5 kit essentials for marathon runners

The right kit can help your marathon training as well as your race day performance

There are five pieces of kit that anyone training for a marathon should stock up on, according to running gear specialist and MD of SportsShoes.com Brett Bannister.

Brett says, 'When people run, around three to four times their bodyweight is placed on the shoe at a time and that's a lot of pressure over the 26.2 mile marathon course. So it is paramount to get some really good running shoes with the right amount of support and cushioning to suit the level of pronation.

Runners will also find their feet will heat up and swell when running long distances, so  choose half a size up from their normal shoe size. Make sure you also choose clothing in moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics to ensure a comfortable run.'

The most popular running shoe at Sportsshoes HQ among marathon runners is  the ASICS GT-2160.

Tick these off your shopping list: Brett's five marathon running kit essentials

1. RUNNING SHOES: Brett advises, 'For neutral runners, the cushioned Nike Zoom Vomero +6 running shoes are brilliant for high mileage usage. For more support try the Saucony Progrid Hurricane 12 shoes.'
2. A RUNNING VEST: 'The Nike Dri Fit range offers super breathable vests ideal for marathon runners. Made of a high performance, microfibre fabric it wicks sweat away from the body to keep runners cool and comfortable. Prices start from £7.95.'
3. RUNNING SHORTS: 'The Adidas Response Tight Running Shorts have a zip back pocket which is ideal for keeping essentials at hand throughout a race. The Climalite fabric also wicks sweat away from the skin: an essential buy.'
4. RUNNING SOCKS: 'Thorlo Light Mini Crew Running Socks are made of 70% Coolmax fabric to keep your feet cooler and drier than ordinary socks. The light-weight pads of these anklet socks make them more comfortable, reducing fatigue and minimising blisters.'
5. RUNNING PLAYLIST: 'Music is an essential morale booster during the epic journey,' says Brett. Sportsshoes.com has created its own marathon playlist of 26-songs to see you go the distance, or check out the playlists at our sister site Runnersworld.co.uk for inspiration.

Looking for MP3 compatible fitness clothing?

Don't forget to invest in a couple of good sports bras.