These Cheap Gifts for Runners Prove You Don’t Have to Break the Bank This Holiday Season

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Buying that perfect present for the runner on your list is not easy, especially when you’re on a tight budget. Instead of adding yet another expensive piece of gear to their collection, make your favorite runner feel special this holiday season with an inexpensive gift they’ll actually love and use for years to come.

And just because they don’t cost a fortune, doesn’t mean they aren’t high-quality—we’ve carefully curated a list of cheap gifts for runners, with each item priced under $50 (and most under $30) at the time of this writing. From running accessories to tiny tchotchkes, these products make great small gifts, stocking stuffers, or secret Santa presents—or you can combine a bunch for a fun gift basket.

Not finding what you’re looking for? Check out our other gift guides for runners:

• Gifts Any Runner Will Absolutely Love
  

• Last-Minute Gifts for Runners on Amazon Prime

• The Best Tech Gifts for Runners

Polarized Sunglasses

Give the gift of sun protection to those runners who like to venture outside to rack in those miles. These polarized sunglasses block harmful UVA and UVB rays while maintaining color accuracy and precision. The best part? They have an anti-skid nose pad and silicone temple to make sure they stay in place so your giftee won’t have to worry about them falling off mid-run.

Solid Thin Silicone Ring

This is the perfect gift for the newlyweds who are used to having their rings on, but don’t want to chance it with their wedding bands. The stylish silicone ring features patented grooves, which allow air to flow in and moisture to flow out—ideal for when you’re on an outdoor adventure. It’s available in 13 different colors including black, coral, and lilac and in sizes 4 to 12.

Hydraform Minimalist Handheld Water Bottle

There’s no such thing as too many water bottles, especially those that are super convenient and easy to take on runs.

Made from BPA-free hydrofoam, this bottle boasts a minimalistic and low-profile design that effortlessly fits in the palm of the hand so runners can hold it as they are on the move—that’s right, no added weight and unwanted movement here.

Skinny Scrunchie

For those giftees with long hair, opt for a pack of scrunchies to keep it out of their face while on the go. These hair ties are lightweight and can seamlessly wrap your hair in a bun or ponytail in seconds without causing any unwanted damage or breakage. When it comes time to clean, they can simply be tossed in the washing machine and dryer for use on a future run.

Ponytail Cap

Running outside is preferred by many, but it’s important to protect the face and skin from the sun. Made with a breathable sleek design, this cap not only blocks the sun, but leaves room to put a ponytail through without leaving a bump. Additionally, the adjustable closure makes it easy to find the perfect fit whether one has a larger or smaller head.

8 Week 5K Challenge Fun Run Box

A subscription box is a solid option for those runners who are always in the market for new running gear and goodies. Not only does the box have snacks to refuel, but also more practical items like backpacks and running hats to make each mile easier.

Additionally, subscribers can participate in the FunRunBoxers, an online community where users can access training tips and look to other members for support and motivation.

Pure Epsom Salt

Running a marathon is no easy feat for both the mind and body. For physical pain relief, this soothing epsom salt combines oat milk protein and argan oil to help relax muscles and relieve swelling to minimize pain. Unlike other foam rollers and massage sticks, this gift is less than $6 and will last your giftee a long time.

It's Not Swagger I'm Just Sore Shirt

For the runner with a sense of humor, opt for this “It’s not swagger, I’m just sore” shirt. These unisex tees are made from a cotton and polyester blend and are perfect for those runs where one might need a bit more coverage than a sports bra. It’s available in sizes XS to 4X and in a variety of colors including blue, green, red, and gray.

Ghost Lite No Show Socks

Most runners probably have a pair of sneakers they love by this point, but you can’t have too many socks (especially when the dryer continuously eats them). These no-show socks provide arch support and mesh zones for comfort around the rest of the foot while in motion and at rest. Find them in a plethora of colors in sizes S to XL.

Ultra transparent Dry Touch Mineral Sunscreen Stick

One shouldn’t leave the house without sunscreen, especially when they’ll be outside on a run for a long time. This SPF-50 mineral sunscreen stick is easy to swipe on the face and can be placed in a running belt or pocket for easy access while on the go.

The best part? It doesn’t leave the skin with an unwanted white cast that’s prone to smear as one sweats.

Popcorn Pancake and Waffle Mix

For those morning runners, they can fuel up with this popcorn pancake and waffle mix. Made from non-GMO popped popcorn flour, organic oat flour, organic wheat, almond meal, and poppy seeds, this mix boasts a whopping 11 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per serving. Your giftee can cut up some fruit and make it a full balanced meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Lightweight Running Gloves

These gloves are perfect for chilly fall runs, and are lightweight enough to throw in your pocket if you get too hot. Plus, they have touchscreen pads on the thumb and index finger which allow you to use your phone without removing the gloves.

