30 Gifts for Runners to Help Them Before, While, and After They Log Their Miles

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Need a gift for your running buddy? Runners are actually easy to shop for because there’s no end to the gear a runner will appreciate, especially considering that most of this stuff wears out quickly if they’re putting in a lot of miles. Not only is there always some new gadget, there are plenty of new books about running, as well as new running caps with fun colors and witty slogans, and so, so many pairs of socks.

That said, I know it can still be challenging to find something your recipient will love since runners typically have their own preferences for shoes, shorts, and gadgets. Sizing can also be tricky since it vary from brand to brand.

But don’t worry! There are plenty of runner friendly gifts that are affordable, meaningful, and will definitely be appreciated. The items that I’ve rounded up—for both on and off the track—will not only help your giftee’s performance during a run, but their recovery as well.

The Best Gifts for Runners

• For the Runner Who’s a Foodie: Run Fast. Eat Slow: Nourishing Recipes for Athletes by Shalene Flanagan and Elyse Kopecky

• For Destination-Race Lovers: DryGuy Travel Dry DX Shoe Dryer

• For the Runner With Way Too Many Race Medals: BibFOLIO+ Race Bib and Medal Display

• For the Runner Who’s Always Sore Post-Race: 42 Birds Cork Massage Balls

• For the Pro Traveler: Shoe Bags

What to Consider When Buying Gifts for a Runner

When shopping for a runner, there are a few factors to keep in mind. First, what type of running do they do? Trail or road? 5Ks or marathons? Would they have any special sizing requirements or specific preferences with materials? For instance, does your runner complain about having a massive head? Probably steer clear of running caps since sizing can be tricky. If your runner has specific food allergies or intolerances, be sure to check labels carefully if you’re buying anything in the sports nutrition category. For example, if your recipient is gluten-free, choose energy bars or gummies that are suitable—and clearly labeled gluten-free certified.

When it comes to quality and value, it can tough to determine all of the time with running gear. For instance, if you put a $20 headlamp and $200 headlamp side by side, you may not see much of a difference in how they look on the outside, but the performance will be massively different. If you are on a budget and shopping for price, don’t always go for the cheapest option unless you see tons of great reviews—likely, you’ll end up with a cheap knockoff that will break instantly.

How We Chose These Runners’ Gifts

For many of these gifts, I worked off the best-of roundups from Runner’s World, a sister publication of Best Products. and added in a few of my favorite go-to gifts that I regularly give to running friends. I even snuck a few of the things into the mix that are currently on my own Christmas list.

I considered a wide price range since you might be buying presents for your whole run club, and in that case, would be on a tighter budget, than say if you're only buying for your running spouse, who you might be willing to splurge on.

Additionally, I relied on the prior research of writer Brian Murray Jr., who also contributed to this article. The culmination of our efforts brings you this handy guide of the best gifts for runners to buy now.

Run Fast. Eat Slow: Nourishing Recipes for Athletes by Shalene Flanagan and Elyse Kopecky

This cookbook is a favorite for runners everywhere, and not just because it was written by New York City Marathon champion and Olympic silver medalist Shalene Flanagan.

The recipes are designed to help with performance, but also taste delicious. From pre-run snacks to dinner party hits, this book is packed with easy-to-follow recipes with gorgeous food photography that any giftee on your list will love.

Travel Dry DX Shoe Dryer

If you need something for a jet-set runner who’s constantly flying from race to race, a travel-sized shoe dryer is a fantastic tool that can easily be packed in their carry-on.

This portable dryer, which has two pieces that simply slide right into each shoe, uses a hybrid forced air and convection system that heats to 99 degrees. It blasts warm air to dry out damp or wet running shoes. With an AC/DC power adaptor, it can be used at home or in the car.

Race Bib and Medal Display

If you know anyone who spends every summer weekend running a race, you know how quickly the bibs and medals can stack up. Your runner will love this display that makes it easy to hang all their medals in a row, and there are even vinyl protectors for their bibs.

