Marathon Magic: Look the Part with These Running Staples Whether You Run 26 Miles or 26 Steps

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Quick Facts

  • If you can't make it to the NYC marathon, you can still look the part
  • There are plenty of Nike sneakers to make it look like you ran the race
  • Check below for links to cop some of Nike's latest running sneakers
NYC Marathon Magic
NYC Marathon Magic

It would be nice if we all had the time, energy, and willpower to run a marathon. We would be eating healthy, avoiding beer and Halloween candy, and getting ready to carbo-load before the big race. But as this weekend’s 49th annual New York City Marathon approaches, sadly, most of us are nowhere near ready to run 26 miles in a row, in a week, or in a month, for that matter. But running the race isn’t what marathon day in the Big Apple is all about; no, marathon day is about being out in the streets, enjoying the crowds, and drinking before noon.

And just because you’re not going to run the marathon, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look like you might have run the marathon. After all, everyone loves random congratulations from strangers, and if you’re in the right outfit, marathon day is full of those.

Nike Vomero 18
Nike Vomero 18
$155

First, you’ve gotta get the shoes right. Lately, we’ve been on the Nike running hype, and with stacked soles galore, everyone will assume you’re a serious runner, or at least that you’re a couple of inches taller than you really are. Starting with the Vomero line, the Vomero Plus and Vomero 18 are perfect options for casual joggers or comfort-focused brunch-goers, with a full stack of ZoomX foam in both, but a little more plush cushion in every step on the Vomero Plus.

Nike Vomero Plus
Nike Vomero Plus
$180

For even more cushion and running kudos, check out the Pegasus Premium, which stacks ZoomX and ReactX foam on either side of a plush, full-foot Air unit. Want to crank up the marathon cosplay even further, hit the afternoon bar crawl with a clean pair of Vaporflys on foot, and you won’t need a paper number chest plate, race fans will be buying you drinks and asking about your finish time all day.

To complete the look, make sure you step out in a pair of too-small shorts riding up your thighs despite the mid-50s or lower temps, and throw on a sweat-wicking shirt for extra points, and if you can swing it, one of those tiny lightweight hats with an extra-long bill. See you on race day, save us a seat at the brunch table. Check above and below for direct links to cop some Nike running gear to make it look like you took part in the NYC marathon this weekend (or if you actually need some new sneakers).

Nike Pegasus Premium
Nike Pegasus Premium
$220
Nike Vaporfly 4
Nike Vaporfly 4
$270

Zach Harris is a writer based in Philadelphia. His work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Vice, Complex, High Times, and more. He is obsessed with skateboarding and bowling. He is still looking for his first 300. For tips, reviews, and anything in size 10.5 - zach.h@soleretriever.com