What would you recommend to a friend who wants to start running, besides the best running shoes? A run vest. A run vest is a useful accessory for any runner, and with Black Friday right around the corner, I was one of the first to spot a great deal on a run vest.

As a runner, I know how expensive buying all that gear can be. Running vests are a great accessory for anyone who wants to run long distances, but the prices vary. [But the prices vary: do you buy an expensive model from a reputable brand like Camelbak or Salomon, or do you buy an affordable vest that can say what it says on the tin?

As a run vest tester by trade, I have a pretty good idea of what constitutes a reliable vest. Below are some of the run vests that are on sale right now.

In my experience, a good running vest should be comfortable, lightweight, and adjustable for a snug fit. It should also have enough storage space for water, energy gels, cell phone, keys, and other essentials.

Breathable materials and proper weight distribution are essential for comfort over long distances. Reflective materials for safety and a design that minimizes chafing are important elements of a quality running vest.

When it comes to the right price for a vest, it really depends. I recently ran a half marathon wearing an Aonijie vest (see above) and it was a great experience.

That said, the additional zippered pockets were a struggle to get all the stuff in and the zippers quickly became faulty, but with a little care in use, the vest remained usable. In terms of appearance and practicality, the vest was not as compact as higher-end vests like the more stowable SALOMON ADV HYDRA VEST 8. However, if you don't wear the vest most days of the week and only use it for short runs, you probably don't need to overthink these points. If you're looking for a way to save on your running kit, check out our Black Friday deals on Under Armour running shoes.