Best Spring Running Gear 2021

Spring running gear is fun – colors, layers, and it’s no longer winter!

But if you’re wondering exactly what to wear for optimal spring training this year, search no more, we’ve got you covered.

From rain-resistant outer layers to wicking socks, you’ll find hand-picked, runner-approved spring running gear to kick butt and take names while training this spring.

So prepare yourself properly and you’ll have the BEST spring running season of your life!

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a commission to help keep the site running. This is at no additional cost to you. Opinions are entirely our own, unless you disagree – then, the dog wrote it. Beagles, man.

First: Layers

Spring weather can be fickle.

One day it’s 65 and another day it’s 40 (especially here in Boston…the weather can never make up it’s mind!).

Or worse, you head out for your run and the winds suddenly gust and leave you frigid.

So to deal with this, you need layers. All of the layers.

1.) Light Base Layer

Wear a performance-material tank top or short-sleeve shirt, so you can easily remove outer layers for a cooler run.

I prefer Under Armour Women’s Tech Twist Tank because I like the fabric, and it comes in tons of colors.

For men: my husband (and many of our runner friends) swear by the Under Armour Men’s Tech Short Sleeve T-Shirt for it’s performance material and flexibility.

2.) Mid/Outer Layer

The NIKE Womens Dry Element 1/2 Zip Running Top (pictured in the image above with my fun-colored capri’s!) is one of my absolute favorite items.

It’s versatile, it layers perfectly, and it’s not too hot.

Plus, it comes in oodles of colors (I’d like one for each running outfit!).

There’s also a men’s version that my husband loves: the Nike Men’s Dry Element 1/2-Zip Running Top

3.) Running Vest

You want a lightweight vest that isn’t too bulky, but provides warmth.

The Columbia Women’s Mighty Lite III Vest does just that!

For men, we like the Nike AeroLoft Flash Men’s Running Down Vest because it is ultra-lightweight, water-repellent, and reflective for added safety.

4.) Running Capri’s & Shorts

Since spring running gear has to be versatile enough for many different temperatures, I’m going to suggest 2 items here: a pair of capri’s and a pair of shorts.

Some runners need to wear shorts the minutes the temps hit over 55, even if they have to layer more on top.

So without further ado, here are my 2 faves:

The Nike Women’s Dry Tempo Running Short is made of dri-fit material to wick away moisture (read: sweat or rain) and has built in briefs for extra comfort.

And the Saucony Women’s Capri, which is inexpensive compared to other major brands (and has a few adorably-spring-colored patterns!).

Second: Dealing with Rain

Ever heard of “April showers bring May flowers?”. Spring is rainy season for many places!

Runners sometimes skip runs when it’s raining…but you don’t have to!

Simply wear the right spring running gear, and know some helpful rain-running hacks, and you’ll be able to fully enjoy your run, as scheduled!

5.) Running Rain Coat

Women’s Charles River Waterproof Rain Jacket (Men’s version is here)- Waterproof and windproof, and it comes in 16+ colors. It has reflective properties to keep you safe too. Plus, this awesome jacket has 4.5 stars on Amazon on over 3,000 reviews (so you know it’s good)!

6.) Running Hat

This is one of the most helpful running tips I’ve ever received for rainy-weather running: wear a brimmed hat to keep the rain out of your eyes.

My absolute favorite running hat is the Under Armour Women’s Fly by ArmourVent Cap – I wore it during my last half marathon and am SO glad I did!

This hat is lightweight, fits perfectly (and it’s adjustable so it’ll fit almost anyone) and is made of breathable material that doesn’t soak up rain. All things you want when running in the rain in the spring!

The Men’s version is here: Under Armour Microthread Fly by Cap

7.) Wicking Running Socks

Since spring running can be rainy and wet (as we’ve already established), you definitely need high-quality wicking socks to keep the moisture away from your feet.

I battled toe blisters when I first started running, and it almost ended my running season.

Until…

I found Balega socks.

They wick moisture away perfectly so I can run un-blistered and stay chafe-free too.

I even graduated to toe socks – which I know isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but let me tell you, they WORK SO WELL.

I own at least 8 pairs of Injinji lightweight toe socks and couldn’t run in the rain or humidity without them.

Everyone’s first question is: “but don’t they feel weird?” 

And my answer is always “Yes, the first time, and then you don’t even notice you’re wearing toe socks after that.”

>>Rain-Running Hack: Tape the front of your running shoes with duct tape to keep rain out (want more tips? Here’s 7 other helpful hacks for running in the rain)

Third: Running Safety

Early morning and late-evening runners will still be experiencing darkness in the spring, so you need to make sure you’re visible and safe while running.

These items have reflective properties so you are seen.

8.) Tracer360 Vest

My brother bought the noxgear Tracer360 for me for Christmas (I mayyyy have hinted by sending a link, but it’s the thought that counts, right?).

I wear it every single time I run in the dark.

Cars can see me, no matter what, and I feel 100% safer knowing I’m highly visible.

And….I also must admit…I enjoy choosing my color each time, because, you know, matching. 🙂

9.) Reflective Vest

An alternative to the Tracer360 is a simple reflective vest made for running in the dark or low light.

This reflective running vest is just $10.99 and provides lightweight, highly-visible safety for spring runners.

10.) Running Headlamp

I was highly suspicious of this idea when someone from my Thursday night running group suggested it…but, alas, it works amazingly.

It works so well that I bought my Dad one for a nighttime 5K he was running!

Wear this LED headlamp on your head and it lights the way for you (plus makes you visible to oncoming traffic).

The Right Gear Will Make Spring Running Way More Fun!

Now that you know the best spring running gear, you’re ready to hit the road and enjoy your running journey!

What’s next for you? A half marathon? A 5K?

Then check out these other popular running articles to keep you in the best running shape of your life:

The Greatest Spring Half Marathon Training Plan – learn how to run a half marathon this spring! (Want to run one in the summer? Then check out this summer half marathon training plan instead)

Running Workouts to Boost Speed & Endurance

Learn How to Crush Your Running Goals This Year

Like this Post? Pin it to Pinterest! >>