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Running is one of the few exercises that can be done without even having to spend a penny. I think that’s what makes it so appealing for new runners. However, there’s always going to be running gear that can significantly improve your comfort and performance. For this reason, I found myself wondering how much a running beginner should be expected to invest in their hobby.
Running can cost anywhere from $0 to $300 and over. The amount of money a new runner spends on running comes down to the quality of the gear they wear and use to improve performance. The most expensive item a runner may invest in is typically running shoes. However, runners will also generally spend money on water bottles and running apparel.
To give you as clear an idea as possible of how much running could cost you, I have put together typical prices for everything that a new, intermediate and advanced runner needs to start running. I’ve also put together some facts and figures for what you would be looking at spending over a year and over a year and a lifetime.
In This Article, You Will Find The Following:
How Much Do Other Runners Think Running Should Cost?
Starting Running Cost For a Beginner
Guide To Running Beginner Gear
Starting Costs For An Intermediate Runner
Guide To Running Beginner Gear
Starting Costs For An Advanced Runner
Guide To Advanced Running Gear
How Much Does Running Cost Over a Lifetime?
How Much Do Other Runners Think Running Should Cost?
You don’t just need to take my word for how much running should cost. To get as good an idea as possible of how much runners in general feel they should be spending on running gear, I held an online poll asking runners how much they thought running should cost for a whole year.
382 runners voted. The results are in.
| Price | Votes |
| $0-$100 | 113 (29.6%) |
| $100-$200 | 122 (31.9%) |
| $200-$300 | 73 (19.1%) |
| $300 plus | 74 (19.4%) |
When all is said and done, running is something that can be done for free. But depending on your goals and amount of experience you may always be interested in investing a little more into your runs. So it’s no surprise that most of the runners who voted wouldn’t spend more than $200.
Some of those who voted had this to say:
“Your main expense is running shoes. After that, you can spend as little or as much as you like. E.g. you can wear an old tracksuit or splash out on a new pair of leggings. Go to 5k at Parkrun for free or do a big 5k race with a tshirt and fancy medal for a cost.”
GalwayGirlOnTheRun23
“It depends on how comfortable you want to be and what type of running you want to do.
A good pair of running shoes will be around $150. For women, a sports bra will be around $40-50 or up to $90 depending on how much support you need. A set of running clothes can be purchased from a cheap retailer like Winners/Homesense (TJ Maxx in the US?) for $50 or less so that doesn’t have to be a big purchase.
But the fact is, unless you’re doing laundry multiple times a week or comfortable wearing stinky clothes, you likely want a rotation of running clothes and a few sports bras. And if you’re doing trail running or long runs, you typically want a running belt or vest.”
milaftri
“$50 for the beginner’s shoes, $30 for running clothes, $5-10 for running water bottle, $5 for gloves, $5 for mobile band”
CeleritasLucis
Before I jump into some of the main costs, I have split runners into three main categories. Beginners, intermediates, and advanced. These categories are based on running mileage. Beginner runners would typically complete 1-15 miles a week, intermediates 15-25 and advanced would be knocking out any distance further than this.
Starting Running Cost For a Beginner
To get an idea of how much a running beginner should be spending when they start running, I spent some time looking for the cheapest gear of the highest quality. Whilst you probably don’t want to spend too much when you’re just getting into running, it’s important not to miss out too much on quality.
I also wouldn’t reccomend using the gear below long-term. Whilst it’s a great place to start, it’s better to invest in gear that’s slightly more durable and fit for purpose.
At the time of writing this, an average running beginner would be looking at spending anything between $99.78 and $138.62.
| Item | Price At Time Of Writing | Current Price |
| Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe | $49.96 – $79.80 | Check Price On Amazon |
| BALEAF Long Sleeve Running Workout Shirts | $13.99 | Check Price On Amazon |
| 2 in 1 Gym Shorts | $15.99-$24.99 | Check Price On Amazon |
| Water Bottle Flask | $9.00 | Check Price On Amazon |
| Mesh Baseball Cap | $10.84 | Check Price On Amazon |
Guide To Running Beginner Gear
Under Armour Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe
I would typically look to spend more than $100 on a new pair of running shoes so that I can make sure I’m getting the best style and quality. However, these running shoes come from a reputable brand at a pretty good price.
These shoes are neutral, which means they are suitable for runners that need both flexibility and cushioning. Whilst it’s generally better to have a shoe made for one specific requirement, wearing these will help safely give you an idea of what’s suitable for you if you don’t know yet.
They also come with a strong rubber outsole that offers these shoes plenty of durability without much excess weight.
