15 Great Gifts for Runners – At Every Price Point!

Now that we're into December, I thought I'd share some of my favorite running gifts. I have actually received many of these as gifts myself and was delighted every time!

15 Great Gifts for Runners - At Every Price Point!

$50+

Garmin Forerunner 405 - A big gift, indeed, but one that is SO useful. Definitely my #1 running tool...after my shoes. I use mine mainly for tracking my speed and mileage while I'm running. However, you can also use it for biking, to store and record all of your runs (which get wirelessly transferred to a computer), and in conjunction with a heart rate monitor. They even sell a foot pod so it can be used to track treadmill mileage, too! I rarely run without it.

$25 - $50

iPod Shuffle - Granted my Shuffle is a bit older than this version, but the 4th Generation has all of the features that I love about mine: it can clip right to your clothes, there are easy button controls right on the face, it's super lightweight, and it holds a charge forever. Even though I have an iPhone, this little iPod Shuffle is all I use on my runs. 

Tifosi Sunglasses - These sunglasses were a vast improvement over the $10 Target pair that I had been using. The rubber gripping on the stems really keeps them in place - whether they're on your face or on top of your head. They are so comfortable that you forget you're wearing them. And I love, love, love, that they don't fog up.

CleanSeat Vehicle Seat Protector - I am a really sweaty runner, so I really appreciate my seat protector. It slips right over the headrest - so much easier than trying to get a beach towel to stay in place! I keep it in my car all summer, except when I toss it in the washer for cleaning.

$15 - $25

Road ID - Anyone who ever runs, bikes, hikes, or even goes on a walk alone needs one of these. You never know when you could be rendered helpless and must rely on strangers and rescue workers to determine who you are and how to contact your family. Along with this information, you can document allergies and important health history. Conveniently, gift certificates can be purchased online so you don't need to know all of the recipient's information in order to give them this great gift.

Stuffitts - These cedar filled shoe inserts are great for combatting moisture and odor in running shoes. They have a removable strap which offers a convenient way to tote around your sneakers. Kate got me a pair last year and I use them constantly. So much better than stuffing your shoes with newspaper after a rainy run! And they really do keep the stink at bay.

Race Photos - If your runner recently ran a big race, companies like Brightroom and Action Sports Images may have been there to capture mid-race photos (you can find out which company was there on the race website.) Although they might seem a little pricey at first glance ($15 for ONE 5x7?!), they are something that means a lot and can't be recreated. My mom got my brother and I print collages after our first marathon, and it is one of my most treasured gifts.

SPIbelt - This is one of those things I can't believe I went so long without. It's an expandable pocket that can hold all of your fuel and/or a phone etc while running. It is designed to stay close to your body without bouncing around. A great gift for runners!!

Foam Roller - The best way I've found to work out knots in my legs. It's like getting a deep tissue massage in the comfort of your own home...for a one-time fee of less than $20!

Runner's World Subscription - The gift that keeps on giving! Runner's World is by far the most popular running magazine in the U.S. It is brimming with advice, success stories, and motivation. From the novice to the elite, sprinter to ultra-marathoner, every runner can get something from this magazine!

Under $15

Hood to Coast - This movie follows 5 teams as they prepare for and run the 197 mile Hood to Coast relay in Oregon. Not only is it inspirational, but funny, touching, and informative! I dare you to watch it and come away from it NOT wanting to run the race.

Smart Wool Running Socks - Running in wool was hard for me to imagine at first, but the moisture wicking quality could not be better! These socks are great for running in the winter or hiking when it's chilly out.

Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide - If you know anyone training for or dreaming about a marathon, I highly recommend this book by Hal Higdon. I read it cover to cover while training for my first marathon, and it was so helpful. It is chock full of tips, training plans, and inspirational stories.

Again to Carthage - This is the first running novel that I've read, and now I'm hooked! I love being able to relate to the character's "runner thoughts." It is helping me stay sane now that I'm not meeting up with the running club once a week. I have since added Once a Runner, Running Long, Born to Run, and The Long Run to my Christmas list.

Running Journal - There are lots of ways to keep track of your runs (Daily Mile, Garmin output, etc) but I still opt for the pen and paper route. I like being able to make notes about how I was feeling and what the weather was like. And it is so convenient to pick up last year's journal and thumb through to find out how my current training aligns with what I've done in the past.

Bonus - Super stocking stuffers!

Sport Beans - I like the assorted flavors, but they also have fruit punch, orange, lemon-lime, watermelon, and other single flavor packs.

GU - Mint Chocolate is by FAR my favorite flavor. I swear it tastes like Junior Mints! Yum.

Goody Stay Put Headbands - The no slip grip is key!

Feetures Running Socks - My favorite running socks of all time. I love how they hug your feet and don't stretch out. And the tab on the back is perfect for preventing blisters.

I hope this helps you find something for the runner on your list! Happy shopping!

*In the interest of disclosure, you should know that I'll earn commissions on any purchases made through the links to Amazon in this post.  However, I only link to things that I actually use and am happy to recommend or things that I myself am wishing for. I was not asked to review or promote any of these products.