You’re not imagining it: everyone really is running at the moment. And with the uptick in participation, running brands are upping their game, sartorially speaking.
What was once a fairly straightforward equation of shorts, singlet, shoes and AirPods has become its own fashion ecosystem, with run clubs and race-day dressing becoming among the most important components of a runner’s wardrobes.
The good news is you no longer have to choose between looking good and actually being able to run in your clothes. From established activewear brands to niche international labels, these are the running brands worth knowing now.
Where to buy: online, or in stores across Australia
Unsurprisingly, one of the best brands on this list was born in Australia. If you’re a runner, you’ve probably spotted LSKD’s colourful sets in motion. The Queensland brand specialises in technical styles in bright, coordinating colours – perfect if you’re planning your first marathon or other kind of r. You’ll also find plenty of running-related accessories here, from hats to sleeves and belts.
Where to buy: online, and at various Australian stockists
Sunglasses are a non-negotiable if you’re running somewhere warm – a fact District Vision knows well. The brand specialises in performance eyewear, with frames engineered in Japan. The result is technical sports eyewear that happens to look very good. Bonus points, these are Harry Styles’ sunglasses of choice.
Where to buy: online only
Rendezvous Sports running sunglasses, but the kind we’d be happy to wear post-run too. The brand’s sunglasses are built with practical details in mind — UV protection, lightweight frames, secure fits and lenses designed to cut glare — but with a clean, understated look.
Where to buy: online only
If you’re interested in trail-running, look to NNormal. It was founded by mountain-running legend Kilian Jornet in collaboration with Camper, in between Norway and Malloraca – hence the name, which fuses both cities. Its shoes and apparel are made to withstand demanding terrain, with durability and repairability considered in each design. For those running beyond the pavement, start here.
Where to buy: online, and at Pace Athletics in NSW
SAYSKY hails from Copenhagen, so it’s no surprise that fashion is as big a part of its DNA as sport. Since 2013, the brand has been making high-performance gear with a Scandinavian edge, mixing technical fabrics with graphic prints, playful colour combinations and silhouettes that wouldn’t look out of place outside the running track.
Where to buy: online, and at stores across Australia, and The Iconic.
Salomon has managed to reach cult status in the running world (and beyond) without losing the vibe that made it cool in the first place. Its shoes are built for either gravel or trail running, and they offer a selection of stylish run-specific apparel, too. We’re particularly big fans of the brand’s hydration vests.
Where to buy: online, stores across Australia, and The Iconic
New Balance strikes the sweet spot between genuinely good running shoes and sneakers you’ll want to wear when you’re not running. The brand has serious performance credentials in all of its running gear, from supportive sports bras to windbreakers for in-between weather. If you want something that can handle a long run without looking like it belongs exclusively at the track, you’re in the right place.
Where to buy: online, stores across Australia, and The Iconic
There’s a real sense of purpose to everything ASICS designs, with technical clothing, shoes and accessories designed with the mechanics of a run in mind. It won’t come as a surprise to hear that they’re particularly well-known for footwear – the GEL-Nimbus and METASPEED ranges are obvious standouts, but there’s plenty more to explore.
Where to buy: online, stores across Australia, and The Iconic
adidas has been making running gear for decades, so it knows what it’s doing. The Adizero range is where you’ll find some of its most serious performance shoes, including the race-ready Adios Pro, but there’s plenty for everyday runners, too. Of course, it helps that adidas has always been pretty good at making sportswear you want to wear outside of sport – take their latest collaboration with Song For The Mute, for example.
Where to buy: online, stores across Australia, and The Iconic
Nike is a brand you like don’t need an introduction to, but if you need a refresher on what makes it so good, you’ve come to the right place. Its running offering spans everything from lightweight singlets and shorts to technical layers, socks and accessories, with plenty of attention to little details that make a big difference. Basically, whether you’re training for your first 5K or obsessing over a marathon, Nike has something for you.
Where to buy: online
Melbourne label Erniold has quickly established a cult following. They specialise in pared-back styles – neutral colourways, simple silhouettes. Essentially, it’s the kind of brand that makes you want to put on your running gear even if you’re only planning to walk to the coffee shop. For anyone running the Sydney Marathon, the brand has produced special Sydney-branded merch, too.
