Whether you’re looking for running gifts for a seasoned marathoner, a budding track star, or someone who just likes to sprint to the coffee machine in the morning, I’ve got you covered. As a seasoned runner (currently training for my third marathon), I’m your trusty guide when it comes to finding the best gifts for runners.
If you’re tired of giving the same old running socks or water bottles that end up gathering dust, stick around. I’m about to share 40 practical, unique, and funny running gift ideas that they will not only appreciate but actually put to good use.
Whether you’re shopping for a marathon maven or a weekend warrior, this guide has something for every type of runner!
Are you short on time? Check out the editor’s top three gift ideas for runners by budget.
- Large budgets: sports earphones (#1)
- Mid budgets: Lonely Planet’s Epic Runs of the World (#13)
- Small budgets: personalized shoe tags (#28)
Table of Contents
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Running gifts for large budgets
#1 Sports earphones
I’ve spent quite a few years trying out different headphones for running and traveling combined. From earbuds with hooks to over-ear headphones with washable pads, I experimented with the whole range until I finally found my perfect match last year; the Beats Fit Pro!
They’re super small, lightweight, waterproof, and super easy to clean. Trust me, this is a must if you use your earphones for running ;). But what I love the most is the tiny tip that’s used to secure the earbud.
Thanks to these the earpods are secured when I’m running, but when I’m not exercising, I can take them out so my ears don’t get irritated. Which in my case, always happens with other overhead headphones and other earbuds.
#2 Gifts for marathon runners: glasses
Are you looking for personalized gifts for marathon runners? Then these pint glasses with the marathon route etched are perfect! After they complete the marathon, they can drink a well-deserved beer from this unique glass.
#3 Fun running shirt
This cute shirt is one of the best gifts for runners when they’re not running. They can still show their love for the sport without walking around in activewear.
#4 Medal display
Personally, I keep my medals in a jar that’s filled with keepsakes of my achievements and proud memories. And just seeing that jar makes me happy and proud.
So if you’re looking for a gift that will keep inspiring runnings, medal displays, such as this one are perfect. They can have a prominent place in their home, so they’ll always be reminded of their achievements.
#5 Foot spa
Runners’ feet can something look like they’ve been through a blender – blisters, soreness, the works. They’re actually the most underappreciated MVP of runners. And that’s why this foot spa is such a great gift for runners. It’s like a well-deserved vacation for their feet.
#6 Runner’s World magazine subscription
Runner’s World is the go-to source for training tips, gear guidance, and inspirational stories for runners. Whether they’re a marathon marvel or a jogging newbie, with a Runner’s World magazine subscription they can learn all the ins and outs of the running world. Plus, it’s the gift that keeps on giving, month after month.
#7 Gifts for runners in the snow
Do you need gifts for runners who often run in the snow?
Then these traction cleats are perfect! They will help a runner to retain grip as they are running in the snow. It’s a great gift idea for someone who lives in a cold area with lots of snowfall. They can continue their running sessions outside and don’t have to run on treadmills (which is a pain in the *ss).
#8 Running smartwatch
This is probably one of the most expensive gifts on this list, but a smartwatch is a very useful gift for runners.
They can keep track of their training and heart rate, and stream music with just one watch and finally leave their phones at home.
#9 Monthly running gift box subscription
Thinking of the perfect gift for that running fanatic in your life?
Look no further than a monthly running box!
It’s like a monthly surprise party for their running addiction. Packed with goodies, gear, and exclusive challenges, this gift keeps the running fire burning, month after month.
#10 Running tights
Running tights and shirts are always good gifts for male and female runners. Runners can never have too many pairs of tights. Seriously I have like 12 running tights, because you need to dress for different outdoor temperatures. (And then there is also the part where I don’t want to do laundry every other day, so I want a few spare tights).
For men, these running tights are perfect. But definitely check out Nike’s store or Amazon for more options for women.
#11 Race bib album
I used to wonder what to do with my race bibs (for the non-runners among us, those are the paper tracking numbers runners wear duringa race).
Stashing them in a forgotten box under my bed? Well, I might as well just throw them out right away.