I would reccomend these shoes as the bare minimum when you start running. However, if you’ve started running and are wondering if you can run in normal shoes, for the time being, check out this article I wrote on running in normal shoes.
BALEAF Long Sleeve Running Workout Shirts
This shirt isn’t the best fit when compared to more expensive running apparel available. But when you’re just getting into running, this shouldn’t be a problem.
The big selling point to this kind of workout shirt is that it’s quick-drying. This means that as you build up a sweat, moisture will be pushed to the surface of the clothing where it can then evaporate.
If that wasn’t enough, the shirt also comes with reflective tape that offers extra visibility. You can read more about running in reflective gear here.
2-in-1 Gym Shorts
These 2-in-1 gym shorts are a mix of compression and V-Notch running shorts. You can find out more about the different kinds of running shorts here.
Simply put, these running shorts are designed to offer the benefits of compression such as a snug feel and potentially reduced risk of injury. But they also have an outer layer that gives runners the look of traditional running shorts.
These running shorts have several impressive elements and include a hole for wired headphones to feed through as well as a pocket on both the inner and outer shorts. But if running shorts aren’t for you, check out this article I wrote on running in sweatpants.
Water Bottle Flask
This water bottle flask is the cheapest I could find. I did a review including this flask that compared the best ways to run with water. Whilst these flasks can usually clip onto a running belt like this one, they can also fit snugly into the palm of your hand.
Unfortunately, a single flask does not usually carry enough water. I would recommend taking a minimum of at least two with you when attempting something long-distance like a 5K.
Mesh Baseball Cap
I was surprised to find a hat as good as this one available at a cheap price.
Once again, the thing that makes gear like this well-equipped for running is the fact that it is quick-drying. However, whilst the mesh material down one side of the hat will make it very breathable, I don’t think that this hat would be best worn during wet weather.
Starting Costs For An Intermediate Runner
When it comes to running as an intermediate, you’re likely to still be conscious of how much your running gear is costing you. However, runners who’ve been training for a while will now be looking for running gear that also helps with their performance.
The list below shows roughly how much an intermediate Runner should be looking to spend on their gear when getting started.
On average, an intermediate Runner is looking at spending approximately $220.97 on their full running kit.
Guide To Advanced Running Gear
Floatride Energy Symmetros 2 Shoes
These shoes are supposedly some of the best needed for distance running, meaning that runners can pack on mile after mile without worrying about as much wear and tear.
I think the biggest selling point to the shoes is that they’re fit with a foam that’s designed to be very responsive to the runners foot and provide cushioning as they are hitting mile after mile.
If you’re still unsure about this running shoe, you don’t just have to take my word for it. Check out this video below from the guys at Doctors Of Running who reviewed these shoes.
Amphipod Hydraform Water Bottle
This water bottle is a huge step up when compared to the one that I recommended for running beginners. It’s designed to carry a higher volume of water as well as provide additional benefits such as fitting into the hand with ease and staying there with the velcro strap that’s attached.
The only thing that I think is missing from this water bottle is it doesn’t also come with a feature that allows you to hold additional items such as your phone or keys. This water bottle is a good example of something that does that.
That being the case, the price of this water bottle and the fact that it comes with a leak-free top is a huge selling point for me.
Running Two-in-One Shorts
When looking for a pair of running shorts fit for intermediates, I’ve gone with a similar option for the ones that I choose for running beginners.
The big difference between these 2-in-1 running shorts and the ones that are good for beginners is the amount of effort in quality they have gone into them.
The mesh inner briefs of these shorts mean that they fit snuggly whilst also remaining breathable and comfortable. These running shorts also come with a reflective layer, which again, is very important when it comes to running at night and being seen.
I think another big selling point to me is that the overlapping hem on these running shorts makes them look much more like a traditional pair of running shorts whilst also supplying some of the benefits that you get from wearing compression shorts.
Reebok Running Long Sleeve T-Shirt
When choosing a T-shirt for intermediate runners to wear I’ve gone with the same design as that for running beginners. Again, it’s the care and quality that’s gone into this running shirt that makes it a much better option.
It’s also worth mentioning that this T-shirt is more sustainable. Whilst both the beginner and intermediate t-shirts offer the ability to Wick away sweat, this T-shirt does so with a 100% recycled polyester interlock.
Reebok Classic Unisex Socks
When running as an intermediate you need to put a little more focus into how you look after your feet so that you can be sure to pack on mile after mile without getting injured.
In addition to the running hat recommended for running beginners, I would also recommend investing in a pair of running socks. These socks have specially designed arches that help keep your feet in place.
Whilst it is the running shoe that will usually do most of the work, throwing these socks into the mix will give you as much support as possible.
