Get Moving With the Best Tech For Runners

Running may be the world’s oldest pastime, but that doesn’t mean runners should use stone-age technology. After all, modern gadgets can make even the most mundane and repetitive tasks fun. They can also provide much-needed motivation amid extreme physical challenges.

Examples include smartwatches with heart rate and miles logged and treadmills that display virtual trails. Even a great pair of earbuds can make a discernible difference for committed runners. However, with so many excellent tech for runners available, knowing where to start can be difficult. To help, we’ve outlined several favorites, as well as one must-use app that will keep runners engaged every step of the way.

Customers often know Garmin mostly for old-school car GPS systems, but the company has evolved over the years. Nowhere is that evolution more evident than in the Garmin Forerunner 945 — a smartwatch tailor-made for running enthusiasts.

The Forerunner 945 boasts precision heart rate monitoring, excellent training load tracking, and a wealth of other features. It’s a great watch for fitness enthusiasts (with dozens of activities supported), but it’s elite as a running watch. The only drawback: the premium price of $599.

Braving the elements and hitting the pavement may not be realistic for every runner. Those in cold climates won’t have to layer up and deal with ice and snow when dependable treadmills are available. NordicTrack’s lineup features a number of great options, but the best is the Commercial X32i.

Serious runners looking for a physical test will love the X32i’s insane 40 percent incline. Combined with an iFIT membership and live personal trainers, the X32i is an absolute blast to use. In addition, the 32-inch HD touchscreen puts every piece of information runners could need right at their fingertips. This impressive total package retails for $3,999 — a worthwhile investment for hardcore fitness enthusiasts.

With so many different options available in the earbuds market, it can be tough to find the right pair. When in doubt, try the Jabra’s Elite Active 75t. These are specifically designed for running, so they are exceptionally durable and comfortable.

Sweaty runners will be happy to know the Elite Active 75t buds sport an IP-57 rating, making them completely waterproof and sweatproof. Other perks include active noise cancellation and nearly six hours of battery life. At $99, they are affordable on almost any budget.

A great reflective vest can extend those training sessions and keep runners safe from danger. The noxgear Tracer360 vest is one of the most beloved items in the running world, with over 4,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. What makes it so special?

At only seven ounces, this vest is extremely lightweight. It’s also durable, with an IP-67 waterproof rating. A twenty-hour battery limits how often users need to charge it, while numerous color modes allow runners to customize their vest display. The Tracer360 can be found online for only $59.

Pair a BioLite HeadLamp 750 with the noxgear Tracer360 for the ultimate night running experience. While reflective vests are mostly used for city or suburban running, the HeadLamp 750 is designed more for trail running or areas with little to no outdoor lighting.

The headlamp’s 750 lumens ensure that users can see where they are going without blinding oncoming traffic or fellow runners. The HeadLamp 750 features four different light modes and a dimmable rear visibility light. It’s lightweight, easy to wear, and lasts for up to seven hours in HIGH mode. For $99, the HeadLamp 750 keeps runners safe while lighting the way.

The ultimate social fitness app, Strava, has been downloaded hundreds of millions of times. It’s great for skiing, cycling, and, of course, running. Accurate GPS tracking can plot a route on a map, with the ability to share the completed route with friends and other Strava users. The app is always being updated with new features, so it continues to get better with time. Available on both Android and iOS, Strava can turn a solo run into a friendly competition.

Expensive fitness gear can take a beating, so it’s important to keep it protected with an extended warranty from Upsie. Upsie offers warranties for smartwatches, treadmills, smartphones, and more. Best of all, Upsie’s warranties cost up to 70 percent less than warranties sold by retailers or manufacturers. In addition, customers can make unlimited claims up to the purchase price of the device, ensuring that they get the most out of their warranty.

For the best protection at the best price, choose Upsie today.