Which AirPods?

[FloweringAcer]

I'm late to the party but going to take the plunge.
Audiobooks, running, walking and only the occasional call.
Bog standard or worth an upgrade? Any advice welcome.

Depends if you want noise cancellation or if you've got funny shaped ears like I have where the normal level Air Pods aren't comfy in the ear. I have Pros for the funny shaped ear issue.

I assume you have an iPhone and therefore are seeking the greater integration that Apple products will bring? If that's the case I would choose a pair AirPods Pro are these work extremely well in my experience and are now quite a bit cheaper these days and only £30 dearer than the new generation AirPods. You should also consider Beats Studio Buds which are another Apple brand, have noise cancelling and are even cheaper at £129.

If you don't have an iPhone I'd look elsewhere

AirPod Pros are noise cancelling (you can toggle this off or on when you choose). They're brilliant.