Hellen Obiri's Essential Gear for the NYC Marathon 2025

Hellen Obiri: A Runner's Ritual

Marathon runner Hellen Obiri starts her day like many, checking her phone for the weather and schedules. But her preparation goes deeper. “I say a word of thanks to God,” the four-time world champion shares. “To protect me because I'm going to have a long day. From there, I prepare myself for my run.”

All Eyes on NYC

This Sunday, November 2, 2025, marks Obiri's fourth New York City Marathon, currently recognized as the biggest marathon in the world. “It runs through all five boroughs, crossing iconic bridges and ending in Central Park,” she reflects. Last year marked her debut, finishing in sixth place. The electric atmosphere, she recalls, was nothing short of exhilarating. “When you do something like this for the first time and you like the place, you're going to say, 'This is my best place to be.' For me, New York is my best place to be.”

A Winning Breakfast

On marathon day, Obiri carefully curates her breakfast. For early runs at 6:30 a.m., she prefers something light: just a banana. However, as the day progresses, her meal is more substantial: cereal, two slices of toast, scrambled eggs, a banana, all washed down with black tea. Having clinched the marathon title in 2023 and finishing second in 2024 by a mere 14 seconds, she isn't leaving anything to chance this year. When asked about her goals, she confidently states, “I'm looking for a win.”

Obiri's Marathon Day Starter Pack

• Running Shoes: On Running Cloudboom Strike LS

Obiri swears by the On Running Cloudboom Strike LS. These shoes have been her trusted companions through victories at prestigious marathons like Boston and Paris. With an ultralight mesh upper and On's LightSpray technology wrapping around the foot, it feels like a second skin. The hyper-foam max cushioning adds springiness.

• The Best Running Socks: Elite Run Sock High

Obiri trusts the Elite Run Sock High from On. Designed for comfort and performance, the lightweight polyamide fabric ensures her feet remain cool and dry, equipped with compression zones and ventilation panels, minimizing fatigue.

• Soundtrack: OpenRun Pro 2 Headphones

When it comes to staying motivated, Obiri loves her OpenRun Pro 2 headphones. These bone-conduction devices let her enjoy gospel music, a staple in her workout playlist, while remaining aware of her surroundings. With improved sound depth and sweat resistance, they're perfect for both running and biking.

• Running Fuel: Maurten Gel 100

For energy, Obiri turns to Maurten Gel 100. Each packet packs 25 grams of carbohydrates in a hydrogel format, facilitating quick digestion while avoiding the syrupy texture of traditional gels. With minimal ingredients, these gels are efficient fuel for her long runs.

• Versatile Pack: Track Pack 35L Lite

Obiri utilizes the Track Pack 35L Lite for all her traveling needs. Made from durable ripstop fabric, this functional pack keeps her organized while providing hydration holders and compression straps for convenience.

Final Thoughts

As I prepare for the marathon, it's essential to consider not just physical training but also the equipment and nutrition that support that effort. Hellen Obiri's meticulous approach to her gear is a testament to her commitment to excellence. Wherever this marathon leads her, we can expect her to carry not only the weight of her achievements but also the tools that amplify her performance on the course.