Hi,
I've recently signed up for a marathon for July 2025 Gold Coast. Currently looking into getting a running vest to store my phone and hydration gels/water. Also I'm currently running using Hoka Clifton 9. I'll be looking to get race shoes later down the track.
Looking for some recommendation on potential gear to use weekly up to the marathon.
I'm a new runner starting from the very start. Aiming to run at a 7:00 - 7:30 pace. I've done about a 4KM continuous so far and will be training 3 times a week. 2 Short runs and a long one every weekend.
If anyone has any gear suggestions or tips to help. That would be appreciated.
Congratulations!
The most difficult thing about running your first marathon is getting to the start line through all the training uninjured. Build up gradually and stick to the 10% rule, even if you feel you can do more. It takes your body time to adapt, especially if you are just starting out
I wouldn't start worrying about gear yet, you have plenty of time once you start doing the longer runs to work out what works for you. Personally I find the kmart shirts and shorts and cheap decathlon socks just as good as the expensive stuff
Shoes are the most important thing. But don't get what other people recommend, The best shoes are the ones that suit YOU best as everyone's feet are different. Go to a specialized running shop where they have knowledgable staff and a treadmill you can run on and try different shoes, they will watch you and recommend different models based on your running style and foot strike that you can test in the store (this is NOT athletes foot).
At 7:00 pace you don't need race shoes, all they will do is increase your chance of getting injured
Good luck!
Qualification: I have done over 30 marathons and ultras