Just to get this straight: My Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Runners is, like always, a wish list. I’m a runner. This is what I’d like for Christmas (or things I received last Christmas and love). Just sayin’. I’m also saying that I received products from some of these companies to try out and this post contains some affiliate links. All opinions are my own.
While I’m leaving links and sharing discount codes and sales information, I encourage you to shop locally this year if you can. Small businesses like your local running store are struggling and can use all the help they can get over the holidays.
Holiday Gift Guide for Runners
I can pretty much guarantee that if you have runners on your gift list this gift guide for runners will help you be a hero when they open their presents.
Do you have a runner on your gift list? Are you a runner who wants your friends and family to choose the perfect gift? This will help: The 2020 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Runners! #running #giftguideClick To Tweet
Here is my 2020 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Runners!
Keep Your Runner Looking Good!
Whether you’re fast, slow, or somewhere in between, we know that looking good is half the battle.
Gift Guide for the women on your list
Skirt Sports
Clothing from Skirt Sports is always number one on my holiday gift guide. I rarely run in anything else. You may or may not know that Skirt Sports underwent an ownership change this year. Sarah Ratzlaff, owner of the Zooma Run series purchased the company and is just now producing a new line of clothing. Sadly, it is unlikely that it will be ready before the holidays, though there is a pre-purchase sale on Black Friday (sign up here for early access).
Brooks Carbonite Jacket
I’m loving this Brooks Carbonite Jacket because it is super visible in low light, it’s lightweight and breathable but will keep you protected from wind and rain. ($180)
Brooks Notch Thermal Long Sleeve
It doesn’t get really cold here (usually) but I’m all about layers. This Brooks Notch Thermal Long Sleeve makes the perfect warm yet breathable layer. ($75)
Gift Guide for the men on your list
I’m pretty sure my husband is wearing running shirts that he had when I met him 24 years ago! Well, except for the ones that I give him every year. Here are a few of his favorites.
Brooks Dash 1/2 Zip
I just love the color of this Brooks Dash Half-Zip! The fabric is soft and breathable and will wick away sweat. ($70)
R-Gear In the Zone 1/4 Zip Hoodie
If you’ve never tried Road Runner Sports’ R-Gear, I highly recommend it (for men and women). The whole line is well made with tech fabrics and can save you money over similar products from name brands. This R-Gear In the Zone 1/4 Zip Hoodie top is just one of many great choices. ($60)
Pro Compression Socks
Compression socks are colorful, fun, and may possibly improve your running, or at least your recovery. Which improves your running, right? In any case, Pro Compression has new styles coming all the time, including these fun holiday socks for December (these are from last year, new holiday socks coming soon). They make great stocking stuffers too! Sign up to receive emails because there are always some great deals to be had!
Holiday Special! Buy 2, get 3 free in all items! Use the code GIFT3 at checkout. (11/24-29).
Ponytail Beanie
Keep your head warm and allow your ponytail to fly free with this Lululemon Run for it All Beanie. I love it so much I ordered one while I was making this gift guide!
Running Shoes
The Mizuno Wave Rider ($130) is pretty much my favorite running shoe. But, in all honesty, your runner will be delighted with a gift of their favorite running shoe, no matter what brand or model. I also love the Asics Kayano 27 (Alan has been running in this shoe for about 25 years!).
Keep Your Runner Accessorized
It’s been said that running is a simple sport and doesn’t need much equipment. Well, need is different than want, so it’s likely that your runner will really want any of this running gear.
Wireless Headphones
Aftershokz Aeropex
Wireless is the way to go these days. They are more comfortable, and no more getting your hair tangled in the cords! I have two current favorites, either of which would make a great gift for runners. Aftershokz Aeropex ($160) headphones are lightweight, have great sound, and, because they use bone-conduction technology, will not block your eardrums, allowing you to hear ambient noise.
Black Friday Sale! Only $125 at Road Runner Sports!
Jaybird Vista
The Jaybird Vista ($179) is a completely wireless headphone. It fits comfortably, has great sound, and has a six-hour battery which can be quickly recharged in its case. They can be controlled via the Jaybird app, which allows you to adjust the sound quality to your own specifications.
Black Friday Savings! Save 45% on Jaybird Vista!
Garmin GPS and/or Heart Rate Monitor Watch
Most runners, no matter how fast they run, are a bit obsessed with their time and distance. Catering to this obsession can get pretty expensive, so here are two options that can fit into most budgets.
I recently gifted myself with the Garmin Venu and I love it. It has a touch screen, training plans, music and more! It’s available for $249.
I still love my Garmin Forerunner 235, which I received a couple of years ago and is regularly $249 and is currently on sale for $149! It has just enough bells and whistles for me, including GPS and heart rate monitor and it also counts your steps (and reminds you when to get off your butt)!
Knockaround Sunglasses
I was given a pair of Knockaround Sunglasses to try by MC, my last Ragnar captain. I immediately knew I was in love. With prices as low as $15, many polarized options, and great designs and colors, what’s not to love?
Black Friday Deals! Save 40% on all Knockaround sunglasses!
Keep Your Runner SAFE
I don’t know about you but I always worry a little when my husband is out on the run or his bike alone, especially early in the morning. Here are a few gifts to keep your runner safe.
