The most useful marathon-training gadgets are the ones that solve a real problem in your training: tracking a route, carrying water or fuel, or staying comfortable on long runs. A GPS watch is a convenient option, not a requirement, and you do not need to buy all nine items below. Choose based on your routes, existing gear, preferences and race rules.
1. GPS running watch: useful for pace and distance
A GPS watch can record time, distance and pace without requiring you to hold a phone. Some models also include wrist-based heart-rate readings, suggested workouts or race-planning features. Whether that convenience is worth buying depends on what your current phone or watch can already do. The Akron Marathon’s 2023 training toolkit describes a GPS watch as helpful for tracking distance, but not necessary.
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As examples of manufacturer-listed features, Garmin Singapore says the Forerunner 165 has built-in GPS, wrist heart-rate measurement and suggested workouts, with up to 19 hours of battery life in GPS-only GNSS mode. Its Forerunner 265 page describes a marathon race widget and personalized workouts, and lists up to 20 hours in GPS mode. These are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results; check the product page for your region before relying on a feature or battery figure. Garmin also says the Forerunner 165 is not a medical device and is not intended to diagnose or monitor medical conditions.
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When comparing watches, consider the things you will actually use: GPS-mode battery duration for your longest outings, screen readability, button or touchscreen controls, course guidance, phone compatibility and whether its workout features fit your plan. GPS distance is an estimate, not a guarantee of exact course measurement. A 2022 study by Joe Dumas examined three Garmin generations over repeated trials on one route; it is specific to those devices and conditions, and should not be treated as a conclusion about all current watches or running environments. Read the study abstract.
#1 Best Overall
- Easy-to-use running watch monitors heart rate (this is not a medical device) at the wrist and uses GPS to track how far, how fast and where you’ve run.Special Feature:Bluetooth.
- Battery life: up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode; up to 20 hours in GPS mode
- Plan your race day strategy with the PacePro feature (not compatible with on-device courses), which offers GPS-based pace guidance for a selected course or distance
- Run your best with helpful training tools, including race time predictions and finish time estimates
- Track all the ways you move with built-in activity profiles for running, cycling, track run, virtual run, pool swim, Pilates, HIIT, breathwork and more
2. Hydration carry: bottle, belt or vest
For longer outings, carrying water may be more convenient than relying on refill points. The Akron Marathon toolkit suggests a handheld bottle, belt or vest as helpful for runs of an hour or more, particularly on hot training days. That is a practical prompt to consider your route and conditions, not a universal drinking prescription.
A handheld bottle keeps water accessible but occupies a hand. A belt or vest can distribute storage across the body, though it adds more material to fit and carry. Try the option you plan to use on a long training run; check for rubbing, bounce and whether the capacity suits your route.
Rank #2
- Easy-to-use running smartwatch with built-in GPS for pace/distance and wrist-based heart rate; brilliant AMOLED touchscreen display with traditional button controls; lightweight design in 43 mm size
- Up to 11 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 19 hours in GPS mode
- Reach your goals with personalized daily suggested workouts that adapt based on performance and recovery; use Garmin Coach and race adaptive training plans to get workout suggestions for specific events
- 25+ built-in activity profiles include running, cycling, HIIT, strength and more
- As soon as you wake up, get your morning report with an overview of your sleep, recovery and training outlook alongside weather and HRV status (data presented is intended to be a close estimation of metrics tracked)
3. Gels or chews: practice, don’t improvise
Energy gels and chews are portable fuel options some runners choose to carry. The Akron toolkit recommends trying gels during training, while a recent runner discussion reflects that preferences vary. Treat them as an individual choice to practice with as part of your own fueling plan, rather than a product every runner needs or a one-size-fits-all nutrition prescription. Akron Marathon training toolkit; runner discussion.
4. Wireless or open-ear headphones
Audio can make training more enjoyable for runners who like listening while they run, but headphones are a nice-to-have, not essential gear. The Akron toolkit makes that distinction, and one runner in a recent discussion favors open-ear headphones for hearing more of the surroundings. That is an individual preference, not evidence that a particular design ensures safety. Check your event’s headphone rules before race day, and choose whether to use audio according to your route and conditions.
Rank #3
- Easy-to-use running watch monitors heart rate (this is not a medical device) at the wrist and uses GPS to track how far, how fast and where you’ve run
- Battery life: up to 2 weeks in smartwatch mode; up to 20 hours in GPS mode
- Plan your race day strategy with the PacePro feature (not compatible with on-device courses), which offers GPS-based pace guidance for a selected course or distance
- Run your best with helpful training tools, including race time predictions and finish time estimates
- Track all the ways you move with built-in activity profiles for running, cycling, track run, virtual run, pool swim, Pilates, HIIT, breathwork and more
5. Running belt or pocketed apparel
A belt or clothing with pockets can carry a phone, keys or fuel without requiring a separate bag. In a recent r/Marathon_Training thread, runners discuss belts and pocketed clothing; one asks for two-in-one shorts with pockets. These are anecdotal examples, not a comparative test. Try the specific setup with the items you intend to carry and see whether it fits securely and stays comfortable without distracting bounce. Read the discussion.
