Editor-tested running shoes, apparel, and tech to put a pep in your step this spring and well beyond.
(Photo: Abby Levene/Getty)
Published March 20, 2026 05:14AM
Astrological spring means one thing for triathletes across the northern hemisphere: It’s officially go time. The triathlon season is getting underway with Ironman New Zealand just a few weeks in the rearview and 70.3 Oceanside approaching quickly. Things are heating up, literally, requiring attention to not just speedwork and endurance training, but also heat training to get ready for steamy races like Ironman Texas.
Right on cue, I found myself intuitively dusting off my storage bins filled with warm-weather running gear this week – before frantically searching for my favorite running tights when it snowed that night.
Whether you’re looking to invest in a staple like a quality GPS watch or raincoat, upgrade your summer kit, or take advantage of spring sales for pricey winter gear, we’ve got you covered. I combed through the REI Member Days Sale to see if there was anything worth telling you about, and found nine editor-tested pieces that are both a steal and (as of this writing) still in stock. REI members can take an extra 20% off one item with the code MEMBER26. Happy springing.
REI’s Member Days top deals for triathletes at a glance
Garmin Forerunner 165

The Garmin Forerunner 165 has everything you need and nothing you don’t, making it delightfully no-frills, easy to use, and reliable. (In fact, I sang its praises the other day for this exact reason.) If you’re someone who likes running without their phone but still wants to put some tunes in your ears, the Garmin Forerunner 165 Music lets you do just that for an extra $50 – although it drains the battery faster and requires a premium music subscription.
Salomon Bonatti Waterproof Jacket

This is an exceptionally high-quality rain jacket for the full price – and right now you can score it for $45 off. It’s super light, breathable, and pretty darn waterproof. It’s kept me warm and dry all over the world, from the ridge lines of Zegama, Spain, to the top of 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado.
Hoka Clifton 10

Soft and stable, the Hoka Clifton 10 is a fan favorite – and your favorite musician’s favorite – for good reason. It’s super cush but surprisingly light and responsive and built to last. There’s nothing not to like about this neutral, no-nonsense daily road trainer.
Merrell Agility Peak 5

I turn to this shoe for everything from trail runs to gravel miles year-round. It fits like a glove without constricting your arch and toes. A Vibram Megagrip outsole gives it teeth on rocks and roots, but an EVA midsole lends a just-cushy-enough ride for basically every surface.
Smartwool Merino Sport Ultralite T-Shirt

If you’re someone who sweats a lot (raises hand), Merino wool is a godsend. It keeps you cool on warm days, warm on cool days, and you can wear it multiple times in between washes without it smelling like a decaying animal – a huge win for traveling and weekends in the mountains. Plus, it moonlights beautifully as a casual shirt, another dub in the travel department.
Patagonia Houdini Jacket

A high-alpine running staple that never goes out of style and always keeps you warm and relatively dry. The Houdini jacket folds in on itself, making it a no-brainer to pop in your running belt or hydration pack on mountain outings.
Janji Pace 5’’ Shorts

Even the most booty-shorts-averse fell for these in our testing, which is why they won an award in Outside Run’s 2025 gear guide. The lightly compressive nylon/spandex fabric is super comfortable while remaining extremely lightweight, and the multiple pockets provide lots of storage options for your phone, gels, etc. The silicone grip dots on the leg hems keep the shorts in place without leaving a mark, and the 5-inch length sits right at the sweet spot of coverage and freedom. “I like that they are tights without being bun-huggers,” said a tester. (Men, the Janji Trail 8’’ Half Tights is essentially the equivalent, although we realize half tights are polarizing.)
Arc’teryx Norvan Insulated Bottoms

With an airy waistband and tapered leg, these insulated pants are exceptionally comfortable. Body-mapped insulation also keeps them warm but breathable and ready for a wide range of temperatures. So many little details, like the smallest snap on the cuffs I’ve ever seen, make these a delight. (Pair with the Norvan Insulated Hoody, also on sale.)
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L

This indestructible, water-repellent duffle has travelled with me on countless running adventures. It’s small enough to fit in the overhead compartment on an airplane – as well as on your back as a backpack – and yet spacious enough to hold everything you need for a long weekend or, if you are strong-willed enough, a multi-week trip. I couldn’t resist letting you know that it’s basically $50 off.
