For the serious runner, this is an exceptional bit of kit. Of course it does the basics, but it also monitors workouts to advise on performance levels and recommends recovery times. The battery life is also superb.

This doesn’t have the running-specific data or functions of a specialised GPS, but you can store 2GB worth of music and download apps galore, from cross-training programmes to fitness tests.

Polar’s impressive M200 GPS watch.

The Polar watch has an impressive array of features for the price. As well as GPS, it functions as an all-day activity tracker, gives basic phone notifications and it has a wrist-based heart rate monitor.

The AfterShokz Trekz Runner.

Music can distract you from your surroundings, but Aftershokz sit on your cheekbones and use bone conduction to send sound waves directly into your head, leaving your ears free to listen out for hazards.

You can spend a fortune on running-specific headphones - then lose them. These super-cheap options stay in your ears, are robust and have a decent sound. For the price, what more do you need?

For those of us who regularly run in the dark or in areas with uneven footing, then Petzl’s superlight, rechargable and robust head torches could help protect your ankles from inevitable twists.





As well as seeing, you want to be seen. You can get LED lights that clip to your shoes, as armbands or built into backpacks. This light (19g) and weatherproof model can be moved to wherever it is needed.