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.
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.
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.
Here are the best gift ideas for runners on the market.
A GPS smartwatch like the Garmin Forerunner is a top pick for any runner who 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.
Garmin Forerunner 245 Running Smartwatch
Price at time of publication: $217
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.
BodyGlide Original Anti-Chafe Balm
Price at time of publication: $11
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.
Bombas Tri-Bloc Ankle Socks
Price at time of publication: $13
Runners will love to wear this motivational bracelet to remember why they started running and as a reminder to always find joy in it. Choose from over 20 different cord colors.
Etsy Run Happy Bracelet
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.
Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews
Price at time of publication: $28
Runners will look forward to outdoor runs in the cold when they’re wearing this comfy lightweight 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.
Tough Headwear Running Beanie
Price at time of publication: $10
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.
Trigger Point Foam Massage Ball
Price at time of publication: $24
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.
Nuun Sport Electrolyte Drink Tablets
Price at time of publication: $23
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.
New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves
Price at time of publication: $18
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.
Run Forever Sports Calf Compression Sleeves
Price at time of publication: $15
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-coated black finish, it’s very sturdy and can hold about 24 medals.
Gone for a Run Runner’s Race Medal Hanger
Price at time of publication: $30
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.
Well Told Design Etched Marathon Pint Glass
Price at time of publication: $20
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.
Brooks Sherpa Hat
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.
Nathan Hipster Running Belt
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 your 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.
Engo Oval Blister Prevention Patches
Price at time of publication: $16
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.
Athleta Vital Headband in Powervita
Price at time of publication: $14
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 Buddy System Hands-Free Dog Leash
Price at time of publication: $35
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.
Bose Sport Earbuds
Price at time of publication: $150
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.
Tribe Cell Phone Armband
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.
Petzl Actik Headlamp
Price at time of publication: $48
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.
Vitscan Activated Charcoal Odor Absorber Bags
Staying safe while hitting the pavement shouldn’t be an afterthought. Gift the runner in your life a sense of security with this personal alarm from Birdie. We love that it’s created by (and for) women and features both a loud siren and a flashing strobe light.
She’s Birdie Safety Alarm
Celebrate your favorite runner’s accomplishments with this thoughtful race bib and medal display. Instead of keeping a drawer or storage bin filled with race paraphernalia, use this decorative display to accent a home gym, office, or bedroom. It will remind them of the miles they’ve put in and motivate them to keep going.
Gone For a Run BibFOLIO Plus Race Bib and Medal Display
Price at time of publication: $70
Preserve your hair while you get in your miles. These scrunchies will help keep any ponytail in place without tearing or tugging. Plus, the bright colors make for a statement accessory on your wrist.
Preserve your hair while you get in your miles.
Athleta Mini Scrunchie 6-Pack
Dry Shampoo is a long-haired runner’s best friend. Morning runners, especially, may rejoice with the time-saver this dry shampoo provides. Skip the wash, and simply spray this super-absorbent formula that leaves your hair looking and feeling clean—with a super subtle scent.
Drybar Detox Original Scent Dry Shampoo
Price at time of publication: $21
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 a 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 armbands to keep their phone safe.
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.
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 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 on your card.
- What should every runner have?
- There are so many accessories, gear, and gadgets for running that 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.
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.
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 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.
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 on your card.
There are so many accessories, gear, and gadgets for running that 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.
