What You Need to run…

Whoever said all you need if you want to run is a pair of shoes is a liar. Going for one run can be as easy as grabbing a pair of shoes, running consistently and running chafe and injury free requires a bit more than a pair of shoes. We know that running is confusing and complicated so we’ve created resources to help you find the best running clothes, tools, and gear so that you can have more fun on the run.

what to Wear

What do you wear on the run? What do you wear on a run in winter? Or in summer? What do you wear on spring and fall runs? What are the best sports bras for runners? How do we find shorts and leggings that have pockets but won’t fall down or chafe? How do I find supportive running shoes? We know you have questions and we have answers! Let’s start with what to wear.

Sports Bras

Finding the perfect sports bra isn’t easy. That’s why we’ve created a page DEDICATED to helping you find the perfect sports bra for your body type.

Sports Bras

  • Our Ultimate Sports Bra Guide

    Our ultimate sports bra guide will help you understand your body shape, find your correct size, find your sister sizes, and find a sports bra that will best support your body type.

  • Lululemon Run Times Bra

    Lululemon Run Times Bra

    One of our favorite high-support sports bras for women with big boobs is the Lululemon Run Times Bra. This H Back Bra is perfect for women with wider/broad shoulders who get headaches from cross-back sports bras.

  • Women's UA Infinity 2.0 High Sports Bra

    Women's UA Infinity 2.0 High Sports Bra

    Easily one of the best and most supportive sports bras around, this sports bra can be worn cross back or H Back.

    Why do we recommend this bra? It’s all about the foam. Under Armour’s design team liquid-injected the foam for a more natural shape that moves with the breasts and a much lighter feel.

What kind of shirts are best for running?

There’s no such thing as the best running shirt because every runner is looking for something different. Things to consider on your hunt to your running shirt style:

  • Fit (Do you like tight-fitting shirts? Looser-fitting shirts?)

  • Cut (Tank top? Sleeves)

  • Breathability

  • Moisture-wicking fabric

  • Bonus points if it can help guard your skin from the sun’s UV rays.

COTTON IS THE ENEMY. The best running shirts are moisture-wicking. Sweat is our body’s air-conditioning so when water sits on the skin, we can’t cool ourselves down. Sweat and moisture-wicking fabrics keep sweat off of your skin so you can cool yourself down and avoid overheating.

Great running shirts don’t need to break the bank. The first thing you need to consider is fit and cut. From there, you’ll define your running style and preferences.

BALG Performance Tank Top
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Promoting Obesity One 5K At A Time Unisex Performance Crew Neck T-shirt
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What running tights are best for running?

When the weather cools down, we switch from shorts to tights. The best running tights are the ones you don’t have to think about. They’re comfortable, stay in place, and have everything you’re looking for.

What to look for as you’re looking for running tights: Running tights are pretty straightforward, but I recommend looking at material blend, number (and location) of pockets, and the fit/rise. Your choice is also impacted by where you live and the conditions you’ll be running in.

  • Material and feel

  • Pockets

  • Fit

  • Weather (Fleece lined or thin tights?)

  • Cut (capris? Flare? Leggings? High rise?)

Features to look for are Zipper pockets, side pockets, and drawcords for your waist line.

Great running shirts don’t need to break the bank. The first thing you need to consider is fit and cut. From there, you’ll define your running style and preferences.

  • Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Side-Pocket Leggings for Women

    Arguably the most affordable leggings with rave reviews are Old Navy’s High-Waisted Power Soft Leggings.

  • Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Tight

    Arguably their most famous leggings, Lululemon’s fast and free high-rise tights feature pockets, a drawstring so they won’t fall down, and soft-as-butter material.

  • BALEAF Women's Fleece Lined Water Resistant Legging High Waisted Thermal Winter Hiking Running Pants Pockets

    The most affordable cold-weather running tights, these fleece-lined leggings are a must-have for winter runners on a budget. These leggings are high-waisted, and feature pockets, but do not have a drawstring.

What shorts are best for running?

Let’s talk shorts and more specifically, the best running shorts for women with thick thighs.

What we’re looking for in running shorts mirrors tights, the only difference is length. What’s most important is that your running shorts are 7” or longer to prevent chafing. Outside of length, elements to pay attention to are: material blend, number (and location) of pockets, and the fit/rise. Your choice is also impacted by where you live and the conditions you’ll be running in.

