How do I determine which gift is best for the runner in my life?

Think about what your runner may get the most use out of. Do they need more workout clothes or accessories? You may want to get them more running pants or a pair of gloves or a hat for the winter months. Have you heard them complain of injuries or blisters? If so, they may appreciate gifts that help with blister prevention and recovery, such as a massage ball or gun, compression garments, or high-quality running socks.

What are some ways to personalize a gift for a runner?

There are so many fun ways to personalize a gift for the runner in your life. You can give them a running-related gift to commemorate an accomplishment, such as a a new personal record or completing their first 5K, half marathon, or full marathon. They also might enjoy having their running belt, gloves, or hat personalized with their name or initials.

What should I write in the card when giving a running gift?

Write something inspiring or encouraging for your runner in your card. Many runners have running mantras they repeat to themselves to motivate them on long-distance runs. It would be even more special if the mantra came from someone they love. You can also write an inspirational quote about running in your card.

What should every runner have?

There are so many accessories, gear, and gadgets for running, it’s impossible to have them all. However, there are some non-negotiables that are essential for every runner. Runners should definitely have comfortable running shoes and clothes. Leggings or shorts with pockets are very useful for storing phones, keys, and energy gels or snacks. If your runner enjoys listening to music during their runs, good earbuds that don’t fall out are also a must-have.

The 21 Best Gift Ideas for Runners of 2021, According to a Running Coach

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Believe it or not, running requires a lot of gear. The more into running you are, the more new and exciting gadgets you’ll find to enhance your running experience. Runners love an endless supply of workout clothes, tech tools, and recovery contraptions.

If you’re shopping for someone who’s obsessed with running, you may feel overwhelmed by the vast number of running clothes, gear, and gadgets to sort through. As a running coach, I’ve researched and tested plenty of running-related items, so I can save you time and effort when selecting a gift for a runner.

Here are the best gift ideas for runners on the market.

Our Top Picks

Garmin Forerunner 245 Running Smartwatch at Amazon

The runner in your life will appreciate this smartwatch, which helps meet fitness goals by tracking steps, miles, and calories.

BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm at Amazon

Runners and joggers alike will have one less thing to worry about on their endurance runs with this anti-chafe balm on hand.

Bombas Tri-Bloc Ankle Socks at Gap.com

Upgrade your sock game with a comfy pair that's equipped to handle medium-high impact workouts and protect blisters.

Etsy Run Happy Bracelet at Etsy

Keep your runner motivated with a cord bracelet that's sure to remind them why they started while adding flair to their outfit.

Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews at Amazon

Fuel up with Honey Stinger's energy chews, which promise to delay muscle fatigue and keep you energized for your run or race.

Tough Headwear Running Beanie at Amazon

Runners, snowboarders, skiiers, or bikers can brave frigid elements with this beanie that can be layered under a helmet.

Trigger Point Foam Massage Ball at Amazon

A compact and travel-sized version of a foam roller, this massage ball targets muscle tightness in the upper and lower body.

Nuun Sport Electrolyte Drink Tablets at Amazon

If you accidentally missed including minerals in your meal, use this tablet to turn your water into a sports drink.

New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves at Amazon

Enhance your winter apparel with a pair of gloves that are touch-screen friendly and reflective for added nighttime safety.

Run Forever Sports Calf Compression Sleeves at Amazon

Easily foldable so they can be tossed into your bag or pocket, these calf compression sleeves add warmth and boost circulation.

This sturdy and reliable GPS watch from Garmin lets runners track data such as their miles, stride length, calories, and heart rate (heart monitor strap sold separately). Plus, this 245 model has music streaming capabilities, so there’s no need to bring your phone along if you want to listen to tunes while you run.

This tried-and-true product has a huge fanbase of distance runners who use it to avoid painful chafing. Just rub some Body Glide on chafing-prone areas and the invisible, dry, and protective barrier will repel friction and moisture, helping to stop the skin irritation caused by rubbing.

