I really love gear. But I get way too into it and find it easy to lose the thread and actually get out there to enjoy the bike or run.
Realistically you need 1. a pair of good shoes (running and cycling), 2. a bike that you like to ride with comfortable helmet, and 3. the time set aside to run and cycle safely.
From there, my prioritization goes in tiers. And my ownership is in bold.
A - Basic clothes
- Clothes to make running comfortable
- Shorts
- Jogger pants
- Short and long-sleeve shirts that wick moisture
- Socks that wick moisture
- Gloves and ear warmers
- Cold weather layers
- Belt for water and food (10+ miles / 16+ km)
- Clothes to make cycling comfortable
- Water bottles and holders
- Socks that wick moisture
- Basic tools and spares
- Warm weather bib / shorts
- Warm weather shirt with back pockets
- Gloves and ear warmers
- Warm jacket
- Cold weather bib / pants
B - Basic data and safety for cycling
- Running watch that can measure heart rate and pair with cycling sensors
- Front and rear lights for cycling
- Hydration pack for cycling
- Advanced tools and spares for cycling repair
- Bell
- Speed and cadence sensors for cycling
- Smart phone holder - careful how you use this as it could damage your phone. A cycling computer will be hardier and likely a cheaper investment compared to breaking your phone.
C - Advanced data and safety for cycling
- Power meter for cycling pedals (simplex) - Favero Assioma PRO MX-1, $500
- Heart rate monitor (improved accuracy and dynamics) - Garmin HRM-Pro Plus, $129.99
- Cycling computer / bike radar - Garmin Edge ####, $200-700
- Bike radar / cycling computer - Garmin Varia ####, $100-400
- Power meter for cycling pedals (duplex upgrade) - Favero Assioma PRO MX-1 upgrade, $500
- Power meter for cycling pedals (duplex outright) - Favero Assioma PRO MX-2, $850