Struggling to find gifts for runners who have everything? This gift guide has you covered with gift ideas in all price ranges.
As a long-time runner who has run four marathons and over 20 half marathons, I often get asked what to get as a gift for someone who likes to run. It’s usually being asked by friends, parents or spouses of runners, and I love hearing when loved ones are supporting their favorite runners in their goals! I’m not running quite as much these days as I’m postpartum with my second baby, but it still makes me so happy to help people shop for running gear.
But I know it can be difficult to find gifts that they don’t already have, since most runners love their gear and love trying new gear. These gifts are in lots of price ranges, so you’re sure to find something. If you want to get something smaller for your best running friend, check out my Gifts Guide for Runners under $20.
I used AirPods for running for a while, but these Shokz headphones are much better (and safer!). I shared a full review of Shokz in this blog post. And you can see how they fit in this Instagram video. I especially love them for running on trails when I need to be very aware. The battery life is really good too – even for long distance runners.
As a runner myself, this muscle roller is so essential for working out the tightness in my legs. I try to use mine a few times a week, and I really do notice a difference. It’s more expensive that other rollers, which makes it a really nice gift that they’d be excited about. This foam roller is a more affordable option if they don’t own one yet!
Biometric testing would make a very unique gift this year that still supports their running goals. This service analyzes your bloodwork and gives you specific recommendations for nutrition, exercise and lifestyle on what to improve as it relates to your health and fitness. You can also set goals to improve endurance and they’ll customize your recommendations to support that. I love it! I have a full review that answers most FAQs. Use this InsideTracker link and code TERILYN at checkout for 10% off a plan.
I use this light up vest every time I run in the dark. It’s waterproof, sweat-proof, incredibly lightweight and I feel so much safer with this on. My three best running friends have it too and love it.
I LOVE this stuff for tight muscles. And so does my 75 year old mom who runs and does Crossfit. It’s a thick balm that you rub on any spots with pain and the CBD in the cream helps relieve pain and inflammation. Read my full review of Equilibria CBD for all of my Equilibria favorites. Use code “terilynadams” for 15% off your first order.
This affordable Garmin would be a great gift for a runner who doesn’t yet have a GPS watch. Garmins are a great tool to help improve your favorite runner’s training and I have never had one stop working, which is why it makes such a great gift. I love that I can see my pace in real time as I’m running so that I can follow my training plans the right way! They also have GPS so that you can see your running route, monitor your heart rate, check your cadence and more.
They are ALWAYS the best gift ideas. New socks are the best!! My favorite budget pick is this Zella pair which comes in a pack of 3, but to really treat your favorite runner, I’d buy SwiftWick or Bombas socks. I also have a list of all the best socks that may be helpful.
My personal favorite are Injinji’s – yes, they’re weird looking but I love them since I have some foot problems. (They’re great if you have hammer toes or issues with toes wanting to overlap when you run.) If you want to make it a slightly bigger gift, throw in a pair of Oofos slides! They aren’t cute but MAN they’re comfortable after a run.
Pro-tip if you’re new to shopping for running socks: make sure the fabric is not made of cotton (a major blister cause). Runners want their socks made of moisture-wicking material.
If you’ve ever asked yourself “What do you give a marathon runner?” the answer is this. The Theragun is used in sports massages because it’s so effective. I got Tommy a Hypervolt (similar, but different brand. Now I’m a Theragun fan) two years ago and we both say it’s one of the best gifts we’ve gotten. I got a Theragun for my father-in-law who is a golf professional and he loves it. This Amazon massage gun is more affordable and also has great reviews.
These Goodr Sunglasses are the only ones I wear. They come in lots of colors and they don’t slip off my face. Only $25 too! They stay in place for my entire workout (no matter how sweaty).
I always recommend this Run Fast Eat Slow cookbook when I get asked about running nutrition. I make recipes from this cookbook weekly. It makes a perfect gift! (I’ve actually given it to four friends for Christmas and birthdays!)
You could pair the cookbook with some energy gels or running fuel chews to make it a slightly larger gift.
The Down For It All Vest is the best running vest on the market, I promise. While a vest like this doesn’t make sense as a summer gift, it’s the best cold weather running gift ever. I bought this a few years ago because I needed a layer for cold runs that wasn’t a full on jacket and MAN I wish I had ordered it sooner. It’s lightweight, has pockets, fits right against your body so there’s not bouncing, and isn’t TOO warm. The fit is true to size. I wrote a full review of the Down For It All vest here.
This isn’t a water bottle they can run with, but it will help them get ALL their water in throughout the day. I also own the Stanley tumbler and this Simple Modern version is 10x better. It does not leak, has a slimmer look, weighs less, and the price is better. Add a pack of LMNT to this bottle as a little extra gift.
Running hats are essentials for all runners. This TrailHeads hat is cute and breathable. And it won’t break the bank either!
LMNT electrolytes are a great gift idea. These are my ALL time favorite electrolytes, and I’ve tried dozens. My favorite flavors are watermelon and raspberry. Citrus is pretty good too. Use this DrinkLMNT link to get a free LMNT Sample Pack with any order (and get some for yourself too!). I’d get the variety pack so that they can try a few flavors.
I didn’t like running with a running belt until I tried this Spibelt (which is essential for running while pregnant). It holds your phone, keys, cards, fuel and it doesn’t bounce. I highly recommend for any trail runners or runners who run routes that require them to carry things with them.
Okay, your turn – if you’re a runner, what would you love to get for Christmas this year? If you need more ideas for a specific runner, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll try to help you!
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7 responses to “15 Gift Ideas for Runners Who Have Everything”
I have a hydration backpack on my list this year. TMI, but I’m someone who sweats a LOT and needs to take in more water than most when running and there is ONE water fountain in my city.
Socks, socks, socks! A runner can never have too many socks! I also asked for more reflective running gear, including a reflective collar for my dog!
Yes! Reflective gear for the pups is so important too! Noxgear sells dog light vests!
Hi! I’m furloughed indefinitely and really wanted to give my husband the Hypervolt for our anniversary…but I ran across a Trigger Point model sold on REI that is under $200 (maybe including Co-op dividend, don’t remember). Anyway, way more affordable in case anybody is looking. It’s great!!!
A treadmill! I’ve been wanting to get one for quite some time, and the pandemic basically sealed my decision. I was going to buy it for myself, but luckily my boyfriend offered to buy it for my Christmas gift. I’ve been doing some research, and honestly I’ve struggled to find one that’s in stock ?) Any recommendations are greatly appreciated!
I haven’t researched treadmills personally so I’m not much help. I’ve heard great things about the Peloton Tread and Runner’s World usually has a helpful round-up of best treadmills each year!
I have the peloton and LOVE it! Def recommend