The Best Gifts for the Runners In Your Life
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Think that your favorite runner is hard to shop for? We’re pretty sure they would disagree. While it’s often said you only need a pair of shoes to run, in reality most runners find that proper gear, accessories, and clothing make all the difference when it comes to training, racing and recovery. But whether you are a runner yourself or aren’t too familiar with the sport, it can be difficult to think of gifts on the spot.
To help you out, we gathered up a selection of our favorite gifts for runners that range in price from under $25 to under $150. Whether looking for the hottest tech to track their runs, nutrition to fuel their training, or a massage gun to help them recover, we have gift options that any runner will love. We also chose items that we have reviewed or have been tested by members of our staff (and myself) to come up with products that we can truly recommend. And if you’re planning ahead, you can score deals for Black Friday and Cyber Monday on our favorite gear for runners.
For more savings, check out these Black Friday deals for runners.
Best Gifts for Runners Under $25
Bombas Running Socks $16.50 (20% off sitewide)
I first discovered Bombas’ casual socks, but after falling in love with them, I branched out and tried their running models. These are easily some of my favorite running socks thanks to the snug arch support and zoned cushioning where you need it most.
Skratch Labs Energy Chews ($23.95 for a 10 pack)
“These chews are my absolute favorite for fueling pre-run. And, I get excited about a long run knowing that I can have these as a little treat during my miles. They are truly like candy, unlike a lot of other chews out there” says Jordan Smith, senior fitness editor.
Nathan Running Armband ($14.75)
This band is excellent for everyday runs, races, or even a trip to the gym. It has an adjustable band that keeps it snug on the arm, and is made of a water-resistant neoprene that protects your phone without irritating the skin.
Goodr Sunglasses ($25)
“I love running in these glasses. They’re super lightweight and I don't have to worry about them bouncing or slipping off when I sweat,” Smith says. “The polarized lenses protect my eyes even during the brightest runs.”
Best Gifts for Runners Under $50
Adidas Teber Gloves: ($50, on sale for $35)
“These toasty gloves are a great gift for the cold-hands folks in your life. So far, I've worn them on frosty mornings while hiking with my dog, and I've found them to be thick and plenty warm into the 20s,” says Taylor Rojek, senior fitness editor. “Once the weather gets super frigid, I'll add them to my running kit, too.”
Nike 22 oz Flex Stride ($40)
This hydration belt holds 22 ounces of water, and has a bounce-free fit that won’t shift around as you run. I love that it has a small pouch for essentials, and a silicone lining on the inside of the band keeps it snug and in place without having to tighten it too much.
Whoop 4.0: Big savings for Black Friday
“If you’ve been on the hunt for a no-frills fitness and health wearable, WHOOP is worth checking out, especially if you want a better understanding of where your baseline fitness levels are and how your body recovers,” said Daisy Hernandez in our review. This band tracks health and fitness data to give them an in depth look at their overall health and help to inform their training.
Regularly $239 for a 12-month membership, you can score 12 months for $199, (which comes out to just over $16.50 a month).
NoxGear Tracer2 ($49.95)
Keep your runner safe on their night time excursions with this illuminated light up vest. It has a combination of reflective surfaces and 360 degree illumination so they can be seen from every angle.
Trigger Point Foam Roller ($36.95)
I have used this foam roller for years, and recommend it to anyone looking for an every day roller. It has the combination of textured foam over a hard core that allows you to massage deep into the muscles without overworking or causing excessive discomfort.
BruMate Era 40 Oz Tumbler ($44.99)
“I love this Tumbler because I can only drink water when it’s icy cold and this tumbler keeps my drink cold all day, whether I’m sitting at my desk or leave it in my car while I’m out for a run,” Smith says. ”Plus, it really is leakproof, allowing me to take it anywhere without worrying about a spill in my bag or car.”
Best Gifts for Runners Under $100
Future Personal Training Subscription: Get your first month for $99
This training app allows them to get personalized training and a dedicated coach all in an app. The coaches will work with them to create workouts that fit their schedule and will help them reach their goals. It is also on sale right now for only $99 for the first month.
