6 Best Gifts for Runners 2021

We have picked the best gifts for runners. I know gift-giving can sometimes present a problem for the shopper. Do they already have one of these? Will they like this color? Do they even need one?

When the person you are shopping for is an avid runner, there are definitely a few gifts they’ll love, so have a look at our guide below to see the six best gifts for runners.

We’ll give you unique ideas.

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What to Consider Before Purchasing a Gift for Runners

Here are a few things to consider before you purchase a gift:

How Well You Know The Person.

If you want to get a gift for someone that you know well, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices to a more specific range of products since it will be easier for you to find out what they need, have, or want.

If you don’t know the person well (perhaps you drew someone’s name at a white elephant gift exchange) then we have some suggestions below!

What’s your Budget

There is a gift for every budget, so whether you want to spend $10 or $100, you’ll find something useful that a runner will always appreciate!

Their Running Style

If you aren’t into running and don’t know much about it, then finding a gift is difficult. Apart from our useful guide to help you out, you should at least try to find out what kind of runner they are.

A trail runner? An endurance (long-distance) runner? Marathoner or night runner? There are specific gifts for each one that would be greatly appreciated. It also shows them that you took the time to investigate and think carefully about the gift.

They will greatly appreciate the extra effort you place into your selection process.

Top 6 Best Gifts for Runners Reviews

Best gift for runners

For long distance runners or those who run in marathons, a portable water source is gold.

The CamelBak, appropriately named as it imitates the hump of a camel where water is stored, is a lightweight pack that runners wear on their back. The pack contains a reservoir of water in the back pouch with a straw that runs up one of the straps to the front. Runners grab and sip while they’re running without even stopping!

This pack holds up to 70 ounces of water and comes in seven different colors. It’s slim-fitting with just enough storage for the bare necessities as one run (keys, phone, snack, etc.), so if you are shopping for a trail runner or a long-distance runner this would be essential gear.

Best headphones

How about some sweat-proof headphones that won’t fall out of their ears as they run?

These Bluetooth headphones are compatible with a variety of smartphones, there is no cord to get in the runners’ way, and they offer up to 6 hours of playtime. They feature a patented Open-Ear Design, which delivers audio through the cheekbone, keeping you connected and aware of your surroundings during your run.

Another great multifunctional gift that isn’t just limited to running, but any hands-free activity! Use it as a hands-free headset for phone calls, as well.

Best Gift For Runners

If you know that the person you are shopping for often heads out for night runs or early morning runs, get them a headlamp to help light their way.

Black Diamond is a favorite brand among runners for the focused light beam that it produces also widens to become like a floodlight, the red light night vision mode and the powerful light beam it produces when on the highest setting it shines at 325 lumens and it is waterproof 1.1 meters deep.

An essential piece of gear for any night runner!

Best Winter Gift For Runners

Looking for a gift for a winter runner? Is there black ice or unshoveled sidewalks where they run? Or treacherous winter trails? If you answered yes, traction spikes would make a great gift.

Designed with low-profile spikes out of strong tungsten carbide. There are 10 spikes per foot able to grip into ice and hard-packed snow. They have a flexible design making them perfect for uneven terrain. The rubber remains flexible down to -35C.

Best Gift Fitness Tracker

If you’re looking for a gift for a new runner who doesn’t have a running watch the Fitbit Charge 4 makes one awesome gift. With the addition of GPS,  you can now track your run as accurately as more expensive GPS sports watches. You are able to see your pace and distance on screen during outdoor runs. The watch is also designed for biking and swimming. It has a low-profile clean look.

The Fitbit Charge 4 has some other excellent features, including wireless payment support and health tracking, ability to play your favorite songs. The battery lasts for 7 days and up to 5 hours when using GPS.

Best Trail Runner Gift

Gaitors make a great gift idea for a trail runner. Kahtoola gaiters are made for a trail runner who wears low profile running shoes. They are made from stretch-woven nylon fabric and are water-resistant, breathable, lightweight, durable, and packs down easily. They have an attached lace hook that goes under the shoe for s secures fit. These will protect your ankles from debris and keep your ankles dry during your run!

The best gift for runners if you are still out of ideas

Our gift list is a great starting point and highlights the best gifts for runners in general, so if you already have an idea of what they want, then you might find some inspiration here! If you’re not sure about their needs, and are still in doubt every runner needs and appreciates nice socks. Check out our favorite socks for runners.

An experienced runner and an active mom, Kelly is the research expert behind runninggearlab.com When you don't find Kelly training for her next 10k or 5k race you'll find her reading reviews and testing the latest running watch.

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