Cork Massage Balls

Make sure your giftee retires the tennis ball they’re using for massage by giving them something far more beneficial for a runner's body.

These cork massage balls—which come in a set of 3— are easy to pack so they can be taken to every race. While the cushioned surface is comfortable, it has the right amount of firmness to help relieve all the soreness in their muscles.

One of the three balls—mini sized—is designed to access pressure points on the feet, hands, and face. Another bonus with cork: it has natural antibacterial properties.

Travel Shoe Bags (Set of 4)

That friend of yours—the one who is constantly traveling to and from races or who brings running shoes along on every one of their business trips—will appreciate these shoe bags.

Instead of tossing dirty, smelly sneakers into a carry-on or suitcase, their running shoes can first be stuffed into zippered, water-resistant bags which help keep the remaining clothing clean and free of odor.

These versatile shoe bags can also be used to organize run shorts and tops, or any other gear that could use compartmentalizing.

Mach-G

These ultra-lightweight sunglasses from Goodr feel as stealth as they look. Light and comfortable, your runner won’t even notice they’re wearing shades at all. Best of all, they stay perfectly in place while running—no bounce issues here.

The polarized lenses are especially ideal for sunny runs on beaches or roads. Goodrs are shockingly affordable compared to other sporty options, so you can get one as a gift and maybe even one for yourself.

Go Travel Coffee Press Kit

If your recipient is both a runner and coffee connoisseur, an Aeropress travel kit is a great gift for race days away from home.

The Aeropress, slightly smaller than the AeroPress Original, features a handy mug and lid that double as a traveling case. It makes the perfect single cup of coffee easily, with minimal cleanup or gear required.

OpenRun Headphones

If your runner always listens to music or podcasts while logging some miles, a pair of bone conduction headphones adds an element of safety while allowing them to enjoy their tunes.

Bone conduction headphones leave your ears open while still transferring sound, which means runners are able to hear cars, people, and bikers around them. Sounds good, right?

Normatech 3 Compression Boots

The perfect gift for a running partner, especially if you’re a runner yourself, since you can possibly share! These Hyperice Normatech 3 Compression Boots are a bit of a spend, but they’re a heavy favorite for a reason.

These offer the perfect way to speed recovery while relaxing. A machine pushes air into full-leg boots that expand and contract, squeezing your legs in the process. The flushing effect leaves legs feeling fresh and can help with post-run soreness.

Charge Stand for Garmin Watches

For the running friend who won’t leave home without their Garmin watch or the giftee who believes that a run that isn’t recorded doesn’t count, this slick charging stand is the perfect desk accessory.

This compact and stylish accessory is an easy way for a runner to remind themself to ABC (Always Be Charging), so they never end up with a dead Garmin pre-run again.

All Natural Anti Chafe Salve

Anti-chafe lotion might not sound like a glamorous gift, but Squirrel Nut Butter is a favorite for the ultra-running set.

Where does it go? Anywhere your running friend might chafe—from nipples to between the toes. (Ultras aren’t for the faint of heart.) The salve glides on smooth, feels great, and is the perfect addition to any runner’s kit. An easy stocking stuffer or White Elephant gift!

Gift certificate

Celebrate any runner—but perhaps the new runner you know—by giving them a gift that can be enjoyed after completing their first race, a significant race accomplishment, or a mega training block.

It’s much easier to make it to the finish line when you know a massage is booked for the day after. (Talk about incentive to stick with this whole running thing!)

Let them choose from a variety of massages like deep tissue, Swedish, or Trigger Point, or maybe even reflexology. A great gift to make a runner feel like a race didn’t hurt as much as it actually did.

Runner Wine Glass

In a word—hilarious! This wine glass is almost in the ‘kitschy run gear’ category, but it’s subtle enough that it effortlessly fits in with almost any runner’s decor.

That post-run rose will taste a lot better when measured to the corresponding distance run beforehand (5K, 10K, 13.1, or 26.2). This gift definitely goes the distance!

