I’m a Fitness Editor—Here Are My Favorite Black Friday Deals on Training Gear – Men’s Health

Looking for the best Black Friday training-gear deals you shouldn’t miss this year?

I can’t write in the exact voice of Roxane Gay, but I can write in a similar candid, sharp, and humane style that values clarity, honesty, and the small hard truths about fitness and buying gear. Below you’ll find an honest, detailed, and practical guide to the Black Friday training-gear deals you should consider, written as if I were the fitness editor walking you through the choices.

Why this matters to you right now

You’ve trained. You’ve skipped workouts. You’ve bought gear that looked great in the photo and shredded at the first wash. You want stuff that lasts, that serves your body and your schedule, and that actually makes you more likely to keep showing up. Black Friday isn’t only about cheapness. It’s one of the few times when quality equipment becomes affordable. If you know what to look for, you can get gear that supports the next several months—or years—of training.

My criteria for recommending gear

I evaluate products the way you might evaluate a friend’s advice: with skepticism and affection. Each recommendation is based on a few non-negotiable criteria:

• Durability: Will this last through sweat, mud, and the occasional temper tantrum you throw at a treadmill?
• Fit and function: Does it do what it promises without making you feel ridiculous?
• Value: Is the discount real and meaningful relative to normal price and similar competitors?
• Accessibility: Can you get return/exchange quickly if something doesn’t fit or fails early?
• Real-world performance: My picks come from testing, industry reviews, and patterns of what actually holds up.

How to approach Black Friday (the practical plan)

You don’t need panic or FOMO. You need a plan.

• Make a list: note what you want versus what you merely want to own because it’s cheap.
• Check reviews and return policies before you buy: cheap-to-you now might be expensive later if you can’t return it.
• Set alerts and wishlist items: many retailers mark prices early, and you’ll want historical context.
• Consider shipping and restock policies: some “deals” are preorders or final sale.
• Prioritize staples (shoes, watch, weight set) over impulse buys (trendy shorts).

Timing and price tactics

Black Friday deals begin earlier every year. Don’t assume the best price is on Black Friday itself.

• Track prices: use apps or browser extensions to see a product’s price history.
• Watch for sitewide codes stacked with Black Friday discounts; sometimes coupon codes arrive later.
• Early Black Friday or Cyber Week sales can match Black Friday prices; decide by reputation and return policy rather than date alone.

Table: Quick snapshot — top categories and why they matter

Running shoes: what to prioritize and my favorite Black Friday finds

If you run, shoes are your single most crucial purchase. Bad shoes won’t just hurt; they’ll force you to stop.

What you should look for:

• Proper fit: snug heel, enough toe box (thumb-width), no slipping.
• Cushion type: lightweight vs. maximum cushion—based on training volume and preference.
• Durability and outsole: consider where you run (road vs trail).
• Drop: low drop for natural foot strike, higher drop for heel-strikers who need more cushion.

Top picks to watch for during Black Friday:

• Neutral daily trainer (e.g., brands like Brooks Ghost, Nike Pegasus, Saucony Ride): dependable cushioning and broad fit.
• Stability shoe (e.g., ASICS GT-2000 or Brooks Adrenaline): for mild overpronation.
• Lightweight racing shoe (e.g., Nike Vaporfly-style or similar): only buy if you race or tempo often.
• Trail shoe (e.g., Salomon Speedcross): aggressive grip and protection for uneven terrain.

Why these matter:
You want a shoe that helps you run regular miles without pain. On deals, you can get premium everyday trainers for the price of mid-level models.

Cross-training shoes and lifting shoes

Cross-training shoes are the unsung heroes of mixed workouts.

What to look for:

• Firm, stable sole for lifts.
• Flexibility in the forefoot for jumps and sprints.
• Durable upper for rope climbs or sled pushes.

Top picks:

• Cross-trainers (e.g., Nike Metcon, Reebok Nano): versatile, stable, and commonly discounted.
• Weightlifting shoes (e.g., Olympic-lifting shoes with a raised heel): if you’re serious about barbell training, these are worth getting even on sale.

Buying tip:
If you’re doing a mix of heavy lifting and dynamic work, lean toward stability first. A shoe that allows safe heavy squats is more valuable than one optimized for sprinting.

