5 essentials to pack for your next marathon

What you wear on your feet is arguably the most important thing come race day, which is why you need the best of the best. Enter the newly evolved ASICS Gel-Kayano 33, the latest iteration of the much-loved product that has been a reliable stability shoe within a runners rotation since the early '90s. 

These runners combine advanced geometry with dual-layer cushioning, while the breathable upper stretches and moulds to your foot to prevent the friction and heat build-up that cause blisters. With a pair of these bad boys, chances of a PB are looking pretty good… 

There’s nothing worse than being mid-run and having to fiddle with your headphones to stop them from slipping, or god forbid, having to drop your pace to pick one up. The easiest way to avoid said mid-race disaster? Grab a pair of Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Bone Conduction Headphones.  

These nifty headphones use bone conduction to deliver high-fidelity sound without compromising your situational awareness. Safety aside, the ultra-secure fit means they won't budge, and with an impressive 12 hours of playtime, they have more than enough battery life to power you through the entire 42 kilometres.

For a fuel option that actually stays down and doesn’t end up all over your hands, look no further than the cult-favourite Maurten Gel 100. Unlike traditional syrupy running gels, this one glides smoothly through your stomach – no mid-race pit stops necessary. 

Built with just six clean ingredients and zero artificial flavours or preservatives, its fructose-to-glucose ratio unlocks maximum energy uptake, perfect for the 20-kilometre slump. Plus, its firmer texture makes it easy to tear open and chug down on the move without leaving a sticky mess, which is exactly why it deserves a spot in your belt. 

Chafing has got to be one of the worst things about running long distances, and often the hardest to combat. Once you discover the Body Glide Original anti-chafing and anti-blister balm, you might never look back. 

Simply rub it onto wherever you experience chafing, irritation or raw skin before the race, and you're good to go. The balm is sweat and water-resistant, yet it keeps your pores unclogged so your skin can breathe. It also lasts forever, making it an absolute lifesaver on race day. 

Go all out with the SM26 Running Cap from ASICS (did we mention it’s actually official Sydney Marathon merch?). Not only is it the ultimate humble brag that you ran the Sydney mara, but its lightweight microfibre design and mesh inserts means it's breathable, and keeps the sweat and winter sun out of your eyes.

Thanks to its ergonomic fit and adjustable strap, you can trust it to stay on during the fastest downhills, while the reflective print means no one can miss you during those early dawn call times. With a pair of these shoes, you’ll have the support, comfort and confidence to take on every run.