That’s why I love this bib photo album. It’s not just a gift; it’s a runner’s pride showcase, like a personal history of their victories and challenges. Whenever they need a dose of motivation or a reminder of what they’re capable of, they can simply flip through that album and feel unstoppable.
#12 Music membership
Running with music is such a game changer to how entertaining a run is. (Or at least in my experience, because I even postpone training sessions if my phone is out of battery and I don’t have music!).
So if you want to give a runner the ultimate companion, motivator, and pacer, a music subscription is the way to go. Whether it’s Spotify, Apple Music, or something else, the gift of music is something every runner will appreciate (even when they’re not running).
In fact, I actually gave Spotify to my dad for his 60th birthday because likes to run too, and he absolutely loves it!
Running gifts for mid budgets
#13 Epic Runs of the World book
As a runner and travel lover myself, this is by far my favorite gift on this list.
Lonely Planet’s Epic runs of the World includes 200 awesome running routes around the world, which every runner will want to try at least once in their lives.
#14 Personalized marathon print
This is an awesome personalized gift for runners, a print with the route of their run.
You can find posters for many different marathons on Etsy, such as this one for the London marathon.
#15 Medical bracelet
This is one of the best running gifts to keep runners safe.
The bracelet has a personal QR code where you can store important medical information, such as allergies, medical history, and blood type. The QR code is scannable and can be translated into 24 different languages, so the recipient can run safely around the world. Plus it’s designed for sporters, so it’s waterproof and comfortable to wear during a run.
#16 Cookbooks for runners
Runner’s Kitchen
Runner’s Kitchen is one of the best running gifts for people who take running and their diet very seriously. This book includes 100 energy-boosting recipes and meal plans so they can maximize their training.
Running on veggies: plant-powered recipes for fueling and feeling your best
Are you looking for running gifts for vegans? Then this cookbook with more than 100 vegan recipes for runners is perfect!
Run fast. Cook fast. Eat slow
This cookbook by Shalane Flanagan, a New York City Marathon winner, is perfect for people who want to train and eat as professionals do.
#17 Practical running gifts: top
Remember what I said about practical clothes always being good running gifts?
Running tops are no exception to that. (I’m not going to lie, I don’t even know how many running shirts I have, but I’m always happy with a new one!). So head over to Nike and check out all their running tops, or go for this simple black-colored top.
#18 Funny book for runners
“Runner’s World How to Make Yourself Poop” is a hilarious yet practical gift for runners. It’s not just about the giggles, it’s also packed with valuable tips on running, nutrition, gear, and more.
#19 US states running photo frame
Do you need unique gifts for runners who love to run across the United States?
Then this photo phrame to tick off the states they’ve run is the gift you are looking for.
#20 Handheld running water bottle
Would you like to gift practical running gifts?
Then this handheld water bottle is perfect. As the name already suggests, runners can keep this bottle attached to their hands, so they can easily drink water while running.
#21 Running-themed gifts: wall art
Are you looking for gifts for women who run and who would love to decorate their entire home with running posters?
Then check out Amazon for all the cool running-themed wall art options. Or go for the female runner in watercolor paint.
#22 Reflective vest
If the runner in your life doesn’t have one of these vests yet, they will absolutely love this gift.
Why?
Because it’s the easiest way to carry a phone, snacks, drinks, keys, and other essentials while running, without an annoying waistband. And most importantly, without chafing because it’s exactly the shape of a running shrit.
Plus it’s bright green and reflective so they’re easily spotted by other people on the road (and can run safely).
#23 Running journal
Do you need gift ideas for runners who track their training and progress?
Then this runner’s journal to help them register their data in a structured way is perfect!
#24 Neck warmer
I’m not going to lie, I’m not the biggest fan of running in the cold.
But when you’re training for a marathon and you live in the Netherlands, you have to find a way to make your winter runs more bearable. And one of those ways for me, was to buy proper winter running gear, such as neckwarmers.
I was in denial for a long time, thinking I didn’t need it. But men, a neck warmer is an absolute must for winter running. So if you need running gifts for people living in cold places, they will absolutely use a neckwarmer!
