For many of us, running is a part of life. Avid runners generally have strong opinions about the gear they choose. For instance, one person’s favorite pair of sneakers could give the other endless aches and pains. For this reason, runners can be exceedingly hard to shop for. But, we don’t want that to discourage you. There are plenty of practical gifts to give that almost any runner would be happy to put to good use.
Whether you are shopping for someone who is relatively new to running or a seasoned professional who is out there earning medals, we’ve rounded up our greatest hits list of gifts that you can’t go wrong with. Find the right fit for your friend or loved one below!
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Pro-Tec Spiky Massage Ball
$8 at the time of publication.
This massage ball tops a bunch of lists of gifts for runners. Why? It’s an inexpensive tool that offers real relief for tight, sore muscles. It hurts to use but it is one of the best ways to target muscles and find relief.
Theragun Mini 2.0 – Handheld Electric Massage Gun
$200 at the time of publication.
Read any of the thousands of positive reviews for this massage gun on Amazon and you will quickly realize that it is a runner’s best friend. It melts away tension and muscle pain using repeated, percussive punches. It’s portable and can be taken anywhere your runner friend’s adventure takes them.
Nike Slim Waistpack 2.0
$21 at the time of publication.
If your friend is a city runner or someone who makes stops along the way as they jog, this thin, lightweight pack is essential. Credit cards, chapstick, sunscreen, and so much more can be thrown inside for easy access. It’s comfortable and unobtrusive making it ideal for runners.
HotHands Hand Warmers (40 Pairs)
$27 at the time of publication.
For most runners, getting warmed up on a cold day can be a real challenge. The legs and core warm up first but it is often the hands that take the longest to catch up. Help your pal out with HotHands hand warmers that will turn those icicle fingers into warm digits once more.
Merino 10 Ultra Light No Show Tab Sock
$20 at the time of publication.
Not only does running with sweat-soaked socks feel disgusting, but it also can cause painful blisters that will stop a runner dead in their tracks. To prevent this, moisture-wicking socks are the way to go. Wool is a naturally moisture-wicking material that helps regulate temperatures whether they be hot or cold. A quality pair of socks for running is never a bad idea as a gift.
Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle with Spout Lid
$21 at the time of publication.
Who wouldn’t appreciate a water bottle upgrade? Hydration is key, after all. The spout on this bottle has a twist-on flip cap, making drinking easy and spill-free, even if they’re bouncing around on a treadmill. The silicone rubber base prevents this model from slipping or making noise on hard surfaces, and this bottle comes in so many great colors.
Salomon Unisex-Adult Active Skin 8 Set
$60 at the time of publication.
If your runner friend is a long-distance runner, then a single water bottle is not going to cut it. This hydration vest features two soft flasks that hold one liter. It also includes a backpack for stashing essentials which is another favorite feature of this winning gift.
Niska Foot Spa Bath Massager
$63 at the time of publication.
Runners have absolutely messed up feet by every measure. Blisters, callouses, and stench are on the outside while soreness, pain, and tightness lurk underneath. This spa foot massager comes with all the features your friend is going to love including Heat, Bubbles, Vibration, Red Light, and 4 Massage Rollers to name a few. Give the gift of sweet relief in this tub.
LED Safety Light (2 Pack)
$18 at the time of publication.
With work and family obligations finding time to run is all a part of a runner’s life. This means early morning pre-dawn runs and jogs after work often find runners zipping through the dark. Safety first! These lights clip onto a waistband or anything at all, really and your friend will forget that it’s even there. It keeps one visible at night to drivers and other passers by.
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What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir
$10 at the time of publication.
Haruki Murakami is one of the world’s most cherished writers (if you have not read The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, get it for yourself because it is a must-read). In this memoir, Murakami writes about endurance, stamina, and suffering as being essential parts of his life through both his writing and running. It’s a smart read that we feel most runners will appreciate.
Now you know some great gifts to give your runner friends. We hope you found the right match for them! Happy giving.