Do you really need running accessories?

July 9, 2026 | 5 min. read By Brooks Staff

Running can be overwhelming. You’ll see runners with impressive gear while you only have a trusted pair of shoes and you panic about not being prepared enough, as you wonder what is and isn’t genuinely useful for your everyday run.

Don't get too tempted by every accessory out there, especially if you have a big race coming up. It can be easy to get caught up in overrated running accessories and lose sight of the essentials, so read on to see what is important and what you can leave behind. At Brooks, we know our accessories, so we know what is underrated and what isn’t, so read on to see our scores out of 5 in terms of what is necessary.

Running socks, underwear and a sports bra

Socks and underwear are definite essentials, especially if you’re running longer distances. These two can particularly help keep your run comfortable, with help in avoiding chafing and blisters.

For your running socks, opt for moisture wicking and snug supportive styles that can help with cushioning for any extra miles you’re running. These are also practical to help keep your feet dry and your temperature regulated.

A running or sports bra is also an essential for everyday runs, whether a quick jog to get some air or something more intense. They help with comfort as you work out as well as styles with pockets being extra useful to slot in your phone or keys. If you don’t know where to start with finding a sports bra, check out our bra finder to find one that works for you.

Hats and headgear

Another useful accessory, particularly to help against the elements. Running hats are particularly lightweight and breathable so you can put them on for a sunny run without getting too sweaty. Along the same lines, running beanies tend to be a bit more specialised when compared to normal winter beany hats. Not only do they keep you warm, but they also help with not overheating you, as they tend to be more breathable and help you from getting too hot on a run.

A similar point for gloves. While many say normal gloves can do the same trick, running gloves tend to be a bit more lightweight and breathable, so you’re not running with the extra weight of winter gloves.

Running neck warmer

Depending on how you deal with the cold or if you run hot, a nek warmer, or neck gaiter, can be useful. If you tend to be a bit colder usually and you’re running in under 5-degree weather, we’d say this is a necessity. But if you tend to get much hotter on a run, even in the cold, this is probably one to leave behind. Though, it does come in particularly handy on those icy wind days as they give you that additional layer of protection.

Reflective gear and headlamps

These are safety critical if you’re running in the dark and especially in the winter. Reflective gear makes your visible in the dark so you can be seen by oncoming traffic or from a distance. These are, in fact, one of the most important accessories for runners who head out in low light.

Belts, bags and vests

While these are less needed for a short run, they can still be useful. You can add in essentials such as keys or a phone, but for longer runs, they can be useful to add in hydration flasks, gels and running snack.

Watches and tech

It really depends on this one. Overall, while it could be good to have a running watch if you want to understand the distance and pace of your run, and heart rate zones, sometimes it could be good to just leave the watch at home and go for an untracked run. Especially if you’re going for an everyday run, you don’t need to monitor everything, and you can just pay attention to your body and what it needs.

Similarly, leaving the headphones at home can also be useful. It helps you to be more alert with your surroundings, while also gets you out of your head as you listen to nature around you.

Running sunglasses

Running sunglasses do hold their own when compared to just normal sunglasses. Not only do you get more UV protection for your eyes especially as they’re wider so offer more all-round protection, but they also tend to stay more in place as you’re running.

Running accessories that are overrated

And there are some accessories that most runners may think will improve performance, but there are minimal gains for your performance:

Running bells are top of this list: There’s extra benefit to a gimmick to alert other people of your running, as a simple ‘excuse me’ or moving out of the way can help avoid collisions just as well. 1/5
Running masks to help breathing these are sold in as an added performance tool but consistent and well-structured training can do the exact same thing. 1/5
Compression gear: while there are some benefits to aid recovery, compression clothes for running offer limited benefits to your everyday running. While claiming to also help blood flow, again a well-structured work out will help with the same thing. 2/5
Running shoe inserts: the aim of these is to help add more cushioning and stability. The way most running shoes are designed, they already have the proper set up for all your needs anyway, whether more stability, cushioning or comfort, so there really is little need for anything extra. 1/5

Hopefully, this guide helps you understand the essentials needed for your run, versus those added gimmicks that you don’t need to splurge out on.

Disclaimer: Our writer's advice is intended for informational or general educational purposes only. We always encourage you to speak with your physician or healthcare provider before making any adjustments to your running, nutrition, or fitness routines.