Ask any female runner in your life, and they will likely have stories of being catcalled on runs, having a car follow them, or generally getting a feeling of uneasiness.
The 5 Best Self Defense Products for Runners
Stories like that Vanessa Marcotte, Molly Tibbits, and Kristina Vetrano unfortunately seem to be more and more common.
In 2018, The New York Times published an article “Running While Female,” where women around the country shared their stories of harassment and fear while running.
And while the onerous is on society to address the systemic issues that lead to this violence, it is also important for runners to protect themselves.
While things like letting someone know your route, not wearing ear buds, and changing up your routine are all important proactive steps, there are products on the market that can help you fight back if necessary.
It is also important to keep in mind the laws in your state when considering each product, and also be wary that unless you are trained in using a weapon, it can be used against you.
The 5 Best Self Defense Products for Runners
1. Sabre Advanced 3 in 1 Pepper Spray
If you’re interested in carrying pepper spray, the Sabre Advanced 3 in 1 Pepper Spray is a good option.
This pepper spray is made for runners and has an adjustable handstrap, so it is easy to carry with you.
It also has a safety lock to avoid accidental discharges. In addition to pepper spray, it also contains tear gas and UV Dye to mark the attacker.
Links to training videos are also included to ensure that you are using the product safely.
- TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS: SABRE is the #1 Pepper Spray brand trusted by police and consumers worldwide, including New York PD, Chicago PD, and U.S. Marshals; Made in the USA
- 2X STRONGER: 4 out 10 violent crimes involve alcohol use by the offender - our max strength Pepper Spray is strong enough to use against a goal oriented attacker under the influence of drugs or alcohol; Backed by our industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab
- 5X MORE PROTECTION: 42% of crimes are committed by multiple assailants - this 3-in-1 defense spray provides protection against multiple threats with 35 bursts delivered in a powerful stream from nozzle to the target's eyes while decreasing wind blowback
- FASTER & EASIER TO HIT THE TARGET: Adjustable reflective runner hand strap makes it easy to take pepper gel with on the go & have ready for immediate access when seconds count; Secure & easy to use twist lock safety helps to prevent accidental discharge
- TRAINING VIDEOS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: In addition to your pepper spray, packaging includes links to free SABRE Pepper Spray training videos and safety tips to help maximize your personal safety
2. ViperTek VTS 989
If you don’t feel comfortable carrying pepper spray, but want to carry something that packs a punch, there are lots of mini stun guns available. The ViperTek VTS 989 is portable and has anti-grab shocks so an attacker can’t take it away from you.
It has good reviews, and is at an affordable price point.
The company makes devices with different shock levels, so you can choose which one is right for you.
3. MUNIO Kubotan Keychain
Since stun guns and pepper spray might not be legal everywhere, or you might not feel comfortable carrying a weapon, a Safety Keychain is good options.
- PROFESSIONAL ENDORSEMENT: MUNIO is the trusted choice for self defense, endorsed by police, martial arts, and military professionals. Its unique design meets CPSIA guidelines, ensuring safety around kids and making it ideal for family protection.
- VERSATILE DEFENSE: Designed for effective self-defense, MUNIO helps protect against various criminal attacks, including surprise assaults. It's perfect for women, men, and college students, empowering you to strike back effectively and escape danger.
- LEGAL & DISCREET: Carry MUNIO legally in all states and settings - concerts, football games, schools, and even airplanes. Its discreet design fits comfortably in hand, purse, or pocket, making it a practical safety device for everyday security.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Constructed from high-strength ABS plastic, the same material used in tactical gear, MUNIO ensures long-lasting durability. Its designer artwork, UV printed and protected with a clear coat finish, adds style to your safety.
- COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY: Enhance your personal safety with our free e-book and training videos. Learn effective defense moves for various street attacks, maximizing your protection with or without MUNIO, a must-have in any personal safety kit.
This keychain has a heavy duty plastic serrated edge and can serve as a sharp weapon if needed. It is discrete and easy to carry.
4. Vigilant 130db Personal Alarm
An important element of self defense is drawing attention to yourself. Making noise can help scare off an attacker.
There are a number of alarms on the market that are either wearable or easy to carry. One example is the Vigilant 130db Personal Alarm.
5. SaferRun Ripcord Siren by Nathan
This device can clip right to your key ring or shirt and has a back up whistle in case the battery fails.
Another option in this category is the SaferRun Ripcord Siren which can be worn around your wrist or your arm. All you have to do is pull the ripcord and the siren goes off, which emits a loud sound and a flashing light.
- 120db PERSONAL ALARM: You will be able to head the Nathan Alarm up to 600ft away. As Loud as an ambulance siren. An attacker’s worst enemy is attention!
- EASY TO USE: Reusable and very simple to use. Just pull on the chord to set off the alarm. Simply push it back in to stop the siren. Clip to your shorts, shirt, bag, purse, belt and more.
- SECURITY: One-handed pull to alert people around or discourage potential threats. Use it everywhere, be safe all the time. For runs, walks, on campus, hikes or just cruising the city.
- NATHAN QUALITY: We’ve been a leader in the outdoor industry and are now becoming a leader in safety innovation. We have a 100% satisfied or refunded policy!
- PERFECT GIFT IDEA: Show you care by gifting this to a family member or a friend. Makes for the prefect stocking stuffer, Christmas gift or simply a thoughtful gesture for peace of mind.
Apps That Can Keep Runners Safe
In addition to these products, there are also an array of apps that you can download to your phone to help keep you safe.
1. Road ID
Road ID is available for free for both Iphones and Androids. Family and friends can track your work outs in real time, and a contact can be notified if you are stationary for a certain amount of time.
It also includes an emergency lock screen that will share important emergency contact and medical information with first responders if necessary.
2. Strava
If you use Strava as your GPS running app, you can upgrade to the paid monthly subscription and use the Beacon feature to share your location with up to three of your contacts.
At less than $5 a month, it is an affordable way to add some peace of mind to your run.
3. My Safetipin
If you are going on vacation and find yourself running in an unfamiliar area, the My Safetipin app will notify you if you are entering an unsafe neighborhood, based on the safety scores of the area and crowdsourced information from other app users.
This app also gives you the option to invite family or friends to track you.
4. Kitestring
If you don’t have a smart phone or don’t want to download an app, you can use Kitestring which is a web based SMS messaging service. When you about to leave for a run, let Kitestring know and they’ll send you a text message to check in.
If you don’t respond within a predefined certain amount of time, they will send an alert to a preselected contact.
5. R.A.D. (A Class not an APP)
In addition to these products and aps, it is also a good idea to look into options for self-defense classes in your area. Often free or at a low cost, these classes teach you basic skills that could end up saving your life.
A popular course is R.A.D. Now open to men, women, and children (classes are taught separately among these groups), R.A.D courses are available across the country and internationally.
Often your local YMCA, community center, or local university will offer self-defense classes as well.
Staying safe on the road is all about taking precautions, from being aware of your surroundings to making sure that you’re visible on the roads to being prepared in case the unthinkable happens.
These products and apps are just some of the ones on the market for runners, that will help you feel more confident and safe on the road.
My 5 Favorite Self Defense Products for Runners Wrap-Up
All you have to do is press the alarm button, which emits a loud sound and a flashing light.
Staying safe on the road is all about taking precautions, from being aware of your surroundings to being prepared in case the unthinkable happens.
These products are just some of the ones on the market for runners, that will help you feel more confident and safe on the road.
Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