Quick Shoe Laces

These quick laces are great for triathletes—or those who just can’t take the time to tie their shoes properly. They’re elastic, so your gift recipient can easily slide their foot into the shoe. Plus, the locks keep them snug and secure without risk of falling off.

SPF 30 Sunscreen Lip Balm

Believe it or not, lips are one of the most susceptible areas to skin damage and cancer. The skin is delicate and they usually get passed over when applying sunscreen to the rest of the body. This lip balm offers great sun protection, and has a hydrating formula perfect for long, sunny runs.

Original Anti-Chafe Balm

While it may not be the most glamorous gift, Body Glide can be a lifesaver for long runs and races. Your giftee can use it to prevent chafing between their thighs, in their armpits, and anywhere else clothing might rub, like the line of a sports bra.

FlipBelt

It doesn’t look like much, but this minimalist belt has space to carry some money, your phone, gels, and keys. It works on a wide variety of body sizes and comes recommended by our editors for its simple but effective design.

Reflective Running Vest

While not as cozy as a puffer vest, this reflective option can help keep your giftee safe. It has an adjustable waist that fits most men and women and has reflective features on back and front. It also is made of mesh, so it can be worn as a top layer in all seasons.

Beanie with Light

This beanie is the perfect gift for the late-night jogger who likes to get out all their energy after work. With three brightness settings and a rechargeable battery, this hat provides safety and warmth to runners of all distances.

Footwear Deodorizer

These deodorizers use charcoal to absorb odors and moisture, which prevents bacteria from growing in your gear bag or shoes. Each pair keeps its funk-fighting power for up to one year.

Strap 4.0

The Whoop is the perfect accessory for times when they're not running—which is likely most of the day. It’ll compile data on the recipient's heart rate, movement, sleep habits, and more, giving them a recovery score that's a a good gauge for how hard they should push while exercising each day.

Race Day Performance Running Cap

Lightweight and breathable, these hats are great for sunny races, or every day runs. They are super adjustable and come in nine different colors, and even packs of two or more.

Magazine Subscription

Now, we’re a bit biased here, of course. But a subscription to—or a year’s renewal of—a magazine packed with advice, inspiration stories, and gear recommendations can help maintain the stoke for running.

2023 Calendar

Think the runner in your life may need some extra inspiration? Get them the Runner’s World calendar with its photos of scenic trails, training and nutrition tips, and even a pace guide for races. It’s even on sale now for 20 percent off.

Cell Phone Armband Case

As phones get bigger and bigger, it gets harder to find an armband that doesn’t slip under the weight. Even though this Tribe can fit an iPhone X, its neoprene, Lycra, and polyurethane construction will help it stay in place.

Bataan Fanny Pack

Part of Cotopaxi’s (Re)Purpose Collection, the Bataan is made from fabric scraps left over from the production of other packs and gear. So it cuts down on waste, and since the craftspeople doing the sewing are working with what’s available, no two packs are exactly alike. As for practicality, the three-liter capacity is enough to stash things like a wallet, a phone, and some fuel.

Merino 250 Beanie

It’s easy to take a sweaty beanie off at the end of a chilly run, throw it in a gym bag, and forget that it’s there until you pull it out again before you head out the door. The benefit of the merino in this hat is that it has natural odor-fighting properties, so it won’t stew in its own funk between runs.

Instant Photo Books

Putting together a 20-page book of some of their most memorable running moments captured in photos takes thought and care. Selecting the images will be the biggest challenge but after that part's done, Shutterfly will handle making the actual book for you.

LED Safety Lights

Using the included straps, they can attach these lights almost anywhere—to a wrist, ankle, or bike frame—for increased visibility.

Trail Running Wrap

When it’s warm outside and water alone just doesn’t cut it to keep cool, a running wrap can be a beneficial gift that a runner will actually use. Designed with three pockets, this wrap can hold ice to keep runners cool while on a trail or track—plus, it’s moisture-wicking so it won’t get sweaty and gross during the duration of a workout.

Popcorn Pancake and Waffle Mix

For those morning runners, they can fuel up with this popcorn pancake and waffle mix. Made from non-GMO popped popcorn flour, organic oat flour, organic wheat, almond meal, and poppy seeds, this mix boasts a whopping 11 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per serving. Your giftee can cut up some fruit and make it a full balanced meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.

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