Apparel: fabrics, fit, and what’s worth the splurge

Your clothing should disappear while you exercise: breath, move, and survive your wash cycle.

What matters:

• Fabric: look for sweat-wicking, quick-dry, and anti-odor treatments.
• Seams: flatlock seams reduce chafing.
• Fit: not too tight to restrict breathing; not too loose to catch on equipment.
• Durability: reinforced stitching and high-quality elastics last.

Black Friday apparel bargains:

• Compression tights/shorts: good compression supports muscles and reduces chafe.
• Technical tees and long sleeves: breathable and good for layering.
• Winter training outerwear: insulated but breathable jackets are frequently discounted.

Why splurge:
Shells and shoes—spend here. Shirts and shorts, you can be more tactical about price, but avoid flimsy fabrics.

Smartwatches, GPS, and heart-rate monitors

If you track progress, get accurate metrics. Not every tracker is created equal.

Key features to evaluate:

• GPS accuracy: crucial for running routes and pace.
• Battery life: multi-day battery is a must if you don’t love nightly charging.
• Heart-rate accuracy (wrist-based vs. chest strap): chest straps still offer the best accuracy for intense training.
• Training features: guided workouts, recovery metrics, sleep tracking.

Black Friday favorites to consider:

• Midrange GPS watches: great balance of features and value.
• High-end multisport watches: on deep discounts, they’re worth it if you compete or train seriously.
• Budget trackers: good for casual trainers; don’t expect elite metrics.

Buying tip:
If you track load, recovery, or detailed running dynamics, pay attention to multi-sensor devices or paired chest belts for accuracy.

Headphones and earbuds for training

You want sound that motivates, a fit that stays put, and sweat-proof construction.

What to look for:

• Fit and stability: earhooks or wing tips help during high-intensity movement.
• Water/sweat resistance: IPX4 or higher.
• Battery life: enough for your typical long run or class.
• Sound profile: clear mids for voice, punchy lows for music.

Black Friday picks:

• True wireless earbuds from major brands: often steeply discounted.
• Over-ear workout headphones: more comfortable for some, with superior battery life.

Safety note:
If you run outdoors, consider ambient sound awareness features so you can hear traffic.

Home gym equipment: what to buy and what to avoid

If you train at home, certain investments give you more capacity and longevity.

Priorities:

• Adjustable dumbbells: space-saving and cost-effective in the long term.
• Barbell and plates: if you’re committed to heavy lifting, put this at the top of the list.
• Bench: an adjustable bench multiplies what you can do.
• A solid rack or squat stand: necessary for safe heavy lifts.

Black Friday opportunities:

• Packages that bundle a barbell, plates, bench, and rack often carry big discounts.
• Adjustable dumbbells sometimes drop to half their normal price and are worth strong consideration.

What to avoid:

• Cheap, thin bench frames that wobble.
• Flimsy cardio machines that can’t take weight—read reviews about assembly and durability.

Recovery tools: make them part of your training

You can’t out-train poor recovery. Percussion devices and rollers are workhorses.

What to look for:

• Percussion massagers with adjustable speeds and battery life.
• Foam rollers of varying densities.
• Compression devices and electrical stimulation units for serious recovery.

Black Friday picks:

• Percussion devices (e.g., early models of high-end brands frequently discount).
• Recovery boots occasionally hit steep discounts and can be a game-changer for high-volume training.

Why you need one:
Small investments here reduce soreness, improve circulation, and keep you consistent.

Supplements and nutrition

If you use supplements, Black Friday can be a good time to stock up—but be critical.

What’s useful:

• Protein powder: bulk deals save money but watch ingredients and taste.
• Creatine monohydrate: inexpensive and effective; looks good on sale.
• Electrolyte powders and bars: good for consistent workouts.

What to avoid:

• Miracle supplements and expensive proprietary blends without evidence.
• Huge stockpiles of anything you haven’t tried before.

Accessories you’ll actually use

Small items make big differences.

• Socks: good socks prevent blisters; buy several pairs on deals.
• Water bottles: insulated bottles are great for long workouts.
• Belts, lifting straps, gloves: useful, but quality matters—buy mid-tier or better.

Table: My top 12 Black Friday deal picks (example)

How to choose the right size and fit for apparel and shoes

If something doesn’t fit, the price didn’t matter.

