Race day ready running gear

The training's done, the taper's complete and race day is here. You've put in the kilometres, hit your tempo targets and trusted the process. You’re ready to lace up and go.

Good gear can't run the race for you, but it can help you run better. Here's how to prep your race-day outfit so you can focus on your pace, not your pockets.

Nothing new on race day 

The number one rule for runners. New shoes, new shorts or an untested bra can cause rubbing, chafing or regret by kilometre two. Don’t even try a new flavour gel on race day. 

Wear the pieces you've trained in. The ones you've washed multiple times, logged long runs in and trust to stay put. Race day isn't the time to test gear, no matter how cute it looks.

If you're building your race-day rotation now, our In Pace collection is designed to feel race-ready from the first wear. Bonded seams that don't chafe. Smooth hems that stay put. Clever storage that doesn't bounce. Just add gels and you’re ready to race.

Build your race-day outfit

Race day deserves the same planning as any other big life milestone. You’ve trained for it, thought about it, dreamt about it. The right outfit brings all that prep together. Here’s a race-day formula that works: light layers, no-fuss fabrics and pieces that move with you from the start line to the finish line. 

Top: Choose lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric that fits close without clinging once you warm up. You don't want excess material flapping or trapping heat. The In Pace 2-in-1 Tank gives you built-in support and ventilation in one layer. No extra sports bra needed, just pull it on and go.

Bra: Comfort equals confidence. The In Pace Racer Bra is designed for high-impact movement. It stays put from the start line to the finish line. Moulded cups for a smooth fit, adjustable straps for a secure feel and bonded construction so there's nothing to rub. Designed for every body, the In Pace Racer bra comes in an A-C cup or a C-E cup for the perfect level of support. 

Bottoms: Pockets are non-negotiable. Our In Pace Shorts have five smart pockets: four drop-ins for quick access and one secure zip for essentials. Space for gels, keys, phone and cards. No bounce, no bulge, no distractions. Even the pocket linings are moisture-resistant, so your gels don't turn into a soggy mess mid-race.

The night-before list

The night before a big race is as exciting as the night before Christmas. You’ll be up as early as a six year old ready to open presents, so lay everything out the night before:

• Shorts or leggings that you’ve tested on long runs, your favourite bra and top and socks you know don’t rub. 
• Shoes with at least 50 km of running already in them. 
• Safety pins, sunscreen, gels, hat, and your race bib. 

Do future you a favour and pack a small bag for the finish line; fresh socks, a jumper and a snack go a long way once the post-race adrenaline wears off.

And don’t forget to charge your watch. Because if it’s not on Strava, did the race even happen? 

Your race morning routine

Race mornings come with nerves. Your routine matters.

Get dressed early enough that you're not rushing. Let your body adjust to the gear before you start warming up. Smooth seams, firm waistbands and breathable fabrics help you settle into your stride early.

The less you think about your outfit, the more you can focus on your pace. That's the whole point of testing your gear beforehand.

The pre-race check

Test every pocket, strap and seam before you head to the start line. Do a short warm-up jog and make sure nothing bounces, rubs or shifts.

Check your gels don't jostle. Check your waistband stays put through a few strides.

Adjust now, not at the 20km mark.

Pop a small amount of chafe balm around seams, under straps and anywhere you've had issues before can save you mid-race irritation. Don't skip this step.

Why In Pace works for race day

In Pace is built for runners. Fine-gauge nylon that feels barely there. Bonded seams that eliminate bulk and chafing. Purpose-built storage designed for race-day functionality, not just general pockets. Quick-dry technology that keeps you comfortable from warm-up to cool-down.

Every seam placement, every pocket position, refined for real-world racing. Tested through heat, tested through distance, tested by women who actually run.

This is gear that supports your goals. It dries fast, feels weightless and performs when it counts.

Race day: you’ve got this

You’ve logged the kilometres. You’ve perfected your running day outfit. It’s race day. 

The right gear helps you stay present, comfortable and confident from start to finish. It's one less thing to worry about when you're managing your pace, your breathing and that voice in your head telling you to slow down at the 30km mark.

So charge your watch, pin your bib to your favourite activewear top and trust what you've tested. You've done the work. Your gear's ready. So are you.