Previously, I mentioned that listening to music is my favorite hobby. Well, I’m adding running to that list. And when I run with music—oh my days, what a feeling! No wonder I can’t run without it.
The main reason I run is to stay fit (so I don’t get fat), but I also genuinely enjoy it. The dopamine rush I get after a run? Unreal. I absolutely love it.
But now that winter is here, staying warm during my runs is a priority. This got me thinking: why not share a list of the cool (and yes, expensive) running brands I dream of owning? Unfortunately, my current relationship with money keep those dreams in check.
Satisfy was the first brand I came across in my quest for cool but expensive running attire. They’re one of the most innovative names in the running world, thanks to their GhostFleece range and collaborations with established brands like Hoka and Polartec.
The trail cap is currently on my wishlist, but I just can’t justify spending €110 on a hat that’s destined to soak up all my sweat. The same goes for paying €80 for tights—no matter how cool they might make me look. That said, my perspective could shift, especially since I do need to treat myself to something for the holidays.
A relatively new brand, UVU Club is arguably the top emerging running brand in Europe—at least for those in the know.
Since its launch in 2017, this London-based brand has gained massive traction and become the go-to choice for running influencers. I don’t own any of their pieces, so I can’t speak to the quality firsthand, but their gear ranks among the coolest-looking running apparel out there.
The blue half tight are currently on my wishlist. As you know, my relationship with money means I’ll probably start by looking for a cheaper alternative. But these tights are just too sexy—so I might have to splurge after all.
I was in London recently, and I couldn’t help but notice that everyone—and their mom—seems to run there. No wonder so many running brands are based in London! Soar Running is no exception.
This London-based brand is another innovative and disruptive name in the running world, one I’d love to buy from if my budget allowed. Much like Satisfy, Soar specializes in road, race, and trail running gear, with a strong emphasis on exceptional quality and lifetime pieces.
Right now, I’ve got my eye on the Rainout Shell. Interestingly, I’ve noticed a lot of blue items on my wishlist. Maybe it’s because I love the color—or maybe it matches my mood. Either way, the Shell jacket is perfect for winter and doubles as a windbreaker during the warmer seasons.
If I’m being honest, Soar is probably the least desired brand on my wishlist. That said, I still think they’re designing pieces I’d happily wear.
Leaving London behind, we head to Berlin, home to my favorite brand on the list: Optimistic Runners. Why? It’s the most affordable option—at least when they’re having a sale!
This Berlin-based brand has a great ethos, and I really admire what they’re doing. From collaborating with cafes in cities like Dublin to hosting pop-ups in different locations, the way they operate just makes you want to support them. It’s effortlessly cool.
I currently have several of their items on my wishlist, but the number one spot goes to this incredible grey waterproof running jacket. I’m a sucker for running jackets—and if it’s reflective? Oh, sign me up, brother!
The above is not exhaustive, but hopefully, it can either inspire you to start running by buying expensive gear or encourage you to buy me running gear. Both options make people happy!
Running has become such a trendy activity in the age of TikTok influencers that expensive running gear was bound to take off. People always want to feel better than others, and what better way to do that than by wearing expensive running clothes so you can look cool while sweating in €300 tights?
-Brandon
P.S. Going to start leaving you with what song I have on repeat. Currently it’s “Lady” by Teddy Pendergrass.