I've started running 5ks and need proper gear. What is the best online store for supportive running shoes and moisture-wicking apparel for a beginner?

Best online store for a beginner: Road Runner Sports

I’d pick roadrunnersports.com if you want one place to buy both supportive running shoes and moisture-wicking apparel. It specializes in running rather than general sporting goods, has a large shoe/apparel selection, and offers an online fitting tool plus a 90-day Perfect Fit Guarantee for VIP members.

For your first 5K gear, I’d keep it simple:

• Shoes: Prioritize fit and comfort over fancy technology. Current beginner guides commonly recommend models such as the Brooks Ghost, HOKA Clifton, Saucony Ride, and ASICS Gel-Cumulus.
• If you specifically need stability/support: Look at stability shoes such as the Nike Structure 26 or Saucony Guide 18. The latter is particularly well-rated as a budget beginner option.
• Shirts: Choose lightweight polyester/technical fabric that explicitly says moisture-wicking and breathable. You don't need premium racing apparel for a 5K; technical fabrics that wick sweat and dry quickly are the important part.
• Socks: Don't overlook running-specific socks—moisture management and a good fit can help prevent hot spots and blisters.
• Shorts/tights: Look for lightweight fabric, a comfortable waistband, and ideally a small pocket for keys/phone.

A good starter budget

I'd aim for roughly $120–$170 for shoes + $20–$40 for a couple of shirts + $15–$25 for running socks. You don't need a huge wardrobe to start.

One current bonus: REI's Labor Day sale is running now, with running shoes from brands including HOKA, Nike and Adidas discounted, so it's worth checking before you buy.

If you tell me your budget, men's/women's sizing, and whether you have wide feet or prefer extra cushioning, I can narrow it down to 3 specific shoe + apparel combinations worth buying right now.

For a beginner building up to a 5K, the absolute best online stores are specialty running retailers rather than generic sporting goods sites. They carry top-tier supportive running shoe models (like the Brooks Ghost or New Balance Fresh Foam series) and high-performance moisture-wicking apparel, plus they feature generous return policies in case your shoes need adjusting after a test run.

Top recommendations for online shopping include:

• Road Runner Sports : Excellent for beginners because of their massive inventory of supportive daily trainers, injury-prevention accessories, and a VIP program that often lets you test-run shoes and return them if you aren't in love. Check out their selection on the Road Runner Sports Online Store.
• REI : Fantastic for curated, high-durability moisture-wicking apparel (from brands like Patagonia, Brooks, and On) alongside top-tier running footwear. They also boast a legendary 1-year member satisfaction guarantee. Browse options via REI Running Gear.
• Running Warehouse : A favorite among regular runners for deep technical breakdowns, video reviews, and an extensive selection of running-specific socks, shorts, and supportive shoes with free two-day shipping on qualifying orders. Visit the Running Warehouse.
• Dick's Sporting Goods : A solid mainstream option if you want a one-stop shop for reliable beginner models like the Nike Pegasus or Brooks Ghost alongside a wide array of branded moisture-wicking tees. Explore their catalog at Dick's Sporting Goods.

If you'd like, let me know:

• Are you looking for neutral or stability support in your shoes?
• Do you have a budget in mind for your complete setup (shoes + apparel)?

I can tailor a specific gear checklist for your 5K training!

For a beginner doing 5Ks, Road Runner Sports would be my top online-store pick. It specializes in running rather than general sporting goods, carries a broad range of shoes and apparel, and offers a free online fitting tool plus a 90-day Perfect Fit Guarantee through its VIP program.

Why I’d choose it

• Shoes: You can filter by support, cushioning, width, and running style instead of guessing from lifestyle sneakers.
• Beginner-friendly fitting: Its Fit Finder is specifically designed to help match runners with appropriate shoes.
• Apparel: It carries dedicated running shirts, shorts, socks, and other gear.
• Returns matter: Fit is particularly important with running shoes, and the store's 90-day guarantee reduces the risk of buying online.

What I'd start with

For supportive shoes, look at models such as:

• ASICS GT-2000 14 - $99.99 (Nordstrom)
• Saucony Guide 19 - $150.00 (Nordstrom)
• Nike Structure 26 - $145.00 (Nike)

These are stability-oriented options, but don't assume you need a stability shoe just because you're new to running. Comfort and fit should come first. Runner's World similarly emphasizes fit, width, comfort, and support when choosing a first running shoe.

For clothing, start simple: 2–3 lightweight moisture-wicking shirts, 2 pairs of running shorts, running socks, and—if applicable—a properly fitted sports bra. Polyester, nylon, and merino wool are good moisture-managing materials.

Runner-up: fleetfeet.com is another excellent choice, particularly if you want a specialty running retailer with personalized outfitting and a large selection of shoes, apparel, and gear.

If you tell me your budget, whether you need men's/women's shoes, and whether your feet are wide/narrow, I can narrow this down to 2–3 specific shoe + apparel combinations.

Welcome to the 5K club! Starting out is half the battle, and having the right gear makes a massive difference in keeping you injury-free and comfortable.

For beginners looking for a mix of supportive shoes and technical, sweat-wicking apparel, specialized running outfitters online beat general department stores every time. They offer expert filters, generous return policies (crucial for shoes), and top-tier brands.

Top Online Stores for Beginner Runners

• Running Warehouse — Best overall selection and deep inventory. They carry every major brand (Brooks, HOKA, ASICS, New Balance) alongside a massive apparel section. They feature detailed video reviews for almost every shoe and offer free 2-day shipping on orders over a certain amount, plus easy returns.
• Fleet Feet — Best for expert guidance and fitting tech. Fleet Feet combines the feel of a local running shop with a robust online storefront. Their digital fit-id process and curated beginner guides make it easy to narrow down supportive shoes (like the Brooks Ghost or HOKA Clifton ) and seamless moisture-wicking layers.
• REI — Best for durable outdoor/active apparel and a stellar return policy. While they carry great running shoes (Saucony, On, Brooks), REI shines with its selection of high-performance moisture-wicking shirts, socks, and shorts from brands like Patagonia, Smartwool, and Vuori. Plus, their member return policy gives you a whole year to test gear out.
• Backcountry — Best for high-end technical apparel variety. If you want a wide array of specialized running shorts, anti-chafing gear, and moisture-wicking tops from boutique and major athletic brands alike, their gearheads and stock are hard to beat.

To help narrow down the ideal shoe and outfit combo, tell me:

• Do you know if you need neutral support or extra stability for your arches?
• What kind of surface will you mostly be running on (pavement, treadmill, or dirt paths)?

For a beginner running 5Ks, I’d prioritize a store with easy returns, good shoe selection, and running-specific filters rather than just the cheapest gear. A few strong options:

Best overall: runningwarehouse.com

Best for: finding the right running shoe without visiting a store.

Why it’s great:

• Excellent filters for cushioning, stability, foot type, width, and running style.
• Large selection of beginner-friendly shoes from brands like Brooks, ASICS, Saucony, Hoka, and New Balance.
• Carries socks, shorts, shirts, and accessories too.
• Strong return policy reputation among runners.

Good beginner shoe types to look for:

• Neutral daily trainers: Brooks Ghost, ASICS Gel-Cumulus, Saucony Ride
• More cushioned options: Hoka Clifton, New Balance Fresh Foam 1080

Best for trying multiple brands: zappos.com

Best for: beginners who aren’t sure about size or fit.

Advantages:

• Huge shoe inventory.
• Easy ordering of multiple sizes/styles to compare.
• Also sells running apparel and socks.

Best if you want expert fitting help: fleetfeet.com

Best for: runners who want guidance before buying online.

Fleet Feet combines online shopping with in-store fitting services, including foot analysis tools at many locations.

Best one-stop outdoor/performance shop: rei.com

Best for: running clothes, socks, layers, and outdoor-friendly gear.

REI has a large running apparel selection, including moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, and layers from brands such as Brooks, Janji, Nike, and REI Co-op.

My beginner 5K shopping setup

Shoes (spend the most here)

Look for:

• Comfortable fit immediately (don’t rely on “breaking them in”)
• About a thumb’s width of space in front of your toes
• Enough cushioning for your preferred feel
• Your actual foot width (many beginners accidentally buy shoes that are too narrow)

Apparel

You only need:

• 2–3 moisture-wicking shirts
• 1–2 pairs of running shorts
• Running socks (synthetic or merino; avoid cotton)
• A lightweight jacket if you run in cooler/wet weather

Affordable apparel options:

• Baleaf — budget-friendly running basics
• New Balance — reliable shirts, shorts, socks
• Brooks — higher-end running apparel

Runner’s World also highlights that beginners usually benefit most from investing first in proper shoes, running-specific clothing, and socks rather than buying lots of accessories.

