Just started running? Here’s the gear I recommend from Hoka, Brooks, Asics and more to finish your first 5K

A collage of running deals shown on a track
(Image credit: Amazon/Gymshark edited with Gemini)

I recently completed Couch to 5K after two previous failed attempts and a lot of sweaty pep talks with myself. For the first time in my life, I actually feel like I can say I like running. But like any great motivator, buying myself some new running gear has really helped me enjoy my time pounding the streets.

Fortunately, there are so many great deals that make buying all this new gear a little more affordable. From the trainers I wear for a lot of my runs, the Brooks Ghost 17 down to just $119 at Amazon to the WaterFly Running Belt for $21 at Amazon, as I work my way up to a 10K or dare I say it, a half-marathon, some of this gear becomes even more essential.

Quick Links

Running gear deals

Under Armour Tech 2.0 Tee (Men’s)
Under Armour Tech 2.0 Tee (Men’s): was $25 now $14 at Amazon

A running tee is a bit of an essential if you want to keep cool and wick away any moisture, which makes Under Armour's Tech 2.0 tee an excellent pick. It's also a bit of a staple for training gear. Note: There's multiple different colors to choose from and pricing is based on size and color options, so be sure to click around for the lowest price.

Read moreRead less
Asics Silver Tank (Women’s)
Asics Silver Tank (Women’s): was $30 now $19 at Amazon

If there's one thing I hate when I'm running, it's a top that clings. Fortunately, the Asics Silver Tank is a comfy, lightweight top that won't distract you by sticking to your body. It also features a flat seam construction to help reduce chafing, which is something you'll not realize you desperately needed until you really get going.

Read moreRead less
WATERFLY Running Belt (Unisex)
WATERFLY Running Belt (Unisex): was $25 now $21 at Amazon

If you don't quite need a running vest or maybe don't even want one, a running belt is a great alternative for carrying your essentials with you on your runs. And right now, this WATERFLY running belt is down to just $21 with a breathable mesh design, three separate pockets, including a water resistant one for your phone, and a quick adjustable waist strap.

Read moreRead less
Danish Endurance Running Socks (Unisex)
Danish Endurance Running Socks (Unisex): was $43 now $21 at Amazon

I rave about the Danish Endurance running socks to pretty much anyone that'll listen to me. After a lot of research, I find these to be the best socks that really stop me getting blisters. But, they can be expensive. Fortunately, there's an offer to be found on Amazon that knocks it down to just $21.

Read moreRead less
Ciele GOCap Hat (Unisex)
Ciele GOCap Hat (Unisex): was $40 now $29 at REI

As the weather heats up, it's important to keep your face in the shade, especially if you don't want to sweat even more than you may already be. This unisex hat from Ciele is their original design with mesh technology integrated into the top panels for ventilation, making it a versatile pick for runners.

Read moreRead less
Gymshark Running 4” 2-in-1 Shorts (Men’s)
Gymshark Running 4” 2-in-1 Shorts (Men’s): was $58 now $34 at Gymshark US

While I don't wear these men's shorts, I do prefer a pair of running shorts with a lining and Gymshark's 2-in-1 come with internal half-tights for extra support. A pocket on the back to carry your keys, a ventilated waistband to keep you cool, and an adjustable drawcord to keep the shorts exactly where you want them are all added extras. All for just $34.

Read moreRead less
OOFOS Recovery Slide (Women’s)
OOFOS Recovery Slide (Women’s): was $80 now $44 at oofos.com

If you've not heard about OOFOS recovery sandals, you're in for a treat. When I first started running, my feet, knees, and ankles were suffering. Fortunately, these slides absorb 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials. I wear them even when I'm not recovering from a run, they're that comfy.

Read moreRead less
Lululemon High-Rise 3” Shorts (Women’s)
Lululemon High-Rise 3” Shorts (Women’s): was $78 now $59 at lululemon (US)

While I wanted to rave about the Shake It Out shorts from Lululemon, they're all sold out. The Fast and Free High-Rise though are the next best thing. Fortunately, while they're also sold out in a lot of colors and sizes, these lightweight, stretchy, and sweat-wicking shorts are still in stock. For now.

Read moreRead less

Running sneaker deals

Asics Sonicblast (Men’s)
Asics Sonicblast (Men’s): was $180 now $109 at Amazon

For daily runs and tempo training, the Asics Sonicblast are lightweight at 9oz, have high cushioning, and a 8mm heel drop. Plus, they've got an Astroplate propulsion mechanism centered in the foam. And who knows, maybe having the word Turbo written on the sides of your shoes will even make you faster? A girl can dream.

Read moreRead less
Brooks Ghost 17 (Women’s)
Brooks Ghost 17 (Women’s): was $150 now $119 at Amazon

With dynamic cushioning, balanced support and a stylish design, I'm a huge Brooks fan since taking up running and the Ghosts 17 really impress me. They're great for everyday running, but they're also a comfy fit for walking in, too. So, if you're after some versatile sneakers this summer, this is an epic discount price. The men's sneaker is also $119 at Amazon.

Read moreRead less
Hoka Clifton 10 (Men’s)
Hoka Clifton 10 (Men’s): was $155 now $124 at HOKA US

I also have the Hoka Clifton 10s, but right now the only discount is on the Men's fit. While there's three different colors in the sale, this white and light blue mix has the most sizes left to choose from. They're what Hoka call: "A trusted trainer for daily maintenance miles" and I've been getting a lot of mileage out of mine.

Read moreRead less
Nike  Vomero 18 (Women’s)
Nike Vomero 18 (Women’s): was $155 now $139 at NIKE

An upgrade from the Vomero 17, Nike says they feel 18% softer, thanks to great cushioning and an increased rocker for smoother heel-to-toe transition. And they've been given maximum cushioning to make sure they're up to the job of keeping you comfy during your runs.

Read moreRead less
Grace Dean

Grace is a freelance journalist working across homes, lifestyle, gaming and entertainment. You'll find her writing for Tom's Guide, TechRadar, Space.com, and other sites. If she's not rearranging her furniture, decluttering her home, or relaxing in front of the latest streaming series, she'll be typing fervently about any of her much-loved hobbies and interests. To aid her writing, she loves to head down internet rabbit holes for an unprecedented amount of time.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.