5 Pieces of Running Gear Every Athlete Should Own

You have the shoes. You have the clothes. Maybe you even have the vaseline. But do you have everything you need to become a runner? Here are 5 pieces of gear I swear by, backed up by 12 years of running.
Nathan Trail Mix Plus Insulated Hydration Belt, Bluestone, One Sizer
Historically, I like running with the least amount of stuff on me as possible. Sadly, I've had a few dehydration encounters that forced me to pick one of these bad boys up. The fact that I can bear to run with it speaks volumes about how well it works. I can hold my phone, keys, and water to make sure I get a safe run in.

Garmin Forerunner 220, White/Violet (Certified Refurbished)
This might be controversial to some. I tried a lot of other GPS apps, but nothing is as close to being accurate as a Garmin watch. It's pricier than most, but it lasts years and the battery life lasts days. I bought mine back in 2012, and I still have it.

Road ID Bracelet - the Wrist ID Slim 2 - Identification Bracelet, ID Wristband, Child ID, and Sport ID - Fits Adults & Kidsr
In a worst-case scenario, Road IDs allow someone to access emergency information quickly. Because let's face it: unconscious people can't tell you their passcodes. Basically, you're paying about $30 for a huge peace of mind.

TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller with Free Online Instructional Videos, Original (13-inch), Blackr
They're at basically every marathon expo. Buy one. It will change your life. I hate stretching, so now I just roll out my muscles at night. When I finish, my body feels about five years younger.

Day-by-day Run Planner | Running Journals by Gone For a Run | Believe Running Girlr
Use a journal to catalog all your triumphs and defeats. They help process your experience, and they're also a fun read a few years down the line.