Most runners are obsessed with gear. The latest running shoes, modern sweat-wicking clothes and new gadgets are always at the top of the list. But the gear that works for one runner doesn’t always work for another, which makes runners hard to shop for.
To help you this holiday season, we have listed some of our favorite items this year so that you can find just the right thing for that special runner/walker in your life.
From affordable running lights to feature-packed GPS watches, there’s something for every runner—and every budget. How do we know these will make great gifts for runners? We use them ourselves.
Garmin Forerunner 55
Garmin Forerunner 55
$200
The Garmin Forerunner 55 is the perfect watch for anyone, including yourself. It gives you all of the running data you need to know thanks to a host of features.
Garmin uses a trifecta of tracking perfection (GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO) to provide the most accurate distance and pace readings across a wide range of activities, such as running, swimming, HIIT workouts, yoga and pilates. The Forerunner 55 also offers a virtual run feature for greater accuracy when tracking treadmill runs.
Additionally, the Forerunner 55 makes an excellent fitness tracking watch with wrist-based heart rate tracking, sleep monitoring, Body Battery and stress tracking. It also has smart phone capabilities, allowing you to read text messages on your watch when your phone is in bluetooth range. This makes it so you can put your phone on the charger when you get home, but still know if you get a phone call or text. Finally, with up to 20 hour battery life in GPS mode, this watch is perfect for almost all distances. Want to learn more about this great watch? Check out our review on the Garmin Forerunner 55.
New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11
Men's | New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11
$150
Women's | New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v11
$150
Give yourself the gift of cushion with the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11—your feet will thank you. Not only is this shoe soft and cushioned, but it is also lightweight, so it won’t slow you down. With a moldable heel counter and stretchy upper that feels like a sock, this shoe fits most foot types.
One Fleet Feet reviewer said, “I love a lightweight, high-cushion shoe, and this one is dreamy. It's soft underfoot with a bouncy, propulsive feeling on the run. It's the perfect shoe for logging everyday miles and long runs.”
On Active-T
Men's | On Active-T
$70
Women's | On Active-T Flow
$70
Women's | On Active-T Breathe
$70
A shirt that is both perfect to wear while running laps around the neighborhood and running errands around town? Sounds like the perfect addition to your closet.
This On Active-T is the perfect gift to give yourself some extra motivation for that long run–it wicks moisture away and is super soft to prevent chafing. Plus, it dries quickly and is stylish enough that you can wear it to brunch afterwards.
OOFOS Sandals
$60
$70
OOFOS OOahh Slide
OOFOS has a style that will work for almost anyone, too. OOFOS has two thong sandals—the unisex OOriginal and women’s OOlala. They also have slide versions with the unisex OOahh slide, unisex OOahh Sports Flex (which has adjustable velcro, perfect for a higher volume foot) and woman’s OOahh Luxe Slide.
With standout looks and unbeatable comfort, these are perfect for putting on after your race and stylish enough to wear around town.
Balega Hidden Comfort
$15
The Balega Hidden Comfort is one of our best-selling running socks year after year—and for good reason. A plush, dense knit adds another layer of cushioning, while soft, moisture-wicking fibers keep your feet dry and comfortable.
goodr Running Sunglasses
$25
goodr BFG Running Sunglasses
$35
goodr Mach Gs
$35
goodr Runway Running Sunglasses
$35
Great running sunglasses don’t have to be expensive. Exhibit A: goodr sunglasses. These affordable, lightweight shades come with all the top features, like UVA/UVB protection and polarized lenses. But the temple-hugging fit and no-slip coating ensure they won’t bounce or slide as you run.
Superfeet x Fleet Feet Dynamic Run Insoles
$50
When you need some extra cushioning, the Superfeet Dynamic Run insoles are the perfect choice. Designed to be softer and more flexible than other Superfeet insoles, the Dynamic Run provides light structure and additional impact protection compared to the stock insoles that come in your shoes.
Brooks Dare Crossback Bra
Brooks Dare Crossback Run Bra
$60
Every woman needs a great run bra to support their breast tissue while running. Brooks developed the Dare Crossback Bra for runners so it is easy to pull on and wicks away moisture, while also providing comfort and support.
Amphipod Xinglet Optic Beam Rechargeable Vest
Amphipod Xinglet Optic Beam Rechargeable Vest
$60
With the shorter winter days, most runners training for a marathon will be doing some running in the dark. The 360-degree LED illumination makes it so that drivers can see you coming.
Sprints Hat
$29
Prevent sun and rain getting into your eyes on the trail with a great running hat. Lightweight and moisture wicking, these hats are great for performance. Plus, they have some great fun patterns to express your personality while climbing up those mountains.
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