Cost

How much does running cost?

$89 buys all 2 essentials.

2 priced items · checked 10 Sept 2026 · retailer prices, we earn a commission

Everything essential, cheapest sensible pick

$89

2 items, nothing rented

Against 247 hobbies

Above median

Dearer than 52% of them. Median hobby: $84.

What each thing costs

Every essential item, cheapest sensible option first. Mid-range and top picks alongside.

Running Shoes essential

mid $110top $110

$60

Running Apparel essential

top $65

$29

All 2 essentials

$89

What you need

$89

Everything you need to start running. None of it is a big commitment.

Running Apparel

$29

Moisture-wicking technical fabrics prevent chafing and overheating. Cotton is the enemy of comfortable running.

Nike Dri-FIT Challenger 7 Inch Running Shorts

top $65

Running Shoes

$60

Neutral cushioned daily trainers are the right beginner pick. Brooks Ghost, Hoka Clifton, and Saucony Ride are the consensus market trinity.

Saucony Men's Cohesion 18 Running Shoe

mid $110top $110

Later, if you stay

Not needed to start. These are the upgrades that matter once the habit has stuck.

Hydration

$35

Handhelds for short runs (under 90 min). Vests for long runs and trail. Belts have largely fallen out of favor.

Nathan SpeedDraw Plus Insulated Flask

mid $105top $181

Running Socks

$17

Running-specific socks prevent blisters and hot spots. Merino wool blends are the consensus best material.

Balega Hidden Comfort No-Show Running Socks

mid $23top $19

Running Watch / GPS

$129

GPS watches track pace, distance, heart rate, training load. Garmin Forerunner series dominates the running market.

Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch

mid $360top $610

Startup cost · all 247 hobbieslog scale
$1
$84
$1245
$89

Running costs more to start than 52% of the 247 hobbies we price. The median is $84.

Cost questions

How much does Running cost to start?

About $89 for the 2 essential items, taking the cheapest sensible option for each.

What does each thing cost for Running?

Running Shoes: from $60. Running Apparel: from $29.

Is Running an expensive hobby?

Running costs about $89 to start, dearer than 52% of the 247 hobbies we price. The median hobby costs $84, so this sits around the middle.

What should I buy first for Running?

running apparel, running shoes — $89 together. They are the cheap half of the kit and the half you keep whatever you decide about the rest.

Hobbies that cost about the same

The 6 nearest to running by startup cost, out of 247.