  • Material and feel

  • Pockets

  • Length

  • Drawstring

Features to look for are Zipper pockets, side pockets, and drawstrings for your waistline.

Amazing running shorts don’t need to break the bank. Check out some of our favorites below.

  • Nike ACG "White Rapids" 7" Running Shorts

    Women's Dri-FIT ADV Mid-Waisted 7" Biker Shorts with Pockets

    These shorts are GREAT. They have a drawstring, zipper pocket in the back, huge pockets on the side, and a wider waist band. HIGHLY recommend.

  • Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Short 6" Pockets

    For our shorter Queens, these are some of the best running shorts in the game. Only problem is, they sell out instantly and Lululemon never restocks them. But if you can get your hands on them, they're incredible and last for years. (If they ever bring back the 7" and 8", we'd simply pass away.)

  • Old Navy High-Waisted PowerSoft Biker Shorts -- 8-inch inseam

    Ask any experienced runner with thick thighs which pair of shorts they trust with their lives, and these are them. The Old Navy 8" PowerSoft Biker Shorts are THE most affordable and comfortable running shorts EVER. Two pockets on the side. The only thing missing is a drawstring but at this price point, who can complain.

Running underwear

To wear underwear when you run or not to free gull when you run…that is the question. The answer? It’s personal preference. Plenty of runners don’t wear underwear under their tights or shorts. Others do. Some don’t mind thongs. Personally, we’d rather stick forks in our eyes than run in a thong. But no judgment! All that matters is that you’re comfortable wearing what you wear when you run. The only rule- watch out for seams and absolutely NO COTTON EVER.

  • Women's UA Pure Stretch Print Hipster 3-Pack Underwear

    Women's UA Pure Stretch Print Hipster 3-Pack Underwear

    A perfect pair of running underwear, these UA Pure Stretch Hipser Underwear come in a pack of 3 and go unnoticed. Super-soft laser-cut edges offer a smooth, virtually invisible fit under everything from a pair of run shorts to our most body-hugging compression leggings.

  • Women's UA Pure Stretch Thong 3-Pack

    Women's UA Pure Stretch Thong 3-Pack

    Looking for running underwear in the style ofa thong? Look no further. UA’s pure stretch thong is super-soft laser-cut edges offer a smooth, virtually invisible fit under everything from a pair of run shorts to our most body-hugging compression leggings.

  • UnderEase High-Rise Bikini Underwear

    UnderEase High-Rise Bikini Underwear

    Designed with movement in mind, these Lululemon bikini underwear are soft underwear that move with you (and don't dig in) during workouts and hang outs.

Running socks

When it comes to running socks, the only rule is NO COTTON. EVER. Other than that, the best and most comfortable running socks come in all sorts of different styles.

  • Ankle Socks

  • Ankle Socks with Tabs

  • Compression Socks

  • Crew Height

Features to look for are cushion level, style, and fit.

  • Lululemon crew socks

    Lululemon Women's Power Stride Tab Sock 3 Pack

    Lululemon is known for its light socks that won’t leave you with blisters.

  • Bombas

    Bombas Women's Running Ankle Sock 3-Pack

    Not only are Bombas socks fantastic running socks, but they are socks with a mission. For every pair you purchase, they donate one to people in need.

  • Lululemon Women's MicroPillow Compression Knee-High Running Sock

    Can runners benefit from compression socks? The short answer is yes. Though research is still inconclusive as to whether or not compression socks can help DURING activity, there is plenty of research that supports that wearing compression socks during recovery helps to speed up the process.

Running Shoes

Easily the most confusing piece of the running puzzle is figuring out which running shoes are best for runners. Here’s how to pick the right running shoes.

You do not need more than one pair of running.

For most runners, one pair of running shoes that fit your foot is enough. But, most runners will benefit from having a few different shoes in rotation during training. A lighter shoe for speed play and a more cushioned shoe for long runs are great to have in rotation.

It’s best to get fitted at your local running store.

So many runners are afraid to get fitted by their local running store because they’re afraid they don’t belong or aren’t “real” runners. I can guarantee you that the folks at your local running store want to help you. (And sure, there are always a few assholes out there, but the vast majority of people know that runners come in all different shapes, sizes, and ages, and run different paces.) Don’t be afraid to go in and try a bunch of different shoes on.

