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The 49 Best Gifts for Runners Who Already Have a Favorite Pair of Shoes

Pro tip: Socks are actually a great gift.

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foam roller, fanny pack, bucket hat, running shoes, head lamp, strava mug, run fast eat slow book
Thomas Hengge

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It’s easy to think that all a runner needs is a pair of running shoes and a water bottle. But when the holidays roll around, it’s an opportunity to get your favorite runner a piece of gear that can really help as they tap out miles—think hydration packs and recovery tools.

Whether you’re trying to drop not-so-subtle hints about your own Christmas wish list or you’re looking for ideas for a loved one, there are plenty of thoughtful presents to get that they’ll actually use and love. Just know that you won’t find any shoes here; shoe choice is so specific and personal to each runner that, if you do want to buy them a pair, you’re better off asking and not guessing.

With that in mind, this, ahem, running list of gift ideas for runners comes with recommendations for some of our favorite products that we’ve personally tested or come highly recommended.

For more great gifts for your favorite runner, check out the best gifts for fitness lovers, self-care gift ideas, and the best running products on Amazon.

1
For Easier Recovery

NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System

Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System
$700 at Amazon$799 at Men's Health Shop

NormaTec’s Pulse 2.0 is admittedly expensive, but it’s also a valuable aid when it comes to recovery. If you have an amateur athlete in your life, this can help them bounce back faster and deal with less inflammation as it compresses, boosting circulation and combatting soreness.

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2
For More Comfort—and Fewer Blisters

Balega Blister Resist No-Show Socks For Men and Women

Blister Resist No-Show Socks For Men and Women

Whereas socks might get you an “Oh... thanks,” from many people, they’re always great gifts for runners. These Balegas, specifically, wick moisture well thanks to the mohair wool and Drynamix in their fabric. This means there’s less chance for uncomfortable chafing and blisters. That wool also retains warmth, though—good as we enter the colder months—without too much heat buildup.

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3
For Relaxing Recovery

Runnerbox The RunnerBox

The RunnerBox

There are some recovery methods that are more active. But for the individual who’s a fan of the more laid-back approach, the Runnerbox is a great choice. This subscription service provides runners with goodies and food options delivered every other month. They’ll have a new batch of items waiting for them, including protein bars, sneaker-whitening powder, ready-to-eat granola, and more.

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4
For Carrying The Necessities

SPIbelt Eco-Friendly Running Belt

Eco-Friendly Running Belt

There are a few essentials everyone needs to have with them on a run—phone, wallet, keys. This belt accommodates them and stays in place without jostling or bouncing. Bonus: the comfortable, low-profile buckle.

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5
For Tight Muscles

Hyperice Hypervolt 2 Massage Gun

Hypervolt 2 Massage Gun

For the runner who’s always tight, this massage tool is cheaper than a monthly visit to the spa or therapist, and it can get deep into the tissue without tiring. It comes with five heads and has a rechargeable battery that can last up to 3 hours.

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6
For the Foodie

Rodale Books Run Fast. Eat Slow.: Nourishing Recipes for Athletes Cookbook

On Sale
<i>Run Fast. Eat Slow.: Nourishing Recipes for Athletes</i> Cookbook
Now 38% Off

This cookbook, designed by pro runner Shalane Flanagan, focuses on the best foods to fuel your performance. With recipes ranging from smoothies to sandwiches to pasta to cookies, it has everything you need to nourish a hard-working body. Plus, the dishes are delicious and will leave even your non-runner friends coming back for seconds.

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7
For Celebrating That PR

ThePositiveArt Strava Map Mug

On Sale
Strava Map Mug
Now 15% Off

Do you have a run/race that you were super proud of? Does your friend want to show off their PR? This mug allows you to print a custom Strava post showing the map, pace, distance, and time. This is a great option for commemorating a lesser-known race that might not have memorabilia.

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8
For Protecting Their Eyes

Revo Harness Sunglasses

Harness Sunglasses

Eye protection is crucial. These best-selling sports sunglasses feature a polarized gray-based and blue mirror-coated lens to protect eyes from the sun’s rays. The best part? It doesn’t affect the view — runners can still take in the road, trail, or nature around them without manipulated colors and hues.