Runners can never have too many socks, but once they try these high-performance ones from Bombas, they may not want any others. With a cushioned footbed and optimal breathability, they excel in the areas of comfort and blister protection. Even better, for every pair of socks purchased, Bombas donates a pair to homeless shelters.

Runners will love to wear this motivational bracelet to remember why they started running and as a reminder to always find the joy in it. Choose from over 20 different cord colors.

These delicious energy chews from Honey Stinger give runners something to look forward to during their long runs and races. Available in eight flavors, they’re organic, gluten-free, and provide much-needed fuel for any workout.

Runners will look forward to outdoor runs in the cold when they’re wearing this lightweight, comfy beanie hat. Its brushed thermal lining provides ultimate heat-retention, and the stretchy, breathable fabric effectively wicks away sweat so the wearer doesn’t get wet and cold.

This compact massager is ideal for digging into tough knots and sore muscles, especially when you’re traveling and don’t want to pack a large foam roller. It’s especially good for targeting areas where runners get tight, such as their calves and piriformis.

Perfect for on-the-run or post-run hydration, these Nuun electrolyte tablets provide runners with the minerals their bodies need, such as magnesium and potassium. They just add the tablet to water for natural, low-calorie hydration with a burst of fruity flavor.

Even if they already own a pair of running gloves, runners always appreciate an extra pair to keep in their running jacket, gym bag, or car. Comfortable, stretchy, and easy to wash, these New Balance lightweight running gloves are a good addition to a winter running wardrobe. They also have useful features, such as grippy traction on the palms, touchscreen compatible fingertips, and reflective elements.

For travel, warm-ups, and post-run recovery, runners love the circulation boost and inflammation relief from compression sleeves. They can even help with those annoying shin splints.

Rather than just sticking their race medals in a drawer, this medal hanger lets runners keep their collection organized and beautifully displayed. Made from laser-cut steel with a powder coat black finish, it’s very sturdy and can hold about 24 medals.

Uncommon Goods Etched Marathon Pint Glass

A unique gift for marathoners, these pint glasses are the perfect way to celebrate their accomplishments. They’re beautifully etched with the routes and surrounding city maps of many big-city marathons, plus they feature finish line coordinates and dates of the inaugural race.

This sleek, lightweight, and extremely comfortable hat from Brooks provides protection for sunny and rainy conditions, and it also has excellent airflow and ventilation so you don’t overheat when it's hot out. With an adjustable strap, you can get a customized fit, so the hat works for both men and women.

Perfect for securely stashing on-the-run essentials, this running belt from Nathan stretches to fit the contours of your body. Super-soft and comfortable, it has multiple pockets and can fit larger phones.

Give your favorite runner the gift of a pain-free run with these patches that adhere to your shoe to help eliminate friction and protect feet from blisters. They can be trimmed to fit any shoe size or shape and are easy to stash in a pocket or running belt for mid-run application.

This popular Athleta headband actually stays put, keeping your hair off your face and wicking away sweat. It also won’t give you a headache and doesn't leave a kink in your hair when you remove it.

The Buddy System Adjustable Hands-Free Dog Leash

This hands-free leash makes it super easy for runners to bring their four-legged friend along on the run. It attaches to the runner’s waist, so it won’t mess up their stride.

These runner-friendly wireless headphones are designed to stay secure and comfortable for the entire run. They’re also sweat- and water-resistant, and they are easy to adjust with just a light touch.

A perfect gift for anyone who runs outside, the Tribe armband offers a safe and comfortable way to carry a phone. It’s water resistant and has room for large phones as well as keys or other small items.

Keep your favorite runners safe with this rechargeable headlamp, designed to help runners see and be seen in low light conditions. It has several different modes and levels of intensity and is also very useful for camping, hiking, and other activities.

