We Found the Best Mother’s Day Gifts for the Mom Who Runs

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Mother’s Day could be spent brunching and relaxing at home, but you know your mom really just wants to log some quiet early-morning miles before enjoying a cup of coffee. Whether she’s an avid runner, occasional jogger, or just enjoys taking a few laps around the block to get her heart pumping, you want to tailor her Mother’s Day gift to her interests.

We tapped Melanie Yates, Senior Service Editor for Best Products and gift shopping expert for some insight on creative, thoughtful presents. “Focus on smaller accessories, supplements, recovery products, and fun running gifts to celebrate Mom’s achievements. Think: running belts/armbands, no-tie shoelaces, sunscreen, cooling muscle rubs, and packs of her favorite gels or gummies,” she suggested. “If she’s proud of the time she made in her latest race, consider getting her a mug or water glass customized with the name, time, and route of the course.”

We’ve curated some of our favorite products for moms, stepmoms, mother figures, and moms-to-be, whether they’re new to the sport, training for their first 5K, or are competitive racers trying to shave minutes off their marathon time. These Mother’s Day gifts cover nearly every niche from training gear to run-focused reading and have earned rave reviews from fellow moms, so we guarantee you’ll find something on here that will make this Mother’s Day her best one yet.

Fitness Dice

With more than 45,000 possible combinations, these fitness dice from Uncommon Goods make cross-training exciting. Every exercise requires just the runner’s body weight—no kettle bells or gym equipment—and there are 36 exercises represented in total. Roll the first six dice to determine your target areas, and then toss the seventh for reps and duration.

‘Master the Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide for Women’

Written by former Runner’s World editor Ali Nolan, this women’s guide to marathons is a must-have for anyone hoping to go the distance.

Most marathon training manuals are written by men, which means they don’t necessarily consider women-specific issues—like different body types, strengths and weaknesses, hormones, and menstruation cycles—when it comes to training.

Regardless of your running level—beginner, intermediate, or advanced—Master the Marathon can help prepare you for the 26.2-mile physical and mental journeys ahead.

Groundwork Pace Shorts

With the Groundwork Pace Shorts, Janji has created a high-quality running short that won’t budge during runs and provides ample coverage. The six-inch shorts stay put with silicone grips, and the ergonomic waistband allows for full range of motion during slow or fast miles.

If your mom can’t bear the thought of a run without her phone, these shorts have two deep pockets that secure her tech and keep it from bouncing. Perhaps one of our favorite features is the pass-through back pocket, where you can secure your shirt when things start to get sweaty.

(We also love Tracksmith’s Lane Five Tights, a five-inch short, for going extra fast.)

Everywhere Belt Bag

This Lululemon bag has become a coveted staple for both its durability and its ideal size. Mom can wear it on the waist like a fanny pack or across the chest for a closer and more secure fit.

It’s great for long walks and even works great for carrying your vacation essentials without lugging a huge tote around with you. It comes in seven different colors and has multiple pockets to keep everything inside organized.

Clifton 9 Running Sneakers

If the mom you’re gifting for is in the market for a boost of speed on their daily runs, she should certainly be pleased with the Hoka Clifton 9 running shoes.

Built on a legacy of supportive cushioning and responsive movement, the Clifton 9 shoes are no exception, with this iteration adding three millimeters to the stack height while still shedding weight compared to the last model.

The shoe is designed for the every day run, so expect comfort and consistency above all else.

Forerunner 45S Running Watch

Is your favorite mom a new runner? A GPS watch like this one from Garmin will help her keep track of her stats like mileage, pace, heart rate, and more, helping her get the most out of her training.

This is a great entry-level watch that won’t break the bank, but has everything she needs to track her training and help her reach PR after PR.

Energy Bra

Moms everywhere know that multitasking is a must to keep the ship afloat. This medium-support bra from Lululemon gets the job done for cross-training, yoga, chasing after the kids, and lounging. The longer cut adds extra coverage, making it possible for this style to double as a crop top.

