Race day kit checklist
Nothing new on race day. Everything on this list should be something you've tried on a long training run first, especially gels and socks.
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Quick picks
Lay out the night before: race number and pins, tried-and-tested shoes and socks, anti-chafe, gels for every 30–45 minutes after the first hour, a belt to carry them, and an old top to throw away at the start.
The night before
- Race number, safety pins and timing chip (if separate)
- Shoes and socks you've done a long run in
- Anti-chafe balm on anywhere that rubs
- Gels: one every 30–45 minutes after the first hour, and you must have tried the brand in training
- A belt or pocket for gels, phone and a card
- An old top or bin bag to wear at the start and discard
- Something warm and dry for after, in your bag-drop
- Charity vest with your name on it: the crowd will shout it
Body Glide anti-chafe balm
The anti-chafe stick runners swear by for long runs and race day: thighs, underarms, bra lines and anywhere a seam rubs.
£16.99
SiS GO Isotonic energy gels (7 mixed)
Isotonic gels from Science in Sport that don't need washing down with water, which makes them easy on the stomach for first marathons. A mixed pack to find your flavour.
£8.98
Precision Fuel PF 30 gels
30g of carbohydrate per gel with a mild, neutral flavour, from the UK brand Precision Fuel & Hydration.
£9.49
Maurten Gel 100 mix box (6-pack)
Maurten's hydrogel sports gels, 25g of carbohydrate each, in a mixed box including caffeinated gels. The gel many elite marathoners use.
£19.90
Precision Hydration electrolyte tablets
Effervescent electrolyte tablets in multiple strengths, for long runs and hot race days.
£8.99
SPIbelt Large Pocket running belt
A slim, no-bounce belt with an expanding pocket that fits big phones, keys and a gel or two.
£22.99
FlipBelt Classic
A seamless tube belt that holds a phone, keys and gels without bouncing.
£39£36–£39 since 8 Sep
1000 Mile Run anklet socks (twin pack)
British double-layer running socks designed so the layers rub against each other instead of your skin, to cut down on blisters.
£13.95
OOFOS OOriginal recovery sandals
Soft, rocker-shaped recovery sandals to slip into after a long run or race. OOFOS says its foam absorbs more impact than standard footwear foam.
£55Frequently asked questions
How many gels do I need for a marathon?
Most runners take one every 30–45 minutes after the first hour, so typically 4–6 for a marathon. Practise your plan on long runs; stomachs vary.
Should I try new kit on race day?
No. Wear shoes, socks and clothes you've done long runs in, and only use gels you've tested in training.
Where do I put gels during a race?
A running belt like a SPIbelt or FlipBelt, shorts with pockets, or pinned to your waistband.
How do I stop chafing on a marathon?
Apply anti-chafe balm to thighs, underarms, bra line and nipples before you start, and wear kit you've done a long run in.
Keep reading
How we choose: we don’t lab-test products. Picks are based on published specifications, what each product is designed for, brand track record with UK runners and UK availability. Prices on the buttons update hourly from Amazon UK. About Run For It.