The 19 Best Gifts for Runners That They Don't Already Have
Whether they’re doing treadmill sprints at the gym or pounding the pavement outdoors, these 19 running gifts will make the miles easier—and the recovery faster—for holiday season and beyond.
1. FlipBelt
This stretchy unisex belt has plenty of room for running essentials, like a phone, keys, headphones and gels, and is designed to lay flat against the hip or waist to eliminate any bouncing or bulk. If your recipient is more into weight training, it makes for a pretty good gym carryall, too.
2. Nike Element Flash Half-Zip Top
This base layer’s Dri-Fit technology makes it ideal for late-fall runs and can be layered under a puffy vest once the temps start to really drop.
3. Solomon Agile Wind Jacket
Need proof that running gear can also be stylish? This lightweight jacket has all the technical features he could want (wind-blocking technology, high-stretch fabric and zippered pockets to stash keys) while the camo print means he won’t blend in with the crowd.
4. AfterShokz Air Bone Conduction Headphones
These wireless headphones deliver music on the ears, not in them, so the music won’t block traffic sounds on busy roads. We swear they’ll be able to hear their running playlist but passersby won’t hear a peep.
5. Sweaty Betty Tech Running Gloves
Lightweight and sweat-wicking, these gloves will make posting a mid-run sunset pic easier, thanks to tech-friendly fingers and reflective details.
6. The North Face Duffel Bag
For the gym or a weekend adventure, this all-around travel bag has enough compartments to separate sweaty clothes from office attire, plus space to stash sneakers, if vacation runs are their thing.
7. Nathan LightSpr Shoe Light
Keep your loved ones safe in low-light conditions by gifting these water-resistant lights that clip onto the backs of shoes. Featuring three different color and lighting options (steady, flashing and fast flashing) depending on the time of day they hit the pavement.
8. Tracksmith Beanie
This varsity-inspired 100-percent merino wool beanie will become a necessity during the colder months, whether she wears it on the trail or just to brunch.
9. Herbivore Soaking Salts
We could all use an excuse for an at-home spa day. These Himalayan pink salt crystals help relax the mind and body so she can treat those calloused feet and take a break from stressing about reaching that PR.
10. Hyperice Vibrating Fitness Roller
Sure, regular foam rollers are nice, but if you want to really help the runner on your list recover faster, this one uses vibrating technology that’s two times more effective in increasing flexibility and relieving muscle soreness.
11. Nathan SpeedDraw Plus Insulated Pack
If your BFF is gearing up for a 2020 marathon, this leak-proof running water bottle comes with an easy-to-use cap so he can stay hydrated throughout training.
12. Smartwool PhD Mid-Crew Running Socks
Spare a runner from burnt, wind-chilled ankles with these crew-length socks that protect the exposed bit of skin where his or her pants end. Bonus points for the reinforced cushioned heel that promises to prevent blisters.
13. Zeel On-Demand Massage Gift Card
Available in 78 cities across the U.S., this on-demand massage service vets top-of-the line masseuses to come provide services in the comfort of people’s own homes. Treat your loved one after a big race or if they’ve been putting in extra mileage over the fall.
14. Outdoor Voices CloudKnit Sweatpants
These slim-fitting sweatpants are cozy enough to throw on after a hard workout, but presentable enough to trek around town in.
15. Honey Stinger Organic Energy Gels
Long distance runners will be happy to find this practical mid-run fuel in their stocking.
16. MZ Wallace Backpack
With a removable pouch for stinky gym clothes and plenty of pockets to tuck away hair ties and tech accessories, this lightweight backpack is perfect for the college student who needs to tote her workout gear around campus.
17. Stunt Puppy Hands-Free Dog Leash
Not only does this waist leash eliminate the energy (and shoulder pain) that comes with running and keeping your pup in check, but it features a clip that slides along the waist, allowing the dog to move from side to side without pulling you off track.
18. Fitbit Versa 2
With a larger and brighter touchscreen and a six-day battery life, this new Fitbit makes it easier for runners to monitor their fitness during workouts. Even after clocking in miles, she’ll keep it on for its touchless pay technology and built-in Amazon Alexa.
19. Theragun G3
If professional athletes use this muscle treatment to relieve pain, you know it’s good enough for dad. The high-powered gadget delivers a forceful tissue massage of 60 pounds at 40 beats per second so he can finally say farewell to tight hamstrings.
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