All Access Membership

Consider yourself an A+ partner, kid, or support system if you gift the mom in your life a subscription to Runner’s World+, an exclusive access pass to the magazine, digital articles, training plans, the RW+ community, and our coaches.

Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine

Looking to splurge a bit this Mother’s Day? This espresso machine is a great addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen. It pulls a barista-approved shot every time, and has a steam wand so she can make all of her favorite foam drinks at home.

It’s easy to use—even for inexperienced latte makers—and has a relatively petite footprint, so it won’t take up too much counter space.

PowerPack 3-Piece Fitness Bundle

If you want to help her keep her training going even on days she can’t make it out for a run, this workout bundle is a stellar gift. It comes with five latex resistance bands, two sliding discs, and a bag to keep everything contained, making it a great choice for keeping her muscles strong and toned even when she’s on the go.

Ghost 14 Running Shoes

If she’s amping up the mileage—or just in need of a new pair of trainers—the Brooks Ghost is a great all-around training shoe for everything from marathons to speed work. These shoes come in a bunch of different colors and feel great without being heavy.

Plus, they are beloved among the RW test editors, and Brooks is making steps towards carbon neutrality, making these kicks as good for her comfort as they are for her conscience.

OG Sunglasses

The Goodr OG Sunglasses are a great way to keep your mom’s eyes protected during those sunny summer runs. The sunglasses are built specifically for running and have a lightweight, secure frame as a result.

All lenses from the company are polarized and have 100 percent UV protection to reduce glare and damaging brightness. The OG Sunglasses are also scratch-resistant for the clumsier ones out there.

PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50

While running all spring and summer long is what we all want to do, getting sunburnt to a crispy red on the trail is the quickest way to keep that from happening. The Supergoop! PLAY Everyday lotion is built to handle it.

The sunscreen is not only extremely protective at SPF 50, but also lightweight, moisturizing, and sweat resistant. The formula is designed for every day use, and she can even wear it with makeup.

Fleece Ponytail Hat with Drop Down Ear Warmer

If the mom you are buying for has long hair, the TrailHeads Fleece Ponytail Hat is a great gift to keep in mind. The hat has a front bill and a designated opening in the back for a ponytail.

What makes the hat stand out from other similar options is the flap down ear and neck warmer. The flap covers both ears completely and is made of soft fleece so she can run comfortably in the cold even when you refuse to step outside.

USDA Organic Lip Balm (6-Pack)

With dry heat or cold wind cracking our skin and lips, Earth’s Daughter organic lip balm is the solution your mom will love. The lip balm is free of parabens and pesticides, so your lips can rest easy when applying them.

The lip balm also comes in six different flavors, so even if your mom is picky about what goes on her lips, there is sure to be one that will appease her specific lip balm tastes.

Fit Pro Earbuds for Running

For anyone who runs, listening to podcasts or music is a near necessity. The Beats Fit Pro earbuds are wireless headphones built for the run.

The headphones are sweat and water resistant, come with active noise cancelling capabilities, and multiple listening modes based on what you need during your run.

The earbuds also have up to six hours of playtime on a single charge with up to 24 total hours in combination with the charging case.

Charge 5 Health and Fitness Tracker

If the mom you’re gifting for has a bit of a taste for tech, the Fitbit Charge 5 health and fitness tracker might be the right gift for her. The fitness tracker comes with many key features including heart rate tracking, sleep tracking, GPS capabilities, and easy connection with smart devices.

The fitness tracker is also built with several running-specific features including real-time pace tracking and a readiness score based on your body’s sleep and recovery path.

Pullover Headband

For the sweatier moms out there (like mine—sorry, Mom), the Halo Headband Pullover is a worthy option. The headband is designed to keep hair out of faces and sweat away from the eyes.

The headband is built to be ultra absorbent, wicking away moisture as it appears. The headband also comes in over 35 styles and colors to fit any taste.

