All you really need is an upbeat soundtrack and a good pair of running shoes - this I learned the hard way after running a half marathon wearing a cheap pair of trainers. The true price I paid for wearing sub-standard running shoes was bruised and purple toes for weeks after the Great North Run, not pretty – and not something I am likely to risk again. New Balance's Fresh Foam X Hierro v5 trail shoes have sturdy structured soles and a protective upper that are perfect for distance running in the varied terrain that my favourite routes offer.