The Best Walking and Running Gear

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We’ve rounded up the best walking and running gear for people who are finding themselves working out outside more than in the gym these days. Read on for our top brand picks in running gear and walking gear, including everything from leggings to water bottles.

The Best Leggings for Workouts: Outdoor Voices TechSweat Leggings

Cult-favorite workout brand Outdoor Voices takes the cake for the best leggings for walking and running gear with its TechSweat leggings line. Available in two different waistband styles—Core Band and Flex-Band—you choose among different comfort options. Both have pockets to hold phones and things like snacks, dog treats, or keys.

The Best Sneakers/Trainers for Workouts: On Running Cloud

Use On Running’s shoe finder to find the perfect sneaker or trainer for your walking and running needs. The signature lightweight styles are also available in waterproof materials, which is ideal for temperamental spring weather. I trained for the Boston Marathon in these and can attest to their superior comfort and support.

The Best Hiking Shoe: Vasque Clarion ’88 GTX

For those hitting the trails, look no further than Vasque’s heavy-duty Clarion ’88 GTX styles for men and women. The shoe is waterproof, provides fantastic support, and has superior traction. For those looking for lowcut styles, check out the Breeze III (for women’s sizes) and the Juxt (for men’s sizes).

The Best Hiking Pants: Coalatree Trailhead Pants

Eco-conscious brand Coalatree makes an ultra-useful pair of water-repelling, unisex hiking pants, called the Trailhead pants. Also available in Slim Fit, the pants have plenty of pockets but are lightweight and comfortable enough for everyday wear.

The Best Water-Repelling Gear: Marmot PreCip Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket

This lightweight running jacket is ideal for inclement springtime weather. The jacket protects against everything from mist to downpours. The NanoPro technology keeps water out but still allows sweat to escape. The waterproof jacket is available in men’s and women’s sizes.

The Best Day Pack: Osprey Trail Running Packs

If you’re headed out for longer runs or walks, we love Osprey’s trail running packs for their functionality, security, and hydration capabilities. For those day hiking or camping, the brand’s line of hiking packs are just as tactical.

The Best Running Accessories: Lululemon

Whether it’s a headband, water-repelling hat, foam roller, microfiber towel, or running gloves, Lululemon’s line of accessories is my go-to for running and walking extras.

The Best Layering Tops for Running and Walking: Smartwool

The most important items for walking and running gear are your layering pieces and fabrics. Smartwool is one of our favorite brands for both, as the merino wool fabric is naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating. Any of the 150 base layer tops are ideal walking and running gear.

The Best Socks for Outdoor Workouts: Bombas

Bombas’ high-performance athletic socks are breathable and moisture-wicking, plus they come in tons of fun colors and patterns to brighten up your exercise routine. Our favorite feature, though, is that the brand donates one pair of socks to homeless shelters for every pair purchased. Shop women’s athletic styles and men’s athletic styles.

The Best Water Bottle for Running and Walking: Bottled Joy

The one necessary feature in a water bottle for running or walking? An easy way to hold it. Bottled Joy’s line of water bottles offer handles, wrist straps, or a carabiner hook. All water bottles are BPA-free and affordable.

The Best Sports Bras for Running and Walking: SHEFIT

No matter your size or activity level, you’ll fall in love with SHEFIT’s sports bras. The auto-locking zippers and adjustable straps allow for maximum comfort and styles range from high to medium impact. My favorite part is the zippered front, so you can easily remove the sports bra after your sweat-inducing workout.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Stylish Jeans So Comfortable You Can Sleep in Them
• 14 Ways to Improve Your Future Trips While You’re Stuck at Home
• 11 Books We’re Reading to Inspire Ourselves and Our Future Travels

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

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