Noxgear
The Noxgear Tracer 360 is my go-to safety system when I have to run in the dark. With multi-colored flashing lights, you are sure to be seen (as is your dog if he or she is wearing the Lighthound!). It’s great for cycling too! ($60)
Road ID
Everyone should wear a Road ID. And by everyone, I mean everyone, including children or dogs. Yes, they make RoadID dog tags too, along with a variety of styles that will please the runner on your list. While you’re at it, buy one for yourself. And Fido too!
Black Friday sale! Save up to 80% on Road iD!
Keep Your Runner Strong
Staying strong is essential to running better and avoiding injuries. Here are a couple of fun fitness tools to help keep your runner strong.
Bosu
The Bosu is an excellent balance tool, which is really important for runners. It’s also great for core work and general strength. And it’s fun! ($130)
Black Friday Sale! Get the Save 20% on the BOSU Home Balance System!
TRX
I love the TRX! I use it for my clients and it’s one of my favorite workout tools for myself too. TRX is the original suspension exerciser and in my opinion, it’s still the best. ($200)
Save 10% with the code TRXAMB10V2AC7X!
Keep Your Runner Racing
Race Entry
Giving a race entry is a fun and thoughtful idea, especially in 2020! Runners want to race! There are more and more live race out there and those entry fees can add up! Any local race would be a great gift but why not go for the gold and give your runner (and maybe yourself?) an entry to the Sprouts Mesa Marathon and Half Marathon? The race is on February 13, 2021, in Mesa, Arizona, which is a great place to be in the middle of winter. Save $10 on your entry with the code COACHDEBBIE10.
Help Your Runner Recover
Recovery is important for every runner and yours will appreciate that you took the time and care to pick a gift that will make them feel good.
Recover Faster with Theragun
There are many massage guns out there right now but I continue to be a fan of the original, the Theragun. Did you know that the Theragun creator, Dr. Jason Wersland, was looking for something to help him relieve his chronic pain after a motorcycle accident so he created a makeshift tool that because the first Theragun? Percussive therapy is here to stay because of benefits like increased blood flow, pain relief, movement prep, and more. These days you can connect your Theragun to the app and create a personalized program for your own body care.
The Theragun Pro is the king of all massage guns. Now quieter than ever is perfect for fitness pros as well as the fitness enthusiast and comes with a free live digital course taught by Theragun Master Trainers. ($599)
Theragun Mini
I love my Theragun Mini for many reasons. It is just as powerful as the bigger models but it can be tossed in your gym bag or purse to carry everywhere. It’s also less expensive, which is always a nice perk. You can read my review here. ($199)
Black Friday Deals! Save up to $150 on Theragun! (If you miss the Black Friday deals drop me an email and I will send you a link to save 10%)
Intelliroll Foam Roller
The Intelliroll is my favorite roller. I love that it is contoured to fit my body. The center cut-out allows me to roll my entire back and neck without compressing my vertebrae. Save 10% with the code coachdebbie. ($30-$60)
Black Friday Deal! Save 25% through December 1 with the code SAVEBIG!
Massage or Fascial Stretch Therapy
Both Massage and Fascial Stretch Therapy are great for running recovery (see my posts here about the benefits of massage and Fascial Stretch Therapy for runners) and they feel great! Your runner will love a gift certificate for either.
Believe me, if you have a runner on your gift list they will love any of these items! What is at the top of your wish list this year?
And Now It’s Time for the Runners’ Roundup!
Weekly Linkups
My weekly linkups! Please stop by and check out all of the great recipes, workouts, and information that all these awesome bloggers share every week!
Meatless Monday with Sarah and Deborah
Inspire Me Monday with Janet
Tuesday Topics with Kim and Zenaida
The Runners’ Roundup with Deborah, Lisa, Jenn, Laura, and Me!
The Weekly Run Down with Deborah and Kim
Haha, Debbie, yes, this is definitely a comprehensive list!
I think what I would appreciate most right now is a gift certificate for a massage.
I also like the ponytail beanie – finally somebody had pity with the squashed ponytails!
Great ideas! The only runner I buy for is my husband and he can be pretty difficult. I might he asking for a Noxgear vest this year. I’ve heard such great things about them!
What a great list–I think you hit all the things runners would want! Now, why can’t someone invent a beanie that accommodates my AfterShokz?
Fantastic list! That new Garmin is super cool looking. The Brooks base layer looks nice and cozy. Also guilty of buying a few things off of my holiday lists as well. Hope you get a few of these fantastic gifts from your hubby
What a comprehensive list. You got it all.
I don’t think I need a thing, though lol
Except maybe a race entry (when there are races)
Thanks for the gift suggestions, Debbie. I love those sunglasses. I am going to pass that link along to my hubby. I need inexpensive sunglasses – I lose them all the time! 🙂 Happy Thanksgiving!
So many great products here!! I just remembered the hubby talked a big game about getting me a Bosu last year, but got me something else instead (and I cannot remember what it was LOL). I have started giving Road ID’s to friends and family…my parents especially appreciated getting theirs recently.
This is such a great guide! I just purchased a Noxgear Tracer about a month ago and I’m excited to run with it at night! I would love to receive a Bosu or Theragun Mini!
Wow, Debbie, there is truly something there for everyone! I’ve never heard of the Garmin Venu. I’ll have to look into that — even though I’m not in the market for a new watch right now.
Have a great Thanksgiving!
What a great list – something for everyone! I like the idea of a ponytail beanie!
Great gift ideas! I love this time of year! It’s so fun seeing all the great gift opportunities and wondering what to get for under the tree!
This is an EPIC List! I love it! I have the low-end Garmin watch and have been thinking I should treat myself and upgrade!