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Ever turned up to a training session feeling flat because your kit just didn’t match the conditions? The right track and field gear is like tuning a car before a big race — it helps everything run smoother and faster. From lightweight poles for trail running to compact night reflectors, the right choices can shave seconds off your time, protect your joints, and keep you visible when the sun goes down. This guide cuts through the noise, pointing you toward trusted UK stores and the best kit — including standout products like carbon running poles and high-visibility reflectors — so you can focus on improving, not guessing.
RunningXpert is a specialist store known for its focus on running and trail accessories. If you’re scouting for items like Silva carbon adjustable running poles, Salomon Pulsar carbon poles, or navigation aids such as the Silva Spike Jet compass, this type of specialist retailer is where you’ll find expert advice and targeted product ranges designed for serious runners and adventurers.
Wiggle is a go-to for multisport athletes who want durable kit that performs. They stock a wide selection of poles, headlamps, and running-specific accessories from big names. Wiggle is especially handy if you mix running with cycling or triathlon training and want equipment that works across disciplines.
If you’re just starting out or after straightforward gear that won’t break the bank, Decathlon is the place. It carries user-friendly poles, basic traction aids, and affordable training accessories. You can try things in-store, check sizes, and get hands-on with items before committing to the premium carbon options.
For anything to do with shoes, spikes, and personalised fit, Runners Need brings expert knowledge. They often offer gait analysis and spike recommendations tailored to track events, so whether you run middle distance or sprint, you’ll find shoe and spike combinations that match your stride and event type.
Sports Direct can be a surprisingly good place to pick up basic field and track items — think training poles, basic reflectors, and running magnets at wallet-friendly prices. If you need a spare set of accessories without a big spend, this is a practical stop.
Pro:Direct specialises in performance footwear and carries a broad inventory of spikes and competition shoes. If you’re chasing the lightest shoes that still provide traction and support, this retailer stocks many race-ready models and past-season bargains.
For mixed trail and fell running needs, Millets and Cotswold Outdoor are strong options. They stock rugged poles, navigation tools, and lighting solutions for off-road adventures, plus practical clothing layers for changing weather.
Amazon UK offers huge choice and rapid delivery, which is handy when you want to compare models or read a breadth of customer reviews. From Orbiloc run dual reflectors to Ledlenser headlamps, you’ll find everything from specialist brands to budget alternatives in one place.
Carbon running poles have become a staple for ultrarunners and trail racers looking for efficiency on long ascents. Models like the Silva Carbon Adjustable and the Salomon Pulsar Carbon deliver stiffness with low weight, helping you push power through steep sections. Adjustable lengths allow quick changes on the go — set them around chest height for climbs and collapse them when you hit flat or technical sections.
Even short local routes can go wrong without a compass or simple map device. The Silva Spike Jet Compass is compact and durable, ideal for route-checking and quick bearings. Pair basic navigation tools with a mapped route and you reduce the chance of getting off-track — especially useful for moorland running where trails disappear and miles of open ground lie ahead.
Night and low-light runs demand good visibility. Orbiloc Run dual reflectors and Orbiloc black reflective straps catch headlights and make you visible from multiple angles, while a small, powerful headlamp like a Ledlenser unit ensures you can see where you’re placing your feet. For safety, think in terms of being seen from at least 200 yards; good reflectors and a strong white beam do the trick.
Items such as Sportsmagneter running magnets — used to attach race numbers without pins — are those little touches that speed pre-race prep and avoid holes in technical shirts. Lightweight straps, compact multi-tools, and secure clips keep kit organised and fuss-free so you can concentrate on the run and not on fumbling with gear.
Picking a running pole isn’t just about brand loyalty — you want the right length, weight, and locking mechanism for your style. For most adults, pole length ranges from about 4' 0" to 5' 5" when fully extended; a good rule is to set a pole so your elbow forms about a 90-degree angle when the pole tip is on the ground. Carbon poles offer superb stiffness at a low weight — expect them to weigh in under 1.5 lb per pair for premium models — while aluminum variants are cheaper and tougher if you boulder through bracken and rocks. Adjustable poles let you change on the fly: shorten for descents and lengthen for climbs. Don’t forget tip choices: carbide tips grip rock and hard ground, while rubber tips are kinder on tarmac and quieter in a town park.
