Cool mornings, colorful leaves, and festive races: fall is really one of the best times to run. But with shifting temperatures and unpredictable weather, it pays to have the right gear ready to go. I always keep a fall running kit packed so I can grab it and head out the door without worry.
Here’s what’s inside my fall running kit:
Running Shoes
A solid pair of shoes is the foundation of every run. For fall, I stick to a trusted pair that handles everything from damp leaves to slick morning roads. The Brooks Adrenalines are the pair I choose, over and over.
Running Socks
Blisters can sneak up on you in cooler temps, especially if your feet get damp. I always carry a backup pair just in case. I love the no-show, light cushion variety from Jogology best of all.
A Go-To Fit
For me, that’s shorts, a tank, and a sports bra, sometimes with a long sleeve top layered on cooler days. The key is comfort and flexibility. Our temperatures and conditions shift quickly and drastically in Florida so it’s good to be ready.
Running Sunnies
Even in fall, the Florida sun can be intense. Plus, those autumn rays often hit lower in the sky, right at eye level. Protect your eyes with a good pair of lightweight and non-slip sunnies. Goodr is my go-to: they are light, cute, and rarely fog up.
Lightweight Running Hat
I love my Alter Ego hats and keep one in my kit at all times. They are perfect for sun protection, for rainy days, or to cover up a bad case for running hair.
Beach Towel
A total game-changer! I use mine to wipe down after damp runs or to protect the car seat on the drive home.
Deodorant
Post-run freshness is non-negotiable. A quick swipe makes a big difference if I’m heading out again after my run, even on cooler days.
Plastic Ziploc Bag
Simple but essential. I stash my phone in one to protect it from sweat, rain or other unpleasant conditions. To date, I have yet to find a comfortable way to carry my phone on runs, other than in my hand, so this is the system that works best for me.
Post-Run Cozies
An extra t-shirt or sweatshirt feels amazing after a cooler weather run. Throwing on a cozy layer makes recovery more comfortable. If I know it’s going to be extra chilly, I’ll even bring a blanket or a scarf to bundle up.
Phone Charger
Because nothing’s worse than running low on battery when you’re tracking miles, taking cute run-fits, or need GPS to get home.
Snack
It’s good practice to travel with some kind of little treat. It could be a granola bar or banana, or even something more substantial like a peanut butter and jelly. You never know when you might need to refuel.
Water Bottle
Hydration is non-negotiable, even for water non-lovers like me. Sometimes, that water bottle holds iced coffee, but fluids are important.
Why Your Running Kit Matters
Having a packed kit means you’re ready for anything: hot weather, rainy runs, sweaty gear, or last-minute plans. It keeps your runs stress-free and helps you recover comfortably afterward.
So, what’s in your fall running kit? Share your must-haves in the comments… I’d love to hear what you can’t run without!
Join us next week —> What’s one popular running or fitness item you CAN live without?
Link Up With Tuesday Topics
Welcome back to Tuesday Topics, as Jenny, from Runners Fly joins Jenn at Runs With Pugs to co-host this link-up! Please join us every week for a new topic! Write on our weekly prompt or choose your own topic! Make sure to add your post to the link up, link back to your hosts, and comment on the other shared posts!
Love this list, Jenn, so practical and spot-on for fall running!
I had to smile at the beach towel and deodorant, two underrated essentials that make such a difference. I might need to add a snack to my kit too; nothing like finishing a cool-weather run with something delicious.
Do you have shorts with pockets where your phone can fit?
You, in particular, should always have a snack! You go out on all those adventure hikes… you need to be prepared for anything!
You’ve got a good list there, Jenn, and I can’t think of anything I’d add. I used to keep a mid-calf robe in my car to wear home after a sweaty run or race rather than using a beach towel. The robe helps keep the seat and shoulder belt sweat-free, too.
BTW, I’ve been using a SPIbelt for years for my phone and love it!
Oh, that’s smart about the robe! I love that idea.
I wish I loved belts. They twist around and always feel weird on my waist. The arm bands always have zippers that rust or get stuck, and a tried that koala pouch, but anything near my vagus nerve or back of my neck makes me anxious and very fight or flighty.
I have a suggestion for you- I keep my phone in a Nathan running belt. I also keep my keys there, and there’s room for gels too. I use it for every run, and you won’t feel it at all (and it doesn’t bounce around). If it’s going to be rainy, I’ll put my phone in a ziploc and then put it in the belt. I think it’s much better than holding it!
Now you’re making me REALLY long for fall! I want long sleeves and sweatshirts, ARRRRRG!
OMG, I hate hate hate belts. I always feel like they make my waist look weird, and then they move around. I’ve tried, but they just don’t feel good for me.
I think you got everything. I’m not as prepared. I make sure I wear a skirt because it has pockets to store my phone, gu, car key.
I also have DIY arm sleeves because it’s often cold when I start and then it warms up. They cost $1 so I can lose them. LOL
That’s smart about the arm sleeves. I have a couple of pairs of them, but I normally just slap on some gloves and I’m good.