The world’s best running brands, according to Wallpaper*

Whether you’re logging long miles for a marathon or training for your first-ever 5k, one thing’s for sure: what you wear on your run is important. Of course, the appeal of running is that it is a beautifully simple sport, requiring minimal gear and zero equipment. But precisely what gear you select has the potential to stave off injury, optimise performance and – bonus – make you the most stylish runner on the road. The best running brands in the world offer all three.

I’ve run 10 marathons (and counting) in the last decade and I know first-hand the ability of running apparel to make or break a workout – not to mention the all-important finish-line photo. To help you perfect your kit, we’ve curated a list of the most stylish brands in the world, ones that prioritise performance without cramping your style. If you want the unconventional, check out indie brands like Bandit and Satisfy; for a classic collegiate look, Tracksmith’s the label for you; or – if it’s product innovation you seek – opt for a mega brand, like Adidas or Nike.

A quick word on footwear – not all feet are created equal, therefore the much-hyped super shoe that your running buddy swears by may be your one-way ticket to shinsplint hell. That’s why, before committing to a trainer, pop by a speciality running store to have your foot measured and your gait analysed (most will have a treadmill or short runway to observe your unique stride; also check if they offer a ‘try before you buy’ program). But no matter what you wind up choosing, be it footwear, apparel or accessories, these running brands offer options that will keep you feeling good and looking fresh for the long run.

The best running brands in the world

Adidas

From the legendary American sprinter Jesse Owens to the Ethiopian marathon powerhouse Tigist Assefa, many of history's fastest runners wear Adidas. The German company, like its American rival Nike, has set the highest standards in research and development. To wit: Adidas caused a sensation in the running world in 2023 when it debuted a $500 super shoe, the Adizero Adios Pro Evo. Even if you’re not looking to smash a world record, the company offers a wide range of footwear catered to your run, from grippy trail shoes to trainers suited to your park jog. There’s offerings for the fashion-conscious runner, too, whether you opt for a classic three-stripe short, or something stylish from Stella McCartney’s ongoing partnership with the brand.

Available from adidas.co.uk

Asics

Asics has been innovating in long-distance footwear ever since its researchers released a shoe aimed at preventing blisters back in 1960. While we can’t guarantee your feet will be entirely intact after that 20-mile training run, we can say that legions of runners swear by Asics trainers (including marathon legend Deena Kastor). Many of Asics’ most popular models, including the Gel-Kayano and Gel-Nimbus, even come in extra-wide sizes, meaning you’ll be able to find the fit for you. Also, be sure to scope out Asics apparel; its Lite-Show reflective coating ensures you’ll be visible on the roads with styling that will turn heads.

Available from asics.com

Bandit

Go on – hit the road in New York City and see if you can’t spot a runner decked out in a Bandit fit. The brand, founded in Brooklyn in 2020, aims, above all, to serve the running community, be it through its stylish apparel, races (this year, the brand launched the Bandit Grand Prix) or membership program. It’s Bandit’s innovative approach to pockets, however, that makes the gear stand out: sleek compression shorts, tights and sports bras feature up to seven (!) pockets to stash your keys, phone and fuel, with blessedly little bounce. But do keep tabs on seasonal drops: Bandit’s wild popularity means that it frequently sells out.

Available from banditrunning.com

Brooks

Seattle-based running company Brooks has one goal for its customers: to ‘run happy.’ Curiously, though, the brand has roots going back a century, to 1914 when it was a manufacturer of ballet and (yes) bathing shoes. During the running boom of the 1970s, Brooks pivoted to focus on running. Today, its most popular models – Ghost, Glycerin and Hyperion – are beloved by runners everywhere. (Check out the Brooks shoefinder to help find the shoe for you). As the mercury drops, be sure to investigate its cold-weather apparel, too. On the fence about a purchase? You can test it out and still return it for 90 days.

Available from brooksrunning.com

Ciele Athletics

Until recently, running hats were indistinguishable from something your dad might wear on the golf course. Montreal-based Ciele Athletics changed all that in 2014 when it introduced a lightweight five-panel cap that offered breathability, reflective details — and a streetwear-inspired silhouette that veered more sk8r boi than running geek. After perfecting the cap, Ciele expanded into apparel, from lightweight hot-weather tops and shorts (some of their tees include sun protection) to water-repellent jackets (the founders are Canadian, after all).

Available from cieleathletics.com

Hoka

Remember the ‘minimalist’ running trend, when people ran around in thong sandals (or even barefoot) to supposedly get back to running’s essence? Hoka, by contrast, got its foothold in the ‘maximalist’ running space, with its chunky outsoles and highly-cushioned midsoles. The shoes caught on quickly with distance runners and shortly after, the fashion community. In fact, the brand has collaborated on limited-edition lifestyle shoes with the likes of Marni and Alex Proba. But of course the brand’s heart and soul is running (its motto is Fly Human Fly) and is a favourite on the trails and on the roads. Don’t know which pair to buy? Try Hoka’s handy shoe-finder on its website.