When the sun dips, visibility becomes your first line of defence. Reflectors like Orbiloc Run Dual in red or Orbiloc black straps are small, light, and clip onto packs, shoes, or clothing. Lights are about illumination and battery life: a headlamp with at least 200 lumens will light trails comfortably for a 3-mile run at moderate speed, while higher lumen counts suit technical terrain where you need to pick lines. Rechargeable lights reduce long-term waste and cost, but always carry an extra battery or a secondary light for longer night outings.
Track spikes are a different beast from road shoes. For sprints, you want a stiff, minimal plate and short pins to maximise energy return; for middle-distance events, a slightly more cushioned platform with a moderate spike length gives a balance of speed and comfort. Marathon and road racing shoes lean toward cushioning and responsive foam. When measuring, shoe sizes and lengths matter — check fit in inches: allow about a thumb’s width (around 3/4") between your longest toe and the shoe tip for long runs to avoid black nails. If you’re trying spikes for the first time, practice on grass before taking them to a fast track; they feel different underfoot and require adjustment in stride to be comfortable and fast.
Digital maps are brilliant, but batteries die and screens glare. A compact compass and a simple paper map or route printout keep you safe when signals fail. Learn basic map-reading — orienting the map to the terrain, identifying landmarks, and taking a bearing. Keep routes sensible: if you’re planning a loop of more than five miles in remote country, leave your plan with someone and pack an emergency blanket. Training your nav skills is like learning to change a tyre; you hope never to need them, but when you do, they’ll save a lot of time and stress.
Not all kit needs to be top-tier. Spend on items that directly affect performance and safety: shoes that fit, poles that won’t snap mid-climb, and a reliable headlamp. Save on accessories that are nice-to-haves — a basic pair of reflective straps can work as well as a pricier branded band. Look for sales on last season’s spikes or poles; these often give near-identical performance at a fraction of the cost. Compare prices across specialist shops like RunningXpert and large retailers like Decathlon or Wiggle to spot the best deal.
Buying online is convenient, but some things are worth trying in person. Shoe fit, pole handling, and headlamp beam shape are tactile experiences — you’ll know if a shoe grips in the heel or if a pole lock feels fiddly. Many specialist stores offer fitting sessions or allow test runs; local running clubs also host demo days where brands bring kit to try. If you’re investing in carbon poles or race spikes, test them in training before race day so you can make tweaks without panic.
Treat kit like the investment it is. After a muddy trail session, rinse poles to remove grit from locking mechanisms — a quick wipe with a damp cloth can stop premature wear. Recharge and cycle headlamp batteries regularly, and store reflectors clean and dry so their visibility isn’t compromised by dirt. For spikes, clean threaded spikes and inspect the plate after rocky runs. Small maintenance actions add up and can keep gear functioning for seasons instead of months.
More runners now weigh the environmental cost of kit. Look for brands offering repairable items, replaceable tips and spikes, and rechargeable lights to reduce disposable battery waste. Choosing durable materials and repairing rather than replacing extends the life of your equipment — a carbon pole or a well-made headlamp can be used for years if treated well. Consider buying from retailers that stock repair parts or offer trade-in options to keep kit out of landfill.
Before you step out, run through a quick checklist: shoes and spikes fitted correctly; poles adjusted to the right length and locked; lights charged and reflectors attached; navigation tools packed; and a small kit bag with basics like a multi-tool, tape, and a spare battery. That five-minute routine prevents a lot of small problems that turn into big ones mid-run.
Choosing the right track and field gear boils down to matching the product to your goals: speed, comfort, safety, or endurance. Specialist retailers such as RunningXpert, big-name sellers like Wiggle and Decathlon, and performance-focused suppliers like Pro:Direct offer complementary advantages. Prioritise fit and function — shoes and poles are worth spending on — and keep visibility and navigation in mind for safety. With a little research and some hands-on testing, you’ll find kit that helps you hit personal bests and makes training more enjoyable. Think of your kit as a toolkit: the right tool at the right time makes all the difference.
| Track & Field | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Ledlenser Cu2r Black Reflector - Ideal For Night Running And Outdoor Adventures | £ 12,- | |
| Salomon Pulsar Carbon Poles - Lightweight Black Running Poles For Enhanced Performance | £ 40,- |