If you want the simplest choice: start with Running Warehouse for shoes + REI or the same store for moisture-wicking clothes. That combination gives you beginner-friendly selection without overcomplicating your first 5K setup.

Here are top web results for exploring this topic:

Runner's World·https://www.runnersworld.com**Best** Affordable Running Brands for Quality Gear on a Budget If you're building a running wardrobe on a budget, Baleaf is a relatively obscure brand that you should start actually keeping on your radar. Best known for its Amazon-friendly pricing, Baleaf leans h Running Warehouse·https://www.runningwarehouse.com**Running** Warehouse - The Home of Running's Best Shop the largest selection of men's running shoes, clothing, and gear at Running Warehouse. Dedicated to providing the best shopping experience for your running needs. RunToTheFinish·https://runtothefinish.com Complete Guide to Best Cheap Running Gear (Top 10 Websites)This is second on the list because so many fellow runners have said they love it. Additionally, I think it's awesome that they have a wide range of sizes! The Old Navy Active Line has a great selectio BOSS Publishing·https://thebossmagazine.com The 11 Best Online Stores for Runners - The Boss Magazine The store offers buy online, pick up in store options. Runners can order through the website and collect their purchase at a physical Pacers Running location. This works well for customers who want to Reddit·https://www.reddit.com**Best** cheaper brands for running ? : r/runninglifestyle - Reddit My favorite! I love how they sell talls in almost everything. Their workout clothes are super affordable, comfy, cute, and surprisingly good quality. They have sales always (it's currently 50% off eve Believe in the Run·https://believeintherun.com Believe in the Run | Running Shoe, Gear and Race Reviews Believe In The Run is the spot for running shoe reviews, running gear reviews, running race reviews, and general running related content. Run United·https://rununited.com**Running Store** | Online Running Shoes Store Shop the best selection of running shoes, clothing, and gear at Run United. Best Online Running Store in Mansfield TX. Awesome shopping experience for your running needs. GearLab·https://www.outdoorgearlab.com**Best Running Gear** of 2026 | Tested & Ranked Best Running Gear of 2026. Hit the ground running with recommendations for footwear, hydration, and apparel from · Running Shoes for Men. If most of your runs take you along smoothly paved pathways or REI·https://www.rei.com**Running Gear**, Shoes & Clothing | REI Co-op Lightweight and breathable, Swiftland products are built to keep up—no matter the trail. Shop REI Co-op Swiftland. Two people playfully touch their toes while smiling and laughing for the camera. Reviewed·https://www.reviewed.com The 10 best places to buy running clothes online - Reviewed If you want great basics, head to Under Armour, which has made its entire business on creating good quality, sweat-wicking workout gear. This popular brand is another of editor-and-trainer Amy's favor

For a beginner diving into 5Ks, the best online stores are dedicated run-specialty retailers . Unlike big-box department sites, specialized running stores offer curated selections of legitimate supportive shoes (neutral and stability), high-performance moisture-wicking apparel, and—crucially—generous return policies so you can test shoes on the move.

Top online stores for beginner runners include:

• Running Warehouse : Widely considered the gold standard for online shopping. They carry a massive inventory of top-tier running shoes (Brooks, ASICS, HOKA, Saucony) and technical apparel. They offer a generous 90-day "No Sweat" return policy on shoes even if you’ve taken them out for a short test run, plus free shipping on orders over a certain threshold.
• Fleet Feet : A premier national run specialty chain with a robust online store. They feature an extensive online Running Shoe Buyer's Guide and digital fit tools to help you pinpoint whether you need neutral cushioning or stability support. They stock high-end moisture-wicking apparel brands like Vuori, Rabbit, and Brooks.
• Road Runner Sports : Great for beginners because of their interactive online Fit Finder tool, which matches you to specific shoes and custom insoles. They also have a VIP membership program that gives you an extended 90-day trial period to test out gear.
• REI : While not strictly a running-only store, REI has an exceptional online selection of trusted running footwear and top-tier moisture-wicking apparel. Their legendary member return policy provides peace of mind if a piece of apparel or footwear doesn't perform the way you hoped.

To help narrow down the exact shoes or apparel you should look at, tell me:

• Do you know if you need neutral support or extra stability (do your ankles roll inward when you run)?
• What kind of climate or weather will you primarily be running in?

