What I Wore for My First Marathon — London 2024

Written By Hayley Moody

The honest, from-head-to-toe gear breakdown (with zero chafing and maximum good vibes)
By Hayley Moody | @womensrunning_collective

Running my very first marathon the London Marathon was everything: emotional, joyful, painful, empowering, surreal. And I can honestly say that having the right gear made the experience so much more comfortable, fun, and confidence-boosting.

So here’s a full breakdown of exactly what I wore what worked, what didn’t, and what I’d 100% wear again.

Hat: Fractel Cap (my old faithful & beautiful pink one)

I’ve had this cap forever, and it still pulls through every time. Lightweight, breathable, never budged. Highly recommend for any long run, race, or sweaty effort.

Sunglasses: Goodr “Do It For the Victory Dance”

Headphones: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2

I Didn’t use them for the first 15km because Jussie and I were deep in conversation — but the second I needed a mental boost, music was there for me. These were perfect. Safe, comfy, and that “pep-up” song hit different at km 32.

Top: Custom-Printed LSKD x Women's Running Collective

  • Tops worn: LSKD Accelerate Sports Bra (Longline)

  • Link: lskd.co

So I don’t normally feel super comfortable running in just a bra “#pigeonchest probs from childhood asthma” but this longline style was a game-changer. Supportive, flattering, and gave me that lil’ extra confidence boost on race day. Plus, we had our names printed on the front so people would cheer for us, and yes, it was the best.

Shorts: LSKD Fusion Ultra High-Rise 6” Short with Pockets

  • Link: LSKD Fusion Shorts

These shorts are everything. Zero chafing. Deep pockets (I stored snacks, gels, tissues, the works). No rolling, no wedging. They’ve carried me through long training runs and now my first marathon. Legit the MVP of my kit.

Running Belt: Nrok Belt

I love the belt’s size and quality — loads of room for gels and essentials. BUT because of the extra gel loops, I couldn’t get it tight enough to sit snug on my hips. It jiggled quite a bit. Since the race, I’ve unpicked one side of the gel loops and it’s way better. Oh — and the bib clips? Game changer. No more safety pins!

Shoes: New Balance SuperComp Elite v3 (BIG LOVE)

Full carbon plate, super plush, and so comfy. My feet felt supported the whole time, and I genuinely think the leg-saving cushioning helped me finish stronger than expected. The roomy toe box was perfect for a long day on my feet. Glorious shoe. Will absolutely wear again.

Socks: FEETURES Elite Light Cushion Mini Crew

Not usually a “sock person” but these converted me. No blisters, no rubbing, and they stayed in place the entire race. I don’t even think about them mid-run which is the highest praise I can give a sock.

Post-Race MVP: OOFOS OOmy Stride Recovery Shoe

OMG. These shoes saved my life. I had them in my finish line pickup bag and put them on immediately after the race. They were literally the only reason I could walk back to the hotel — and why I could walk at all over the next few days. Like walking on marshmallows but supportive. Every marathon runner needs a pair of these for recovery. Seriously.

Final Thoughts

The best part about this kit was that I didn’t have to think about it once the race started, everything just worked. (except for the jiggly belt) I felt confident, supported, and like me out there on the course. Which, when you're doing something as huge as your first marathon, is exactly what you want.

If you’re planning a race whether it’s 5km or 42.2km I hope this helps you figure out what’s worth the hype and what to tweak. XO HAYLES

Have questions? DM us over at @womensrunning_collective or let us know your favourite race-day gear. We LOVE hearing what worked (and didn’t!) for you

Hayley Moody
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