Gift Guide for Runners
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There are two types of people in the world, the ones who run by choice and the ones who only run if they’re being chased by something scary. We’ve put together a gift guide for the top 20 running “must-haves” for Fall. Whether they treat it as their full time sport or are just starting to get into the running world, these gifts will have the runner in your life sprinting towards the finish line!
1. ASICS Gel Nimbus Running Shoes - View Here
Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned runner or a beginner, everyone needs a good set of running shoes. Offered in both men and women’s sizing, the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 24 has been voted one of the best pairs of running shoes out there. Available in an extensive array of colors, and designed with comfort in mind through a gel technology cushioning system, this set is both fashionable and practical!
2. Unigear Hydration Backpack - View Here
Any trail or long distance runner would be thrilled to have one of these hydration backpacks. Not only is it equipped with a 2 liter hydration bladder, but also includes additional storage space for snacks and electronic devices. It is extremely lightweight and designed for comfort and maximum breathability, including front closure straps so that the backpack stays in place as you run!
3. Under Armour Base 2.0 Crew Neck Long Sleeve T-shirt - View Here
While Autumn can be one of the most enjoyable seasons of the year for running, it also can be difficult with unpredictable temperatures. If your loved one is training for a half or full marathon, it is essential that they have the right base layer for race day. This long sleeve crew neck is lightweight and moisture-wicking, but also will help maintain enough heat to keep them warm enough on those chilly mornings.
4. Fitbit Charge 5 - View Here
Another essential accessory for most runners is a fitness tracker. The Fitbit Charge 5 does more than the average fitness watch and continues to monitor many health metrics, well beyond the completion of a run. Aside from monitoring heart rate, calories burned, and distance through built in GPS, this Fitbit also tracks daily stress levels and recognizes if your body is ready to train again or should remain in recovery.
5. SKRATCH LABS Hydration Mix - View Here
Hydration is key throughout a run, but is also just as significant afterwards. As you are sweating throughout your run, your body is becoming dehydrated and unfortunately, regular water is not always enough to replenish your system the way it needs. SKRATCH LABS has created a hydration mix, made from all natural components that help to replace sodium, magnesium, and other important elements that our bodies lose during sweat. All of their products are also free of dairy and gluten, and are kosher and vegan which makes this a great gift for anyone in your life that considers themself an avid runner!
6. Beats Fit Pro - View Here
Aside from pre-workout or other energizing tablets or snacks that one might consume during an extended run, most people need some extra motivation through music or guided running recordings or podcasts. A good pair of headphones can make all the difference for a runner's time and effort. The Beats Fit Pro are equipped with 6 hours of noise canceling listening and multi-sized wingtips that provide secure fitting while one is on the move. They also are noticeably lightweight and sweatproof, making them a wonderful gift for your loved one.
7. GU Energy Sports Gels - View Here
For longer runs, it is highly recommended that you refuel your body part-way through your race. However, eating something isn’t always the easiest thing to do mid-run for many people. If this is the case for the runner in your life, get them the gift of this set of GU Energy Sport Gels. Designed to re-energize the body, the suggested use is 5 minutes before race start and then every 45 minute interval afterwards. Each packet is 100 calories and contains amino acids and electrolytes that will continue to work in the body to optimize recovery as well.
8. Goodr Mach GS Polarized Sunglasses -View Here
There is nothing worse than being blinded by the sun as you are trying to complete a race. Gift your loved one with an item they are sure to love both on and off the pavement, a pair of Goodr sunglasses! Available in many different shapes and styles, these sunglasses are lightweight, polarized, and comfortable as they are made out of a soft silicone material. Additionally, the material and shape makes these sunglasses slip and bounce resistant!
9. Zensah Smart Running Gloves - View Here
Something that can often be forgotten until mid-run on a chilly morning - running gloves are an essential part of the wardrobe in the fall and winter. The Zensah Smart Running Gloves have all the bases covered from allowing full range of motion, including touch screen fingertips for easy phone use, to reflective details for safety. They also will keep your hands warm, but the micro suede thumbs are created specifically in the instance that you need to wipe moisture from your nose or eyes.
10. Capitol Cryo & Spa Gift Card - View Here
While equipment and accessories are essential for both professional and leisure running, so is muscle and joint recovery and maintenance. Gift the runner in your life a gift card to Capitol Cryo & Spa, where they can experience both full body Cryotherapy or localized Cryotherapy for swelling or injury in a specific area. Aside from their variety of available treatments, Capitol Cryo also offers specials with their gift certificates, so that you can get more value for your money!