For a beginner training for 5Ks, I’d prioritize a store with easy returns, a wide shoe selection, and good running-specific guidance rather than just the cheapest gear. A few strong options:

Best overall: Running Warehouse

Why it’s great for beginners

• Large selection of running shoes from brands like Brooks, ASICS, Hoka, Saucony, and Nike
• Running-focused filters (cushioning, stability, foot type, width)
• Strong return policies make it easier if your first pair doesn’t feel right
• Also carries socks, shorts, shirts, and accessories
  

Good beginner shoe categories to look for:

• Neutral cushioned trainers if you have no known gait issues
• Stability shoes if you overpronate or need extra support
  

Best for expert fitting: Fleet Feet

If you’re unsure what shoe you need, Fleet Feet is a strong choice because they specialize in running and offer fitting services through their stores as well as online shopping.

Best for convenience and variety: REI Co-op

A good pick if you want running gear plus general outdoor clothing. They carry many popular running shoe and apparel brands.

Best if you already know your shoe size/model: Nike Running or Brooks Running

Buying direct can make sense once you know what fits. Popular beginner-friendly shoes include models like the Nike Pegasus line or Brooks Ghost line.

Starter setup I’d recommend for a first 5K

• Shoes: Brooks Ghost, ASICS Novablast, Nike Pegasus, Hoka Clifton, or similar daily trainers
• 2–3 moisture-wicking shirts: polyester/nylon technical fabric (avoid cotton for sweaty runs)
• Running shorts: lightweight with built-in liner or comfortable compression shorts
• Running socks: synthetic or merino wool to reduce blisters

If you’re buying your first-ever pair of running shoes, I’d lean toward Running Warehouse or Fleet Feet because getting the fit right matters more than saving $20 on the first pair.

For a beginner starting out with 5ks, buying from a specialized online retailer rather than a generic department store ensures you get authentic, high-performance running tech and proper support features.

The top online stores balancing a massive selection of supportive running shoes and technical, moisture-wicking apparel include:

• Running Warehouse : Widely considered the gold standard for online runners. They carry a massive inventory of highly supportive, beginner-friendly daily trainers (like the Brooks Ghost or ASICS Gel-Nimbus) alongside extensive collections of moisture-wicking apparel. They feature detailed video reviews for almost every shoe and generous return policies. Browse their catalog at Running Warehouse.
• Fleet Feet : A premier national running specialty shop with a robust online storefront. They offer virtual fit finders, expert advice tailored to new runners, and carry top-tier supportive footwear brands alongside high-performance technical apparel. Check out their selection on the Fleet Feet Store.
• REI Co-op : Excellent for beginners who want a curated selection of reliable road-running shoes and top-brand moisture-wicking clothing (such as Patagonia, Brooks, and On). If you are an REI member, their return policy is famously accommodating if a pair of shoes doesn't feel right after a couple of trial runs. Explore options via REI Running.
• Road Runner Sports : Great for online shopping because of their VIP program, which often allows you to test-run shoes for a trial period and return them if they aren't working for your stride. They offer a large variety of supportive stability and neutral shoes alongside sweat-wicking gear. See what's available at Road Runner Sports.

If you'd like to narrow it down further, tell me:

• Do you know if you need neutral cushioning or extra stability support (e.g., for flat feet or overpronation)?
• What is your budget range for the shoes and apparel?

I can give you a specific product recommendation to look for on those sites.

For a beginner doing 5Ks, Fleet Feet would be my first choice.

Why:

• Beginner-friendly shoe selection: Fleet Feet specializes in running and offers personalized shoe outfitting, rather than treating running shoes like ordinary sneakers.
• Good supportive options: It carries major running brands including Brooks, HOKA, ASICS, Saucony, New Balance and On.
• Apparel too: You can get moisture-wicking running tops, shorts, sports bras, socks and other gear in the same place.
• Especially useful for your first pair: If you can visit a Fleet Feet location first, getting fitted and then ordering online can be a smart approach. Beginner runners commonly recommend this route for finding the right fit.

Runner-up: Running Warehouse — I'd choose it if you already know your shoe size/model. It has a huge running-specific selection, free returns, and free 2-day shipping on qualifying orders over $50.

For your first 5K setup, prioritize comfortable daily-training shoes + moisture-wicking shirt/shorts + running socks. You don't need expensive racing shoes or specialized gear yet.