Adidas Own the Run Hooded Running Windbreaker (on sale for $56)
This basic windbreaker is a great staple to add to any running wardrobe. I love that I can cinch the waist at the bottom to keep out cold air, and the adjustable hood actually stays on—and out of my eyes—while I run.
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate ($59.99)
This protein is clean, simple, and made with high quality ingredients. It also comes in 13 different flavors including strawberry milkshake, cinnamon french toast, and blueberry pancake—and of course classics like vanilla and chocolate too.
Lululemon Surge Lined Shorts ($68)
These shorts are a great option for men whether running or at the gym. They are lined so they don’t have to wear anything underneath, and the long enough to prevent anything from showing while still preventing any bunching from excess fabric.
Lululemon The Workout Mat ($98)
There’s lots of yoga mats out there, but this one is designed to hold up for any workout. It has a textured surface that gives you grip in lateral movements and jumps, and it is durable enough to hold up to consistent use—even in shoes. It is also stain resistant and easy to clean.
Black Diamond Headlamp (On sale for 448.69)
This headlamp is comfortable, lightweight, and provides both visibility for the runner and those around them. It has three light settings with a max of 400 lumens, and also has red light and strobe settings to keep them visible on the roads.
Skullcandy Rail ANC Earbuds ($79.99)
“These earbuds have become my favorite earbuds by a mile, excelling in every category for sound quality, comfort and Bluetooth range,” says Emma Witman, fitness and gear writer. At only $80, they are more affordable than some other earbud options, and they have a 42-hour battery life so they will last you multiple runs before a recharge is necessary.
Best Gifts for Runners Under $150
Lululemon Fast and Free Tights ($128)
“The Lululemon Fast and Free Tights (and shorts) are my go-to running pant,” Smith says. “I love that the fabric is breathable and wicks sweat while I run. I get hot easily and these pants are not too thick so I can wear them in the fall as well as when the temps drop and still be comfortable.”
Allbirds Wool Runner 2 ($110)
Allbirds has a couple running shoes, but despite having the word ‘runner’ in the name, these are their everyday shoe that is great for casual wear. It has a wool upper that keeps the feet warm during cooler months, and a thick foam midsole that helps you stay comfortable all day long.
Lululemon Fast and Free Trail Running Vest ($138)
Built to handle the toughest trails, this Lululemon vest holds everything they need without weighing them down. It can fit a 500 milliliter flask in the front, and 1.5 liter bladder in the back, and even has features like a detachable whistle, zippered pockets for valuables and a tunnel for trekking poles to help keep you and your items safe.
Best Gifts for Runners Under $200
Theragun Mini (on sale for $149)
Tiny, portable and lightweight, the Theragun Mini is a great gift for the frequently traveling runner. This massage gun has three speeds, three attachments, and is even bluetooth compatible with the Theragun App. It also has a 120 minute battery life, so it lasts a while between charges.
Hatch Restore 2 ($199, get $40 off at checkout for Black Friday)
I have a hard time waking up in the morning—especially as we get into the depths of winter, but the Hatch Restore helps me wake up gently and pleasantly with nature sounds and increasing light. I also love the night time sleep sounds and wind downs before bed.
Nike InfinityRN 4 ($160)
“This shoe is unbelievably comfortable,” wrote Dylan Van Duyne in our review. “The upper hugs your foot just right, the ReactX foam in the midsole is both cushioned and responsive, and the outsole provides traction and durability I want for a shoe I plan to put some heavy miles on. Unlike other shoes that don’t have the same solid, rubber coverage on the outside, this shoe is bound to last.”
Jabra Elite 8 Active ($199)
Runners put their headphones through the ringer, but these by Jabra are designed to hold up against dust and water, and are even shake-proof so they won’t fall out while you run. These also feature spatial sound by Dolby which makes the listening experience exceptionally life-like.
Raycon The Fitness Headphones ($119)
For someone that prefers an over the ear headphone, these are designed to perform alongside your toughest workouts. They have washable ear cushions which help keep the headphones clean and prevent acne, active noise cancellation, and a 45 hour battery life.me.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