#25 Runner’s World calendar
Just like the Runner’s World magazine, gifting their calendar is like giving a runner a year of motivation and organization.
It’s packed with stunning race photos, pro tips, and witty running quotes to keep them pumped up and on track.
#26 Recovery bath soak
One of the most important but underestimated parts of running training, is rest.
It’s actually just as important as the training themselves.
So if you’re looking for a gift for a runner who could use some more rest and relaxation, this bath recovery soak is perfect. With fast-absorbing magnesium flakes, mineral-rich dead sea salts, Vitamin C crystals, and pure essential oils will make their muscles and joints feel rejuvenated after every bath.
#27 Running LED lights
This is one of the best gifts for runners who often run at night. With this comfortable LED light system, they can run safely when it’s dark.
And what I like about this particular one, is that the straps are around your back and waist, which I find more comfortable than around your arm, hips, or head. But obviously, that’s a personal preference.
Running gifts for small budgets
#28 Personalized metal shoe tags
This is one of the sweetest personalized gifts for runners. Shoe tags which you can customize with a personal message. They come in pairs of two and you can create different messages for each tag.
#29 Lopez Lomong’s story
This is one of the best inspirational running books. It tells the story of Olympic runner Lopez Lomong, who overcame immense adversities to be in the Olympics. If you ever need the motivation to do something impossible, this book about faith and diligence is the book you need.
#30 Massage ball
This is one of the best small gifts for runners; a massage ball to comfort their muscles after a long run!
#31 Funny wine glass
Runners may be all about their fitness, the right food, and staying active, that doesn’t mean they don’t also like a drink (or two).
So for that runner who just finished their first race and deserve a good drink after this milestone, this wine glass with a distance tracking line is perfect!
#32 “Just a little run” book
This is one of the most inspirational gifts for runners. It’s the story of Rosie Swale Pope who decided to run around the world (20,000 miles) solo after her husband died of cancer.
#33 Running gifts for women: ring
This ring is one of the cutest running gifts for her. It’s a small and subtle way to show her love for running.
#34 Tote bag
This funny tote bag is a great gift for an eco-minded runner.
Tote bags are more durable and eco-friendly than plastic bags, plus they are made from recyclable material.
#35 UK & Ireland marathon scratch-off map
Are you looking for running gifts for someone who runs a lot of marathons in the UK and Ireland?
Then you just found the perfect gift.
A scratch-off map with the major UK and Ireland marathons!
#36 Compression socks
I do have a thing for socks, I even have penguin-themed compression socks for running because I love happy prints.
Now I can imagine that that’s not for everyone, but these cool fire-themed compression socks will not only look awesome, but they do help with circulation which is why runners love them.
#37 Headband
Looking for stylish gifts for female runners?
Then check out this colorful headband to help keep her hair from her face, look fashionable, and prevent sweat from running into her eyes.
#38 Sweet keychain
If you are looking for small and cute gifts for women who run, then this keychain is a great idea.
#39 Phone holder
This phone holder for your arm is a great gift idea for runners who love running with music but don’t want to hold their phones.
It’s available in different colors, so don’t worry if you’re not very fond of this pink one.
#40 Ear warmers
Running in the cold can be like a brain freeze without the ice cream, but with these warm and breathable ear warmers your running friend in the cold north (or wherever they live) is finally covered.
They come in a set of 3 different colors to match every outfit, plus a ponytail hole for those fabulous, windblown lock making them perfect gifts for female runners.
#41 Funny shirts for runners
Are you looking for funny running gifts? Then head over to Etsy and check out all options for cool shirts for runners.
I quite liked the one with “If I collapse, please pause my watch” for people who are obsessed with their performances. But there are many more prints to choose from.
Save these gifts for runners
Did you save these gift ideas for runners on Pinterest yet?
Final note on gifts for runners
Alright, these were all 40 gift ideas for runners. Do you need help deciding which gift to buy? Check out the editor’s pick.
- Large budgets: sports earphones (#1)
- Mid budgets: Lonely Planet’s Epic Runs of the World (#13)
- Small budgets: personalized shoe tags (#28)