High Density Spiky Massage Ball

The Pro-Tec Athletics high-density spiky massage ball is the gift for anyone with sore muscles, tissue, and especially feet. The spiky ball is designed specifically to relieve pain in the foot and arches.

More directly, the ball has been shown to relieve symptoms of plantar fasciitis, which can be a major source of pain for many runners. If your mom has any kind of foot pain, keep this gift in mind.

Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller

For any mom with younger kids under her watch, the Thule Urban Glide 2 is one of our top-rated jogging strollers. The stroller is built with a large storage section for snacks, gear, and any other necessities so you can keep jogging for longer without needing to head back home.

The jogging stroller has seamless swivel and frictionless wheels so moms can run at their pace without their kids slowing them down any more than they already have.

Hidden Comfort Running Socks

If she’s set in the shoe and gear departments, socks are a failsafe gift (and they’re always useful). This pair is our editor-tested best overall running sock for women. The socks are extra soft and blister-resistant thanks to the seamless design. The heel tab keeps them from slipping down throughout your run. It’s a budget-friendly buy, so you can grab a few pairs for her in a host of fun colors.

Trail Mix Plus 3.0 Hydration Belt

Mother’s Day arrives just ahead of summer weather. If your mom is going to be logging outdoor miles in the heat, a hydration belt is a must-have. This one from Nathan is editor-tested and our best overall pick. The 10-ounce insulated bottles keep water cool and refreshing, not to mention easy to grab.

The belt also has a zippered pocket for holding a phone, keys, a small wallet, or an earbuds case.

Theragun Relief

Mom will appreciate having a massage gun available after her long runs and cross-training. This under-$200 pick from Therabody has an ergonomic handle that’s easy for her to hold whether she’s relieving aches in her calves or her shoulders.

This model uses gentle percussive massage therapy, so it’s not as intense as some other options. It has one button to control the device, making it easy to use so she can truly relax after her workout.

Diablo Small Duffel Bag

A gym bag makes carrying gear to and from the gym easier for her, and this one from Adidas is budget-friendly and comes in colorful or neutral colorways. We’re fans of the way this bag is no-frills; it’s just one roomy compartment for all of Mom’s belongings. It easily fitd a pair of shoes, a towel, a change of clothes, plus some fuel for her workout.

Scuba Oversized Funnel-Neck Half Zip

A cozy sweatshirt for days she’s not running, your mom will love slipping this quarter-zip on and lounging around the house. The breathable scuba fabric makes it great for breezy spring days, and the large front pocket gives her lots of room to hold her essentials.

It’s a comfortable pick for walks, errand runs, lounging, and more. It’s easy for her to pair with leggings or with jeans for a more polished look than your average hoodie.

Salt Soak with Pure Epsom Salt

Adding a scoop of Epsom salts to a hot bath at the end of the day is relaxing both mentally and physically, and Mom will appreciate this addition to her recovery routine. The Epsom salt is paired with essential oils for a soothing scent so she can soak away the aches and feel rested for her next run.

Clean Fit Box

A gift that keeps on giving, you can choose between a one-time, 3-month, 6-month, or 12-month subscription to this healthy snack box. It’s packed with healthy goodies so she can stay fueled up, and Cratejoy even offers allergy-friendly versions of each box as well.

3-in-1 Shadow Box Display

Your mom crossed the finish line of yet another race, and this shadow box is the perfect way for her accomplishment to be displayed. The frame holds her medal and race day bib and has a spot for a photo of her at the finish line. Whether you gift her just the frame ahead of her next big race or you fill it and hand it to her fully ready to be hung up, she’ll appreciate the thoughtful custom art piece.

Hydrating B5 Mask

Whether conditions were windy, chilly, or sweaty, your mom wants to take care of her skin after her run. This mask from SkinCeuticals is packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and the brand’s advanced moisture complex to add hydration back to her skin. It’s an easy step for her to work into her skincare routine and she’ll love having it on hand in her beauty cabinet.

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