Improve Your PB In The Sleekest High Performance Running Gear
With the countdown to the London Marathon underway, runners across the country are pounding the pavements. If you’re feeling inspired, here’s all the running clothing, shoes, and accessories you’ll need to get out there.
I have a love-hate relationship with running. I deplore the build-up, the push to brace the cold, and the achievement nerves. But, wow, the high that hits post-run is like nothing else. Achieving that goal, the mental off-load, the fresh air and incredible strength taking over your body – that, my friends, is your ‘runner’s high’. If you’re on the fence, please just give it a go. Not only does it give you enforced time to yourself – whether you take in the buzz of your surroundings, listen to your fave tunes or get absorbed in the latest podcast – you’re also becoming a stronger version of yourself. Now, that’s no bad thing.
My kit also made a difference for me. By combining high performance with beautiful design, you can actually feel the part. For years, I didn’t see myself as a ‘runner’, but while I’m no professional, I do run. So I guess I am, in fact, a runner. And when I slip on my cobalt blue Adidas top, my Nike leggings, and my Brooks trainers, I feel like a runner.
Thankfully, running clothes for women are now more readily available and seriously covetable. Selfridges London is embracing this amazing fight for fitness by turning the in-store Corner Shop into an On studio space. The space will feature the brand’s new SS25 training collection—fronted by creative partner FKA Twigs—its latest training, running, and everyday shoes. Plus, from 13 January to 8 February, the store will host a variety of inspiring fitness events.
Quality matters…
For me, quality is paramount. This gear needs to be hard-wearing, moisture-wicking, comfortable, and look good—no saggy knees allowed. If we’re serious, these vests, tops and leggings will be sweat in, stretched, and in and out of the washing machine quicker than a burpee, so they have to be top grade. Consider Bicester Village, the off-price shopping destination, if you love luxury brands but the price tags leave you perspiring more than your run. You’ll find tempting discounts on Lululemon, Under Armour, and New Balance there.
If fashion influences your sporty attire, visit Free People’s FP Movement collection for a boho take on activewear. Expect gorgeous own-brand pieces alongside well-known labels like Hoka, On, and New Balance. And keep an eye out for the FP Movement Run Day, where style and sport unite in cities across the globe.
Ready. Set. Run. Get out there and face the challenge…
Running Gear
High-Performance Accessories
Running Trainers
There’s no question that from the moment I invested in really good running shoes, my overall performance and joint health improved – drastically. Before splurging the cash, my top tip would be to have a gait analysis done. Most specialist stores do them to help you find the perfect trainers, regardless of your running style. I went to Run And Become next to Victoria; honestly, the experience was transformative. I came away with a pair of Brooks Adrenaline GTS and have never looked back. They offer stability, cushioning, and anti-pronation support, which is everything I need to get me through 5ks, 10ks, and even half marathons.
Hoka also comes highly recommended. The latest Bondi 9 offers cloud-like cushioning and an increased stack height—a technical advancement most brands are adopting—to support and apparently improve those PBs. Similarly, the all-new Asics GEL-NIMBUS™ is a lesson in running comfort. Designed to help you run further, the shoe combines cushioning with a premium fit, plus PureGEL™ technology to enhance shock absorption.
“We’re incredibly excited to launch the Alo Runner. Running is a moving meditation, and with this sneaker, our goal was to inspire people of all levels and backgrounds to lace up and chase that runner’s high. We designed it to help you focus on your breath, to move with intention, and experience that powerful sense of clarity and joy that can transform your mindset.”
– Danny Harris, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Alo
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.
