Running, in its essence, is possibly the most natural and stripped back sports of all. You need so little to take part in the sport, which is one of the reasons it remains ever so popular. Further yet, with indoor running facilities in gyms, even the weather can’t stop us from our jog.

That said, there’s a growing demand for hi-tech running gadgets. Where there were once amateur runners everywhere, barely knowing anything about the shoes in which they run, there are now running fans all over the country trying to get their hands on the latest gadgets to give them the edge.

For the more serious, competitive runners, these gadgets can give you a crucial advantage against your opponents when it comes to race day. For most though, they’re simply an exciting piece of equipment, bringing out the geeky side in you.

Becoming more and more old school is pen and paper, writing down your times and trying to track progress. With technology advancing, there are plenty of wearable gadgets, tracking things like your heart rates, running speeds and even hydration levels.

Hi-tech doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s going to give you some information about your run either. Clothes these days are being made with more complex fabric, designed to provide ultimate comfort and improve performance.

Suunto Ambit3 Vertical

If you’re a fan of inclines, then this gadget is for you. Suunto is known for their sports watches and has a range of models, including the Ambit3 Peak, Ambit3 Sport and Ambit3 Run.

Each model aims to target a different section of the market, from the more affordable to the higher end. As the name suggests the Ambit3 Vertical is for those who love ascents, and even climbing.

As you are running, the watch displays a real-time elevation profile so that you can easily track the progress of your run. It does this through measuring the air pressure around you, to dictate your altitude.

Why Buy?

If you own the Ambient3 Peak already, then it might not be worth your time as this sits between the Run and Peak. However, if you’re new to gadgets like this and care about altitude, then you should definitely consider getting one.

Price Tag: $469

LVL Hydration Tracker

Although this is only available for pre-order at the moment, it’s likely to change the game of running hydration. If you’re ready to take your training to the next level, then you should consider investing in this gadget.

With studies showing that dehydration can cause slower reactions, decreased motor skills and overall poor performance, the need for you to be able to monitor your hydration levels accurately is increasing.

LVL uses near-infrared technology to monitor hydration levels, but also goes beyond this and monitors your heart rate, step count and even sleeping patterns.

Why Buy?

LVL should be bought if you are keen to get the most benefit from your training. As we mentioned poor hydration can ultimately lead to poor performance. For your body to run optimally, you need to be able to monitor it accurately. The question here is, is LVL accurate? We probably won’t know until further testing is done, however the initial signs look positive.

Price Tag: $149.99 on pre-order

Athos Shirt and Shorts

We’re used to fitness bands which go around your wrist, or hi-tech clothing made from superior fabric. This takes wearable technology to a whole new level as the Athos range is a hi-tech clothing ensemble which can monitor your performance.

In the clothing, there are strategically placed sensors designed to monitor the way you use your muscles, when it’s pressed against your skin. The clothing works alongside an app, which displays different colors based on the way your muscles are performing.

Primarily designed to be used in the gym, the clothes feed information to the app which can then display how hard certain muscles were working during the set. It can then break it into percentages to show you how your upper body was working compared to your lower.

Why Buy?

For runners of all distances, strength training is becoming ever more important. Further still, the Athos clothing is excellent for highlighting any imbalances in your muscle output. This will let you know if you have a dominant leg, for example, which may allow you to prevent injury.

Price Tag: $547