When trying new shoes, make sure they have a generous return policy.

Ideally, buying shoes with a 30-day return policy is ideal. That way, if you take them on a few runs and realize they aren’t a fit, you can take them back and try something else.

There should be 1/2 inch between your toe and the end of your shoe.

Your feet swell when you run so we want to make sure your shoes aren’t too small. Make sure you can stick your thumb between your toe and the end of your shoe.

Sizes are different between brands.

Most infuriating, you may be a 1/2 size bigger or smaller between brands and styles.

Other things to look for:

  • Toebox (wide or narrow)

  • Heel cushioning

  • Forefoot cushioning

  • Heel-toe drop

**DON’T OVERTHINK YOUR SHOES. It’s easy to fall down the shoe rabbit hole learning about heel-toe drop, heel stacks, stability vs. neutral shoes, etc. Remember, companies are solving problems but they’re also trying to sell shoes. There’s a lot of marketing involved in helping you find the “perfect” pair of running shoes. Keep your curiosity goggles on and fight the urge to lock on to one shoe. Companies are notorious for changing shoe styles and sizing every year. Shoes are shoes. There is a shoe style at every brand that will work for you. It’s just a matter of trying different shapes and styles.

  • Brooks Ghost 14

    Brooks Ghost 14

    The Brooks Ghost 14 is a neutral shoe and one of the most popular running shoes on the market. If you’re looking for a tried and true shoe, this might be for you.

  • Saucony Women's Kinvara 14 Sneaker

    Saucony Women's Kinvara 14 Sneaker

    Want a comfy pair of running shoes? Offering high-level performance, the Saucony® Kinvara Pro Shoes are crafted from a PWRRUN foam midsole with a PWRRUN+ sock liner which helps propel you forward. This pair has a round-toe design that offers a sleek and durable look. Take longer strides and go out for longer runs wearing these shoes.

  • HOKA Women's Clifton 9 Running Shoes

    HOKA Women's Clifton 9 Running Shoes

    A direct response to the “barefoot” or minimalist running movement and the resulting injuries was HOKA ONE ONE’s spice girl shoes. These shoes feature lots of cushioning throughout and have a cult like following. For runners struggling with Plantars Fasciitis or other over-use injuries, these shoes may be for you.

  • Nike Pegasus 39

    Nike Pegasus 39

    One of Nike’s most famous running shoes, the Pegasus is a great addition to most runner’s shoe rotations. Great for both long runs and speed play sessions, it’s dynamic, light-weight, and comfortable.

  • New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12

    New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v12

    The Fresh Foam X 1080 v12 is beloved by runners around the world. ESPECIALLY for runners with high arches.

  • Saucony Women's Endorphin Pro 3 Running Shoes

    Super Shoes: Saucony Women's Endorphin Pro 3 Running Shoes

    Looking for super shoes? One of the best super shoes on the market are Saucony Endorphin Pro 3’s.

Running Vest

One of the most versatile and important pieces for winter running is the running vest because they keep your core warm. Whether you go for a down vest or a fleece one, it’s a piece of running gear won’t regret adding to your closet.

  • I Heart Badass Lady Gang Women’s Columbia Fleece Vest

    I Heart Badass Lady Gang Women’s Columbia Fleece Vest

    Rock your BALG love and stay warm on the run with our fleece Columbia vest. This vest features two side pockets that zip to keep all of your treasures safe.

  • UNIQLO Ultra Light Down Vest

    UNIQLO Ultra Light Down Vest

    This affordable down vest is one of the most affordable and durable vests around. Trusted by thousands of runners, if you’re looking for a light down vest that won’t break the bank, check this one out.

  • Down for It All Vest

    Lululemon Down for It All Vest

    Designed for running, this vest is water-resistant,

    windproof, has tons of pockets and goes to size 20.

Running puffers, jackets and rain jackets

A shell or outer layer is perfect for colder, rainier runs. Running puffers and jackets are important during those colder months. Here is what we reccomend.

  • I Heart Badass Lady Gang Champion Packable Jacket

    I Heart Badass Lady Gang Champion Packable Jacket

    Stay warm and dry during those rainy runs with our BALG champion rain jacket.

