Gifts for Runners

Runners are particular about shoes and already have opinions about their watch, so leave those alone. What they wear out, lose, and under-buy are socks, recovery tools, things for running in the dark, and something good to read on rest days.

Under $25 7 ideas

  1. Feetures Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab Socks

    Snug, targeted-compression running socks that do not bunch or slip. Runners go through socks fast and rarely buy the good ones for themselves.

    FeeturesStocking stuffer

    See it on Amazon

  2. SPIbelt Original Running Belt

    A slim stretch pouch for phone and keys that does not bounce. Better than a jacket pocket or an arm band.

    SPIbeltStocking stuffer

    See it on Amazon

  3. Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm

    The stick distance runners use before long runs and races. Unglamorous, but every marathoner knows why it is in the stocking.

    Body GlideGets used upStocking stuffer

    See it on Amazon

  4. Nathan Reflective Vest

    A light, adjustable reflective vest for winter runs before work. Useful for anyone who runs on roads in the dark.

    Nathan

    See it on Amazon

  5. Buff Original EcoStretch Neck Gaiter

    A stretchy tube that works as a neck warmer, headband or ear cover on cold mornings. One size fits nearly everyone.

    BuffStocking stuffer

    See it on Amazon

  6. Born to Run by Christopher McDougall

    The story of the Tarahumara runners and an ultramarathon in Mexico's Copper Canyons. Still the book runners press on each other.

    Christopher McDougallBook

    See it on Amazon

  7. Run Fast. Eat Slow. Nourishing Recipes for Athletes

    A cookbook from an Olympic marathoner with hearty, real-food recipes. Good for the runner who lives on pasta and protein bars.

    Shalane Flanagan and Elyse KopeckyBook

    See it on Amazon

Under $50 6 ideas

  1. Daniels' Running Formula, 4th Edition

    The coaching classic behind many training plans. For the runner who has started asking about tempo paces and VDOT.

    Jack DanielsBook

    See it on Amazon

  2. Noxgear Tracer2 Lighted Reflective Vest

    A glowing, color-cycling harness that drivers see from far away. A big step up from a plain reflective strip for night runners.

    Noxgear

    See it on Amazon

  3. TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller

    A firm, hollow-core roller that holds its shape for years, unlike soft foam ones. Runners use it on calves and IT bands after long runs.

    TriggerPoint

    See it on Amazon

  4. The Stick Original Body Massage Stick

    A rolling bar runners use on tight calves and quads. Easy to toss in a race-day bag, unlike a foam roller.

    The Stick

    See it on Amazon

  5. Nathan QuickSqueeze Handheld Water Bottle

    A soft-strap bottle that stays in the hand without gripping. Good for long summer runs without wearing a vest.

    Nathan

    See it on Amazon

  6. goodr OG Polarized Sunglasses

    No-bounce, no-slip running sunglasses in silly colors and names. Cheap enough that losing them at a race does not hurt.

    goodr

    See it on Amazon

Under $100 2 ideas

  1. Petzl Actik Core Rechargeable Headlamp

    A bright, rechargeable headlamp that sits stable while running. For trail runners and anyone who logs miles before sunrise.

    Petzl

    See it on Amazon

  2. Polar H10 Heart Rate Sensor

    A chest strap that is far more accurate than a wrist sensor and pairs with most watches and apps. A favorite of data-minded runners.

    Polar

    See it on Amazon

$100 and up 3 ideas

  1. Shokz OpenRun Bone Conduction Headphones

    Sit in front of the ears, so they can hear traffic and other runners. Many races that ban earbuds allow these.

    Shokz

    See it on Amazon

  2. Garmin Forerunner 165 GPS Running Smartwatch

    A bright AMOLED running watch with GPS, training plans and recovery data. A big upgrade for someone still running with their phone.

    Garmin

    See it on Amazon

  3. Theragun Mini Portable Massage Gun

    A palm-sized percussion massager for sore legs after a long run. Small enough to bring to races and trips.

    Therabody

    See it on Amazon