Marathon Map

If your buddy can’t stop talking about how they finally got their BQ (Boston Qualifying time), make sure they never forget that race.

Anyone you know who's just made the huge accomplishment of finishing a marathon or another meaningful event will love being gifted this personalized marathon/route map, complete with the date, time, name, and bib number.

Mini First Aid Kit

If you know a trail runner who regularly heads out on long runs in the wilderness, a mini first aid kit (this one is designed by doctors and emergency care pros) is a thoughtful present that can be tucked into their run pack to provide them with everything they may need in case of an emergency.

While this little kit might need to be pared down for smaller running packs (it has 100 pieces including everything from a tourniquet to metal tweezers), it should easily fit into most versions that hold water bottles or bladders.

“How to Make Yourself Poop: And 999 Other Tips All Runners Should Know” by Meghan Kita

This little book of running wisdom helps new runners understand a lot of the intricacies of running that can sometimes take years to understand...starting with the importance of pooping pre-run if you don’t want to spend a mile frantically seeking out a Porta Potty. This book is practical, motivational, and fun to read.

Reflective Run Vest

There’s nothing more peaceful than getting in some miles at dawn, but it can also be a little sketchy depending on what road or trail your runner takes.

Give your early morning miler a present that adds peace of mind and a measure of safety to their early outings. This form-fitting reflective vest—no batteries needed—slips over any running top and is designed with running motion in mind. Note: there are only two size options.

HM70R Headlamp

The Fenix HM70R Headlamp is one of the best options on the market for runners who thrive in the dark. Its bright beam can be trained right where you need it, whether on the road or trail, and the battery life is solid—around three hours on the middle setting.

The extra over-the-head strap helps to prevent bouncing while running, making it more comfortable than many other headlamps out there.

Force Dry Shoe Dryer

Rain, sleet, snow, hail, and everything in between are no match for the DryGuy shoe dryer. A staple for runners who never give in to the elements, it allows your recipient to pop wet shoes onto two forced air vents that speed the drying process by hours.

If your runner lives in a rainy area, this is a must-have and a great gift they will use time and time again.

5-Pack of Microfiber Gym Towels

This gift might give off that ‘pack of socks’ vibe, but it will be deeply appreciated by any recipient for its practicality. With over 3,500 positive reviews on Amazon, this five-pack of towels is ideal for a daily treadmill run—a new towel for Monday through Friday—so laundry is never an issue. Your runner can perch one on top of the treadmill to easily wick sweat during intervals.

Collapsible 2-Pack Silicone Dog Water Bowl

If your giftee runs with their four-legged best friend, then a collapsible water bowl is a non-negotiable for warm weather jaunts. Easily clipped onto a hydration pack, this dishwasher-safe bowl expands to different sizes and is ready whenever there is a stop to hydrate. It also comes in 10 colors.

VISION SIX IMPRESSION National Parks Edition

Who doesn’t love a statement sock? That’s where a brand like Swiftwick shines with its National Parks Edition socks.

For the recipient who loves to run and who also has an appreciation for our country’s unique vistas, these socks are a wonderful gift. The designs are based on 20 different National Parks, so they’re distinctive yet still offer all of the features of a great running sock, like moisture-wicking fabric (ideal for longer runs) and modulated compression.

Forerunner 55

If your running buddy uses their smartphone to record runs into Strava, treat them to a GPS watch so they can record their runs in techy style.

The Forerunner 55 is one of Garmin’s least pricey watches, but is still a big-ticket item to gift at $200. This is not a beginner’s watch— it’s got all the bells and whistles for serious runners who monitor their resting heart rate and track their sleep.

“I Hate Running and You Can Too: How to Get Started, Keep Going, and Make Sense of an Irrational Passion” by Brendan Leonard

Brendan Leonard is one of the funniest, most poignant writers when it comes to words about outdoor adventure, and this book is no exception.

He combines laugh-out-loud graphics with practical tips about things like run-walking, and he nails the love-hate relationship that many runners have with the sport. Whether your recipient is a longtime marathoner or a total newbie, they’ll get plenty from this book.

