Due to my change in approach to getting in shape to face off against Michael Jordan one-on-one, running has become a rather large part of my life.

I’m one long run from surpassing the 450 mile mark for the year!  Over 400 of those miles were done during a seven month span, as I took a break of about two months (ran just 35 miles) between races from April 13-June 13.

Throughout this year, I have tried numerous products to aid in my running journey.

Here are the 10 MUST HAVE products that I USE and LOVE and I think you will too!

1.  Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Watch

When I began my running this year, the first thing I bought was the Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Watch.

Its ability to track my runs via gps and store all of the data (distance, pace, calories burned, heart rate, elevation, exact map location of run, etc) feeds into my techie side:-)

Here is an example of a recent 4 mile run.

The Garmin 305 has also won numerous awards from running publications.

While a lot of people must have music to run, I must have my Garmin!

($145.99)

2.  Shoes!

Mars Blackmon was right, “It’s Gotta Be The Shoes!”

Shoes will be the single MOST important purchase you make.

When I began running, I went to the outlet store and found the most inexpensive Nike shoes ($75) I could find of decent quality, bought them and then ran in them for months.

I was LUCKY!

I just happened to grab the exact shoe for my personal pronation type (read more here at Runner’s World).

Since that time I have gone to running stores and had it checked.  My second pair were just an updated version of the first pair I bought.

Take the time to find a local store in your area that specializes in running/triathlons.  They will typically check your stride, allow you to try on several pairs, test them, and figure out which is best for you.

The right shoes will help keep you injury free and running!

*No link here because it is imperative that you get a shoe that fits YOU!

(+$75)

3.  Running Shirts/Shorts

When my running journey began, I took pride in running in basketball shorts and regular cotton t-shirts (see picture of first half marathon).  It was my anti-running side holding on for dear life.

I’ve since crumbled and bought into running shirts and shorts and oh, so how glad am I, that I did.

The importance really comes with how the clothes wick away the moisture.  It just makes the running a bit more pleasurable when you’re out there for 1.5-2 hours grinding away in the sun.  Every little bit helps.

*Yes, those were Jordan shorts I was wearing in the picture.

(prices vary)

4.  Ice Packs

When I first began running, I bought some ice packs for my knees at the local Walgreens (drugstore).  I had been given that advice from the gentleman that got me into the running world.

While I don’t use them as much now on shorter runs, in the beginning I used them after every run to keep inflammation down.

As you know I went from nothing to a half marathon in 5 weeks.

The ice packs helped and they feel great after a long run:-)

(2 for $24)

5.  Clif Shot Energy Gel

My favorite gel packs are by Clif Bar.

I really like the taste and they are all natural and 90% organic, which is an added plus.  I usually take one about 15 minutes before a run or play basketball and sometimes I will take another on a 10 mile run, halfway in.

My favorite flavors are: Strawberry (25g caffeine), Raspberry, and Mocha (50g caffeine).

($1 each)

6.  Recoverite

I’ve been using Hammer’s Recoverite for a couple of months now after my longer runs and it rocks!

My body feels much better the next day and when you’re hammering out (sorry for the pun) run after run, that is crucial!

It does what it claims…helps you recover!

My favorite flavor is Strawberry.

($1.56 per serving)

7.  Halo 2 headband

The Halo 2 headband is something I just recently started using.  It’s amazing!  Due to a small strip found on the inner part of the band, it keeps the sweat out of your eyes.  It also never smells, no matter how much you sweat (that doesn’t mean you should’t wash it…hahaha).

After running with it for a month now, I’ve gotten very used to it.  I went out the other day and forgot to wear it and WOW, what a difference.

In my opinion, the Halo 2 is a must buy.

($12)

8. Giro Polarized SEMI Sunglasses

These sunglasses rock!  I wear them when I run and when I cycle.

They never slip, they are light, and of course they look great!

*not sure if Giro is still producing these, as I couldn’t find them on their website.  Good news is Amazon is selling them at less than 50% of what I paid.

($69.12)

9.  Camelbak Quick Grip 21 Oz Hydration Pack

I don’t really like running with a water bottle, due to it just being a burden to carry around.  On longer distances though, it really becomes a safety concern to be running for a long period of time if no hydration is available.

When I run distances of 7-8 miles or more, I use the Camelbak Quick Grip 21 Oz Hydration Pack.  Filled with ice and water, it keeps the water nice and cold the entire time.

($20)

10.  iPod

I know I list running without music sometimes as a key lesson learned.  This is for the rest of the time.

Music can without a doubt make the time out on the trail seem to pass by a bit quicker.  If you have’t done so by now, invest in an iPod (doesn’t everyone have one) or something similar.

When you’ve done that, take the time to create a playlist that will pace you along your journey.

(prices vary)

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Those are my 10 MUST HAVE Running Products that I USE and LOVE!

I encourage you to give them a try!  If you have any certain products that you have tried and LOVE, please leave in the comments section below.

Good luck and happy running to you all!!!  See ya on the trail!