Some runs have a soundtrack. Although the noise of the outdoors can relax the mind — sometimes a hard run heavy breathing overrides this. The kind of music that makes a climb feel cinematic and a recovery run feel like progress, is just what you need.
If you've ever asked yourself what music is great to listen to while running, the honest answer is: it depends on the run. A tempo session and a sunrise float are different feelings, and your running playlist should treat them that way.
We handed the decisions to ambassador, Matt Green, to choose eight tracks for eight different runs. From sunrise floats to full-on bank holiday getaways. He knows his trails and, it turns out, their taste in music is solid too.
See what fits your stride.
Sunrise Run
The Sun Also Rises // Johnny Flynn, Robert Macfarlane
Still slightly smug from laying your kit out the night before. That lovely cool, crisp morning. A nice steady pace stops you flying off too fast, and you will start the day with a spring in your step.
Why it works for your running songs playlist: mellow enough to ease you in, beautiful enough to make the early alarm worth it.
Explore Run
Watermarke // Flatpocket, Twit One, Lazy Jones
Is there a better way to explore a new place than on a run? No. As you run past the little coffee shop and the grocers with colourful fruit all laid out, you'll want to give a little wave as you pass by. A hypnotic drum beat will have you changing direction like it's your destiny, finding new trails and paths to explore.
Why it works for your running playlist: it keeps you moving without pushing you — perfect for when the route is the whole point.
Tempo Training Session
Gods // Colombo
Buckle up — it's time to run the engine, and this tune is your turbo charger. Hit play in the last 45 seconds of your warm-up before the session kicks off. I love to crank the volume on this one for maximum effect.
The intro builds to goosebumps and adrenaline. A surge of energy keeps rolling. It won’t leave you hanging when lactic acid hits.
Why it works for your running playlist: this is the one you put on when you need to go to a place your legs aren't sure about yet.
Recovery Run
Lucky, Lucky, Lucky Me // Evelyn Knight
Before you know it, you'll be singing along to this carefree classic from Evelyn Knight. Running is a joy and this song will remind you of that — even on the most tired of legs. Pushing too hard on your recovery run? The tempo has a lovely switch-down mid-tune to keep you in check.
Why it works for your running songs playlist: it's a gentle reminder that not every run needs to be a battle.
Running for the Bus
Bonito // Denis Cruz
This tune cuts straight to the good stuff. This isn't going to wait for anyone and the lights have just turned green. Carried along by the bounce of this track, you'll fly along the pavement, over the dachshund and past the couple debating directions.
Why it works for your running playlist: sometimes the best running song is the one that makes you forget you're running.
The Getaway
Truth // Star Slinger
On Wednesday afternoon, you have no plan, no destination—just out the door and moving. Pop this tune in your ears, and it all feels like a Guy Ritchie classic.
Everything turns slow-mo, with wind in your hair.
The city shrinks behind you.
Why it works for your running playlist: If you’ve ever wondered what to play on a run, this is it. It makes you feel untouchable.
Running to the Lost City
Papa Kamal // Special K
Papa Kamal is the soundtrack to your desert adventure. It drops into a house beat. It keeps you moving, even when you're low on water.
Why it works for your running songs playlist: for when you want your run to feel like an expedition rather than a Tuesday.
Running to the Ball
Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat Minor // Tchaikovsky
In a rush? You may be late, but nothing is stopping your run. By the time you've laced up and run you'll be feeling on top of the world and ready to make an entrance. Time it for the 2:25 mark for maximum effect.
Why it works for your running playlist: proof that great running music doesn’t need a BPM that matches your stride. Sometimes it just has to make you feel like the main character.
What kind of music should you listen to while running? Building a running playlist that works starts with the run.
Think about your pace, your goal, and the terrain.
Then let the music do the rest.
Your feet carry you further when the rest of you is along for the ride. That's true of a good tune as much as a good pair of socks — both are doing quiet work you only notice when they're wrong.
The running songs playlist is ready. So are your socks. Understand which socks is best for you 👉