  • Athleta Inlet Jacket

    Athleta Inlet Jacket

    There’s no such thing as bad running weather, just bad running gear. When we drop into the low 30’s, 20’s and tends, an insulated jacket will keep you warm on the run.

  • Plus Size Puffer

    Wantdo Plus Size Lightweight Puffer Jacket Packable Hooded Winter Jacket Long-Sleeve Quilted Coat

    In need of a lightweight puffer to wear during your winter runs? Look no further! Puffer coats are great for winter runs below 30 degrees. This option comes in extended sizing.

Running Gloves, buffs and hats

The trifecta of winter running essentials are mittens, buffs, and a beanie.

  • TrailHeads Men's Power Stretch Convertible Mittens | Fingerless Gloves

    TrailHeads Power Stretch Convertible Mittens | Fingerless Gloves

    Keeping your paws warm during winter is a huge piece of the winter running puzzle. Mittens will always keep your hands warmer than gloves but we prefer mittens that can be pulled back to expose your fingers when you’re feeling warm (or need to snap a selfie).

  • BALG BUff

    BALG Gaitor/Buff

    Wear your gaitor around your neck or pull it up to cover your ears, our BALG buff is an essential winter running accessory.

  • Badass Lady Gang Neon Pom-Pom Beanie

    Badass Lady Gang Neon Pom-Pom Beanie

    Rock your BALG pride while you keep your head warm on your winter runs. Our pom-pom beanie is made of synthetic fibers to help you stay warm all winter long.

GPS Running Watch

The best GPS-running watch is the one that is easiest to use. A GPS running watch is an amazing way to log miles, track your training, and get valuable data throughout your training journey. Things to look for in a GPS running watch:

  • Ease of use

  • Battery life

  • Price

  • Activities tracked

  • Comfort

  • Integrations

  • Ability to create workouts on your watch

  • Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS Running Smartwatch

    Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS Running Smartwatch

    There’s a reason runners have turned to Garmin for decades to track their runs. Their watches are reliable, affordable, easy to use and built to last.

    Built-in GPS tracks where you run and gets accurate stats, including distance, pace and intervals

    Get wrist-based heart rate data along with alerts if your heart rate stays to high or too low while you’re at rest

    Sync workouts directly to your watch using the Garmin Connect™ app

    Experience up to 7 days of battery life in smartwatch mode and up to 24 hours in GPS mode

  • Apple Watch Ultra GPS + Cellular Titanium Case with Alpine Loop

    Apple Watch Ultra GPS + Cellular Titanium Case with Alpine Loop

    In 2022, Apple released their first athlete specific apple watch. Runners are RAVING about the new Apple watch Ultra.

    Up to 36 hours of battery life for normal use along with low-power settings for even longer battery life.

  • Polar Vantage M2

    Polar Vantage M2

    If you’re looking for a sleek, easy to use watch with tons of capabilities and features, check out Polar.

    The Vantage M2 is an advanced multi-sport smart watch and features Integrated GPS, Wrist-Based Heart Monitor Daily Workouts - Sleep and Recovery Tracking - Music Controls, Weather, Phone Notifications

Tools for Better Runs

Let’s talk about the tools and gear that will help you run stronger. From how to prevent chafing on the run, to strength tools, running hydration vests and hand held water bottles, gels, sports drinks, and headlamps, here are some of our favorite tools to help you run stronger.

how to prevent chafing

Chafing is one of the worst parts of running. It’s unavoidable but there are things we can do to prevent it! Two tips to help prevent chafing while you run:

  1. If you love it, lube it. That means upstairs and downstairs.

  2. KT Tape or athletic tape on your bra line will change your life if you’re a runner with big boobs.

  • Megababe Safe From Chafe Thigh Rescue Kit

    Megababe Safe From Chafe Thigh Rescue Kit

    Looking for a reliable chafe cream? Megababe is WONDERFUL. Put it everywhere a seam touches or your skin rubs.

  • KT TAPE

    KT TAPE

    Any woman who has ever worn a sports bra knows the special hell that is the post long run shower. If you chafe under your straps or bra line, KT Tape is going to change your life.

  • KT Tape Anti Chafing Stick

    KT Tape Anti Chafing Stick

    Another one of our favorite chafe gels is KT Tape Chafe Stick. Easy to apply, this gel is water resistant and won’t sweat off as easily.