Starting Costs For An Advanced Runner
The good news is that if you are an intermediate runner who is moving up to advanced running, you can consider using a lot of the running equipment you already have, such as your running shirt and socks – as there is little difference that an advanced running would have on this kind of gear.
That being said, if you’re planning on running more than 25 miles every week, some of the items below could become a necessity.
Starting costs for an advanced runner can typically be around $323.96 – $525.78.
| Item | Price At Time Of Writing | Current Price |
| Brooks Mens Levitate 4 Running Shoe | $75.95 – $224.99 | Check Price On Amazon |
| Hydration Pack with 2L Hydration Bladder | $18.38 | Check Price On Amazon |
| Running Jacket | $60 | Check Price On Reebok |
| Under Armour Compression Leggings | $24.85 – $67.43 | Check Price On Amazon |
| Garmin Running Watch | $127.99 | Check Price On Amazon |
| Knee Brace | $16.79 – $26.99 | Check Price On Amazon |
Guide To Running Beginner Gear
Brooks Men’s Levitate 4 Running Shoe
These are the running shoes that I own. I’ve managed to run a marathon in them and they have lasted me well over a few years. When it comes to advanced running such as long-distance running, I would always reccomend going with Brooks. A little more pricy. But definitely worth it in my opinion.
The best things about these running shoe is probably their breathability and security. Whilst the shoe is slightly more compact than most road running shoes, it’s easy for any unwanted heat to escape.
Hydration Pack with 2L Hydration Bladder
This hydration backpack is also the exact piece of gear that I use when running exceptionally long distances. If you’re running more than 5 miles a day, then a water bottle might not hold enough water.
Furthermore, a water bottle can be annoying to carry after a while, so carrying your water on your back is the next best option.
Again, you can find my full review of this hydration backpack here. But for the sake of this article, this hydration backpack is excellent because it comes with breathable and adjustable straps, the water capacity is 2L and the bite and suck valve is perfect for stopping any leaking.
Running Jacket
Keep yourself protected from the elements. Running jackets are ideal for keeping you safe from harsh weather that might occur during your run. Unlike regular running jackets, they are often very light and breathable whilst also being waterproof. So you can make the most out of your run whilst staying as comfortable as possible. You can read more about their uses in this full guide I wrote.
This running jacket comes with many nifty features. But I think the biggest selling point for me is the pull drawstrings. A common issue with running jackets is that if they can’t be tightened around your body, they often ride up and can allow water in. Not a nice feeling if you’re on the last mile of a long run.
Under Armour Compression Leggings
For beginner and intermediate runners, we’ve touched on how 2-in-1 running shorts are great for offering some of the benefits of compression as well as the benefits of a traditional look. But when it comes to advanced running, it’s time to get the most out of compression gear.
This article I wrote will explain in detail why compression shorts are good for running. But put simply, compression shorts could help reduce fatigue and pain from injury, help improve stabilization and produce less drag. All things that will make running feel easier and more comfortable.
These compression shorts by Under Armour come with an ultra-tight fit. Meaning they can be worn as a second skin. Their longer length also means they can provide support throughout the legs.
Garmin Running Watch
If you’re an advanced runner, chances are that you care about things like your speed, times, and overall performance.
Whilst free apps such as Strava and Nike Run are great, using a watch like this one from Garmin gives you access to everything you need from running distance to steps, calories and the intensity of your run.
Not only that, but this watch also automatically uploads the progress of your runs to your Garmin account. A free account that contributes to how you track progress.
Knee Brace
Picking up an injury from running isn’t always avoidable. But protecting vulnerable areas as much as possible is a great way to minimize risk.
Running knee braces like the one above can help advanced runners reduce the risk of Runners Knee. Runner’s Knee is described as being a rubbing, grinding, or clicking feeling around a knee cap which is bought on from running in a certain way consistently.
Athletes generally use knee braces like the one above to help minimize the impact that repetitive motions like running can have on the knee. You can find out more about Runners Knee in the video below:
Is Running a Cheap Hobby?
Running is one of the cheapest hobbies available to most people. Whilst runners can spend $300 or more on running gear in total, it’s often as easy as buying a cheap pair of running shoes and hitting the road.
That being said, if you value your comfort and want to reduce injury, it helps to spend a little more on your hobby.
How Much Does Running Cost Over a Lifetime?
If we predict that the average runner will run for 60 years of their life the gear described in this article will last approximately a year. We can calculate that running over a lifetime can cost anywhere between $5986 – $31,546.
This number is very broad as factors such as how much you run, how much you look after your gear and how often you buy new gear can all contribute to this statistic.
