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The New York City Marathon is today, and runners are gearing up to take their victory lap across five boroughs.
Amid the anxiety (aka “taper crazies”) of race week, it’s easy to forget the months of training, hundreds of miles logged and dozens of products tested to build the perfect race-day routine. I, for one, can’t tell you how many different running gels I’ve tasted, shoes I’ve sprinted in, and anti-chafing sports bras I’ve worn.
In honor of the big day, we gathered favorite route recommendations from real NYC runners, as well as the products they can’t live without for long training days.
West Side Highway: Apple AirPods Max 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Carrie BerkMy friends always make fun of me for wearing big, clunky headphones while I’m running, but they’ve become my signature. I’ve always considered long runs a moving meditation, and the AirPods Max’s noise-cancelling technology really helps me lock in and focus on the road ahead. Of course, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings in NYC, which is why I usually turn on Transparency mode to allow some outside noise in. My favorite route I took my headphones on this summer while training for the Berlin Marathon was the West Side Highway — long, paved roads with stunning views that remind me why I love this city so much.
Fifth Avenue Hill: Bandit Women’s Stamina High Waist 5″ Compression Shorts
Sarah Berman“I’m a rookie runner training for my first marathon. The Bandit Women’s Stamina High Waist 5” Compression Shorts are the only pair — of the many I tried — that I was still comfortable in when distances hit double digits, and have enough pockets for me to ditch my nemesis, the running belt,” said Sarah Berman, senior strategist, audience optimization & discovery at the Post.
“I notoriously carry many trinkets when I run, and these Bandit shorts are the only ones where the items not only don’t bounce, but also don’t make my shorts move around. At first, I was skeptical of the piece tag, but these quickly solved my frustration with other running shorts. Yes, the ride-up prevention grip is worth the hype and will keep me chafe-free when I’m conquering the infamous NYC Marathon Mile 23 hill on Fifth Avenue.”
East River Greenway: Nike Men’s Vomero Plus Running Shoes
Jake Aryeh“The Nike Vomero Plus is one of the most fun shoes I’ve ever run in. They’re incredibly cushy, comfortable, yet bouncy shoes that make them an excellent all-arounder. The big slab of super soft foam keeps the legs and joints happy while being responsive enough to let you push the pace. From easy runs to tempo sessions and all the way up to 18-mile long runs, these things go with me everywhere,” said Jake Aryeh, senior video producer/editor, video, at the Post.
Williamsburg Bridge: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Headphones
Jaime Plumaker“The inclines on the Williamsburg Bridge are perfect for training hills, and the views from both sides of the bridge are unmatched. You can take it to the East River Walk on the Manhattan side or Domino Sugar Park on the Brooklyn side, which are both amazing parks to run in,” recommended Jaime Plumaker, analyst, data business, at the Post.
“Running with my Shokz Open Pro 2 makes it even more enjoyable, as I get to listen to my music while also taking in all the sounds (and chaos) of the city.”
Pulaski Bridge: Satisfy Space-O Belt
Marcos Chavez“I really enjoy this route because it’s a bridge you cross at the midway point of the NYC Marathon route. Once I’m in Brooklyn, I run to the McCarren Park Track and do a few laps around the track before I head back to Queens. I get a bridge with some elevation, and a few laps around the track with no elevation,” said runner Marcos Chavez, who accompanies the route with his “favorite” Satisfy Space-O Belt.
“Pockets in running shorts are a hot commodity, and many running shorts nowadays don’t come with enough pockets. Some don’t even have pockets at all. That makes the running belt an essential accessory for a quality run because it gives me room to store my gels and electrolytes. This particular belt is useful, stylish and from one of my favorite brands.”
Randall’s Island: New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 V15
Esther Kaplun“I take the East River Esplanade up to the 103rd Street footbridge, and once you’re across, it feels like you’ve left the city — miles of quiet waterfront paths, wide-open fields and views of the Hell Gate Bridge and the Manhattan skyline,” said runner Esther Kaplun, who calls the New Balance Fresh Foam X 860s her “go-to’s.”
“They’re soft and cushioned but still stable and supportive, so my legs feel fresh whether I’m out for a quick 5K or stacking up miles on a long run.”
Prospect Park: Janji M’s 8″ Trail Half Tight
Andrew Shen“I prefer trail running, but it’s hard to find places in the city, so I was surprised to discover the amount of trails hidden in Prospect Park. I especially love the trail leading up to Lookout Hill because it’s perfect for getting in real elevation training,” said Andrew Shen, whose “favorite” running-specific clothing item is the Janji Half Tights.
“They have so many pockets, so I never need to worry about wearing a belt or band to carry anything. I carry my phone, keys, headphones, gels and even a packable windbreaker in the tights when I go out.”
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by Carrie Berk, Commerce Reporter for the New York Post. Carrie specializes in New York City-ready fashion finds for every style, age and budget. Combing the internet’s sale sections, brand collaborations, seasonal trends, timeless staples and lookalike styles, she makes recommendations that stand the test of time in your wardrobe – without breaking the bank. Before joining The Post full time in 2026, her work appeared in HuffPost, Women’s Health, Newsweek and more.
