Review: I tested running kit from Altra, Columbia, Reebok and Ayacucho and these were my favourites
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Building a running wardrobe can be daunting, but a handful of well-chosen pieces can make every run more comfortable. These are the products that stood out
As someone who's still very much finding their feet as a runner, I've quickly realised that what you wear can make a surprising difference to how comfortable a run feels - and how you perform.
I've been road-testing a selection of running kit, and found some products I'd happily recommend, starting with a T-shirt and shorts combo from Ayacucho, available at Cotswold Outdoor.
The Ayacucho Kyoto T-shirt, £25, is lightweight and breathable, with a relaxed fit and quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric that's invaluable in warmer weather. I love its Fuze anti-odour treatment, which helps stop odour-causing bacteria from building up. I opted for Midnight Blue, although it's also available in Georgia Peach if you prefer something brighter for summer.
Pair it with the Ayacucho Women's Rio 2-In-1 Running Shorts, £38, and you've got an outfit that's as comfortable as it is practical. The shorts combine a lightweight outer layer with supportive inner shorts, helping to prevent chafing while still allowing plenty of freedom of movement.
Moisture-wicking fabric, the same Fuze odour-control technology and useful pockets all add to its appeal. They're available in both Midnight Blue and Black. It’s good to know that both pieces feature subtle reflective detailing to improve visibility.
The Cotswold Outdoor website also stocks hundreds of other running products, including an extensive range of running shoes.
I’m learning that what you wear underneath your running gear is just as important. Reebok has long been a reliable go-to for affordable sportswear. The brand's SS26 workout underwear collection features pieces with sweat-wicking fabric and the body-hugging fit makes everything feel secure.
I put several pieces through their paces, including the Maryna Women's Seamless Sports Bra. At £12.98, it's a real bargain. The halterneck crop-top design features removable pads and soft elasticated straps. Unlike some sports bras, which can feel rigid and restrictive, this one’s easy to put on while still providing plenty of support once in place.
Also worth a look are the Reebok Serena Sports Thongs, £16.99 for a pack of three. Like the sports bra, they're barely noticeable to wear and have quickly become my go-to underwear for both golf and running.
Columbia has become one of the brands I keep recommending to friends, and the Coolhead III Cap, £30, is a perfect example of why. It doesn't sound like an essential purchase, but after a few runs you'll wonder how you ever went without it.
The cooling sweatband is particularly welcome on warmer runs, and the adjustable fit ensures it stays securely in place without feeling tight or irritating. I love all six colours and feel a collection coming on!
Columbia's Longridge shorts are also ideal if you prefer a more fitted pair of shorts to run in. They feature a high-rise design, a compression waistband, and Omni-Wick technology. And they’re currently on sale at £28, down from £40.
Spa Ceylon has become one of my favourite post-run discoveries - and their footcare range has been something of a life-saver. The Ayurveda Foot Relief Balm, £13 for 25g, works wonders on dry and tired feet. It has an invigorating peppermint and eucalyptus fragrance which I love and is instantly soothing after a run.
The final piece of kit I've been testing - and arguably the most important - is footwear. I've been lucky enough to be among the early testers of the new Altra Torin 9 running shoes. Until now, I ran exclusively in a pair of On trainers, so I was keen to see how the Torin 9 compared.
The new model features a redesigned outsole and updates to the upper, including a reshaped heel, an elevated tongue and breathable mesh construction. There's also a new dual-density midsole, designed to combine cushioning and stability.
It's worth knowing that the new Vibram outsole compound is exclusive to Altra for the first six months after launch, meaning runners won't currently find this particular technology on any other brand's road shoes.
The biggest difference I've noticed compared with my Ons is the toe room. They feel noticeably more spacious, which has become increasingly important as I've started running longer distances. They've also handled a variety of surfaces well, from pavements to woodland trails (and they were actually put through their paces in development on the streets of Mexico City!). The cushioning feels softer than my previous shoes without feeling bulky or heavy.
They're a pleasure to run in and it doesn't hurt that they look fantastic, too. They’ll be available on the Altra website in a few weeks.