Gift Ideas for Runners

The holiday season is upon us!

I finished sending out my cards over the weekend, almost all of my gifts have been purchased, we trimmed my in-law’s tree (We don’t have a Christmas tree because Craig doesn’t want one–he said it’s not good for the environment to chop down so many trees. Feel free to leave a comment that he should still partake in the tradition. 😉 ), and now it is just a matter of enjoying the anticipation and waiting for the holiday celebrations to begin.

I’ve complied a list of gifts for that runner in your life (or maybe a little gift for yourself). I tried to include some unique gifts that you may not have considered buying–such as the best lighted running vest for running in the dark, a training journal, cookbook, and a couple casual pieces to wear post-run.

These are some of my personal favorites as well and items that any runner would love to have!

Running Tights

I recently purchased these tights and have worn them on a 20*F run (with windchill) and was surprised how warm my legs stayed. I usually have a hard time keeping my legs warm, but I came back, and my legs weren’t red like they usually are.

Silicone Rings

I love my silicone rings when working out, especially when lifting. I would hate to lose my wedding rings, so this is a great alternative when I’m running. Mine have held up so well, and I love mix-and-matching different colors of the thin bands together.

Cookbook*

This cookbook–along with the first one–have some of the best recipes I’ve ever made. I seriously have not made a bad recipe yet from either of these two cookbooks, and I make items from both cookbooks weekly.

Pullover*

I purchased this pullover this fall and have worn it so much already. It is super cozy and pairs with leggings or a pair of jeans. My other favorite casual funnel neck shirt is this Oiselle one.

Sunglasses*

Who doesn’t love a reasonably-priced pair of sunglasses that don’t bounce, are polarized, and only cost $25? Plus, the low cost means you can justify owning them in multiple colors. (I have three pairs–no judging.)

Lighted Vest*

This lighted vest is the ultimate item for those who run outside in the dark early in the morning or late at night. There are 360 degrees of visibility as well as a neon strap and reflective striping on this vest. It is lightweight and can be adjusted for any body shape and type. I wear it every single morning.

Headphones*

If you love to listen to music when you run–and run outside–I cannot recommend these headphones enough. These headphones do not go into your ear but instead rest on bones right in front of your ears, so that you can still hear what’s going on around you. It’s ingenious and at the same time crazy because the sound is conducted through your bones. The sound quality is amazing, and they are sweat resistant as well.

Down Jacket

This is the only jacket that keeps me warm when running in the winter here in Alaska. My core finally does not get cold running at temps in the teens, single digits, and below zero. I own two of the pullovers and one jacket, and I wear them nearly every day in the winter.

Sweatshirt

I’ll take one of every sweatshirt, please! Sarah Marie Design Studio has the most fun prints and sayings on her shirts, mugs, wine glasses, hats, and various other items. The sweatshirt featured above is their best-seller, but you can’t go wrong with some of their other tanks, shirts, and sweatshirts that say: “Marathoner,” “Life’s Short Run Fast,” and “Drink All the Coffee Run All the Miles.”

Casual Shoes

I’ve worn these shoes more than I can count. They are very comfortable for wearing after a run or casually when running errands. I get compliments on them all the time.

Training Journal*

Every day I write down in my training journal how far I ran, my average pace, how I felt, and any other stats I want to remember from my run. I’ve used a training log for over a decade, and I love being able to go back and see previous splits from workouts and trends as I recover from an injury.

Here are a few other unique gift ideas that you may not have thought about for that runner in your life.

• Pay for a race entry* (What a better way to motivate someone through the winter months than to sign them up for a race. A destination race might be even more fun!)
• Sign them up for a running club, training group, or running camp* (There are so many good running clubs and training groups out there where the group atmosphere can help keep someone accountable, the coaches can give tips and pointers on running form, and they also help runners in the same area connect with one another. Attending a running camp would also be an incredible experience and one on my bucket list!)
• Hire a running coach (Hiring a coach for me took my running to a whole new level. I went from being a 3:17 marathoner to a 3:02 marathoner. I personally offer coaching services for runners of all levels, but even if you don’t use my services, find someone who can motivate and challenge the runner in your life.)
• Massage (Who doesn’t love a deep tissue massage after a long run or hard week of training? This is something I always want to do but rarely purchase for myself.)
• InsideTracker (I’ve personally never used InsideTracker, but I know may who have and have shared very positive outcomes with the blood and DNA analysis that this company does for improving your running performance.)

*If you live in the Anchorage-area, you can find any of the starred (*) items at Skinny Raven. And right now there are discounts on race entries for the races Skinny Raven puts on.

Happy shopping! I’ve linked more of my favorites below!