6. Separate heart-rate monitor: a conditional extra
Some GPS watches already measure heart rate at the wrist, including Garmin’s Forerunner 165 and 265. A separate monitor therefore makes sense only if you want an additional compatible sensor and your device supports pairing it. The sources cited here do not establish that a separate monitor is more accurate than wrist readings, so do not buy one on that assumption alone. Garmin’s watch features are fitness data, not medical assessment.
Rank #4
- ⌚Advanced GPS for Precise Tracking – Our watch is equipped with cutting-edge GPS technology, featuring a cold start time of approximately 1 minute and an instant hot start for seamless re-connection. Whether you're starting fresh or resuming your activity, enjoy accurate and reliable positioning for your runs, hikes, or outdoor adventures.
- 🌎GPS Auto Time Synchronization: Equipped with a built-in GPS receiver, the gps watch automatically syncs the time based on the city you set, ensuring accurate time display without the hassle of manual adjustments.
- 📅One-Tap Exercise Data Tracking: After your run, simply tap the watch button to easily view detailed workout data, including running distance, average pace, calories burned, and total time. These insights help you fully understand the results of each workout, making your training more focused and effective.The watch can save the last 10 exercise records.
- 📍Precise Stopwatch and Lap Tracking: The maximum stopwatch time is 99 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds, supporting both countdown and lap timer modes. It automatically records lap data, including duration, pace, distance, and average speed, with up to 50 laps of data saved.
- ⚙️Precise Fitness Tracking, Personalized for You: To ensure absolute accuracy in your fitness data, we’ve designed a personalized profile input feature. Simply enter your height, weight, age, and gender, and choose your preferred imperial or metric units. The watch will then tailor the fitness monitoring based on this information.
7. Reflective or lighting gear for dark routes
If your training route or schedule puts you out in low light, visibility gear such as reflective clothing, a lit vest or a chest light may be relevant to your setup. A runner in the cited discussion mentions a lit vest and chest light, but that is an individual report, not an official safety recommendation or product comparison. Consider your route and local conditions when deciding what to wear; no specific product or safety performance is established here. Runner discussion.
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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →8. Foam roller or massage tool: optional comfort gear
A foam roller or massage tool is an optional item some runners may choose for comfort. The sources cited here do not establish that these tools prevent injuries, speed recovery or improve performance, so those benefits should not be assumed when deciding whether to buy one.
Best Value
- GPS Distance & Pace Tracking: Built-in GPS with fast signal lock tracks real-time pace, distance, route, and calorie burn. Best used in open outdoor areas for optimal GPS signal. Built-in altimeter and barometer for elevation and air pressure data. Digital compass for outdoor navigation. No phone needed, leave it at home and run light. Lap counter, interval timer, and stopwatch for track workouts and cross country training. Accuracy that rivals top-tier fitness trackers.
- Call, Text & SOS on Wrist: Fast Bluetooth pairing with iOS and Android. Receive calls, texts, and SMS reminders on your wrist. Built-in speaker and mic for hands-free calls. One-tap SOS emergency call for added safety. Voice assistant for quick commands. Displays weather and clock. Note: Bluetooth companion device, not a standalone phone.
- AMOLED Screen + 2 Bands: 2.06-inch square AMOLED display, razor-sharp and vivid even in direct sunlight. Large, easy-read numbers, no squinting or eye strain. Smooth touch response for quick swipes mid-workout. Shock-resistant metal body with military-grade toughness. 2 interchangeable bands: sporty silicone + soft fabric, fits wrists 5.5-8.5 inches. Unisex design available in navy, blue, silver, dark, white, and rose gold.
- 50m Waterproof Swim & 170+ Modes: 5ATM / 50m waterproof, handles pool laps, open water, rain, and heavy sweat. Swim mode tracks laps and stroke count, chlorine-resistant, zero fogging. 170+ sport modes: walking, hiking, biking, running, and more. Metal body built tough for outdoor work and fishing trips. Note: not for hot showers, diving, or high-velocity water sports.
- Calorie Step & Health Monitoring: 24/7 step counting tracks daily steps, distance, active calories, and daily activity. Heart rate sensor with abnormal heart rate alerts for added safety. Blood oxygen, stress, mood, and sleep monitoring for better health insights. Women's health tracking for period and cycle management. Suitable for men and women ages 16+, beginner to advanced.
9. Training log or marathon book
A training log can help you keep track of runs and how a plan is progressing; a book may offer structure for someone who prefers a printed guide. No particular book or plan is verified here, so choose one only after checking that its schedule and guidance suit your circumstances. A notebook or existing digital tool may be enough if you simply want to record sessions.
How to choose without overbuying
- Start with a real gap: identify whether you need route data, a way to carry water or fuel, storage, or an audio option.
- Check what you already own: a phone, current watch or pocketed clothing may already cover the need.
- Match gear to your training: consider route length, conditions, darkness, comfort and what you plan to carry.
- Practice with race-day choices: try the intended setup on training runs, especially for carrying and fueling.
- Verify compatibility and rules: check whether sensors pair with your watch and whether your event permits headphones.
Runners do not share one universal list of must-haves. In a recent informal thread, the phrase “Absolute must haves FOR YOU” captures the personal nature of the question; the discussion is not a representative survey. See the discussion.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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