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Editor-tested running shoes, apparel, and technology to liven up your step this spring and beyond.
(Photo: Abby Levine/Getty)
Posted on March 20, 2026 at 05:14 AM
Astronomical spring means one thing for athletes in the Northern Hemisphere: It’s officially launch time. Triathlon season started with Ironman New Zealand Just a few weeks in the rearview and 70.3 Oceanside Approaching fast. Things are heating up, literally, and require attention to not only speed and endurance training, but training as well Heat training To prepare for steamy races like Ironman Texas.
Immediately, I found myself intuitively dusting off my storage boxes filled with this week’s warm-weather running gear — before frantically searching for my favorite gym socks when it snowed that night.
Whether you’re looking to invest in an essential item like a high-quality GPS watch or raincoat, upgrade your summer gear collection, or take advantage of spring sales to purchase more expensive winter gear, we’ve got you covered. I combed through REI Member Days Sale To see if there’s anything worth telling you about, I found nine pieces that have been tested by editors as steals and (as of this writing) still in stock. REI members can get an extra 20% off one item with code MEMBER26. Happy spring.

The Garmin Forerunner 165 has everything you need and nothing you don’t, making it no-frills, easy to use, and reliable. (In reality, I sang her praises that day For this exact reason.) If you’re someone who likes to run without their phone but still wants to put some tunes in your ears, Garmin forerunner 165 music It lets you do this for an extra $50 — though it drains the battery faster and requires a premium music subscription.

This is an exceptionally high-quality rain jacket at full price — and you can now get it for $45 off. It is very light, breathable, and extremely waterproof. It has kept me warm and dry all over the world, from the ridgelines of Zegama, Spain to the 14,000-foot mountain peaks of Colorado.

Smooth and stable, the Hoka Clifton 10 is a fan favorite – And your favorite musician – For good reason. It’s extremely comfortable yet light, surprisingly responsive and built to last. There’s nothing not to like about this no-nonsense, neutral daily road trainer.

I turn to this shoe for everything from trails to gravel miles year round. Fits like a glove without restricting the arch and toes. The Vibram Megagrip outsole gives it teeth on rocks and roots, but the EVA midsole provides enough comfort for basically every surface.

If you’re someone who sweats a lot (raises hand), merino wool is a godsend. It keeps you cool on warm days, warm on cold days, and you can wear it multiple times between washes without it smelling like a decaying animal—a big win for travel and weekends in the mountains. Plus, it shines beautifully as a casual shirt, which is another title in the travel department.

An essential piece for high-alpine running that never goes out of style and keeps you relatively warm and dry. The Houdini Vest folds in on itself, making it easy to slip into a running belt or hydration bag during mountain hikes.

Even the most hated shorts these shorts in our tests, which is why they won an award in 2025 Outside Run Gear Guide. The slightly compressed nylon/spandex fabric is super comfortable while remaining extremely lightweight, and multiple pockets provide plenty of storage options for your phone, gels, etc. Silicone grip points on the leg cuffs keep the shorts in place without leaving a mark, and the 5-inch length snaps into place for coverage and freedom. “I like that it’s tight without being cake-hugging,” one tester said. (men, Jungle Trail Half Socks 8 Inch It’s basically an equalizer, although we realize that half the socks are polarized.)

With a breathable waistband and tapered leg, these insulated pants are exceptionally comfortable. The body-specific insulation also keeps them warm but breathable and ready for a wide range of temperatures. Lots of little details, like the smallest buttons you’ve ever seen, make these things a delight. (Pair with Norvan insulated hoodiealso for sale.)

This indestructible, water-repellent oleander has traveled with me on countless running adventures. It’s small enough to fit in the overhead compartment on a plane – as well as on your back as a backpack – yet spacious enough to accommodate everything you need for a long weekend or, if you’re strong-willed enough, for a multi-week trip. I couldn’t resist telling you it’s basically $50 off.