Life
23 Gifts for Runners That Will Go The Distance This Holiday Season
It's actually pretty easy to buy holiday gifts for runners. As a runner living on a budget, I'm always grateful that my favorite fitness activity requires little more than a decent pair of shoes and a few staple pieces of clothing for each season, but even though I lust after cute designer running tights all the time, I'm pretty good at exercising self control and hitting up the clearance rack instead. So like many regular joggers, running gear ranks high on my holiday wishlist because hey, I'm not buying! This season, pamper the marathoner in your life with one of these 23 thoughtful running-related gifts.
From splurge buys such as wireless headphones to stocking stuffers like SmartWool socks (trust me, these are magic), this list covers a range of prices. And it's not just clothes and gear... you'll find wall art and fun accessories, too. So cue the Chariots of Fire theme song, and start looking for the perfect present.
Reflective Pullover
She’s not going to stop running outside just because it’s cold out. This bright pullover will keep your favorite runner cozy and visible on dark winter evenings.
Women’s Nightlife LS, $80, Brooks Running
Marathon Map Prints
Running a marathon is brutal. After months of training and no social life, finishers deserve to brag a little bit. Give a marathoner one of these colorful map prints with her time on it so she can show off her accomplishment.
Beanie
There are so many dorky running caps out there, but this adorable, sweat-wicking beanie is not one of them.
Rapid Run Beanie, $49, Sweaty Betty
Running Tights
These lightweight tights look so cool, your friend is going to want to wear them all the time — even when she’s not running.
Sting Be Free Tight, $74, Athleta
Wireless Headphones
Headphone wires have a way of getting in the way. This wireless pair solves that problem so your fellow Swiftie can enjoy running to Shake It Off… on repeat.
Jabra Sport Wireless +, $100, Jabra
Arm Warmers
Great for chilly race days, these highlighter-colored arm warmers will protect your 5K-loving friend’s arms from the sun’s rays and the cold.
Drylete Armwarmers, $25, Saucony
Shorts
Whether she’s hitting the sidewalk or the treadmill, she’ll stand out in these cute floral print shorts.
Dark Bloom Run Short, $63, Lorna Jane
Gloves
Toasty and tech-friendly, these fleece gloves are a winter running staple.
Run With Me Gloves Fleece, $32, Lululemon
Sports Bra
Maybe I’m just weird, but if your friend’s a superstitious runner like me, she probably has a lucky sports bra. This supportive one comes in a variety of fun prints… definitely a winner.
GPS Watch
If you’re shelling out for a close friend or family member who likes running, buy her a Forerunner — she’ll love you forever.
Forerunner 10, $130, Garmin
Beer Mug
Every run should end with a beer (carbo-loading, duh!). This is an excellent vessel for that post-marathon brew.
Foam Roller
Foam roller? More like magic roller.
Textured Foam Roller, $30, Gaiam
Shoe Wings
Because shoes need bling, too.
Shwings Glitter, $7, Oiselle
Windbreaker
Lightweight and weather-resistant, this jacket is the perfect fit for year-round runners.
Nike Windrunner, $85, Nike
Sparkly Headbands
Keeping hair out of your face never looked cuter. These are fun to wear at color runs, too!
Sparkly Wide Headbands, $17 each, Sparkly Soul
Handheld Water Bottle and Pouch
Not everyone goes for the water belt. Your friend might prefer this simple handheld bottle, which comes with an iPhone pouch.
Socks
I swear by SmartWool. Seriously, these are so comfortable (and fit nicely in holiday stockings).
Buff
Meet the Buff. You can use this handy accessory as a neck gaiter or bandana, so it’s like two gifts in one.
Buff Original Buff, $20, Rei
Vest
Layered over a long-sleeved shirt, this vest is warm and fashionable. It also has plenty of pockets, including one with a cord holder for your headphones.
Rebel Runner Vest, $98, Lululemon
Bath Soak
Runners work hard for those killer legs. When your friend’s muscles are so sore she feels like she can’t move, this natural bath soak will help soothe her aching quads.
Dead Sea Salt Bath Soak, $24, Etsy
