Ultimate Guide to Gifts for Runners- 101 Unique Gift Ideas For Every Budget and Running Friend
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If you are looking for the best running gifts, unique presents for runners, runner’s birthday present ideas, or small stocking stuffers for runners, you are in the right place.
Runners are a bit weird. Ever walked into a running store only to see all sorts of socks, stick ‘things’, a bunch of light up vests that look like they are for construction workers, and then a bunch of shoes?
All you wanted to know was what’s a good present for a runner!
You probably walked out frustrated with a gift card as a gift for a runner in your life.
We are here to simplify your search. I’ve been a runner for 25 years- trust me, I know what runners want and will use. This post may contain affiliate links, where I may receive a small commission if you purchase something through following the link at no cost to you.
Whether you are looking to spend $5 on gifts for a female runner or $250 on an extravagant, unique gift for runners, we’ve got you covered! Here are our gifts for runners 2021.
Best Running Gifts Under $10
Tired of searching for a cute gift for runners, cheap gifts for runners, or stocking stuffers for runners in your budget? These are our picks for the best running gifts under $10.
Hair Ties for Runners
Hair ties for runners, hair bands for runners, headbands for runners– these are the perfect stocking stuffer for runners!
These are also a great small gift for female runners-the links take you to the best hair ties to hold back hair (believe me, I’ve tried many).
Anti-Chafe for Runners
Let me let you in a secret. Runners all chafe, so anti-chafing balm is always welcome as a cheap gift for runners.
Body Glide is a staple and comes in full and trial sizes- a runner can never have too much (perfect gifts for runners women; gifts for runners men)
Lip Balm for Runners
Runners go through even more lip balm and chapstick than the norm from harsh winds and sunlight.
These make the perfect stocking stuffers for runner or just a small gift for a runner. Buy a multipack and make your runner smile through the hot summer and cold winter!
Snacks for Runners
Forget the candy- try one of these protein bars, sports beans, gels, or electrolyte tabs as a small gift or stocking stuffer for runners.
Running Shoe Tags
These super cute gifts for runners are unique and can even be personalized. The running shoe tags fit directly through shoe laces to keep your favorite runner inspired every step of their run.
Stickers For Runners
Cute decorative running stickers are perfect for water bottle decorations, laptops, and more. These are a great gift for marathon runners, cross country runners, or recreational runners.
Straws & Smoothie Cups
You can’t go wrong with a set of reusable straws or smoothie cups for your favorite runner. Most runners love smoothies or some type of ice-cold beverage and the reusable straws are a cute addition to any gift.
Runners Ponchos / Towels
Ponchos- believe it or not, runners are used to wearing a garbage bag to stay dry before a race. Stick a disposable poncho in their stocking or good luck race bag just in case showers hit on their special race day. A fast-drying towel is another sure-to-be hit gift for runners women or men.
Toiletries for Runners On The Go
Other toiletries are perfect stocking stuffers for runners or just good additions to a runners gift box. These are easy to throw in a gym bag or take along to a race.
"What's a good present for a runner?"
Bonus Fun Small Gifts for Runners (Women) or Gifts for Runners (Men) Under $10
Bonus fun ideas if you are still wondering what is a good gift for a runner or stocking stuffer for runners under $10!
1. Band-Aids specific for blisters (~$3.00) [give the cheap gift for runners that they really want!].
2. Lacrosse Ball Self Massage Ball ($6.95)
3. Kinesiology Tape ($5.79)
4. Running Log for Races ($9.97) [digital ebook for runners to print OR record electronically race results, travel experiences, lessons learned, and all things related to road races]
Best Running Gifts Under $20 or Gifts for Runners Under $25
Upping the budget a little but still keeping the running gifts under $20; these ideas still work as stocking stuffers for runners or just little surprise cute gifts for runners. Here are gifts for runners (female) and gifts for runners (male) under $20-25.
We’ve picked the best running training logs, muscle recovery lotion, funny socks for runners, coffee mugs for runners, wine glasses for runners and more! What is a good present for a runner? Keep scrolling to find the perfect present for runners!
Trying to shop for a runner who has everything? We've got you covered with unique gifts for runners under $25.
Apparel and Gear for Runners Under $25
1. Feetures Elite Light Cushion Mini Crew ($18.00)
- Simple spoiler alert- most comfortable running socks ever and the perfect gift for female runners and male runners.
2. Sun Visor ($18.00)
- Keeping the sun out of our eyes and off a runner’s face is key- run visors that doesn’t slide around and are cute are a great gift for female runners.
3. Reflective Wristband ($20.30)
- Safety while running at night is the ultimate importance- wristbands are easy to put on and this one is comfy and well-lit- running gifts for her or him!
Recovery and Massage Tools for Runners Under $25
1.TriggerPoint Massage Ball ($16.99)
- This little ball is tiny but mighty- I’ve had mine for over 15 years. Runners commonly have odd muscle tightness and soreness- they can keep this gem in their car or by their desk and roll out the spots wherever and whenever.
2. Pro-Tec Foam Roller ($17.99)
- Runners can get a bit obsessed with foam rollers. It may seem like an odd gift to you, but to a runner, it’s a match made in heaven (perfect post-marathon gift!).
3. Reusable Hot and Cold Pack ($17.99)
- Gone are the days of using a frozen bag of peas to ice an ailment (yep, runners did / do that). Give the gift of ice and heat whenever they need it with a hot and cold pack all in one.
Nutrition and Personal Care for Runners Under $25
1. Endurance Beast Hair Detangler ($14.50)
- This is an ideal gift for female runner- you haven’t seen anything until you’ve seen hair tangles post-long run.
2. Science in Sport Mini Energy Bars (from $19)
- Lots of flavors and assortments are available and the mini sizes make it a perfect sampler for runners. Trust me- runners do NOT like to be hangry.
3. Suncreen and Travel Kit from Travel Nine ($26)
- Slightly over the $25 limit, but worth it as this set is chockful of travel-size toiletries and sunscreen for your favorite runner. It’s perfect as a race gift for a runner to pack for their next adventure.
Fun Gifts for Runners Under $25
Runners Christmas Ornament
- Whether you need a gift for a marathon runner or gift for a cross country runner, a stylish ornament is always welcome.
Running Magazine Subscription (Runners World)
- Surprise your fave runner with the gift that gives all year long- a running magazine subscription. There’s no better way to say runner, happy birthday!
Runners Funny Socks
- These socks are ‘funny’, but they actually come with some creative inspirational sayings runners will love.
Best Cookbooks For Runners Under $20
Whether the runner on your gift list is a gourmet chef, vegan, or on-the-go meal prepper, we’ve got a cookbook for runners recommendation for him or her. These make a great Mother’s Day present for runners, wedding present for runners, or clean eating cookbook for runners. You may have heard of Run Fast, Eat Slow-we love that and a few other specific runners cookbooks.
Best Books For Runners Under $25
Most runners love to talk about running. In fact, they also love to read about it- give the gift of one of the best running books…it keeps on giving page by page. Whether it’s for a runner’s birthday present or a present for marathon runners, you can’t go wrong with one of these best books about running. Most runners have heard of the Born to Run book (we love that one too), but here are some less known options.
Best Gifts for Runners Under $50 ($25-$50)
Apparel and Gear for Runners Under $50
1. Running Shirts or Running Tanks
- We recommend checking with your runner to see what their favorites are. It’s a bit of a challenge to pick the perfect running shirt or tank. Like running shoes, you may be best off grabbing a gift certificate so they can pick out their fave. Gifts for marathon runners can be tricky if you choose gear or shoes, which is why we recommend the gift card in those cases.
2. Running Shorts
- Just like shirts, tanks, and shoes, these are a great gift IF you know exactly what your runner loves. Otherwise, grab a gift certificate!
3. Chest Lamp (34.99)
- A well-designed chest lamp is a great gift for a trail runner or any runner who gets their miles in the dark. This is much more comfortable than a head lamp.
4. Running Waistbelt ($34.95) or Flipbelt ($29.95)
- Who wants to hold their keys, kleenex, and all the things in their hands or the tiny pockets in shorts or tights?? This is a runners version of the perfect purse.
5. Compression Socks ($40) or Compression Sleeves (39.95)
- Runners calves take a beating. Compression socks are wonderful for post-run recovery or for wearing on planes. The compression sleeves are ideal for using on the run to keep calves from cramping up.
6. Runners Subscription Box (price varies depending on plan)
Who doesn’t like getting a box full of surprises in the mail? Gift your fave runner one of these subscription boxes for runners and let them try out an assortment of goodies each month. Choose from The Runner Box or StrideBox.
Nutrition and Fitness Gifts Under $50
1. Hand-Held Water Bottle ($39.95)
- This isn’t really ‘hand-held’ as the runner can strap it on but it’s so easy to drink from, it’s priceless.
2. Sliders ($29.95)
- These sliders are not just a miniature hamburger or a type of sandals. Instead, these little things are genius ways (they slide) for runners to get core exercises done.
3. Jump Rope ($26.95)
- Most runners do more than just run. Jump roping isn’t just for kids; it’s an excellent way to cross train and a fun gift for a runner.
