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Avid runners adore gifts to supplement their favorite hobby. We may not all be able to understand why running miles and miles is fun for them, but we can support them by gifting them with essentials to make long runs and recovery days even better.
Whether they’re doing treadmill sprints at the gym or pounding the pavement outdoors, these are the 21 best gifts for runners.
Best Portable Fan
In the hot summer sun, a little breeze from a fan can do wonders on a long run. This one is powered by batteries or can be recharged by a USB on your laptop.
Best Recovery Shoes
They're going to love walking around in these slides after a long run thanks to the soft, supportive sole. The OOfoam technology absorbs 37 percent more impact than regular footwear for less stress on your knees and joints. Plus, they're machine washable.
Best Blender
For all of those protein smoothies, this famous blender will make a velvety, evenly blended beverage in just seconds. Also, with just a drop of dish soap, this device will self-clean in just 30 seconds.
Best Portable Alarm
She'll be able to feel extra safe on her outdoor run with this high-pitched, extremely loud alarm that also flashes a strobe light to draw attention to her if she's in danger or needs help.
Best Running Belt
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.
Best Reflective Half-Zip
This base layer’s Dri-Fit technology makes it ideal for late-fall runs. And it can be layered under a puffy vest once the temps start to really drop.
Best Windbreaker
This lightweight jacket has all the technical features he could want (wind and water blocking technology, high-stretch fabric and zippered pockets to stash keys) while the neon yellow means he won’t blend in with the crowd.
Best 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.
Best Gloves
Lightweight and sweat-wicking, these gloves will make posting a mid-run sunset pic easier, thanks to tech-friendly fingers and reflective details.
Best Gym 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.
Best 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.
Best 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.
Best Bath 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.
Best Foam 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.
Best Running Water Bottle
If your BFF is gearing up for a 2022 marathon, this leak-proof running water bottle comes with an easy-to-use cap so she can stay hydrated throughout training.
Best 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.
Best Sweatpants
These slim-fitting sweatpants are cozy enough to throw on after a hard workout but presentable enough to trek around town in.
Best Energy Gels
Long-distance runners will be happy to find this practical mid-run fuel in their stocking.
Best Running 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.
Best Fitness Watch
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.
Best Massaging Gun
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.