Whether your run streak is 10 days or 100 days, the right gear is key to maintaining consistency and avoiding injury. (After all, an ill-timed blister or nasty head cold could be enough to derail even the most dedicated run streakers.) Whether it’s hail, wind, rain, or sunshine that awaits, these are some of the best buys to consider as you take the first steps on what could be a very long run.
On the coldest mornings, the warmth of a cozy fleece can make a big difference in getting you out the door. While many fleeces aren’t suitable for running, this one utilizes extremely soft, lightweight Polartec Classic fleece with zones of nylon-elastane for increased range of motion. The breathable stretch panels also offer enhanced ventilation at higher speeds while also helping you maintain exceptional warmth.
If you’re planning to go long during your run streak, some form of hydration is a must. Most runners don’t want to haul a hefty water bottle while on the move, but this lightweight option is a breeze to cart along. Its self-sealing bite valve means it’s easy to drink from on the move. And the soft, collapsible composition makes it especially comfortable to carry once you’ve drained its contents (even more motivation to drink up).
The first layer is often the most important, and running T-shirts don’t get higher-quality than this. The shirt is made from a super-fine Merino wool blend, the ideal material to beat the early-morning chill or cope with the warmth of the afternoon sun. The ultra-breathable material is soft against the skin, and its odor-resistant properties keep it from smelling, no matter how much you sweat while racking up the miles.
Whether there's freezing hail or the scorching sun overhead, one of the most versatile things to keep you protected on your run streak is a decent running cap. This sleek option was the top pick among Runner’s World editors this year and with good reason. It’s built for performance but still looks great. And its fast-drying Coolwick fabric keeps your head dry and comfortable on hot days.
Most runners carry a digital training log on their wrist, but there’s still a lot to be said for tracking your work on paper. This undated training-focused journal includes room for setting intentions and provides practical tools and tips to help you reach your goals, making it an especially valuable tool when you’re aiming to maintain a run streak.
Another high-quality base layer—one that’s especially helpful for cold-weather runs—this 100 percent Merino wool shirt’s waffle knit pattern is more than just for looks. The fabric’s small pockets trap warm air, holding it against the skin while also allowing excess heat to escape. The wool is also odor-resistant and quick-drying—check, check.
One bad sunburn could mean an abrupt end to your run streak, but sunscreen dripping into your eyes is certainly not ideal either. This SPF gel got a huge thumbs up during Runner’s World testing. It’s sweatproof and highly concentrated, meaning a pea-sized drop is all you need to cover your face and neck. It dries in two minutes and won’t lose its protection or slide off when you start sweating.
The roads and sidewalks you know well during daytime can turn intimidating once the sun sets. One of the best ways to ensure you’re safe and seen is with a running light, and this lightweight beam and reflector combo is less bulky than many running vests. It’s adjustable so you don’t need to worry about excess bouncing, and with LED lights front and back, it offers excellent visibility.
There’s a good reason the turtleneck is a winter classic: In addition to to-your-chin warmth, the cut also prevents chafing from scratchy jacket collars. Made from Merino wool, this shirt is still lightweight, meaning while it's bound to keep you warm, it won’t cling when you start to sweat.
They’ll keep your calf muscles warmer during the cold of winter, but these socks truly come into their own in high summer. They have a seamless reinforced toe and heel that offer great protection from blisters. Plus, the sweat-wicking material allows for excellent ventilation. The compression also makes these tall socks a great choice for recovery.
Cathal Dennehy is a freelance writer based in Dublin, Ireland, who covers the sport for multiple outlets from Irish newspapers to international track websites. As an athlete, he was Irish junior cross-country champion and twice raced the European Cross Country, but since injury forced his retirement his best athletic feat has been the Irish beer mile record. He’s happiest when he’s running or writing stories about world-class athletes.
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