Fitness Gear The Best Gift Ideas for Runners That a Running Coach Loves From smart watches to socks, find the perfect gift for the runners in your life By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Luff, ACE-CPT LinkedIn Twitter Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach. Learn about our editorial process Updated on April 18, 2022 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by John Honerkamp Reviewed by John Honerkamp LinkedIn Twitter John Honerkamp is an RRCA and USATF certified running coach, celebrity marathon pacer, and recognized leader in the New York City running community. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Emily Swaim Fact checked by Emily Swaim LinkedIn Emily is a fact checker, editor, and writer who has expertise in psychology, health and lifestyle content. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Believe it or not, running requires a lot of gear. Runners love an endless supply of workout clothes, tech tools, and recovery contraptions to enhance their running routine. 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 but considering your budget and the type of runner you're buying for, can help you narrow down your choices. Reviewed & Approved A top gift pick for runners of all levels is the Garmin Forerunner 245 Smartwatch for its reliable GPS and data tracking. The Bombas Tri-Block Ankle Socks are a good pick for any runner because they're cushiony and breathable and the company donates socks for every pair sold. A factor to consider when selecting a gift for a runner is what the runner's goals are. Someone training for a marathon has different needs than someone who runs casually for fitness. Similarly, someone who trains on wooded trails has different needs than someone who runs their neighborhood sidewalks. When evaluating gifts for our list, we considered cost, overall value, the type of running the gift supports, and the type of location the gift is good for. Here are the best gift ideas for runners on the market. Our Top Picks Garmin Forerunner 245 Running Smartwatch at Amazon Jump to Review BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm at Amazon Jump to Review Bombas Tri-Bloc Ankle Socks at Gap.com Jump to Review Etsy Run Happy Bracelet at Etsy Jump to Review Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews at Amazon Jump to Review Tough Headwear Running Beanie at Amazon Jump to Review Trigger Point Foam Massage Ball at Amazon Jump to Review Nuun Sport Electrolyte Drink Tablets at Amazon Jump to Review New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves at Amazon Jump to Review Run Forever Sports Calf Compression Sleeves at Amazon Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For Why Trust Verywell Fit Garmin Forerunner 245 Running Smartwatch 4.7 Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Best Buy A GPS smartwatch like the Garmin Forerunner is a top pick for any runner that wants to track their stats. This sturdy and reliable GPS watch 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. Verywell Fit / Joline Buscemi BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Dick's 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. Bombas Tri-Bloc Ankle Socks Courtesy of Bombas View On Gap.com 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. The 7 Best Socks of 2022 Etsy Run Happy Bracelet Courtesy of Etsy View On Etsy 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. Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews Courtesy of Honey Stinger View On Amazon View On Honeystinger.com View On REI 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. The 5 Best Energy Chews of 2022, According to a Dietitian Tough Headwear Running Beanie Courtesy of Tough Headwear View On Amazon 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. The 9 Best Running Hats of 2022, According to a Running Coach Trigger Point Foam Massage Ball Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon 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. Nuun Sport Electrolyte Drink Tablets Swanson Health View On Amazon View On Walmart View On REI 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. New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves Courtesy of Running Warehouse View On Amazon 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. The 12 Best Running Gloves of 2022, According to a Running Coach Run Forever Sports Calf Compression Sleeves Courtesy: Run Forever View On Amazon View On Runforeversports.com 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. Gone for a Run Runner's Race Medal Hanger Photo from Amazon View On Amazon View On Goneforarun.com 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. Well Told Design Etched Marathon Pint Glass Courtesy of Uncommon Goods View On Uncommon Goods 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. The 15 Best Gifts for Walkers of 2022 Brooks Sherpa Hat Courtesy of Running Warehouse View On Zappos View On Brooksrunning.com View On Runningwarehouse.com 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. Nathan Hipster Running Belt Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Nathansports.com 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. Engo Oval Blister Prevention Patches 4.7 Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Ithacasports.com 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. The 10 Best Products to Help Prevent and Treat Foot Blisters Athleta Vital Headband in Powervita Courtesy of Athleta View On Gap.com 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 Hands-Free Dog Leash Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon 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. The Best Running Gifts for Men, According to a Running Coach Bose Sport Earbuds 4.7 Bose View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Best Buy 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. Tribe Cell Phone Armband Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Tribefitnessusa.com 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. The Best Running Safety Gear, According to a Running Coach Petzl Actik Headlamp Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Backcountry.com View On REI 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. The Best Running Safety Gear, According to a Running Coach Vitscan Activated Charcoal Odor Absorber Bags Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon 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. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Get one simple hack every day to make your life healthier. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit