Stop Guessing — Here Is the Ultimate List of Gifts Your Favorite Runner Actually Wants

The Athleta Rainier High Rise Leggings are my go-to running pants for when the temperature drops. The warm, soft brushed interior feels comforting and keeps me nice and toasty on windy days. The high waist and tight fit around the ankles keep cold air from getting in between the fabric and my body.

I also love the pockets and light compression, which help me feel more streamlined and held together as I move. Reflective details give me a touch of visibility, which is a must when it gets dark early.

As a bonus, the leggings are available in a variety of super cute colors, like electric blue, cherry red, and plum, as well as in petite, regular, and tall sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your giftee.

If the runner in your life is anything like me, they’ll get their miles in no matter what the weather is outside. The rain- and wind-resistant Lululemon Another Mile Jacket is the best running jacket I’ve ever owned.

It strikes an elusive balance between being lightweight and warm via insulation throughout the torso that adds absolutely zero bulk. Flexible nylon-lycra fabric on the sides allows me to move without constriction, while a removable hood makes it truly an all-weather piece.

The jacket is fitted, feminine, and cute enough to wear every day. Plus, it comes in multiple colors like black, gray, red clay, and a neutral green.

At $228, this is a splurge item that I probably wouldn’t buy for myself but would be thrilled to unwrap during holiday celebrations.

For the runner who’s choosy about how comfy their clothes are, the PrimaLoft Air-Perm Fleece Hoodie is a great pick. “I loooove how soft it is,” says editor Ally Hirschlag. “Seriously, I put it on and almost fell asleep immediately.”

The garment is made from breathable recycled fleece that regulates temps, keeping you warm but not overheated. It’s super lightweight, packs down into an attached pocket, and has a fitted hood for extra protection from the elements.

This is a great gift for your full-bosomed buddy. The Lululemon Run Times High Support Bra is the first bra I reach for when I’m heading out for an intense run. Not only does it keep my chest snug and secure, with zero bounce, but the soft molded cups and padded straps ensure it’s extremely comfortable.

I love how the band supports my chest without feeling constrictive, and perforated panels give it exceptional airflow. The bra can also be worn as a regular bra or with criss-cross straps, which allow for greater arm movement.

If I didn’t already have this bra, I’d definitely want it for Christmas.

Now that I’ve tried the Athleta Speedwork Mid-Rise Shorts, I won’t wear anything else on warmer days.

The super-short 2.5-inch inseam style leaves lots of bare leg, helping me beat the heat, and the fit is loose, allowing for airflow and freedom of movement. I love how airy and flowy the recycled nylon and polyester fabric is, giving me a weightless feel.

They’re also quick-drying and wrinkle-resistant, making them easy to launder and wear straight out of a gym bag. The shorts feature an internal drawstring that customizes the fit while keeping them looking cute. Plus, they come in a variety of nice colors, so your giftee can put together a cute running outfit (as I have).

Looking for gear that will last for years? Planet Nusa’s S10 Power Shorts won’t let you down.

“The high quality is clearly discernible, and I expect these products to last a long time,” says editor Olivia Campbell. “These are splurge-y prices that you might not necessarily splash out on for yourself.”

The tight-fitting shorts support the body in all the right places but aren’t constricting. A drawstring helps get the right fit, and an inner pocket is great for storing keys or energy gels.

If the runner in your life gets chilly, this luxe base layer will be a much-appreciated gift. Wool is a favorite among runners for its natural temperature-regulating properties, which keep users warm in cold conditions but not so much that they overheat.

In my testing, I found that the garment was cozy without being scratchy and kept me dry and odor-free thanks to its natural moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties.

While it’s technically a base layer that fits easily under jackets, I found I could easily use it as a top layer on warmer days.

The CRZ Yoga Racerback Breathable Sleeveless Top is the perfect addition to any runner and yogini’s closet. It has a lightweight, breathable racerback design that allows ample upper-body movement. I adore it both on the trail and in the yoga studio.

It’s thin without being see-through, fitted without being clingy, and has mesh vents that add extra breathability to the back and underarm areas. It’s available in a wide array of vibrant colors that will have your giftee looking cute no matter what’s on rotation in their workout schedule.

You can wear the Layer1 Thermal Long Sleeve from Planet Nusa on everything from snowy runs to mountain hikes. It’s built from Italian recycled fabric with four-way stretch and is lined with extra-soft fleece.

In my testing, I loved its light weight and supportive, compressive style that kept me cozy without adding bulk. With a high neck for locking in heat and a pocket sized for stashing a phone or snacks, it blends practical details with a sleek black aesthetic. Plus, its OEKO-TEX and Bluesign certification show you’re giving something thoughtful.

Runners living in warm climates might not need a running jacket or wool base layer to stay toasty. But they will still need something to keep them warm on chillier days.

As a California runner, I’ve found that the MathCat Seamless Workout Top is ideal for days that have a slight chill. It’s thick enough to keep me warm but still breathable, so I don’t overheat as my pace quickens.

I love the four-way stretch fabric, which enables me to move freely and comfortably. Unlike many competitors, the fabric feels high quality: The stitching looks well executed, and the nylon elastane fabric is stretchy but strong.

As always, I veer toward apparel that adds style to my workout wear, and this doesn’t disappoint. Choose from coral red, electric blue, and more.

The bra is made from Bluesign-approved polyester and spandex, so it meets strict standards for fabric purity, product safety, worker safety, carbon emission, and resource consumption. Not to mention, it’s a high-quality product that’s comfortable and effective.

“I immediately felt supported with strong coverage,” says writer Marisa Olsen, who tested the bra. She thinks it’s cute, flattering, and the most comfortable out of the four sports bras she tested.

If you’re shopping for a gift that really defends against chilly breezes, the Wind1 Jacket is a smart choice. Made from lightweight nylon with a mesh lining, it can keep wind out while staying breathable enough to layer.

I loved that the adjustable hem and snap-button cuffs helped seal in warmth and blocked drafts around the wrists and waist. It’s practical, well made, and looks fantastic.

Note that some runners may find this shoe style makes them feel unstable, leading to distraction or discomfort, Fuchs explains. While surprises can be fun, you may want to ask the runner in your life what kind of shoes they would like to receive.

Fans of barefoot shoes will love Xero’s HFS II Lightweight Road Runner. These shoes are known for having a very thin sole designed to be easier on the feet.

“They call it ‘highly flexible,’ and it’s supposed to help you move your foot in a natural way,” says editorial director Simone Scully. “They’re also very lightweight, which is nice when you’re running. They have a wide toe base, which means you can spread your toes nicely.”

Give someone the gift of more groundedness. The lightweight, breathable Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Flow shoe has no insole, allowing for an exceptional ground-to-foot connection that some runners love.

This style of shoe is great for experienced runners who want a more natural experience, to strengthen their feet, and to improve their balance.

If you want to spend a day in my shoes, I strongly suggest you try this pair. Before discovering the Asics Novablast 5, I simply didn’t fathom that running shoes could feel so good.

The Novablast 5 are especially ideal for those who run on hard concrete. The ultra-plush midsole does an excellent job of reducing shock on my joints, no matter how many blocks I’ve conquered. Yet despite their ample padding, they feel feather-light, while the breathable, flexible upper gives my feet and toes plenty of space to splay freely.

You can feel confident gifting these shoes, no matter your recipient’s gait or foot type, including those with overpronation or flat feet.

“This is a conventional running shoe designed for stability and cushioning, catering to a broader range of runners,” Dr. Fuchs says. The Novablast 5 are suitable for “most runners, especially those in need of a balance between cushioning and support, including both casual runners and those training for races.”

Used by Olympians, the Hydragun Massage Gun is a quiet and powerful gift for the runner who frequently experiences post-workout muscle pain.

“It has different speeds and definitely gets in deep,” says writer Maria Cristina Lalonde. “As someone who works out a ton and gets really sore and craves hard massages, this was a godsend.”

The device includes seven attachments and is small enough to pack in a gym bag or suitcase for on-the-go recovery.

The Hyperice Normatec Elite Hips compression device works wonders for tight hips, a common complaint among runners. “I’d recommend this to anyone who struggles with hip pain or inflammation,” Scully says. “It was surprisingly effective.”

Powered by air compression, the device has seven speeds and is cordless and portable. It’s also easy to use: Fasten straps and buckles around your hips and thighs, lie down, and let it do its magic.

“I loved that this was so lightweight,” says writer Raki Swanson. “I loved standing on this plate and doing squats. I sat on it, did push-ups on it. I would then move it to a chair, and I would sit while putting my feet on it.”

The MiHigh Infrared Sauna Blanket is a favorite among testers for these very reasons. “The device delivers instant results in terms of relaxation,” notes writer Crystal Hoshaw. “It’s a cozy way to end the day, especially during the cold fall and winter. When it comes to workout recovery, I did notice relief from muscle soreness.”

It can be hard to choose one option out of so many on the market, but my vote is for the Caring Mill Portable Red Light Therapy Device. Light and about the size of a phone, I can hold it in my hand or place it on the area of my body (like my sensitive knees) for targeted pain relief. Or, I can use the small stand it comes with to prop it up near me and cover a larger area.

Given its small size, it doesn’t take up a lot of space, and it’s easy to travel with, making it stand out against many competitors.

Foam rollers tend to be basic, but the Tidal Roller is elevated to gift-worthy status by its funky color and pattern palettes: “It is a good gift for the aesthetic fitness friend in your life,” says writer Julia Childs Heyl.

This compact, quiet machine has an impact-absorbing running deck, multiple incline levels, and connects to Bluetooth to track your performance stats.

“It has a small footprint and looks sleek but feels high-performance,” says writer Grace Gallagher. The device offers a smooth ride and is easy to use. Gallagher says the machine is quiet enough to be used next to her home office.

This anti-chafe cream ups the ante: Mayron’s Goods Relief Anti-Chafe Cream creates a thick, smooth moisture barrier and fortifies the skin with zinc oxide, beeswax, shea butter, aloe, and other botanicals.

“Let’s face it, we all need this,” Swanson says, adding that the cream has a “great smell, works, helps with that issue, and is not greasy.” You can use it preventively or on already irritated skin, whether from chafing, bug bites, or eczema.

The SPIbelt is a practical pick for runners who like to travel light. With just one small but surprisingly expandable pocket and a thin elastic waistband, it’s more compact than competitors, yet it accommodates essentials like a phone, keys, an earbud holder, and lip balm.

In my testing, it didn’t bounce, chafe, or ride up, making it a “put it on and forget about it” belt and a great stocking stuffer.

Let this gift be music to your ears. Even though I love swimming and running, I’ve always veered toward working out on land — in part because the pool gets boring quickly without music.

However, these magical pool-friendly TRI2 Multi-Sport Headphones have inspired me to splash around some more. Fully waterproof up to 12 feet for an unlimited amount of time, these babies use bone-conduction technology to transmit audio vibrations directly to your inner ear, meaning you can swim and listen to your favorite tunes.

They’re durable, charge in a few hours, and hold up to 8 GB of music in most formats. I’m fully obsessed with these headphones, and I have no doubt your giftee will be, too.

The Fitbit Inspire 3 tracks heart rate levels, calorie burn, and “active zone” minutes, which, during testing, showed me how hard I’d been working, when I might want to rest, and when I might be primed to push myself further.

I love the slim, elegant design, which works well with a variety of outfits, so I can constantly track my data, whether I’m on a run or not.

For the adventurous runner who loves exploring trails, this pack keeps them hydrated without discomfort or bulk. Weighing less than 1 pound and ergonomically built, it has a 2-liter water bladder, a rip-stop shell, bungee-cord storage, and an outer pocket perfect for stashing trail mix or energy gels.

“It’s a thoughtful gift for outdoorsy folks at a great price point in a variety of color options,” says Campbell. The pack costs less than $30 and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Give the gift of comfort with the Dr. Motion Everyday Compression Socks. These socks are designed to support circulation, protect the feet and ankles from impact, support the arches, and keep feet cool and dry.

“I like the cotton blend; it feels really nice on your skin,” says editor Lili Lagada. “They have just enough cushioning on the heel and toe, not too much.” With soft breathable materials and stylish prints, they’re a thoughtful, practical pick for any runner’s drawer.

Hydration and storage are crucial for long-distance runners, and the Nathan TrailMix Running Vest and Hydration Pack is a great solution.

Lightweight and snugly secured, it offers hands-free hydration with a 2-liter water bladder plus 7 liters of storage, which is great for stashing an extra layer or a travel towel. Front pockets offer storage for a phone, lip balm, energy gels, or even extra water bottles.

In my testing, I was particularly impressed with the breathable mesh and microfiber material at the contact points, which minimized moisture and chafing. The pack had minimal bounce, ensuring a comfortable and distraction-free run. Any long-distance runner would benefit from this pack.

A $20 pair of luxury socks isn’t likely to be on many runners’ buy lists in their day to day, so why not spoil them during the holidays?

This plush pair kept Scully warm and comfy without causing her to itch or sweat. Made from temperature-regulating, moisture-wicking, breathable wool, the socks have cushioning to reduce impact and an ankle tab to keep them securely in place.

“These are great for anyone who likes being outside hiking or running,” says Scully.

Give the runner in your life a pain-free exercise experience with this simple cult-favorite product. Body Glide prevents chapped skin on the thighs, armpits, shoulders, and other areas of skin-to-skin or skin-to-fabric friction that typically plague runners.

While some may have resorted to Vaseline or baby powder, those products are messy and leave residue. Body Glide goes on clear, is sweat- and water-resistant, and won’t clog pores, making it a useful, practical stocking stuffer that you won’t have to worry about being regifted.

A great belt to store items like keys, lip balm, and a phone is a running essential. The FlipBelt Running Belt is by far the best option I’ve ever tried. Most importantly, unlike other belts, it doesn’t flop up and down as I move.

Items are stored around the belt via a zippered pocket and three openings, so the weight is evenly distributed. It fits snugly but isn’t constricting. It’s simple to put on, like a pair of pants. Just be sure to check the dimensions for each size, as it’s not adjustable.

If you’re looking for a practical, budget-friendly gift, the Happy Ankle Runner from Pointe Studio is a wise choice. It has a super-soft terry footbed, compression arch support, and breathable mesh top, plus moisture-managing Coolmax fabric to help feet stay dry during runs.

The added silicon grip under the heel and toe keep my feet firmly in place as I move. At around $18 and available in fun colors and patterns, it’s a great stocking stuffer.

Wish your loved one happy holidays with this mineral spray sunscreen. It’s free from potentially harmful chemicals and offers protection from UV rays.

Plus, “it seems to stay put and it doesn’t dry out my skin,” reports Ziegler. “I actually also tried this on my 5-year-old with sensitive, dry, eczema-prone skin, and it didn’t cause any irritation.”

This running hat is absolute perfection. Not only is it adorable — which, I’ll be honest, does motivate me to get outside — it also doesn’t fly off of my head on windy days.

The adjustable band and four-way stretch fabric mold to my head, keeping the hat in place during vigorous activity. A long bill provides ample sun protection over my face, and a moisture-wicking sweatband keeps me dry during sweaty sprints.

This hat comes in multiple bright colors, such as sunburst orange and calypso pink, giving it a festive feel and making it a functional and fashionable gift.

There’s no shame in wanting to have a clear complexion while training. If you have a beauty product–loving runner in your life, they’ll love Supergoop’s Mineral Matte Sunscreen.

The SPF 40 formula isn’t only water- and sweat-resistant but also mattifying. It creates a blurring effect, creating a subtly even skin tone while shielding their lovely face from harmful UV rays.

“I really do love it for both active and daily wear. It’s makeup and protection in one,” tester Ziegler says.

If your loved one has a bright running future, these shades are an ideal gift. The Tracksmith Tourer Sunglasses are equally at home on the track or in a brewery post-run.

If your giftee likes adding flair to their workout wear, these vintage 1960s- or 1970s-style sunnies will be much appreciated. The sunglasses not only look great but also feature shatter-, oil-, and fingerprint-proof lenses and small side shields to block peripheral light.

I’m a big fan of wearing these on my runs. I love that they don’t fog up thanks to small airflow vents on the upper edges of the lenses and on the sides.

Trail runners contend with conditions that benefit from specialized eyewear, like the Method Seven Silverton Trail25 Sunglasses. These weatherproof sunnies have partial polarization that blocks glare and maximizes light without minimizing contrast, so your giftee can safely navigate uneven, technical terrain.

When editor Katie Tuttle enlisted her husband to test them, they quickly became his go-to’s.

“They don’t distort my vision at all. I especially like that I don’t have to remove these sunglasses in different lighting conditions,” he says. “I can see just as well on a shady part of a trail as on a sunny one.”

After testing this out for us, editor Ashley Ziegler said the formula keeps the area amply protected.

“I found this really easy to apply, and the spray bottle distributed the product lightly, which I appreciate. I found it to be a little greasy, but much less so than normal sunscreen,” Ziegler says. She adds that she loves it’s a spray-on formula that doesn’t need to be rubbed in.

The sunscreen is also water-resistant, which keeps it working during sweaty sprints.

A quality electrolyte powder is a great stocking stuffer for runners who are mindful about staying hydrated, which any runner should be.

This formula contains sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, along with freeze-dried coconut water to support absorption.

Whenever I drink this formula before getting active, my workouts seem to have a subtle but noticeable edge. I feel lighter and more energetic, which goes a long way in keeping me motivated.

While we didn’t have a chance to test this product, our research indicates it’s a solid choice. The liquid vitamin has a pleasant taste, offers ample nutrients, and also supports hair, skin, and nails (which is always a nice bonus).

Each shot of Pickle Juice Sport that your giftee knocks back delivers 10 to 15 times more electrolytes than a regular sports drink, and it does so without added sugar or caffeine. The blend of filtered water, organic vinegar, and essential minerals gives runners the minerals they need to stay on top of their game.

“This will be a great stocking stuffer for anyone that you know who uses pickle juice for any reason — especially if they are on the go,” Swanson says.

These gels are formulated with fruit puree, brown rice syrup, and chia seeds to offer a little extra fuel for a long run. When testing these gels, I loved how clean they tasted. Flavors like raspberry, blueberry, and strawberry were my favorites. Some also had caffeine, which was welcome on some early morning runs.

Wild Fox Foods protein bars contain delicious, clean protein to keep runners going strong.

“These protein bars feel more like eating a Rice Krispies Treat,” says Campbell. “They are very tasty, much more like a treat than most protein bars I’ve tried. I love that they have fiber and not just protein.”

With flavors like caramel sea salt and cinnamon churro, they’re packed with dairy protein “crisps” and other thoughtfully chosen, clean ingredients, like cashew butter and monk fruit extract. These bars support muscle recovery while satisfying sweet cravings, making them a great stocking stuffer for the runner in your life.