Gift Ideas for Runners

Great Running Gear and Apparel

Any runner who is into gadgets or tracking their distances will love one of these wristwatch GPS systems. They track all kinds of information, including how far you ran, how to get back to your starting point, and lots of statistical data. The Forerunner tracks the amount of calories burned and calculates them over the course of a workout. One of the unique features is a virtual partner -– it allows you to race against yourself or a set pace that you want to follow.

These adorable, comfortable shirts by Life is Good feature a pair of sneakers with the motto, "Gotta run." Your favorite runner will love this shirt so much they'll want another. Available in both long-sleeve and T-shirt styles.

If the runner on your gift list loves listening to music on the run, he or she will love this itsy-bitsy iPod shuffle. Although it's only slightly bigger than a quarter, the iPod shuffle has enough storage space for 240 songs (for the 1G Shuffle) or 500 songs (2G Shuffle). It also features a clip on the back, so you can wear it anywhere and not have to worry about holding it in your hand or carrying it in an armband or running belt. Available in fun colors, it's perfect for runners who need a little motivational music.

Wearing the right kind of socks means that runners can avoid painful blisters . WrightSock Double Layer socks feature two totally separate layers that allow movement between the layers. As a result, heat and friction stay between the layers, not between the sock and your foot. The socks' Dri-WRIGHT, multichanneled yarns wick moisture away from the foot, which allows the moisture to spread out, giving it a larger area from which to evaporate. So your feet stay dry and, hopefully, blister-free.

More: Winter Running Socks

Since they need to run fairly high mileage, many marathon runners find themselves running outside in dawn, dusk, or dark . Make sure your runner stays safe with a reflective vest, which will ensure that they're seen.

More: Reflective Gear for Runners

Inspire and educate the runners on your gift lists with some of these books about running. From training guides to motivational books, you'll find something for every kind of runner.

If you have a long-distance runner on your shopping list, they're running long enough that they need to hydrate on the run. Since finding fluids on the run isn't always easy, many long distance runners use hydration carriers to have their fluids close at hand. Many of the hydration carriers also include pouches that runners can use to carry their food and other long run supplies.

More: Hydration Belts and Water Bottles for Runners

The SPIbelt may look small, but this sleek belt expands and can securely hold an iPod, Blackberry, cell phone, keys, up to five energy gel packs, and other small personal items. The SPIbelt does not bounce, ride or shift while running or doing other activities. It's a must-have for long-distance runners.
More: Running Belts

The Marathon Stick was specifically designed for runners to help increase flexibility, accelerate recovery time, and reduces muscle soreness, stiffness and pain. Similar to a foam roller, you can roll the stick on your muscles for a self-massage. The stick is small enough to fit into a backpack or small suitcase, so you can easily take it along to races. It's particularly effective at loosening up tight leg muscles.

Many runners run outside all winter long, so they need running clothes that are made for cold-weather running. Look for windproof and waterproof jackets, running shirts and pants made from synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene, running gloves, mittens, and hats designed for runners. Avoid buying clothes made from cotton because they'll stay wet with sweat and chill the runner.
Men's Winter Running Hats
Women's Winter Running Hats