Available from hoka.com

Janji

Boston-area Janji is a running brand with heart. In fact, the name (pronounced john-jee) is Indonesian for ‘promise’ – a reflection of the label’s commitment to giving two per cent of its profits to clean water projects around the world. A global perspective also informs Janji’s highly-rated running apparel, packs and accessories – each collection is inspired by a specific part of the world, the idea being that, no matter where you go, there’s no better way to get to know a place than by lacing up your sneakers.

Available from janji.com

Lululemon

If you think Luluemon is for low-impact sports like yoga, pilates or barre, think again: the company has been creating high-performance running apparel for women (and men!) since the early-2000s. In 2022, the brand even released its own running shoe. Lululemon’s line of Fast and Free compression tights is a leader in the category, with sweat-wicking fabric, stealthy pockets and an impossibly lightweight feel. Women runners will also appreciate the brand’s sports bras, which feature strappy styles without the dreaded bounce.

Available from lululemon.co.uk

New Balance

If you’ve run the New York City marathon, you’ll already have a piece of New Balance merch in your closet: the enviable finisher’s shirt. New Balance has been the sponsor of the race for nearly a decade and it’s easy to see why, with so many runners lacing up its sneakers. It all comes down to New Balance’s proprietary Fresh Foam, which provides cushion, support and responsiveness with every stride. For something even snappier, there’s the FuelCell SuperComp Elite, New Balance’s take on a carbon-plate super shoe. Complete your kit with New Balance’s running apparel, from colourful tanks and tees (we’re digging the New York City Marathon collection) to ultra-supportive bras.

Available from newbalance.co.uk

Nike

You can’t talk about running brands without talking about Nike. The Oregon-based athletic powerhouse has been innovating in the sport ever since company co-founder Bill Bowerman created the first waffle-soled trainer with the family waffle iron half a century ago. Nike’s come a long way and has remained a juggernaut in running R&D, from its signature moisture-wicking Dri-FIT fabric to one of the world’s first carbon-plate ‘super shoe’. World records fall in Nike kits (who could forget Eliud Kipchoge’s exhilarating sub-two-hour marathon in 2019?), so if you’re chasing a PR on the road, trail or track, it’s a safe bet to start here.

Available from nike.com

On

On has become synonymous with quiet luxury (see: its recent collab with Loewe), but the Swiss brand has always been focussed on performance. Its proprietary CloudTec cushioning underpins a spectrum of footwear, whether you’re seeking a work-a-day model, a high-support option for the trails, or something snappier for race day. Once you’ve picked out your shoes, make sure to check out On’s apparel too, which offers some of the best cold-weather gear in the business.

Available from on.com

Satisfy

Leave it to the French to create a running brand so chic, you might unwittingly find yourself signed up for your local 10k. Paris-based label Satisfy has upped the ante in running gear, creating luxury (yes, we said luxury) shoes and apparel that wouldn’t look out of place at a nightclub. It started with its proprietary ‘MothTech’ fabric, a perforated cotton that helps your body cool during intense workouts with the worn-in look of your favourite vintage Stones tee. Ultra and trail runners will be drawn to Satisfy’s Rocker running shoes, which were engineered to tackle all kinds of terrain. The prices may be steep (a standard MothTech shirt starts at around $140) but we’re not aware of any other running brand that has created a cowboy-inspired long-sleeve shell, complete with horse embroidery and ice-pack pockets. Giddy up!

Available from satisfyrunning.com

Saysky

Danish brand Saysky combines a Scandi sensibility with a genuine love of the running community. Unlike a lot of running clothes these days, Saysky’s tend to be colourful, from star-printed shorts to ombre-dyed singlets. The company’s influence is clearly spreading — Saysky recently unveiled a collaboration of vibrant shoes and clothing with Puma. And even if you’re not planning to sign up for Saysky’s Suffer Patrol 100 next year (participants run 100 kilometres in 24 hours) you can at least benefit from the brand’s relentless positivity.

Available from saysky.co.uk

Soar

Self-described ‘modernist designer’ Tim Soar set out to marry form and function when he left his design job to start a running brand – so you know the resulting label, Soar, is bound to be good. The Hackney, London-based company, founded in 2015, puts good design and quality materials at the centre of everything it creates, be it a classic split short, silk knitted base layers or a Graphene racing singlet. Don’t love your Soar gear? You can try it and return it – no questions asked – after 30 days if you’re not thrilled, but we reckon you will be.

Available from soarrunning.com

Tracksmith

Whether you count Chariots of Fire among your favourite films, or simply love a classic running kit, Boston-based running company Tracksmith is the brand for you. The label, founded in 2014, was a pioneer in making running gear something you want to flaunt, with its classic Ivy League-inspired silhouettes and high-quality performance fabrics. But don’t just take our word for it: Harry Styles wore Tracksmith’s Van Cortlandt shorts when he cruised his way to an enviable sub-three-hour marathon in Berlin this fall. And, in case you were wondering, Tracksmith’s trademark hare is named Elliot, after the legendary bar at the finish line of the Boston marathon.

Available from tracksmith.com