Running Shoes & Gear

Your legs lead the way as you run, so it’s important to make sure they’re visible to bypassers, too. Brooks, the brand that created these leggings, conducted research to identify the key factors that help make you visible in low-light and no-light conditions—reflectivity, fluorescence, and contrast colors—which these leggings have! Available in both men’s and women’s styles, they feature three reflective strips—one on the thigh, one below the knee, and one at ankle level—for maximum visibility. Plus, they have a no-bounce pocket that is the perfect place to stow your phone for an added sense of security.

Sometimes the most powerful tools come in tiny packages. Case in point: this emergency whistle, which weighs just one-tenth of an ounce but emits a 100+ decibel-level sound, which is equivalent to a motorcycle or ATV. Thanks to its pealess design (meaning it doesn’t have a little ball inside the air chamber), it’s less likely to break or fail compared to other whistles. Another perk: It comes with a handy reflective lanyard that boosts your visibility.

A first for the brand, this carbon-neutral running shoe features an upper made of 30-percent recycled material, which is just one of the ways Brooks created this eco-conscious kick. The soft underfoot cushioning features technology that adapts to your stride, providing endless miles of comfort and support. Plus, the crash pad in the shoe makes each step smooth, no matter your foot strike.

Take your visibility into your own hands—literally—with these mini handheld flashlights. The wide flood beams illuminate your path with a smooth, super-bright light. With one in each hand, you’ll make it easy for cars to see you and reduce your chances of tripping over any obstacles on your path. These lights won’t weigh you down either; they’re just three ounces each.

A big part of running safely in the dark is making sure you can actually see where you’re going. These shoe lights tick that box! With a forward-facing light beam of up to 30 feet and two back-facing red lights, they help define obstacles, provide 360 degrees of visibility, and let cars know you’re there.

Not all nighttime runs happen in the cold. This short-sleeve T-shirt is a great option for after-dark workouts in higher temps. Cars can spot you from up to 600 feet away, thanks to the 3M Scotchlite Carbon Black Stretch reflectivity strips at the shoulders, back, arms, and waist. Other perks include bonded seams and soft, stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric that’ll keep you cool as you move.

You can never have too much light on a nighttime run. This headlamp is regulated for constant light output and emits a powerful 400 lumens on its max setting, allowing visibility up to 100 meters ahead. In other words, you’ll see—and be seen—for the entirety of your workout. Bonus: The device is waterproof, ideal for those rainy (or even snowy) evening runs.

Peace of mind can come from preparing for worst-case scenarios. So while we hope you never need to use it, this pepper spray may add a sense of calm to your nighttime run. The device comes with a built-in keychain for fast and easy access and is simple to use—just put your thumb under the safety cap and press down. 

Slip this belt around your waist before you head out on your evening run. Not only are the materials reflective, so you can be seen by all your run by, but the best also has four openings for you to stash everything from your phone, to your ID and credit card, to your keys, and possibly even some chews or a bar if you'll be out for while. It's machine washable, too!