Crew Hat

Even if your running friend or spouse has every piece of gear imaginable, another hat is never a bad thing. I love the rnnr brand because their designs are cute, but beyond that, these structured-brim hats—made with lightweight performance fabric in a six-panel construction and elastic-stretch back strap—hold up to cycle after cycle in the washing machine without losing shape.

Bubble Mate Foot Spa

Your runner is putting in big miles and doing hard intervals—and might be embarrassed to go get a professional pedicure due to the calluses, blisters, and black toenails that are commonplace for runners.

Give this giftee a fantastic treat with foot spa that gently massages tired tootsies. With 33,000 positive reviews and counting, it’s hard to beat the HoMedics foot spa, and the price (around $30) is budget approved. Add a bag of Epsom salts for a full-on bonus recovery package.

Clogs

While it’s best not to buy sneakers for a runner unless they’ve sent you the exact link to the ones they want, these cozy wool clogs are an easy choice for your recipient who doesn’t stop running even in the darkest days of winter.

Cozy, grippy, and long-lasting, this ideal post-trail-run shoe can be slipped on before driving home or popped on post-race when feet might still be blocks of ice.

Water Bottle with Fruit Infusion Strainer

Choosing specific sport nutrition is tricky since it’s so personalized, but a big water bottle that can infuse fruit with every sip? Now that’s just a nice addition to a runner’s hydration strategy throughout the day.

I like this one in particular because it also has labels up the side to let you know how much you’re drinking. Handy hydration is a great gift for any runner and makes plain-Jane water a little more interesting.

Adjustable Weighted Vest

Many runners are adding weighted vests to their wardrobes—not for during their actual runs, but for walks, hikes, or workouts that were previously body-weight based.

This adjustable 20-pound vest from CAP Barbell is a great gift for a runner who is into cross-training and who may be intrigued by this concept.

The vest, which also comes in 30-pound and 50-pound options, is adjustable in terms of both the weight and fit. There's also a pocket to stash a smartphone.

Gems

Toes need love too, especially those belonging to runners putting in big miles. If your runner loves yoga, they’ll likely be a fan of YogaToes. These soft gel toe separators help strengthen toes and may relieve some issues with foot soreness. Strong toes actually do make a difference with running ability.

Our Expert Molly Hurford Truly Gets Gifting! Read Her Guidance Here.

Is it better to ask someone what they want or just surprise them?

It depends on the runner. If you know they’re picky about how things fit, or have specific food restrictions, then steer clear of a pair of shoes or nutritional snacks.

Gauge the element of surprise and delight versus the pleasure that comes from getting the running gear they may really wanted. If you would rather surprise them and you’re nervous about getting just the right thing, make sure whatever you purchase can be returned or exchanged. Another option: Go with a gift card to be on the safe side.

Are there certain things you shouldn’t buy for runners?

Definitely. While it’s tempting to buy new running shoes, running clothing, or even race entries, don’t buy anything size- or date-specific unless the runner has put it on their wish list.

You may also want to avoid bigger ticket items like GPS watches or earbuds unless you’re shopping for a runner who you know will appreciate your expertise, since many folks prefer to choose their own technology gadgets based on specific features and preferences. Lastly, avoid running tchotchkes… unless you’re certain they’ll be appreciated by the recipient.

When is the best time to buy running gifts?

If you know that your runner is going to stick with the sport, check out the end-of-season sales for some amazing bargains. For example, January and February are great times to pick up discounted winter gear like running caps, gloves, buffs, and jackets. During August and September, look for summer staples that may be on clearance.

For pricier gifts like Bluetooth headphones, think major sale days—Prime Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday—when there are usually lots of opportunities to score good deals.

Should I check a retailer’s return policy before getting a gift there?

It’s always a smart idea, especially if you’re picking an item in a certain size, style, or flavor! Or, if you’re a runner yourself, make sure it’s a gift that you’d be happy to keep, so you can hang onto that present while buying your running buddy something else.

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