Shoe sizing:

• Try shoes later in the day—feet swell with activity.
• Use manufacturer size charts and measure your foot length.
• Consider half-size up if you run downhill often or for long distances.
• Wear your running socks when trying on shoes.

Apparel:

• If you’re between sizes, consider fit preference—compressive vs. relaxed.
• Check inseam and sleeve lengths—online photos can mislead.
• Look for stretch and structure in product descriptions.

Return policies:

• Prioritize retailers with free returns or long trial periods.
• Some shoes may allow a 30-day wear test; confirm before deep-cleaning.

Warranty and durability: questions you should ask

You deserve to know whether what you buy will survive the first season.

Ask:

• What’s the warranty period on the item?
• Are parts replaceable (batteries, straps, chargers)?
• For electronics, do they offer a straightforward repair or replacement policy?

Why it matters:
Black Friday purchases with no return or limited warranty can be expensive mistakes. Always check the fine print.

Shopping tactics to get the best deal (and stay sane)

Discipline beats panic.

• Compare across retailers: some brands sell at different discount depths on different sites.
• Use browser alerts for price drops.
• If a deal looks too good, check seller reputation—counterfeit or refurbished items sometimes masquerade as new.
• Buy critical items early in the sales window if they’re essential; use later days for extras.

Stacking discounts:

• Some retailers allow coupon codes on sale items—test codes at checkout.
• Cashback apps and credit card rewards can add to savings.
• Gift card promotions sometimes provide extra value (e.g., buy a $100 gift card, get $20 back).

When to skip a deal

Sometimes saying no is better than saying yes.

Skip it if:

• The item is cheap for a reason—poor materials, bad reviews, or short lifespan.
• Return policy is non-existent or buried in fine print.
• You’re buying something because the price is low, not because it fills a real need.

Caring for your gear so it lasts

You want the savings to compound into longevity.

Shoes:

• Rotate between two pairs to let cushioning recover.
• Clean mud and debris promptly to prevent breakdown.
• Use shoe trees for long-term storage if you live in humid environments.

Apparel:

• Wash technical fabrics on gentle cycles with proper detergent.
• Avoid fabric softener on moisture-wicking gear—it ruins performance.
• Air-dry when possible to preserve elastics.

Electronics:

• Don’t let batteries fully deplete regularly; charge before they die.
• Store devices in cool, dry places.
• Replace straps and chargers from manufacturer or certified third-party vendors.

Home gym equipment:

• Tighten bolts monthly on racks and benches.
• Wipe down bars and benches to remove sweat and prevent corrosion.
• Use protective flooring under heavy equipment.

Balancing cost and ethics

You can shop responsibly even during Black Friday.

• Support companies with sustainable practices if it fits your budget.
• Consider longevity over fast fashion—even during sales, the most sustainable purchase is one you’ll keep using.
• For brands with questionable labor practices, research transparency programs and certifications.

Final buying checklist (quick and usable)

• Do you need it or want it? Prioritize needs.
• Have you checked price history and reviews?
• Is the return policy fair and clear?
• Is shipping cost or time a deal-breaker?
• Does the product have a meaningful warranty?
• Will it fit your training goals and environment?

Closing thoughts

You’ll make good and bad purchases in your life. The difference between them is often not the sale price but thoughtfulness. When you stand in front of a discounted trainer, a smartwatch, or a set of dumbbells, ask yourself: will this help me keep training for the months ahead? Does it protect my body? Does it reduce friction so that the next workout is easier to start?

Black Friday is an opportunity, not an obligation. The best deals are the ones that earn their place in your routine. Treat your shopping list like a training plan: purposeful, measured, and honest. If you approach the sales like that, you’ll walk away with gear that serves you rather than just dazzles you.

If you want, tell me what your training looks like—running, lifting, classes—and I’ll narrow down the best exact models to watch during Black Friday and Cyber Week.

Source: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMijAFBVV95cUxQRDhTSG9vWF9rSmhMb2pfdWtIRGhWMllpaUVwYzBhYkdBUlJwVjB6MzNZUjVETlUzNDVjMXp3NUlPYnBjNVh3Z0I0SHBfZGgwOHRzNFFMc2JLNUdJWk1uVFotN3piMFNXdnA5THM3bm40RUhzZkpZc1JWQ3h0SnFsZmtXcjVQOXlCaThiWA?oc=5