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The 50 Best Holiday Gifts Runners Will Actually Want And Use In 2023

Run don't walk.

By Andi Breitowich and Emily Shiffer
best running gifts sunglasses
Amazon / Taia Leituala

If you know a runner, you love a runner, and it only makes sense you should give them something to benefit their passion during the holidays (or after a big race, birthday, or even just because!). Don’t panic, if you don’t know much about running yourself, we’ve got you covered with this curated list that won’t leave you racing (pun intended) to the finish line to wrap your holiday shopping list.

There are so many gifts that runners might love but Alyssa Lombardi, a certified running coach, has one main shopping tip: usefulness. “If you’re buying a gift for a runner, think about what they may use or need.” She suggests clothes, shoes, gadgets, or recovery and cross-training equipment. Whether the runner in your life is a marathoner, casual jogger, speed-walking enthusiast, or treadmill purist, they’ll be extra thankful for these thoughtful and functional running gifts.

Not to mention, these gifts may even help them prevent injury, stay happy and healthy, and cut a few seconds off their PR time! Read on to see 50 of the best holiday gifts runners will *actually* use and love in 2022.

1
Best Sunglasses For Runners

Goodr OG Sunglasses Gardening With A Kraken

OG Sunglasses Gardening With A Kraken
1
Best Sunglasses For Runners

Goodr OG Sunglasses Gardening With A Kraken

$25 at goodr.com
Credit: Goodr

Polarized sunglasses for just $25? These budget-friendly shades were designed with runners in mind, thanks to the no slip, no bounce, light frame. Bonus, if they break, the company replaces or repairs them for free.

2
For The Racing Runner

Miayork Sports Medal Holder

Sports Medal Holder
2
For The Racing Runner

Miayork Sports Medal Holder

If your friend likes to hold on to race medals as mementos, this medal holder will let them display their accomplishments in a neat, organized manner.

3
For Hot Runs

Nathan Handheld Water Bottle

Handheld Water Bottle
3
For Hot Runs

Nathan Handheld Water Bottle

Hydration is one of the most important aspects of running, but it’s easy to get dehydrated on those extra hot days. That’s why this handheld water bottle (that also doubles as a phone case!) makes it extra convenient for runners to sip on the go.

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4
For Night Runs

Runtasty Running Mini Backpack Vest

On Sale
Running Mini Backpack Vest
4
For Night Runs

Runtasty Running Mini Backpack Vest

Now 25% Off

If they're not a fan of running belts, this bounce-free mini backpack is perfect for storing gear on their runs. It's also highly reflective, and can be seen from 360 degrees to keep them super safe for dark runs.

5
For Post-Run Celebrations

FitVine Prosecco

Prosecco
5
For Post-Run Celebrations

FitVine Prosecco

Every running milestone calls for a little celebration, and a bottle of low-sugar bubbly is the perfect toast. Made with clean ingredients and no additives, this sparkling wine makes the best celebratory gift.

6
For Blister-Free Running

BodyGlide Foot Anti Blister Balm

Foot Anti Blister Balm
6
For Blister-Free Running

BodyGlide Foot Anti Blister Balm

Credit: Amazon

The perfect stocking stuffer for runners does not exist... until now. This mini stick glides on and keeps blisters far, far away. Pair it with the original BodyGlide stick so your running pal's skin is protected all over.

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7
For Supported Runs

MIRITY Racerback Sports Bras

Racerback Sports Bras
7
For Supported Runs

MIRITY Racerback Sports Bras

They say runners can never have enough workout clothes. And it’s true! This 3-pack of sports bras is ultra-supportive, sweat-wicking, and super breathable. Not to mention, over 56,000 customer reviews give them the thumbs up.

8
For Prepared Runners

E Tronic Edge No-Bounce Waist Bag

On Sale
No-Bounce Waist Bag
8
For Prepared Runners

E Tronic Edge No-Bounce Waist Bag

Now 22% Off

This lil' guy is roomy enough to fit keys, cards, and a phone (ya know, the essentials), but sleek enough to feel unobtrusive.

No matter the runner’s gait, this pouch stays securely in place around their waist thanks to the adjustable strap.

9
For Running Recovery

Trigger Point Performance Foam Roller

Foam Roller
9
For Running Recovery

Trigger Point Performance Foam Roller

Foam rolling is crucial for runners, and this TriggerPoint roller comes with free online instructions so your pal can hit all the right spots.

