get it from Target for $15.99 or from Black Girl Sunscreen for $18.99.

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