A good training is the basis of a successful marathon. However, it is not the only condition for the latter to take place in good conditions. A bad outfit and the drama came quickly! Heat, chafing, blisters and humidity are to be avoided in order to have the best chances on D-day. Find all our advice to find the ideal outfit according to your level and your needs.
What are the best shoes for running a marathon?
Let’s start with the basics: shoes. Whatever your goal, it is essential to have shoes that are adapted to your stride and your physical characteristics. Drop, pronation, supination or carbon plate: the concepts of shoes abound in the world of running and trail. Find all our advice to clarify all these issues and make the right choice!
Beginner runners
To run a first marathon, cushioning and comfort are the key words. No matter what your favorite brand is, the important thing is to feel good and have a soft sensation. Do not choose a shoe with a drop (difference between the height of the sole under the heel and under the forefoot) that is too high for a first marathon. These often sacrifice comfort for dynamism, a less obvious feature for beginners.
Découvrez les chaussuresOccasional runners
If you have already won several marathons and your goal is to improve your time, the search for dynamism and joint protection must become a priority. A marathon puts the ankles and knees to a severe test, hence the need to choose the most suitable insoles. A shoe capable of absorbing shocks and giving a clear rebound effect will therefore be preferred.
Découvrez les chaussuresExperienced runners
You have already had a long career as a marathon runner and what makes you tick is the quest for performance? Think energy return! Indeed, even if comfort is essential to finish a marathon, an efficient energy return even after 2h30 of running is essential to perform and beat your records. Some insoles, such as those with carbon plates, capitalize on this factor by restoring a good part of the energy applied during the stride.
What is the best running gear for a marathon?
Just like shoes, running clothes must be chosen with care in order to enjoy a serene race. It is important to choose THE right piece for each body part. Where poorly cut pants will reduce your running range, a jersey made of unsuitable material will prevent sweat from evacuating and cause thermal discomfort and chafing. Follow the guide!
Underwear
Base of any outfit, underwear is essential although invisible: what a paradox! Because to feel comfortable in cool or hot weather, there’s nothing like a baselayer made of technical synthetic material that holds the body in place and wicks away sweat. Avoid cotton at all costs as it is difficult to wick away moisture and creates discomfort and friction.
Découvrez les sous-vêtementsBras
For runners, whatever their level, it is essential to select a good bra to support the chest during the race. Providing comfort and support, it will allow you to run longer and faster. In this sense, we advise you to choose a backstrap bra that limits the weight on the shoulders and a technical fabric that breathes and quickly wicks away moisture.
Découvrez les brassièresShirts
Women or men, no matter the level, the running shirt can have an impact on your running time. In order not to limit the range of motion of your arms, choose a flowing swimsuit in the summer or a sufficiently elastic fabric for the cooler seasons.
Découvrez les maillotsPants or shorts
In the choice of stockings, leggings are often favored because they limit friction and their compressive effect can help improve performance. If the leggings with a second skin feel don’t suit you, feel free to opt for a looser pair of shorts that will free your thighs from all constraints. This solution is preferred in summer. In all cases: wide or tight cut, the garment must let breathe!
Découvrez les basJacket and vest
Rain gear, windbreaker or simple second layer can be allies during a marathon. Whatever the season, no one is safe from rain and bad weather. Therefore, don’t let rain or wind ruin your run. To do this, simply slip a windproof vest or compact waterproof jacket into your running backpack. These will be used before the departure to avoid any cold.
Découvrez les vestesThe ideal outfit for a marathon runner is a personal matter that depends above all on your budget and your level. Also, the choice should be made according to your temperature tolerance and your preferences in terms of fit and style. This last point is not to be neglected: taking care of your look means feeling good about yourself and an additional chance to beat your records!
Electronics
If you’re looking for a GPS cardio watch to accompany and guide you through your workouts and performances, the Garmin Forerunner 265 and 965 will be the ideal running and triathlon companion. Discover our dedicated page here.
Découvrez les montres Forerunner