Durability guaranteed — I’ve used these 5 items of running apparel for years and they’re still good as new

(Image credit: Future) As someone who reviews all kinds of running and fitness products, durability is both the easiest and hardest thing to test. All I have to do is keep using something to see if it’s long-lasting, but the rapid turnover of running products means there’s always something new to test.That’s especially true with the best running shoes, watches and headphones, which are updated yearly, but I do get more of a chance to test running apparel over the long-term, and there are some items that have really stood out for their durability in my time as a runner.I’ve used all of the products below regularly for several years, which means they’ve withstood hundreds of miles of running and frequent washing. Thousands of miles, in some cases. So while they're expensive up front, there's no doubt I've gotten great value from them in the long run. No pun intended.You can extend the life of your products with good care — I always wash my running gear on a cold, fairly short cycle — but largely, durability depends on the quality of the goods, and I happily guarantee these five products stand up to the long-term run test.Saysky Pace 2 in 1 Shorts 5” (Image credit: Future)I have a few pairs of these shorts that I’ve used weekly for several years and they’re just as comfortable as ever and show almost no signs of wear and tear.They’re my go-to shorts for easy and long runs thanks to the supportive inner layer, which has a couple of handy drop-in pockets that can take a phone, keys and a couple of gels.The upfront cost is pretty high, but as one of Saysky’s most popular products the 2 in 1 shorts are often featured in the brand’s sales, and they’re certainly built to last.Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.Soar All Weather Jacket (Image credit: Future)A healthy percentage of my longest-lasting running apparel is made by British brand Soar, and durability is certainly demanded given the high prices you do pay for Soar’s stuff.The All Weather Jacket I have is the original version, and it has been updated since, but I have little doubt it remains just as durable as the one I’ve used myself for several winters' worth of running. My jacket still feels soft and comfortable, and aside from some fraying around the cuffs, it’s held up perfectly to regular use in inclement weather.It’s windproof, water-resistant enough to fend off rain without being as hot and sweaty as a full waterproof, and has a close fit that allows for freedom of movement. The last point is important, because it means I can wear the jacket for fast runs in the winter, whereas many jackets feel too bulky.There are certainly great running jackets available for less, but the All Weather Jacket lives up to its name in being warm enough for snow but breathable enough for mild, wet days, and it’s still my go-to after years of use.Stance Run Crew Socks (Image credit: Future)I’ve been a big fan of Stance’s running socks since I first slipped a pair on many years ago, and I’ve amassed a sizable collection of the Run Crew socks in particular, with some that have lasted me more than five years.While they’re not quite as soft and flexible as they were when new, these long-lasting socks are still comfortable after years of regular runs and washes, and none have developed holes or frayed at all.Darn Tough is another running sock brand that has impressed me with their durability, and this is an apparel area where I’ve definitely found it’s worth paying a little more upfront to get a longer lasting product.Tracksmith Van Cortland Tee (Image credit: Future)Tracksmith is another premium running brand that I found does offset the high initial price of its products with better-than-average durability, and the Van Cortland Tee has been a staple of my training wardrobe for several years.It’s a loose-fitting tee that’s breathability in hot conditions, even if it’s not the thinnest and lightest option, and comes in a variety of designs that all feature Tracksmith’s trademark sash.I use it mainly for easy and long runs as I personally prefer something tighter and lighter for sessions, though in winter the relaxed fit of the Van Cortland is handy as I can fit it over a base layer easily.Under Armour Performance Tech Boxerjock (Image credit: Future)I prefer to wear underwear under my running shorts as I find this more supportive than relying on the liners in shorts alone, and these Under Armour Boxerjocks are both highly comfortable — I never get chafing with them — and unbelievably durable.Frankly, I wasn’t sure whether to put them in this article, because it’s a little embarrassing to say you’ve been using the same underwear for almost 10 years, but they’ve stood up so well to regular use and washes I had to highlight them.They’re good value too, and often appear in Amazon sales. Make sure you get the Tech version though, as the cotton ones won’t be as suitable for running.Follow Tom's Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds. More from Tom's Guide‘I wear an Apple Watch every single day, and I never knew you could do this.’I wear an Apple Watch every day, and this is the free app I use all of the timeForget running — I added thousands of steps to my day using this simple trick Nick Harris-Fry is an experienced health and fitness journalist, writing professionally since 2012. He spent nine years working on the Coach magazine and website before moving to the fitness team at Tom’s Guide in 2024. Nick is a keen runner and also the founder of YouTube channel The Run Testers, which specialises in reviewing running shoes, watches, headphones and other gear.Nick ran his first marathon in 2016 and became obsessed with the sport. He now has PBs of 2hr 25min for the marathon and 15min 30sec for 5K. Nick is also a qualified Run Leader in the UK.Nick is an established expert in the fitness area and along with writing for many publications, including Live Science, Expert Reviews, Wareable, Coach and Get Sweat Go, he has been quoted on The Guardian and The Independent.