BMW Berlin-Marathon is just around the corner and everyone participating is hopefully ready for it and already equipped, at least with the right choice of shoes. On this occasion, Zalando asked us to check out their Marathon Range and select some of our favorite footwear items and apparel pieces for the marathon. WE ARE DEFINITELY HERE FOR IT! Damn, we found some good stuff. The four footwear picks are separated by function: two easy all-rounders are accompanied by two carbon-plate race day machines from adidas and Nike.
Before we dive into our product selection, here’s a recommendation if you’re in Berlin for the marathon this week: Check out the Zalando Run Zone in Tauentzienstraße 18, 10789 Berlin from 16th till 20th of September and experience live events & activations from Nike, Asics, New Balance, Altra, Biotherm and more. Worth a visit!
Marathon Selects – Apparel
Let’s start with what to wear for training and race day. It’s 2025, and we’re all putting a lot of effort into preparing for the 42k, so of course we want to feel comfortable and look good when it counts. That’s a given.
So here are some of the coolest running apparel pieces you can get at Zalando right now:
Nike Performance City Tee (White / Bright Crimson)
This is a pretty cool tee! Nike’s Dri-Fit technology is getting rid of the sweat and dries quickly, the mix of cotton and polyester keeps balance between comfort and performance. SHOP HERE!
Adidas Performance Long-Sleeve Tee (Halo Silver)
Made of lightweight, stretchy material (polyester + elastane) and featuring mesh construction for breathability, this long sleeve is ideal for cooler morning runs or layering. It also has reflective details for visibility, which is essential for pre-dawn or dusk training. The loose fit gives you freedom of movement without sacrificing comfort. SHOP HERE!
Nike Performance City Stride Short
These shorts are made from lightweight, quick-dry material, so water or sweat doesn’t weigh you down during a long run. Good cut helps reduce chafing thanks to ergonomic seams, and the elastic waistband ensures a snug, secure fit without restricting your stride. Useful for tempo runs, speed workouts, or just everyday training in warmer weather. The shorter the shorts, the faster the run. Right? RIGHT? SHOP HERE!
Adidas Performance Berlin Marathon 2025 Arm Sleeve
Well, it’s September and it can be dead-ass cold in the morning, so you better be prepared. Longsleeve’s not an option ‘cause you wanna flex those runner arms and it still can be quite hot & sunny out there. Take the arm sleeves – they’re looking fast as well! SHOP HERE!
Adidas Performance BMW Berlin Marathon 2025 Unisex Cap
A running cap is almost essential on race day (and before) – this one provides shade and helps manage sweat dripping into your eyes. The polyester fabric is lightweight and has cut-outs for ventilation, so it doesn't trap heat. Finally we’re back at cool marathon merch!
SHOP HERE!
Adidas Performance Running Jacket / Windbreaker
Same for the jacket. You gotta layer the sh*t out of your running outfit these days. This one may not be a choice for race day but it’s a pretty good one for all your runs before and even the moment after finishing! That colorway’s decent! SHOP HERE!
The shoes: Here, we’d choose two for the training part and two options for race day. As you can imagine, it’s tough to decide since the selection is huge and everyone has individual needs. I’ll always go for training with as little carbon as possible, and then switch to a plated racer for race week—going full force with the energy return!
Hoka Clifton 10
I can’t say how many miles I put into my first pair of Cliftons a few years back, when I trained for my first marathon (Frankfurt, by the way). This shoe offers excellent plush cushioning through its signature thick midsole - a big plus for your long runs in the later stages of the plan. The Active Foot Frame and Meta-Rocker technologies contribute to a fluid, rolling stride, reducing fatigue in the latter miles. The breathable mesh upper keeps ventilation high—especially useful when your legs are getting tired and heat starts to build up. SHOP HERE!
New Balance FuelCell Rebel V5
On of the most versatile running shoes on the market, no matter if you wanna do an easy 5k, your tempo strides or a long run. With its FuelCell foam, the Rebel V5 provides a snappy, responsive ride that works well for faster training days and intervals. The lightweight, breathable textile/synthetic upper coupled with a reinforced heel and toe make it durable without feeling bulky. Definitely lonely island material! SHOP HERE!
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
Designed for speed and efficiency, the Adios Pro 4 features carbon-reinforced ENERGYRODS 2.0 and two layers of ultra-light Lightstrike Pro foam, delivering both cushioning and a propulsive ride that helps preserve energy over marathon distances. The rocker sole design improves running economy, helping you roll through your stride more smoothly. The very first Adios Pro was my choice for Berlin Half 2022, when i crushed my half marathon pb, this could’ve been my choice for Berlin Marathon 2025. SHOP HERE!
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% 4
This is a serious race-day tool: the ZoomX foam is among the highest energy-return midsoles available, giving you a big “pop” especially when fatigued. It’s lightweight (≈175 g) and clearly built for pushing the pace, so early in training you might find it more demanding. The upper/reinforced heel/rounded toe design help lock your foot in during long efforts, helping maintain form when fatigue sets in. SHOP HERE!
Excited for the 2025 Berlin Marathon? No doubts, we are looking forward to an amazing weekend in Berlin! Make sure to follow us around - we'll post "live" via Instagram all weekend!
