The Barcelona Marathon, usually held in spring, is one of the most popular marathons in Europe: a fast course, a mild climate and a route through the city's most iconic places. Whether it is your first marathon or you are chasing a personal best, here is the gear checklist we share with runners at COLLECT Running.
1. Shoes: train in one, race in another (or not)
- Training shoe: a cushioned, durable daily trainer for long runs, such as the Hoka Clifton, the On Cloudmonster or the Saucony Triumph.
- Race shoe: a lighter, more responsive model, sometimes with a plate, like the Saucony Endorphin range.
- Golden rule: never race in brand-new shoes. Run at least a few sessions and one long run in your race-day pair.
Read our article Do you need a carbon-plate shoe? to decide.
2. Apparel: light and tested
- A breathable singlet or tee, such as the Tracksmith Van Cortlandt or Bandit racing singlets.
- Shorts with pockets for your gels.
- Technical socks to avoid blisters: see our running socks.
- A cap and sunglasses if the sun comes out: Ciele caps and running sunglasses.
3. Nutrition: the plan matters as much as the legs
Most marathon runners need carbohydrates during the race. Test your plan in training: gels, drink mixes, caffeine or not. We stock Maurten, Näak, Santa Madre and 226ERS. See our running nutrition guide for more details.
4. Race-day checklist
- Bib, safety pins or race belt
- Race shoes already tested
- Singlet, shorts, socks and cap
- Gels for the race, plus one spare
- An old top to keep warm before the start
- Anti-chafing cream
- Your watch, charged
5. After the finish
Recovery starts at the finish line: drink, eat, and walk. Compression socks and a recovery drink can help, such as the Compressport recovery socks and recovery products from our nutrition range.
FAQ
When should I buy my marathon shoes?
At least four to six weeks before the race, to have time to test them on several runs.
How many gels for a marathon?
It depends on your pace, your weight and the product. Test your plan during long runs; we can advise you in store.
Where can I find marathon gear in Barcelona?
At COLLECT Running, Carrer del Rec 26, El Born, and online in our running sections.
