Run like an Olympian: our favourite race-inspired gear

Best for competitive runners seeking low weight and high breathability

As part of the S/LAB range of products, it should not be surprising that the Speed Tank is optimized for going fast. The singlet weighs just 64 g and provides exceptional breathability and thermoregulation, thanks to Salomon’s 37.5 Technology. Like other S/LAB products, the singlet is constructed with glued seams that eliminate bulk and weight and help minimize chafing. Other details worth noting include the reflective detailing and the slim fit that reduces fabric flap in windy conditions.

Best for runners seeking maximum coverage and sun protection

The Bobcat features a unique hybrid shape that provides goggle-like coverage without compromising airflow and low weight. The result is a pair of glasses that deliver exceptional sun protection while remaining light and airy enough for serious (and even semi-serious) summer runs. Smith specs their ChromaPop lens, which offers excellent optics and detail. Like many high-end sport glasses, the Bobcat allows for easy lens changes and comes with a clear lens that’s suitable for running in low light conditions. Finally, and perhaps most importantly for many women, the Bobcat is built on a smaller frame and is, therefore, more likely to fit women and people with smaller faces.

Best for runners seeking a sock with sophisticated construction

You can never have too many socks, and the Aspire One is a great addition to every runner’s kit. With their sophisticated construction, these socks provide excellent breathability and moisture management for superior comfort during faster running and races. The socks’ low bulk, midfoot arch band, and y-heel construction also ensure a secure and supportive fit during long runs. In the toe area, Swiftwick uses seamless construction, which minimizes the risk of chafing.

Best for runners seeking unobtrusive UV protection with excellent ventilation

With their comfortable minimalist frames and midsize lenses, the Resolve glasses deliver exceptional eye protection and excellent airflow. The result is the perfect pair of running glasses when you’re training hard in warm conditions. Like many Smith glasses, the Resolve is available with various lenses, allowing runners to fine-tune the optics for different light conditions. Still not sold? Then consider that Smith employs their ChromaPop lens technology, which provides phenomenal clarity and contrast. Get rid of those cheap, scratched specs and treat yourself to a pair of Resolve glasses.

Best for competitive runners who want the best

The S/LAB product line has always been designed to represent the pinnacle of Salomon’s design and manufacturing skills, and these shorts live up to that heritage. Weighing just 60 g, with a 3″ inseam, and using an ultra-light stretch fabric, these shorts will not hold you back as you are sprinting to the finish line. And while there is no escaping the minimalist purpose-driving construction of these shorts, Salomon still manages to add a number of subtle nice-to-have details. Take, for example, the addition of Salomon’s 37.5 Technology, which provides exceptional thermoregulation in warm conditions. Salomon also uses glued seams, which reduce bulk and weight and help eliminate the risk of chafing. Finally, one small side pocket is perfectly sized to accommodate an energy gel.

Best for runners seeking a lightweight cap with UV protection

Constructed with a highly breathable and fast-drying polyester fabric, the GOCap SC is ideal training or racing in warm, sunny conditions. The cap’s five-panel shape offers UPF 40 sun protection, while the SOFTcurve brim does an admirable job of keeping the sun out of your eyes and face. For runners who prefer low-light early-morning starts, Ciele has also added reflective detailing to ensure you’re visible to traffic.

Best for runners seeking a fast, responsive shoe with cushioning

Designed as a go-fast training shoe, the Phantasm 2 delivers the performance and cushioning runners demand during faster running. The shoe features a unique midsole that combines an Energy Blade plate with a two-part foam midsole, creating a responsive, propulsive ride while still retaining sufficient cushioning for daily training. Salomon’s rocker geometry promotes a faster and smoother heel-to-toe transition, which ensures the Phantasm 2 feels fast even at the end of a long run. It’s worth noting that the Phantasm 2 midsole measures 37 mm in the heel and 26 mm in the forefoot, resulting in a 9 mm drop, which may be too high for some runners. For the upper, Salomon has spec’d a highly breathable mesh textile with strategically placed padding for exceptional fit and foothold. Finally, the outsole has been updated with more rubber in the forefoot and heel for increased durability.

Best for runners seeking a no-compromise propulsive shoe for 5k to half-marathon distances

Featuring a full carbon plate nestled within a nitrogen-infused DNA Flash V2 midsole, the Hyperion Elite 4 delivers the propulsive performance runners demand on race day. The midsole construction combined with Brooks’ RapidRoll Rocker provides a very responsive ride with a smooth heel-to-toe transition. While the shoe provides plenty of cushioning, some runners may want a plusher riding option for full marathons. Up top, Brooks has designed a unique lightweight upper that securely hugs your foot and allows for plenty of breathability. As expected in a race-day shoe, the Hyperion Elite 4 sports a minimalist outsole that provides sufficient traction while minimizing weight. Finally, the Hyperion Elite 4 measures 40 mm in the heel and 32 mm in the forefoot, resulting in a comfortable 8 mm drop.

Products reviewed in this article: