Best Running Gifts 2024

If you’re looking a unique gift for a runner in your life, or you want to give yourself a special treat, check out these fabulous running gifts. We’ve hand-picked items that will appeal to runners of all levels, providing both motivation and practical tools to help them reach their running goals.

Garmin Forerunner

Any runner who is into gadgets or tracking their running stats will love one of these Garmin Forerunner wristwatch GPS systems. They track all kinds of information, such as distance, calories burned, and lots of statistical data that can all be downloaded onto your computer. Another feature that runners like is that it pauses and resumes based on speed, so you don’t have to keep pressing the stop and start buttons. You can also sync it up with Strava and other running apps. The latest models feature a wrist-based heart rate monitor and also allow you to get text, call, and email notifications from your smartphone. Buy on Amazon

Also see: Best GPS Watches for Runners

Oofos Recovery Sandals

These super comfy recovery sandals are the perfect way for runners to pamper and relieve aching feet after running. They’re available in both flip-flop and slide styles. Buy on Amazon

Unisex Multifunctional Seamless Magic Sports Headband

This versatile, multi-use headband/neck and face protector is made from soft, moisture-wicking fabric and can be worn as a headband, headwrap, neck gaiter, bandana, balaclava, wristband, face mask and more. It’s washable and reusable, and can protect you from sun, wind, cold, and dust during your runs. They’re inexpensive, come six in a pack, and are available in many different colors and patterns, from bright and bold to solid and subdued. Buy on Amazon

Audible Gift Memberships

Listening to an audiobook or podcast can help runners beat boredom during their runs. Treat them to 1-month, 3-month, 6-month, or 12-month subscription so they get all-you-listen access Audible’s catalog including thousands of audiobooks, podcasts, and originals. Buy on Amazon

Oofos Recovery Clogs

A great option for cold weather recovery, these Oofos clogs are also a huge favorite among runners who want to keep their toes covered. They’re biomechanically designed to allow natural motion, while still giving you the support you need. The patented footbed cradles the foot arches to reduce stress on sore feet, ankles, knees and lower back. Available in various colors, these clogs are perfect for any runner who loves to slip into comfort after their runs. Buy on Amazon

Theragun Mini

For muscle relief and some relaxation, any runner would be thrilled with a Theragun Mini. This percussive massager has a compact, portable design, but features the same powerful motor of the full-sized model. It’s simple to use, convenient to take on the road, and ideal for treating sore muscles. Buy on Amazon

The Original FlipBelt

The FlipBelt is a favorite among runners and walkers, from 5k racers to marathoners. The belt’s four pocket system lets you easily tuck in your phone, keys, gel packs, cash, credit cards or whatever else you may need for your runs. You then flip the FlipBelt inside out and everything gets locked in place. Because there are no clasps or buttons, you simply pull it on like a pair of pants and wear it on your waist/hips wherever it feels most comfortable. Made of machine-washable high tech Spandex-Lycra blend material, the FlipBelt doesn’t move, jiggle, bounce or chafe and you could easily forget it’s even there. It comes in a variety of sizes and fun and fashionable colors. Buy on Amazon

TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller

Research has shown that regular foam rolling can help runners decrease muscle and joint pain, increase circulation and flexibility, as well as improve their range-of-motion, balance and gait. The TriggerPoint GRID is one of the best foam rollers on the market, and is rated highly by runners. Your favorite runner will thank you every time they roll out on it on this exceptional massage tool. Buy on Amazon

goodr OG Running Sunglasses

Runners on my team swear by these very cool-looking running sunglasses. They don’t slip or bounce, thanks to the special grip coating and a snug, yet featherweight, frame. Despite a very inexpensive price tag, they also come with polarized, glare-reducing lenses that block 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. They’re available in many different fun colors. Buy on Amazon

Running Journal

This runner’s journal is a running log, a motivational tool and a way to track your goals and achievements, all in one. Designed by runners for runners – it has all the essential elements a running journal/log should have. Each day as you log your run/workout you will find a motivational quote to inspire you.

The journal features over 100 motivational quotes to inspire and motivate. Each “My Run” daily log captures all the critical information to journal each unique training run. In addition to the daily running log, it also features a “My Goals” page, a “Weekly & Monthly Mileage Summary”, a “My Races” log and a “PR and Bucket List” page, to keep you motivated to keep on running. Buy on Amazon

The Runner Box: Gift Box for Runners

Runners who love to try out the latest running gear and nutrition will appreciate this box of assorted running goodies, including energy bars, protein snack, body care products, and more. Curated by a team of professional athletes and nutrition experts, it’s packed with high-quality gear and nutrition to help runners perform their best. It’s a great value for the money and comes with tips on how to properly use each item. Buy on Amazon

Reflective Running Vest from Freemove

This reflective vest is the perfect way to let your favorite runner know how much you care and want them to stay safe! Whether they train in the dark or low-light conditions, it will make them instantly visible to oncoming traffic.

Made of high-quality, mesh fabric, the vest is extremely lightweight, comfortable and breathable. It also features a front zippered pocket to stash your phone, money, or other necessities. The vest also comes with two high-reflective, Velcro, adjustable arm/ankle/wrist bands for additional safety. Buy on Amazon

Hands-Free Dog Leash for Running

For runners who love to run with their dogs, this durable, hands-free leash helps them control their pooch without breaking stride. It comes with a waistpack with two pockets that are perfect for stashing treats, keys, poop bags, and phone. Buy on Amazon

Road ID Bracelet

Road ID bracelets are another essential safety item for any athlete who walks, runs, or bikes on their own. They’re laser-engraved with your name, address, phone number, and emergency contact. So, if you’re unconscious or confused and need to go to the hospital, first responders and medical professionals have the information they need to alert your loved ones.

This essential safety item includes a silicone band with a stainless-steel clasp and faceplate. Unlike an ID card or piece of paper, it’s durable and permanent, so it won’t get damaged. It’s available in black, red, blue and lime and can be cut to fit all wrist sizes. Buy on Amazon

Run Now Wine Later Ladies’ T-Shirt

Do you like to recover from a long run with a glass of wine? You may like this “Run Now Wine Later” tee in white lettering and hot pink details. The lightweight, cotton blend shirt features a slim, woman’s cut, and cap sleeves. Available in hot pink, indigo, charcoal, teal, and indigo. Buy on Amazon

Run Fast. Eat Slow.: Nourishing Recipes for Athletes

In Run Fast, Eat Slow, world-class marathon runner and 2017 New York City Marathon winner Shalane Flanagan, along with whole foods chef Elyse, provide amazing recipes for fueling your body. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to excel in running or just live a healthy and active lifestyle. Buy on Amazon

Marathon Medal Display Hanger with Race Bib Flip Pouches

This medal display hanger is perfect for the runner who like to save and display medals AND race bibs. The metal frame with double hanger bars can hold 24 or more race medals and up to 100 race bibs. The PVC flip pouches preserve, protect and showcase your race bibs, photos, certificates, race information and other memorabilia. It’s an elegant way to show off all your race achievements and memories. Buy on Amazon

Inspirational Athletic Running Socks

Get inspired with these adorable running socks, featuring running mantras such as “You got this”, “Dig deep,””Be strong”, “Suck it up”, “Be amazing,” “Crush it,” and many more. These high quality performance socks are designed with arch support and cushioning to pad the contours of your feet. The moisture-wicking fabric will keep your feet dry and comfortable on long runs or all day fun. Buy on Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

What do all runners need?

All runners need running shoes, however, that’s not usually something that they’d want to get as a gift. Running shoes are a very personal choices, and most runners have a specific brand and type that they like. So, unless you know their shoe preference, it’s better to opt for items that runners also need a lot of, such as running socks, short-sleeve or long-sleeve running shirts, and running shorts or pants.

If you know your favorite runner’s size, you can pick out some clothes made of technical materials (not cotton) that are comfortable and wick away sweat. For cold weather running, a warm hat and running gloves are also necessities. Runners also appreciate recovery gifts, such as a massage ball or gun, or foam rollers.

Where can I buy a running gift card?

A gift card is a fantastic gift idea for runners, since they love to pick out new running shoes, clothes, or gear for themselves. If your favorite runner likes a local running store, stop by there to pick up a gift card. Or, if you know they prefer a certain brand of running shoes or attire, such as Nike or Lululemon, you can get them a gift card, which they would be able to use at a store (if there’s one close by) or online. And, of course, runners always love to get gift cards for Amazon.com, which sells a wide variety of running shoes, gear, and apparel.

More Running Gift Ideas

Need more gift ideas for runners? Check out our running gift guides that are packed with popular running gear and apparel, as well as motivational and personalized gifts.