Picking out a gift for a runner can be tough. It may seem like all they need is a good pair of sneakers and some form of hydration — and while those are the basics, there’s a world of helpful gadgets and tools to elevate runners at any stage of their training.
That’s why we spoke to seasoned experts to get their insights on the best gifts for runners, from fitness trackers to post-run recovery tools. And since some things (especially shoes and clothes) can be a personal choice, we also included plenty of gift ideas that aren’t running gear.
Running gear and clothing
Running hands-free just got easier thanks to this water-resistant liner. Victoria Sekely, DPT and running coach, recommends the Koala Clip to carry your phone securely. “It holds your phone with any sports bra, and I love this because I honestly forget it's even there because it's so light.” It comes in a variety of colors, making it a fun and practical running accessory.
Every good run starts with a comfortable yet durable pair of sneakers. Kate Glavan, running content creator and Hoka ambassador, calls the Hoka Mach X her favorite. “I raced the New York City Marathon in the Mach X,” says Glavan. “I’d say these are the perfect shoes for long runs, marathon training or races.”
Keeping your hair out of your face, especially when sweating, is key to a headache-free run. “These hair ties hold your hair back and in place,” says Sekely. “I haven't found a hair tie that allows my hair to stay in place like this one.”
This 12-ounce bottle has built-in storage to hold gels, cash, keys and more —?it even fits most smartphones. “I use this handheld to get through the majority of my runs and it's a game changer in the summer when a full hydration vest might make you feel super hot and sweaty,” Sekely says.
For the runner who's heading into their next race, bib magnets are a sleek tool that won’t prick holes in their clothing. “These really help hold your bib up during a race [and are] so much better than safety pins,” says Sekely. This 10-pack comes in a host of vibrant colors and styles, including reflective and iridescent options.
Glavan describes this as the cutest athletic top of all time. “I have this in a ton of fun colors," she says. "It's lightweight, breathable and leaves me feeling so confident on my runs.” The ruching down the front makes this shirt a bold statement piece for any runner’s wardrobe.?
The struggle is real when it comes to finding the most comfortable pair of running shorts, especially if you’re a sprinter. Kimberly Clark, running coach behind @trackclubbabe, loves the On Sprinter Shorts. “They’re the perfect length, and have a million pockets to hold your phone, gels and keys,” she says. “They’re also made of the most gorgeous fabric and are so flattering on.”
Running technology
Data-driven runners will appreciate this handy running watch. “This watch has everything I need: GPS, connection to Strava, ways to add in pacing or workouts and so much more,” says Glavan. “Using a Garmin has made tracking my runs and using the data super easy.”
A good run isn’t complete without a great soundtrack. These wireless and noise-canceling headphones are designed to stay comfortably in place, even during a tough workout.?“[They have] a great battery life, stay in your ears while running and [have] no issues with rain or sweat,” says Glavan.
This handy pair of earphones was designed with runners' and athletes' safety in mind. ”I’m able to hear everything around me and stay safe and alert — but also listen to my music or a podcast on a run," says Clark. "They have great sound quality and stay put while running.”
Recovery essentials
Yes, recovery footwear is a real thing. “Soft and spacious, Oofos feel great from the second you put them on,” Brian Beckstead, ultrarunner and co-founder of Altra Running, previously shared.?The technology in these sandals absorbs more impact than traditional footwear and reduces stress on the knees.
Running coach and founder of Badass Lady Gang Kelly Roberts says these boots will make the runner in your life cry happy tears. “Compression has been shown to improve circulation to tired, fatigued muscles, which means your legs can recover faster between runs,” she says. “If you think about it, it's a gift for both of you. You'll hear them complain less about tired, achy legs and they'll feel better.”
In addition to resting, recovery is essential to giving tired muscles time to recuperate — and compression is a great place to start. “Muscle floss is great for runner’s knee, ankles, quads, calves, shin splints and more,” says Roberts. “Muscle floss is cheap, efficient and the easiest way for runners to improve mobility and reduce muscle tightness. These bands are designed to compress and release muscles, aiding in recovery and preventing injuries during intense training sessions.”
“Foam rolling is a super-affordable recovery tool to target sore muscles and lactic acid buildup,” says Glavan. This compact foam roller also comes with a 15-minute digital workout to loosen tight muscles and improve mobility.
Although cupping is somewhat trendy, it can be traced back to ancient Chinese and Middle Eastern cultures to alleviate pain and reduce muscle tightness. “I've gotten acupuncture and cupping a handful of times and found great benefit in terms of recovery,” says Glavan. “Having a set at home makes it really easy to recover.”
Winding down after a run is just as important as gearing up for one. “My favorite way to unwind before bed is an Epsom salt bath,” says Glavan. “The magnesium sulfate helps with sore muscles and aches and gets me ready for sleep.”
This device is designed to accelerate recovery by massaging all the right muscles with a guided routine. “Having a massage gun is a game changer as a runner,” says Glavan. “You can target any body part and get high-quality relief from having a massage gun on hand.”
Non-running gear gifts
Home and gifts editor Amina Lake Abdelrahman loves this etched marathon-themed glass from Uncommon Goods. "This is such a thoughtful and unique gift for someone who just finished a race," she says. Each glass is adorned with famous marathon routes and can be an even better gift if it comes with post-run recovery beers.
If you know someone who is new to running, associate editor Jillian Tracy highly recommends this read. "While this isn’t a book that will give you tips and tricks for making it through the race, it did give me a certain sense of comfort in my early training days and gave me a new lens on the trials that accompany running."
Our gift guide editor also loves this custom mug for all the Strava enthusiasts, which is guaranteed to get a chuckle from runners who swear by the app. The mug can also be customized with profiles and dates, which can be a fun way to commemorate a notable race or run.
If the runner you're shopping for also loves to travel, this is an ideal gift. Abdelrahman hand-picked this passport journal, which includes plenty of room to document running adventures, a log of race times and a race bucket list. It can fit up to 20 entries and is a great tool for the adventurous runner in your life to keep track of their runs.
Abdelrahman also loves this hand-poured soy candle from Etsy seller Moonwicks Candles. It comes in a variety of scents including clean cotton, apple harvest, cinnamon vanilla and more. And if the runner in your life isn't quite at marathon level yet, you can also customize a candle with more appropriate text.
Sometimes, you just need a friendly reminder to keep going —?and this bracelet is just the perfect token to do so. Abdelrahman thinks this bracelet is great for runners who love a motivational quote. Made of hypoallergenic stainless steel, the bracelet comes in silver, gold and rose gold finishes.
Skin care
Skin care can often get swept under the rug in the grand scheme of running a marathon. These compact facial wipes are a practical gift for your runner friends who are always on the go. Associate beauty editor Sophie Shaw recommends these wipes from Burt's Bees because they're "gentle and nonirritating."
We all know by now that sun protection is key for those who spend ample time outside. "This is my go-to everyday?face sunscreen," says Tracy. "I’ve also been loving it for running since I never have any issues with it stinging my eyes or irritating my skin."
