THE JOURNAL
Photography by Pierre David/SATISFY
Once the preserve of weekend warriors in faded club T-shirts and old marathon bibs, running has evolved into a pursuit of precision, both in motion and in style. The modern runner chooses kit as carefully as his route, dressing with intention, whether chasing a sunrise tempo or strolling to a post-run espresso.
This, though, is a new kind of running wardrobe, one built on technical refinement, understated design and versatility. It isn’t loud or logo heavy. It’s technical without being clinical, athletic yet elegant. Colours are soft and natural – think slate, moss, off-white. Details are discreet – hidden zips, bonded seams, laser-cut vents. Each piece is designed to serve, but also to be seen.
The right kit sharpens the mind as much as the body. Because the truth is, the modern runner doesn’t just chase miles. They chase a feeling – and good gear helps to find it. Whether you run to escape or to connect, for solitude or community, dressing well has become part of the ritual. Pulling on a perfectly cut tee or jacket or lacing up sculpted sneakers is more than a habit – it’s an act of intention. Here’s a guide on what to wear for the run, whatever your pace or place.
01. For the early riser
You’re the one who runs before the city wakes, drawn to the quiet of an empty street. Your kit should echo that calm: pared-back, breathable and elegant, but also up to the task when it comes to chilly mornings. Parisian label Satisfy mirrors that sensibility. Its Rippy lightweight ripstop jacket is that perfect extra layer. It’s abrasion-resistant and water-repellent, with reflective details and a bungee cord to keep the hood in place in wind. Or try ON’s Weather jacket, which is built for ease of movement while keeping you – and the contents of your pockets – dry.
02. For the city sprinter
Urban runners need gear with agility, that keeps pace with traffic lights and dodges tourists on the pavement. ON’s Performance DryTec top teamed with Satisfy’s Justice shorts, maybe? Lace up a pair of dependable but elevated running shoes, such as Nike’s Pegasus Premium or Vomero Plus – both perennial favourites given a little oomph. Think kit that’s at home on a tempo run as it is with coffee after.
03. For the weekend trail explorer
If your idea of running involves escaping the city and chasing trails, durability and comfort matter most. Satisfy’s TheROCKER trail runner has breathable Rippy mesh uppers and robust TuneLug soles for extra grip, even on wet surfaces. Or Hoka’s Mafate Speed 4 Lite, which offer rugged traction with cloudlike cushioning – also perfect for uneven ground and long climbs. Pair yours with a ROA Hue ripstop jacket or an Ocular half-zip sweater and DISTRICT VISION sunglasses, should the weather play ball.
04. For the social runner
You are part of the growing wave of run clubs turning evening loops into cultural rituals. Style counts here – this is as much about connection as cardio. Start with DISTRICT VISION’s Pertex jacket, designed in conjunction with Massimo Osti Studio. Nike Running Alphafly 3 running sneakers in a lairy livery will make you hard to miss – and/or difficult to keep up with.
05. For the runner who wants to be noticed
Believe it or not, but not everyone wants to know your 5k time. Or a daily reminder of how your marathon training is going. We get it: you run. However, there are times when it pays to be seen. In winter, and the poor light conditions that come with it, you need to have some extra hardware on your side. Not just extra layers to keep you warm – although those will help – but high-vis tones and reflective details so that you’re easier to spot. Adizero runners by adidas Running in an optic yellow or a Nike jacket in a highlighter-pen lime green. This is the kit to be seen with.
06. For the rest-day flaneur
Even when you’re not running, the new wave of running style has a place in your wardrobe. Try an easy track jacket and sweatpants by ON, in a muted blue and made from recycled jersey. Or a stretchy hoodie by lululemon. The line between sportswear and streetwear has all but disappeared; these pieces prove comfort and elegance can coexist.