Hydration Vests & Handheld Water bottles

Let’s talk mid-run hydration: Anything longer than 45 minutes can benefit from a sports drink but will require hydration. Here are some of our favorite hydration vests and handheld water bottles.

  • Nathan Women’s Hydration Pack/Running Vest - VaporAiress with 2L Water Bladder, Hydration-Backpack – Running, Marathon, Hiking, Outdoors, Cycling

    Nathan Women’s Hydration Pack/Running Vest - VaporAiress with 2L Water Bladder, Hydration-Backpack – Running, Marathon, Hiking, Outdoors, Cycling

    Recommended by many of our BALG-ers, this Nathan hydration pack has pockets, front hydration bottles, and is a perfect size.

  • Nathan TrailMix Running Vest/Hydration Pack. 7L (7 Liters) for Men and Women | 2L Bladder

    Nathan TrailMix Running Vest/Hydration Pack. 7L (7 Liters) for Men and Women | 2L Bladder

    Another favorite of the BALG, this running vest adjusts well, fits the girls, and has lots of space for snacks.

  • Nathan Speedmax Plus Handheld Flask

    Nathan Speedmax Plus Handheld Flask

    And for those who don’t like the pack option, we reccomend a mid-size handheld bottle with pockets to hold your fuel/sports drink packets.

Sports Drink & Mid run nutrition

Looking for help defining your hydration strategy and fueling strategy? Join one of our training experiences or our annual training team. We help all of our athletes zero in on the perfect products and plan to help you run your best.

Two of our favorite brands of sports drink and nutrition are Skratch and for nutrition, UCAN. (Use code BadassLadyGang to save 20% on all of your Skratch purchases.)

  • UCAN Edge Energy Gel Shots

    UCAN Edge Energy Gel Shots

    UCAN is a slow digesting super starch and fantastic to use in the front half of your long runs and races to supply a steady stream of energy.

  • SKRATCH LABS Sport Energy Chews

    SKRATCH LABS Sport Energy Chews

    When it comes to nutrition and hydration, SKRATCH is one of the brands that knocks it out of the park every single time. Chews are a fantastic way to supplement energy during long endurance runs without upsetting your stomach.

  • Skratch Labs Hydration Packets Hydration Drink Mix

    Skratch Labs Hydration Packets Hydration Drink Mix

    If you’re looking for one of the best sports drink mixes on the market, look no further. SKRATCH’s hydration drink mix isn’t overly sweet, tastes delicious, and is formulated to perfection.

weights & strength work

When it comes to running, it’s not a matter of if you will get hurt, it’s when. One of the things runners can do to prevent injuries is to incorporate strength work, mobility work, stability work, and flexibility work regularly. Below are three pieces of equipment every runner should have and use regularly.

  • Light, Medium and Heavy Hand Weights

    Light, Medium and Heavy Hand Weights

    We reccomend every runner use light, medium and heavy hand weights if they don’t have access to them at a gym. Though expensive, investing in a solution like these hand weights gives you versatility without taking up too much space.

  • Resistance Bands

    Resistance Bands

    Resistance bands are an invaluable tool for any athlete’s arsenal. Easy to use and travel with, resistance bands are a great way to amp up any body-weight strength session.

Headlamps & Safety vests for night runs

One of the worst parts about winter is that we’re running in the dark. If you’re looking for the best headlamps to wear when you run, LOOK NO FURTHER. We asked the athletes in the Badass Lady Gang what headlights and headlamps they rely on to illuminate their runs.

  • Black Diamond Astro 250 Headlamp

    Black Diamond Astro 250 Headlamp

    Recommended by many of our BALG-ers, this headlamp is super lightweight, has hinges so you can point it at different heights, and is very adjustable. Also has different light settings including strobe.

  • BioLite HeadLamp 330 Lumen No-Bounce Rechargeable Head Light

    BioLite HeadLamp 330 Lumen No-Bounce Rechargeable Head Light

    The BioLite No-Bounce rechargeable headlight is another favorite of the BALG. Bright, easy to recharge, multiple modes (including flashing and red), and build to last!

  • Noxgear Tracer360 Vest

    Noxgear Tracer360 Vest

    Looking to be seen by cars at night? The Noxgear Tracer360 Vest is a favorite amongst the BALG.

Looking for more? From running gift guides to product reviews, we have everything you need to have more fun and feel stronger on the run!