The Safety Products We’re Keeping on Hand for Spring Runs (and Walks)

I keep the Original Birdie clipped to my bag at all times, no matter the time of day. The alarm is super loud to create a diversion and it comes in a ton of bright colors so it’ll be easy to spot in your bag. I recommend attaching it to your keys for even easier access. To activate it, remove the top pin. (Pop it back in to turn it off.) The updated version, the Birdie+, has internet connection that provides 24/7 access to an emergency dispatch line, sends fake “excuse-to-leave” calls, and can alert emergency contacts of your location.

My dad has been using this one for years and even though it looks absolutely ridiculous, he (and my mom) rave about how it keeps him safe during his longer, after-work walks. This vest is covered in reflective paneling and LED lights on the front and back. It’s fully adjustable and you can click through different light settings, from static to blinking depending on the visibility of the environment you’re in. It’s also rechargeable and will stay charged for up to 20 hours. ($18.99+, Amazon)

Whether your dog loves to come on longer post-work runs with you, or you’re looking to safely take them out before bed, keep this on hand. It’ll provide visibility for up to 350 yards. It has full 360-degree visibility to ensure you’ll be safe from every angle – especially if you live on a dark, but busy street. Not to mention, it’s actually kind of fun? My mom uses this for our dog, and people are constantly stopping her to ask where they can get one. Now you know. ($27.99+, Amazon)

This is so handy — and so important to keep accessible. So if you’ve been meaning to buy pepper spray but haven’t gotten around to it yet, take this as your sign. We love this one because it’s secured onto a reflective armband and can provide up to 12 feet of impact. ($9.88, Amazon)

While noise-canceling headphones can be great for focus at home, they aren’t ideal for times outside when you want to be aware of your surroundings. This pair from Bose has immersive spatial audio, but sits on your ear in a way that still allows you to know what’s going on around you. So you’ll still be able to hear cars honking, street traffic, voices, and more. It’s ideal for those walking with kids. ($299, Amazon)

The Apple AirTag has been a major game changer in my life. Not only do I use it for travel, but I also love to keep it on hand for days when I know I’m going to be out and about for awhile. It’ll connect to your phone so you can track any personal belongings via the Find My app, which operates on a precision-finding, ultra-wideband network. I keep one inside a suitcase pocket, and another in the belt bag I use for walks (more on that later). ($24, Amazon)

Hear me out: the thought of bringing a portable charger on a walk or run might seem clunky, but this one is compact and doesn’t require carrying along clunky cords. It fits directly into the bottom of your phone’s charging port and will keep your phone at a safe battery level in case of any emergencies. ($19.99, Amazon)

This accessory can be worn on any finger and has a plastic serrated edge. It has a blade cover to keep your hands protected, but when it’s used, the blade cover will automatically remove on impact. ($14.99, Go Guarded)

It has four lighting modes, including dimmable versions of red and white light. It’ll provide about 200 lumens of protection for any intense runs or hikes on mountain paths or anywhere where your path is particularly dark. ($26.73, REI)

Ideal if you’re looking for a no-frills option, these wrist bands are reflective up to 400 feet and can even attach on a backpack or bike frame. The best part? This set of two is only $12. ($12, REI)

Believe me when I say this belt bag from Lululemon is definitely worth the hype. I always take one with me on my walks — and I love the varying mesh compartments to keep me organized. I use it to hold my phone, keys, Birdie, portable charger, and AirTag. ($38, Lululemon)