We break down the top athleisure tops, bottoms and accessories in 2025 for women that have muscular or curvy bodies.
Training for a marathon is one of the most demanding physical challenges you can undertake. Over months of preparation, you'll log hundreds of miles, push through pain barriers, and test the limits of your endurance. But here's the thing: having the right gear can make the difference between a miserable training cycle and one where you actually enjoy the journey to race day. After extensive testing and analysis of user reviews from Amazon, Target, and Walmart, along with insights from top running experts, we've compiled the definitive list of marathon training accessories that will help you conquer those 26.2 miles in 2026.
Let's address the elephant in the room—or rather, the bleeding nipples that plague so many distance runners. NipEaze has become the gold standard for nipple protection among marathoners, and for good reason.
During our testing period, NipEaze proved to be remarkably effective at preventing the painful chafing that can turn a long run into torture. These transparent adhesive covers are designed specifically for endurance athletes and feature a durable adhesive that stays put through sweat, rain, and humidity. The circular patches come in two sizes: Regular (3/4 inch, about the size of a penny) and Extra (1 inch, slightly larger than a quarter), ensuring proper coverage for different body types.
What we found:
- Easy application that takes seconds before your run
- Transparent design that doesn't show through shirts
- Exceptional staying power lasting through marathons and ultra-distance events
- Water-resistant formula that holds up in rain and heavy perspiration
- Comfortable enough to forget you're wearing them
What buyers are saying: Amazon reviewers consistently praise NipEaze's effectiveness, with one marathoner noting they "ran a marathon without irritation" and that their "nips were chafe free." Multiple users report the patches staying in place for entire races, even in challenging conditions. One reviewer who tested them during a humid 10K run through mist reported "no chafing and definitely no bleeding." The consensus? These are a "must have item for any bloke into running who gets nipple chafe."
The only minor complaints center around removal—some users with chest hair report slight discomfort when taking them off, though most note this is far less painful than the chafing they prevent. Pro tip: remove them in the shower with warm water and patience.
If NipEaze handles nipple protection, Bodyglide Original Anti-Chafe Balm is your all-purpose defense against friction. This plant-based, vegan-approved stick has earned legendary status among distance runners for its ability to prevent chafing on virtually any part of your body.
During testing, we applied Bodyglide to common problem areas: inner thighs, underarms, sports bra bands, and nipples. The formula glides on smoothly like deodorant, creating an invisible, non-greasy barrier that lasts for hours. Unlike petroleum-based products that can stain clothing and break down technical fabrics, Bodyglide won't damage your expensive running gear.
Key features that stood out:
- Plant-based formula with vitamin E for skin nourishment
- Allergen-free and safe for sensitive skin
- Sweat-resistant formula that stays effective in humid conditions
- No greasy residue or clothing stains
- Available in multiple sizes from travel (0.8 oz) to full-size (2.5 oz)
Real-world performance: One runner shared their experience using Bodyglide during marathon training: "I LOVE Body Glide! On hot days it goes between the thighs, on my arms, and on the nips. I have never been let down by Body Glide. It goes on easily, it doesn't stain clothing, and stays on for a marathon and more. Even in pouring rain it does the job." Another marathoner confirmed: "I came out of the marathon blister free and chafe free."
Amazon reviewers consistently rate Bodyglide 4.5+ stars, with many calling it "indispensable" and noting it's changed their running experience. One user who hiked half the Colorado Trail reported zero blisters when using Bodyglide on their feet, logging 16-18 mile days without issues. For marathoners, most report reapplication isn't necessary for runs under 2-3 hours, though humid conditions may require more frequent use.
Compression socks have moved from medical necessity to marathon must-have, and CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0 represent the pinnacle of compression technology. Made by medi, a German company with over 70 years of experience in medical compression, CEP socks bring pharmaceutical-grade compression to athletic performance.
We tested these socks both during long training runs and for post-run recovery. The 20-30 mmHg graduated compression—tighter at the ankle, gradually loosening up the calf—promotes blood flow and reduces muscle vibration during runs. The result? Less fatigue during your run and faster recovery afterward.
What makes CEP stand out:
- Medical-grade 20-30 mmHg graduated compression proven to increase circulation up to 40%
- Moisture-wicking materials treated with silver to reduce odor
- Open structure design on back of calf for enhanced breathability
- Anatomical fit with no-slip design prevents blisters
- Padded cushioning and seamless toe closure for all-day comfort
User experiences: Marathon runners consistently praise CEP compression socks for both performance and recovery benefits. Multiple reviewers note reduced swelling and muscle soreness when wearing them post-run. One ultramarathoner reported wearing CEP socks for 100-mile races with excellent results. The socks' durability also impresses users—several report their pairs lasting through multiple training cycles without losing compression effectiveness.
While CEP socks command a premium price (typically $50-70 per pair), most runners find them worth the investment. As one reviewer summarized: "After extensive testing, CEP The Run Compression Tall Socks 4.0 is our top choice" for compression socks.
