Best running gadgets for boosting performance in 2024

Whatever your running regimen, desired distance or PB ambitions, there are plenty of gadgets available that will help you measure your performance and boost your rate of recovery as well.

From subtle trackers that’ll reveal your metrics from the insole of your run shoe to bone conducting running headphones that will motivate you on the way and deep tissue massage balls for rapid recuperation, there’s something to help you at every step.

We’ve included some of our favourite running gadgets below.

Best running gadgets to buy in 2024

Garmin Running Dynamics Pod

If you want to improve your overall running performance and boost your personal stats, it’s handy to know what numbers you’re hitting to begin with.

This running dynamics pod from Garmin will pair with a compatible device, sending over six different metrics that can’t be measured with a multisport watch alone, so you can keep on top of your output.

These include your stride length, balance and ground contact time so you can focus on your form.

This device weighs just five grams so should be barely noticeable when clipped to your waistband, and has over one year of battery life, automatically turning itself on and off when you set off to conserve its battery.

The Orb Deep Tissue High Density Massage Ball

If you want to get the best out of your body and hit those running PRs, make sure to invest in a recovery tool that will get into the nooks and crannies of your muscles. We’re talking massage balls.

This deep tissue massage ball aims to do just that. At just 8cm tall, the surface of the Orb Extreme Mini is covered with small but firm bumps throughout that are designed to help relieve muscle tension across your leg, from your hamstrings and quads to tight calves.

It works by creating a single focus point you can roll across your muscles, aiming to help with both fatigue and overall flexibility when you follow the instructions that come included.

Petzl Actik Core 450L Head Torch

Don’t let yourself become stranded in the dark during an early morning run or a late evening session. Instead, invest in this head torch from Petzl.

It weighs just 75g so, but still packs an impressive 450 lumens, with the option of a flood light effect or mixed beam depending on your surroundings.

If you’re out on a popular trail or joining fellow runners, you can also opt for the red light effect, which will stop others from being blinded by the bright output.

See our list of the best running head torches for more options.

Bolle Bolt 2.0 Smoke Grey Lens Sunglasses

Don’t let the glare of the sun get in the way of you and your next run.

These sport sunglasses from Bolle have a light transmission of just 11% and they’ve been designed to stay on your face thanks to their Thermogrip rubber and S-Fit temples, which are said to produce a snug but comfortable fit.

The nose section can also be adjusted to make sure they remain in place.

The Bolt 2.0 features Bolle’s TNS lenses, which are not only said to provide 100% protection from UV but also retain a strong level of visibility so you can keep your eyes and feet firmly on the road.

See our list of the best running sunglasses for more options.

Garmin Forerunner 255

This Garmin Forerunner 255 comes with plenty of perks that will assist you with your running come race day or during those intense training sessions.

Battery life is a claimed 14 days on a single charge in smartwatch mode and there are plenty of activity profiles to choose from so you can focus on specific aspects of your triathlon, such as your running.

There’s also a series of metrics available to keep you fully informed on your performance, including Training Status, suggested workouts, Training Effect, Performance Condition and a lot more.

This particular model weighs just 49 grams, which means it’s a lightweight addition to your wrist. Read our full review of the Garmin Forerunner 255S here.

Alternatively, check out our list of the best triathlon watches to find other options to supercharge your training.

You can also read our picks of the best Garmin watch for running.

Shokz OpenRun Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

Whether you prefer a playlist to boost you through those faster sessions, or an audiobook to keep you entertained on those longer runs, a reliable pair of running headphones is a must-have in your running kit.

These bone conducting headphones mean you can tune in to your favourites while still remaining aware of your surroundings as your ears are not blocked, keeping you extra vigilant.

They rely on a Bluetooth connection with a range of 10m and, because they’re waterproof and dustproof, can be taken out on both rainy days and sandy trails.

Garmin HRM-Dual Heart Rate Monitor

If you’re looking to measure the intensity of your workout, or you’d like some specific insights into how your body is reacting to your running regimen, it’s well worth investing in a heart rate monitor.

This chest strap from Garmin will not only report back on your heart rate, it will do so in real time so you can gauge your output.

It has a battery life that’s said to last approximately 3.5 years if you were to use it once a day for an hour at a time, and it’s compatible with Garmin devices so you can check your stats at a glance.

The strap itself is made from a soft material and the heart monitor can be swiftly detached allowing you to wash any sweat from the fabric.

Interested in more of the best running gadgets? Check out our lists of the best triathlon watches, best heart rate monitors and best running headphones for more.