Whether you’re trekking across Liberty State Park or pacing through your local neighborhood gym, staying comfortable, powered up, and ready for any encounter is key to success in Pokémon GO. After walking hundreds of kilometers live on stream, I’ve learned which gear is worth it—and which items every trainer should pack. Here are 7 must-haves for trainers in 2025.
1. Supportive Insoles for Long Walks
Let’s start with your feet—because they do most of the work in Pokémon GO. If you’re walking 5–10 kilometers per session like I do, you need proper support. That’s why I use everyday athletic insoles that offer comfort and performance. These aren’t just inserts—they’re dynamic arch support insoles designed for all-day wear, and they seriously reduce foot fatigue while walking or standing for long hours.
I used the Currex Insole Finder quiz to get a custom recommendation based on my foot profile (I’m a size 9.5, medium profile), and it made a huge difference. Whether you’re exploring new cities or grinding your daily adventure incense, these insoles are a game-changer.
2. A High-Capacity Power Bank That Keeps Up With You
Battery anxiety is real when you’re catching legendaries or coordinating a remote raid. I recommend the INIU 100W Power Bank, 25000mAh. It’s compact, powerful, and charges phones, tablets, and even laptops with USB-C output. I’ve used it to stream, navigate, and even charge a second device simultaneously—all while walking 10+ km in NYC.
Bonus: the smart digital display lets you know exactly how much juice is left, so you’re never caught off guard.
3. A Magnetic Phone Cooler for Summer Raids
If you’re streaming, recording, or just grinding on a hot day, your phone’s going to heat up. The Black Shark Magnetic Phone Cooler 5 Pro is my go-to solution. It clamps onto MagSafe iPhones and Androids, uses app-controlled cooling, and has RGB lighting that lowkey looks awesome during night hunts.
I use this when I know I’ll be screen recording or streaming raids—it keeps performance smooth and prevents your phone from overheating mid-battle.
4. Comfortable, Breathable Footwear
Your insoles are only as good as the shoes they go into. Make sure your sneakers are lightweight, breathable, and broken in. I pair my arch support insoles with hybrid knit sneakers that can handle sidewalks, parks, and trails. Look for a flexible midsole and room in the toe box—especially if you’re walking long distances.
If you’re not sure where to start, check out this guide on choosing sneakers for walking long distances from Runner’s World.
5. Easy-to-Carry Protein Snacks
Let’s talk fuel. Pokémon GO is cardio—especially when you’re chasing a rare spawn across town. I always keep a pack of Cheerios Protein Chewy Bars in Mixed Berry in my bag. They’re lightweight, taste great, and keep me going through long sessions. Plus, they don’t melt in the heat like chocolate snacks do.
Pro tip: keep a water bottle and some low-sugar electrolyte tabs with you to stay hydrated and avoid cramps.
6. A Comfortable Bag or Chest Rig
You need a hands-free way to carry your gear without ruining your outfit. I rotate between a techwear sling and a chest rig depending on the vibe. Either way, it should have space for your phone, power bank, snacks, keys, and extra cables. Look for something with padding on the straps and adjustable sizing.
Here’s a helpful comparison of the best sling bags for men if you want to upgrade your loadout.
7. Hands-Free Ways to Carry Water
Staying hydrated is non-negotiable when you’re walking long distances, especially during summer events or Community Days. Whether you’re hiking through a park or just putting in serious mileage around the city, how you carry your water can make a big difference.
There are two main trainer-approved options:
- Hydration bladders (like a CamelBak): These fit inside a backpack and use a tube so you can sip without stopping. Great for all-day events where you don’t want to keep grabbing a bottle.
- Insulated water bottles: Perfect if you prefer to keep your water cold. Look for lightweight, durable options with a carabiner or strap so you can attach them to your bag.
For shorter sessions, a collapsible bottle is a solid choice—it takes up almost no space when empty. Just make sure whatever you bring is easy to refill and clean.
Need help choosing? This REI hydration buying guide breaks down the pros and cons of different hydration systems depending on your activity level.
Bonus tip: Add electrolyte tablets to your water on hot days or when you’re walking 10+ km to avoid fatigue and cramps.
Final Thoughts
Pokémon GO isn’t just a game—it’s a lifestyle. Having the right gear helps you play longer, safer, and more comfortably, especially when you’re exploring cities like New York. Whether it’s arch support insoles, a high-powered battery, or protein bars that keep you fueled, these essentials are must-haves for any serious trainer.