Vitscan Activated Charcoal Odor Absorber Bags

The charcoal bags are perfect for gym bags, sneakers, cars, or any other place where runners may be concerned about bad smells lingering. The activated charcoal eliminates odors by absorbing them, not covering them up.

Final Verdict

For a high-tech gift that'll please runners who enjoy metrics and music streaming, go for the Garmin Forerunner 245 Running Smartwatch (view at Amazon). Runners can set and reach goals by tracking their miles, stride length, and calories. And for a budget-friendly gift that's sure to get a lot of use, the Body Glide Original Anti Chafe Balm (view at Amazon) offers relief for any runner suffering from chafing.

What to Look for in Gifts for Runners

Cost

You’ll want to think about what you want to spend on your runner. Running clothes and gear can range dramatically in cost, starting low with a running belt or smaller accessory and soaring much higher for top-quality leggings or a watch. Choose a gift that matches your preferred price point. It’s always the thought that counts, and your runner recipient will appreciate any gift that helps celebrate their favorite activity.

Running Goals

Consider your runner’s goals when choosing a gift. If they are just starting out and trying to build their mileage and skills, maybe they would enjoy new clothes or shoes. If they are a more experienced runner, they might like a running watch or new recovery tool. A runner’s goals can tell you a lot about what kinds of gear and gadgets they may want or need.

Location

Depending on where your runner lives and trains, they'll need different gear. In the colder months, they may want new running gloves or a warm hat or headband. If they live somewhere with a lot of rain, consider waterproof jackets, pants, and arm bands to keep their phone safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I determine which gift is best for the runner in my life?

Think about what your runner may get the most use out of. Do they need more workout clothes or accessories? You may want to get them more running pants or a pair of gloves or a hat for the winter months. Have you heard them complain of injuries or blisters? If so, they may appreciate gifts that help with blister prevention and recovery, such as a massage ball or gun, compression garments, or high-quality running socks.
What are some ways to personalize a gift for a runner?

There are so many fun ways to personalize a gift for the runner in your life. You can give them a running-related gift to commemorate an accomplishment, such as a a new personal record or completing their first 5K, half marathon, or full marathon. They also might enjoy having their running belt, gloves, or hat personalized with their name or initials.
What should I write in the card when giving a running gift?

Write something inspiring or encouraging for your runner in your card. Many runners have running mantras they repeat to themselves to motivate them on long-distance runs. It would be even more special if the mantra came from someone they love. You can also write an inspirational quote about running in your card.
What should every runner have?

There are so many accessories, gear, and gadgets for running, it’s impossible to have them all. However, there are some non-negotiables that are essential for every runner. Runners should definitely have comfortable running shoes and clothes. Leggings or shorts with pockets are very useful for storing phones, keys, and energy gels or snacks. If your runner enjoys listening to music during their runs, good earbuds that don’t fall out are also a must-have.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

An avid runner and marathon running coach, Christine Luff loves researching and shopping for the perfect running gear and gadgets for running friends and family members. She inevitably also finds something to satisfy her own running needs and desires.

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The 21 Best Gift Ideas for Runners of 2021, According to a Running Coach

Get the perfect gift for the runners in your life

Garmin Forerunner 245 Running Smartwatch

BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm

Bombas Tri-Bloc Ankle Socks

Etsy Run Happy Bracelet

Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews

Tough Headwear Running Beanie

Trigger Point Foam Massage Ball

Nuun Sport Electrolyte Drink Tablets

New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves

Run Forever Sports Calf Compression Sleeves

Gone for a Run Runner's Race Medal Hanger

Well Told Design Etched Marathon Pint Glass

Brooks Sherpa Hat

Nathan Hipster Running Belt

Engo Oval Blister Prevention Patches

Athleta Vital Headband in Powervita

The Buddy System Adjustable Hands-Free Dog Leash

Bose Sport Earbuds

Tribe Cell Phone Armband

Petzl Actik Headlamp

Vitscan Activated Charcoal Odor Absorber Bags