Gear Guide: Spring Training
Balega Enduro V-Tech Quarter Socks
($15; balega.com)
Those who run know: good socks are as important as good shoes. And Balega makes some of the best. Their new V-Tech Quarter feature variable compression zones across the foot for enhanced comfort — as well as both mesh ventilation and impact/blister cushioning. Made in the USA from proprietary yarns, there’s a reason you’ll see Balega socks on most pro-runners’ tootsies.
Nathan Shaker Shot
($22; nathansports.com)
Is isn’t that this 750 ml bottle is BPA-free, top-rack dishwasher-safe and features a removable silicon nozzle (easy cleaning, comfy drinking) that makes it so great. It’s the included Nathan Mixer Ball — a sterile, saline-filled globe that allows users to shake up protein powders with ease and effectiveness — that really got us stoked. (It can even be frozen to chill your drink.)
Nathan SonicMount
($45; nathansports.com)
Almost as important as good socks are good tunes. And the availability of GPS or health-apps make packing your smartphone part-and-parcel to the mix. Here’s where the SonicMount, also from Nathan, comes in. A chafe-free strap, imperceptible 42.5-gram weight and gorilla-grip to ensure your phone stays put (trust us) make this arm-band a techy jogger’s must-have. (Fits most phones.)