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9
For Easing Aches and Pains

Bestway SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub

SaluSpa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub

This inflatable hot tub makes winter training recovery less frightful and more delightful. It can fit up to four people and works both indoors and out—though it does need to be 39 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer outside.

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10
For Tracking Progress

Garmin Forerunner 35 Fitness Watch

Forerunner 35 Fitness Watch

For beginners or younger runners, this Garmin has all the basics you need at an affordable price. It tracks distance, pace, and heart rate, and it has a sleeker design than most watches from the brand, making it a great choice for smaller wrists.

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11
For the Runner Who Needs Tunes

Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds

On Sale
Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds

Headphones are essential for many runners. These editor-approved bluetooth headphones offer up to 9 hours of listening time and are sweat-resistant, so they’ll remain comfortable throughout long runs. Plus, with no wires, they won’t get tangled up while you’re racking up those miles.

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12
For More Secure Sneaks

Lock Laces Elastic No Tie Shoe Laces

Elastic No Tie Shoe Laces

Great for triathletes, kids, or people who hate tying their shoes, these Lock Laces allow them to slip on their running shoes and still have them stay secure and supportive on your feet. They also come in 13 different colors, which gives you a bunch of options if you’re trying to match a particular pair of shoes.

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13
For Delicious Refueling

Gu Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel

On Sale
Energy Original Sports Nutrition Energy Gel

Know an endurance athlete? There’s a good chance that they already use Gu to help them get through their toughest workouts and longest races—and that makes it a great stocking stuffer, since you know it won’t go to waste.

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14
For Relaxing Showers

Cleverfy Shower Steamers

On Sale
Shower Steamers

Just because they don’t have a bathtub doesn’t mean that washing up after a run can’t be therapeutic. These shower steamers are filled with dried plants and essential oils, which can give washing up a relaxing aromatherapy vibe.

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15
For On-the-Go Hydration

Nuun Electrolyte Drink Tablets

On Sale
Electrolyte Drink Tablets
Now 15% Off

Ditch the sugary sports drinks in favor of these Nuun tablets. They help replenish salt and electrolytes lost after working out, and they’re free of artificial flavoring. These four flavors provide some much-needed variety.

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16
For Layering Without Bulk

Lululemon Down for It All Vest

Down for It All Vest

Your giftee can layer up for those winter runs with this water-resistant vest. Stuffed with warm down, it provides optimal warmth and protection from the wind while remaining lightweight enough to not impact speed and time. It’s available in five colors (sonic pink, cassis, pipe dream blue, raceway green, and black) and in sizes 0 to 18.

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17
For Safer Runs

Knog Quokka Run Silicone Headlam

Quokka Run Silicone Headlam

If your giftee enjoys early morning or late night runs, this headlamp is the ideal option to make sure they’re seen by vehicles and pedestrians. There are spot, wide, and red-light modes and a translucent silicone strap for comfort. When it runs out of battery, it’s USB rechargeable.

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18
For Protecting Tech

Sprigs Phone Armband

Phone Armband

A lot of phone holders can be bulky and annoying, but this design by Sprigs feels like a second skin. Rubber nubs on the inside of the sleeve ensure that it doesn’t slip. And since it’s made from stretchy fabric, it can fit almost any size phone.

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19
For On-the-Go Shade

TrailHeads Race Day Performance Running Hat

Race Day Performance Running Hat

It’s not always easy to find running hats that are comfortable and will actually stay in place while a runner is moving, but this one is a great option. It’s lightweight and breathable via the mesh-like fabric.

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20
For Breathable Long-Sleeve Coverage

Tracksmith Harrier Long Sleeve

Harrier Long Sleeve

Tracksmith’s collection of gorgeous high-performance merino apparel is great for fall distance running. However, this cozy top will provide comfort all year, whether on a winter morning run or stay warm on a chilly evening.

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Headshot of Casey Clark
Casey Clark
Contributor

Casey Clark is a freelance journalist who specializes in beauty, health, and style-related commerce content. She graduated from Hofstra University with a degree in journalism. Her work has been published in Women's Health, Forbes, Better Homes & Gardens, and more.

Headshot of Gabrielle Hondorp

Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track. 

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