4. Exercise Bands ($29.95)
- Just like the sliders, bands are a fantastic way for runners to stay injury free. These are perfect gifts for a marathon runner or just a recreational runner looking to strengthen their core.
5. Science in Sport Recovery Cherry Juice ($40)
- Cherry juice? Now I have you wondering! Cherry juice actually is like natural ibuprofen and helps runners recover faster.
6. App Subscription to Strava, Fiton, Peloton (various $)
- An app subscription may be another fun way to give the gift that keeps on giving!
7. Over The Door Pull Up Bar ($45.99)
- Another ‘fun’ way to cross train, runners may appreciate a challenging gift like this!
Unique Running Gifts Under $50
1. Shutterfly Personalized Gifts
- Tip: Take one of your runner’s photos from their social media (eg Facebook) and make it into a personalized gift via Shutterfly. Pillows, phone back up chargers, plaques, and more – the options are wonderful.
2. Runners Medal Hanger ($35.79)
- If you are looking for a gift for a marathon runner or runner who enjoys racing they will appreciate the runners medal hanger (it even has a place for their bib number). Anyone who has completed a race will appreciate the medal holders for running.
3. Inspirational Running Socks ($29.99)
- Surprise a runner with a gift that they can wear AND be inspired by every time they look down.
Best Gifts for Runners Under $100 ($50-$100)
1.Leggings- Polar Tech Tights from Title Nine ($99)
- These mid-rise leggings will be ideal for a running gift for a cold-weather lovin’ runner. They are fleece lined and will last several seasons of running.
2. Hydro-Flask Deluxe Water Bottle ($64.95)
- No brainer here, but avoid giving a cheap water bottle as a running gift. Instead, splurge on something they will use daily.
3. Sunglasses for Runners ($79.99) (OR Goodr Sunglasses for only $25)- these are AMAZING sunglasses for the price!
- A good pair of sunglasses will mean so much to the runner on your list. Even on less sunny days, the glare can be annoying and cause squinting. Bonus- sunglasses keep unwanted bugs out of runners’ eyes!
4. TRIGGER POINT Grid Vibe Orange Foam Roller ($99)
- I provided a less expensive foam roller recommendation earlier, but this one is deluxe with all the bells and whistles.
Best Gifts for Runners $100+
Apparel Gifts
1.Feetures Sock Bundle ($46-192)
- The price seems extravagant for socks, but I promise the runner’s feet in your life will thank you as these socks are like running in heaven!
2. Title Nine Must Have Fleece ($140)
- Just like the socks, the sticker price seems high. However, this is truly a ‘must-have’ fleece that your favorite female runner will wear over and over all fall and winter long. It’s soft, warm, and has all the feels.
3. Race Vest ($109.95)
- Looking for a gift for a marathon runner, gift for a trail runner, or even a gift for an ultra-runner? This might do the trick- it has everything they need in a vest for racing.
Nutrition, Strength, and Recovery Gifts
1. Food Meal Kit Subscription
2. Air Fryer
- Whether you are buying a gift for a runner who loves to cook or just wants the easiest possible route from the fridge to the table, the air fryer is a kitchen appliance they simply cannot live without. Trust us- the runner in your life will love you for this gift!
- If you want the runner in your life to be perpetually thankful to you, for their running present, give them a massage gun. We recommend the Theragun or Hypervolt brands- you can’t go wrong with either. They are easy to use and runners love them.
- If the runner in your life wants to build a small home gym, this is the perfect small weight bench and set of weights to get started. The bundle contains the most popular size weights for basic lifting and the adjustable weight bench will provide the necessary support.
- The price of this blender scared me, but it’s truly been a game-changer for our family. I am now kale-smoothie obsessed and can make healthy sorbet, soups, salsa, and even homemade peanut butter. I’ll be honest- I only made the PB once, but I make smoothies daily and the speed of the Vitamix and ease in cleaning make it worth every penny. Splurge and surprise your fave runner with this deluxe blender.
Watches for Runners / Activity Trackers for Runners
- Garmin ($199+)
- Apple Watch ($199+)
- FitBit ($175+)
Bonus: Super Extravagant Gifts for Runners!
Peloton Bike (we recommend the NordicTrack if you can’t splurge for the Peloton)
Treadmill desk (this isn’t for running but for walking as your favorite runner works)
Please share our Running Gifts 2021 Guide and let us know which items you grab for presents for runners on your list. If you are considering a Spring 2022 race, check out our Running After 40 Challenge Club that begins January 1! You may need to pick up a few of these items for yourself!
So many great ideas for gifts!!