With over 26,000 Amazon ratings and 4.5 stars, you really can't go wrong.

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10
For Intense Cardio Lovers

Heart Rate Monitor

On Sale
Heart Rate Monitor
10
For Intense Cardio Lovers

Heart Rate Monitor

Now 19% Off

This chest strap will help the runner in your life track their run data and heart rate. If they love keeping track of stats, this is a must.

11
For Hydrated Runs

Nuun Electrolyte Tablets

Amazon’s Choice
Electrolyte Tablets
11
For Hydrated Runs

Nuun Electrolyte Tablets

Now 14% Off

Any runner will be stoked to get a new tube of hydrating electrolytes in her stocking.

These contain a blend of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, vitamins, and minerals to help her recover from a tough workout—and keep her from catching Aunt Mary’s cold.

12
For Fast Runners

Lululemon Speed Up Mid-Rise Lined Short

Speed Up Mid-Rise Lined Short
12
For Fast Runners

Lululemon Speed Up Mid-Rise Lined Short

Credit: Lululemon

Give your favorite runner the gift of speed, which is built right into the name of these go-to running shorts. They feature a convenient back zip pocket for stowing valuables in the oh-so-comfy waistband. Pick from 10+ different colorways to match their personality.

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13
For Fashionable Runners

Daily Drills Daily Drills Bounce Shorts

Daily Drills Bounce Shorts
13
For Fashionable Runners

Daily Drills Daily Drills Bounce Shorts

Now 40% Off

These metallic, nylon shorts are perfect for runners to dress up or down. Going on a run then off to brunch? No prob. These high waisted shorts got it covered.

14
For Running Moms

Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller

On Sale
Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller
14
For Running Moms

Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller

Credit: Amazon

It can be hard for new moms to find time to exercise, but this jogging stroller makes fitting in a run fun for the whole fam. Little ones can ride along until they hit 49 pounds, so it's a splurge gift made to last.

15
For The Dog Lover

SparklyPets Hands-Free Dog Leash

Hands-Free Dog Leash
15
For The Dog Lover

SparklyPets Hands-Free Dog Leash

This hands-free dog leash is perfect for any runner pet duo. Plus, the shock absorbing material gives the runner more control without breaking stride.

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16
Best Running Shoe

Hoka Women's Bondi X

Women's Bondi X
16
Best Running Shoe

Hoka Women's Bondi X

Credit: Courtesy

The runner in your life will love the cushioning of this iconic Hoka model as they log their miles.

17
For The Accessory Lover

Tread Bands Non-Slip Headband

Non-Slip Headband
17
For The Accessory Lover

Tread Bands Non-Slip Headband

Hair wisps flying in their face mid-run is beyond annoying. The solution? A colorful headband that actually does its job.

This option ties in the back for a perfect fit and is outfitted with a soft rubber strip so it won’t fall off, no matter how hard they go.

18
For Traveling Runners

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dakota Backpack
18
For Traveling Runners

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

This cute backpack holds a ton of gym gear (including side water bottle pockets and an internal key leash), is water resistant, and will help keep their posture on point as they tote their running gear to and from the gym or office.

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19
For The Cooking Lover

Shalane Flanagan Run Fast. Eat Slow.

On Sale
Run Fast. Eat Slow.
19
For The Cooking Lover

Shalane Flanagan Run Fast. Eat Slow.

Now 29% Off
Credit: Amazon

Now they can whip up the same flavorful meals Shalane Flanagan ate while training for—and winning—the 2017 New York City marathon.

20
For Tote Lovers

Women's Health Sweat Changes Everything Tote

Sweat Changes Everything Tote
20
For Tote Lovers

Women's Health Sweat Changes Everything Tote

Sometimes you just gotta sweat it out. I mean, helloooo endorphins! Fill with all their favorite goodies.

Headshot of Andi Breitowich
Andi Breitowich

Andi Breitowich is a Chicago-based writer and graduate student at Northwestern Medill. She’s a mass consumer of social media and cares about women’s rights, holistic wellness, and non-stigmatizing reproductive care. As a former collegiate pole vaulter, she has a love for all things fitness and is currently obsessed with Peloton Tread workouts and hot yoga.  

Headshot of Emily Shiffer

Emily Shiffer is a freelance health and wellness writer living in Pennsylvania. 

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