11. Nike Aerobill Featherlight Cap - View Here
For those bright sunny days, when sunglasses just aren’t enough - gift the runner in your life with one of these Nike Featherlight baseball caps. Aside from offering a little more protection from the sun, this hat is also extremely light and designed for efficient breathability through moisture wicking material. Being adjustable and available in a multitude of colors makes this a great gift for everyone.
12. Gone For a Run BibFOLIO Plus Race Bib and Medal Display - View Here
Completing a race, whether it be a 5k or marathon, is a memorable accomplishment for many! Oftentimes organized races will provide each of its participants with a bib and a medal so they have tangible items to remember the occasion by. If your loved one consistently does races, gift them with one of these displays that will hold both their bibs and medals! The display stand will protect each bib in transparent vinyl sheets, up to 100 and can hold 24 medals.
13. BUFF CoolNet UV Headband - View Here
Regardless of whether someone has long or short hair, the last thing anyone wants is hair falling in their face during race day. BUFF has created a headband unlike any other that not only stays in place with silicone grips, but is also equipped with HeiQ cooling and UPF 50+ to fight the sun’s rays. It also comes in many different colored designs, so it would be easy to find one for every runner on your list!
14. Sweaty Betty ⅞ Power Leggings - View Here
When it comes to running gear, any female runner will agree that one of the most annoying things is having leggings that stay in place throughout a run. The last thing anyone wants to do is have to continually pull up their leggings as they’re trying to complete a race. Sweaty Betty has solved this problem with their Power ⅞ Workout Leggings. Not only are they designed to stay in place with a drawstring closure, but are made with sweat-wicking and fast drying material. An additional plus is that every pair has a side pocket for your phone and a back zip pocket for keys!
15. TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller-View Here
At a young age we are taught the importance of stretching both before and after exercising, and running is no exception. In almost any race training schedule you will notice there is a stretching and foam rolling block. Purchase this popular foam roller for the runner in your life to help ensure they are recovering correctly throughout their running career. The TriggerPoint GRID is one of the most versatile options out there due to varying textures along the roller and it’s size, which allows for full body treatment.
16. LED Headlamp - View Here
Whether it be because of warmer temperatures or just unavailable time in the daylight for training, sometimes people are not able to run while the sun is up. These rechargeable headlamps are a great gift idea that not only provide extra safety awareness for your loved one, but also can truly be essential to their training during those early mornings or late nights! They are also rated to be very comfortable, lightweight, and waterproof.
17. ProStretch: The Original Calf Stretcher and Foot Rocker - View Here
Although it is a great form of exercise, running can be hard on the body and especially on the lower extremities. This calf and foot stretching device is an absolute must for the runner in your life that experiences issues with their achilles tendon, shin splints, heel pain, and more! It is also a great gift option for someone who is just entering into the running world to help prevent injury.
18. Tribe Water Resistant Cell Phone Armband Case-View Here
Whether it be for route mapping, fitness tracking, music, or just for safety in general… It's not uncommon for runners to have their phones with them. But, running with a phone in your hand or in your pocket can be distracting and just downright annoying. The solution? One of these water resistant armbands! This gift will work for anyone on your list because it has an adjustable strap, is suitable for any type of cell phone, and also has an additional pocket to store a key in!
19. Supergoop PLAY Everyday - View Here
Regardless of what time of day your loved one prefers to run, it never hurts to be protected from the sun. Even though certain types of running apparel are made to deflect the sun’s rays, every runner should still be applying sunscreen to any visible skin. Supergoop’s PLAY Everyday Lotion is not only both sweat and waterproof, but is also made with natural ingredients in order to be suitable for sensitive skin. It’s a great gift choice for every runner on your list!
20. Reflective Running Vest - View Here
Voted as the best running store in the Portland area for the last 8 years, Portland Running Company is a great place to shop for the runner in your life. They carry shoes, apparel, and all types of running gear, including this lightweight reflective vest. Available in several different colors, this item is great for those who are up before the sun or prefer to run in the evening as the day is ending!
Equip your loved ones with everything they need to be successful before, during, and after their run this season with some of these great gifts! Subscribe to our email list and be one of the first to have access to our Fall Portland Activity Guide and other future Gift Guides.