For training runs over 90 minutes, proper hydration and nutrition become critical. While race day will have aid stations, your long training runs require you to be self-sufficient. Enter the hydration vest—specifically, the Salomon ADV Skin 12, which earned top marks from multiple testing organizations in 2025.
During our marathon training, the Salomon ADV Skin 12 proved to be a revelation. The Y-shaped SensiFit design hugs your torso without restricting breathing, and even when fully loaded, the vest barely bounces. The 12-liter capacity holds two 500ml soft flasks in front (included), with room for a 1.5L bladder in back, plus ample storage for gels, bars, extra layers, phone, and keys.
Features that matter for marathoners:
- Adjustable fit with minimal bounce even when running fast
- Front flask pockets with easy-access straw system
- Multiple storage options including waterproof phone pocket
- Breathable materials that don't chafe over long distances
- Trekking pole attachments for trail runners
Runner feedback: One tester who logged 175 miles in the vest, including a 100-mile race, called it "the best fitting hydration pack I've ever worn." For marathoners specifically, reviewers appreciate being able to carry their preferred nutrition and electrolyte drinks rather than relying on what's available at aid stations. The phone pocket receives particular praise for being large enough for current smartphones and truly waterproof.
For runners who prefer something more minimal for race day, the Nathan Pinnacle 4L offers a slimmer profile while still providing essential storage and hydration options.
Not every training run requires a full hydration vest. For runs where you just need to carry your phone, keys, and a few gels, a quality running belt provides streamlined storage without bulk. The Nathan Zipster Max Belt emerged as our top pick for its perfect balance of storage capacity and no-bounce fit.
This belt features four pockets constructed from stretch material in a continuous loop design—no buckles or clasps to dig into your skin or come loose mid-run. Two of the pockets have water-resistant zippers to protect your phone and valuables from sweat and light rain.
What makes a great running belt:
- Wide enough to distribute weight but not bulky
- Stretch material that moves with your body
- Water-resistant pockets for electronics
- Capacity for phone, keys, cards, and 4-6 energy gels
- Reflective elements for early morning or evening runs
User reviews highlight: Marathon trainers love the Zipster Max for long runs, with one noting: "We took this out on many long runs while marathon training, sometimes holding a phone, car key, sunglasses, gels, headphones, and gloves, and we were impressed with how still this belt stayed on our waist, even when fully loaded." The belt also dries quickly—important for those sweaty summer training runs.
For runners who want hydration options, the Nathan Trail Mix Plus holds two 10-ounce insulated flasks plus gear in a zippered center compartment.
While Bodyglide excels for general anti-chafe protection, Squirrel's Nut Butter deserves special mention for runners dealing with severe chafing or those who prefer all-natural products. This salve comes in both tub and stick formats and uses a formula of coconut oil, cocoa butter, beeswax, and vitamin E oil.
Fleet Feet runners specifically recommend Squirrel's Nut Butter for "your longest, toughest runs," noting it's "your skin's best friend." The natural formula is weather-resistant, long-lasting, and restorative to dry skin—a bonus during winter training months. Users report excellent protection in areas prone to severe friction, like inner thighs during hot weather runs.
While not technically an "accessory," a quality GPS watch becomes essential for marathon training to track your pace, distance, mileage, and heart rate. The Garmin Forerunner 965 stands out for its marathon-specific training features, including race-day widgets and 31+ hours of GPS battery life—more than enough for your longest training runs and race day itself.
Key features marathoners need include customizable activity screens, nutrition reminders based on time or distance, and onboard mapping. The Forerunner 965's AMOLED display remains readable in bright sunlight, crucial for those summer training months.
The key to marathon training success isn't just having the right gear—it's testing everything during training so there are no surprises on race day. Here's how to integrate these accessories into your training:
Start Early: Begin using NipEaze and Bodyglide on runs over 8 miles, even if you don't think you need them. Prevention is easier than treating chafed skin mid-training cycle.
Test Your Nutrition System: Whether you choose a hydration vest or running belt, practice accessing your fuel while running at race pace. You need this to be second nature on race day.
Break In Compression Socks: If you plan to race in compression socks, wear them on several long runs first. Some runners prefer them only for recovery, so test both approaches during training.
Dial In Hydration: Use your long runs to figure out your sweat rate and hydration needs. Your vest or belt should carry enough fluid and electrolytes to match your requirements without excess weight.
Marathon training pushes your body to its limits. While these accessories can't run the miles for you, they can eliminate the preventable problems that derail training cycles and ruin race days. From the simple effectiveness of NipEaze preventing painful nipple chafing to the recovery benefits of CEP compression socks, each product on this list has earned its place through real-world testing and thousands of positive user experiences.
As you prepare for your 2026 marathon, remember that every runner's needs are slightly different. What works perfectly for one person might not suit another. The key is to start testing these accessories early in your training cycle, giving yourself time to find the right combination of products that keep you comfortable, fueled, and focused on what really matters: putting one foot in front of the other for 26.2 miles.
Your marathon journey is uniquely yours, but with the right accessories supporting you every step of the way, you'll be able to focus less on discomfort and more on achieving your goals. Here's to your strongest marathon yet in 2026!
