Christmas List for Runners: Gifts They’ll Actually Use

If you have a runner in your life, Christmas shopping is easier than you think. Start with your budget, then pick from practical, race-day-ready gear. I made this guide for both family and friends of runners and for you—the runner who isn’t sure what to tell Mom or your spouse when they ask, “What do you want for Christmas?”

Budget-Friendly MVP: Socks

Socks are the most affordable (and loved) running gift. Even if you pick the “wrong” kind, runners will wear them casually. Choose any of these proven favorites:

• My favorite running socks — R-Gear Drymax Light Cushion No-Show (summer) · Darn Tough Merino Crew (winter)

• My husband’s favorite — Balega Ultralight No-Show Tab

• Other popular picks — Injinji Run Lightweight No-Show, Feetures (various)

Gloves & Mittens

Prices vary with thickness and wind/water protection. For really cold temps, mittens keep fingers warmer than gloves.

• Cozy mittens — Outdoor Research Sureshot Softshell Mitts (Women’s)

• Light/versatile gloves — Outdoor Research Deviator Gloves

  
  

Apparel Staples

A well-chosen piece of apparel is never a bad gift—especially if you know what your runner likes or needs.

My Favorites (Women’s)

• Janji 7" Pace Shorts

• Janji 7/8 Trail Tight

• Janji Sunchaser 50+ Hooded Long Sleeve

• For 30°F / −1°C and below: Smartwool Women’s Intraknit™ Merino Thermal Legging

Sam’s Top Picks (Men’s)

• Patagonia Wind Shield Pants

• Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Zip-Neck

  
  

The Big-Ticket Wishlist

• Number one on my list: NNormal Trail Rain Jacket (Green) — Kilian Jornet’s line

• Black Diamond Poles

  
  

Fun Accessories

• Rabbit ICE Raddana (ice bandana)

• COROS Heart Rate Monitor (arm band; Garmin-compatible)

• Racebelt for attaching a number without putting holes in your shirt

• Trail Toes is my favorite anti-chaff cream

  
  

Hydration Essentials

You can almost never have too many bottles or flasks and they make great stocking stuffers

• HydraPak UltraFlask Speed 600ml (2-pack)

• With filter (for the backcountry): HydraPak UltraFlask 500ml with Integrated Filter

• Handheld for shorter runs: HydraPak SkyFlask Speed Handheld

  
  

Trekking Pole Carry

• Salomon Custom Quiver (for trekking poles)

  
  

Recovery Tools

• Compression pants (watch for black friday prime days!) Recovery tool option 1

• Lower budget item, the orb! Recovery tool option 2

• You won't disappoint with a Theragun, I like to travel with the mini

  
  

Wrapping It Up

From budget-friendly socks to splash-proof shells and filtered flasks, there’s something here for every runner and every price point. Share this list, drop a hint, or treat yourself—you’ve earned it.