Buying gifts can be a challenge for anyone, but especially when the intended recipient is a keen runner who might already have everything. But what if you really want to get them something that they’ll want and love, and don’t know where to start?
Well, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together this list of running gifts for the runners in your life. Whether you’re looking for a stocking filler or something bigger for a big birthday, we’ve got you covered. We’ve chosen a range of gifts for all budgets, so you're sure to find something that's perfect for the keen runner in your life.
Our Running Gift Ideas for Runners
Technical Running Clothing
This one varies depending on the type of running your loved one does, as well as their personal brand and style preferences. Are they trail or road runners? Do they sprint or are they endurance athletes? Will they be out in all weathers, or do they generally compete in the warmer summer months?
The answers to this will guide you on what to buy, but you often can’t go wrong with running clothing as the ideal gift for runners. Because you know them, you’ll often have an idea of the styles, colours and brands they like, so that’s a good place to start.
In particular, technical running clothing from big brands like Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, New Balance, Puma, Salomon, Saucony, Brooks, and others always tends to be a safe choice. You can spend any amount of money, but to get something quality and well-made, expect to spend between £50 and £150 on a jacket, between £30 and £50 on trousers, and around £20 for shorts.
Fitness Tracker or Sports Watch
Wearable tech has been around for several years and continues to be an excellent choice as a gift for the serious runner in your life. While they come in a wide range of price points and with different features, you can expect most of them to track things like:
- Distance, time, and pace
- Heart rate and heart rate zones
- GPS route and elevation
- Calories burned
- Cadence and stride length (on higher-end models)
- Sleep and recovery metrics
- Training load and suggested rest times
Many will also offer other technologies, such as blood pressure and blood oxygen level monitoring, personalised training plans and schedules, integration with other apps like Strava or MyFitnessPal, as well as useful services like Spotify, WhatsApp, and social media platforms.
You can spend anything from £30 for a basic fitness tracker, all the way up to hundreds (or even thousands) for flagship models from the likes of Garmin, Fitbit, Apple, Samsung, Google or Huawei. Many will also be useful for other activities, such as cycling, swimming, hiking or even golf.
Running Belt
Perfect as a smaller gift on a smaller budget, a lightweight running belt allows runners to carry all the essentials with them, without having them bounce around in a pocket or bag. With space for phones, keys, gels, headphones, and other small items, they’re ideal for long-distance runners. Some running belts even come with drink bottle holders and hi-vis designs.
For trail runners, larger belts or jackets can help them carry additional layers or snacks for when they’re out alone. You can expect to pay between £10 and £30 for a running belt, depending on its features and brand. There are tons out there, but manufacturers like North Face, Salomon, Kiprun, lululemon, FlipBelt and Waterfly are all excellent choices.
Sports & Recovery Compression Socks
Yes, we know that socks for Christmas are a very cliché present… but these are different. In fact, sports compression socks could be the perfect gift for a runner or fitness fanatic. The best part is that for many runners, it may not be something they’ve even considered yet.
Wearing compression socks before, during, or after a workout is a proven way to boost circulation and keep your legs feeling fresher for longer. Whether it’s for a chilly winter run, a race day, or post-training recovery, compression socks and stockings can help reduce muscle soreness, swelling, and cramping.
Compression socks are not just for injury recovery, they can also make a real difference to performance, allowing the keen runner to perform even on back-to-back training days. Compression socks could be the unique gift that your loved one didn’t even know they needed.
Our FITLEGs sports and recovery compression socks come in a variety of colours and fabrics, from classic cotton to eco-friendly bamboo, and are designed to stay comfortable even through long sessions or recovery days. Simply put, a good pair of compression socks can be a game-changer and a true essential for any dedicated runner.
Cryon-X Rehabilitation Device
For someone serious about training or competing, recovery and injury prevention are just as important as the workouts themselves, and this is where the Cryon-X Rehabilitation Device comes in.
Designed for both professional and home use, it offers four different types of therapy in one machine:
- Cryotherapy (cold therapy)
- Thermotherapy (heat therapy)
- Contrast therapy (alternating hot and cold)
- Compression therapy
Along with the dedicated wraps for specific areas of the body, it can help athletes target specific areas for recovery and pain relief. While it’s not something to be bought on a whim, for serious and professional athletes, it’s a gift that can help them achieve their goals and perform at their best all year round.
Finding the Perfect Running Gift
Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned marathoner, a weekend park runner, or someone just starting their fitness journey, there’s a perfect running gift out there for them. If you’re looking for sports compression wear, explore the FITLEGs shop today.
