By “Mitz”
Disclosure: RunSafeGear is a proud affiliate partner of Go Guarded. When you use the links or codes below, you’re helping fund our mission to keep the running community safe. We only partner with brands we have personally vetted in the field.
It doesn’t matter if you are on a grueling long-distance training block or just a quick zig-zag 3-mile run through your neighborhood. Things happen. At RunSafeGear, we believe that the most important part of any run is the return trip. Our mantra is: Run Safe. Be Safe. Preparation for success. Success isn’t just hitting your PR; it’s being equipped to handle the unexpected. Go Guarded has recognized the unique vulnerabilities we face as runners and created multiple ways to provide that essential layer of additional protection.
RSG MEMBER PERK
We are excited to announce that Go Guarded has extended a 10% discount to the entire RunSafeGear community. Use code RSG-10 at checkout to save on your safety kit.
Protection That Moves With You
Traditional self-defense tools are often bulky or difficult to carry when you’re in motion. Go Guarded has engineered a lineup specifically for the active lifestyle, ensuring your safety doesn’t come at the cost of your performance.
The Go Guarded Ring: Instinctive Defense
When something goes wrong, your natural instinct is to put your hands up. The Go Guarded ring takes that human reflex and turns it into a powerful defense mechanism.
- Accessibility: Worn directly on your finger, it’s always “drawn” and ready. You don’t have to fumble with zippers or pockets when seconds count.
- The “Mitz” Field Test: As I train for my 2026 12-hour and 24-hour ultramarathons, I’ve found that this ring is comfortable enough to disappear during the run, yet sturdy enough to provide peace of mind.
The Go Guarded Philosophy: Empowerment, Not Fear
Go Guarded was founded on a clear principle: providing active individuals with a comfortable, effective way to defend themselves. Their gear is designed specifically for runners, hikers, and walkers who need defense options that are “always on.”
1. The Go Guarded Ring
When you’re exhausted, your fine motor skills are the first thing to go. You can’t be fumbling in a pack for protection.
- The Athlete Advantage: This is a heavy-duty, serrated edge worn directly on your finger. Because it’s integrated into your hand, your natural “fight or flight” instinct is already armed.
- The Fit: It comes with multiple inserts to ensure a snug fit. I’ve found that even with the hand swelling that comes at Mile 20, the ring remains comfortable and secure.
2. Hand-Held Pepper Spray
Standard pepper spray canisters are notoriously difficult to carry while running. They bounce, they’re easy to drop, and they’re hard to aim when your heart rate is at 160 BPM.
- The Athlete Advantage: Go Guarded solves this by integrating the spray into a hand sleeve. It sits in your palm, ready to deploy instantly.
- The Security: The twist-lock safety ensures it won’t go off in your gym bag, but it’s intuitive enough to unlock and use even when you’re deep in the “pain cave.”
3. The Self-Defense Kit: Stun Device & Knife
For those who want a complete security “patch” for their training, this kit is the gold standard.
- The Stun Device: It’s compact, rechargeable, and provides a powerful deterrent that fits in the palm of your hand.
- The Folding Knife: Lightweight and durable, it’s a versatile tool for any trail runner who needs more than just a blade for defense, but a utility tool for the unexpected.
Coming Soon: The Video Field Test
Reading about gear is one thing—seeing it in action is another. I’ll be releasing a full YouTube breakdown on the https://youtube.com/@RunSafeGear channel soon. I’ll be showing exactly how these tools fit during a high-mileage run, how they handle sweat and movement, and why they have earned a permanent spot in my 2026 race kit.
Run Safe. Be Safe. Preparation for success.