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We picked 30+ different gifts for runners that we love ourselves
Everything from outerwear to accessories to packs to hydration and treadmills
Some items feature steep discounts during holiday sales
For runners, Christmas means crisp morning runs (hopefully), a break from marathon season (not really), and a chance to ask for that most-wanted run gear (definitely). Because, let’s be honest– it’s hard to justify buying another piece of running gear when we have four carbon-plated shoes sitting in the holster by the door, just in case.
But when it comes to others giving gifts, well… ask away. We put together a list of some of our favorite gear from the past year(s), which we would love to get again and again if we didn’t already have it. Is this an end of the year, Best In Gear awards? Not yet, but it’s kind of a precursor.
I’m not gonna lie, we put a ton of thought and effort into this list and have thoroughly used almost every item on here (just an FYI, most gift guides out there are a collection of product pitches with no actual testing from the interns putting the lists together). So yeah, we want you to enjoy what we’ve been able to enjoy. Hopefully this helps and you’re able to give or get something that will last you for years to come.
Most of these items have some sort of discount going on for the week of Black Friday, so take advantage while you can.
Thanks for being a part of our journey, happy holidays to you and your family. Now get to buyin’.
I mean, we’re a dedicated group of runners, so how could we start with anything but footwear? Whether it’s a trusty pair of post-run slip-ons or a casual pair of sneakers for bummin’ around the farmers market, we love it all. This time, though, you won’t find any performance shoes in our gift guide (unless you want to count Hoka’s Kaha 2 Frost Moc GTX), because we’ve saved them for our Best In Gear Awards. Anyway, let’s get to giftin’.
Retro Runner
Listen, dad shoes have never been cooler. We call ’em retro runners these days, but the point still stands. A mix of mesh, suede, and a midsole that’s deceptively bouncy just meld perfectly together. Yes, the 990v6 may look like a shoe you’d wear to mow the lawn, but it actually has a bed of FuelCell foam put into the midsole, making it way, way more wearable. Oh, and it comes in up to a 6E width, so there’s a 990v6 for literally everyone.
Trail Adventures
Alright, so I know we said we’d skip the performance kicks for our gift guide, but the 4T2 Get Lost is more of a half-and-half. You could totally knock out some trail miles in it, but we’re mostly here for the casual aspect and the collaboration with Saysky. Honestly, it’s one of the heavier shoes we’ve put on lately (325 g for a US M9), but it’s still excellent for chasing your kids around the park while they’re on holiday break.
Cozy Slippers
I mean, how can we say no to a comfortable, flexible pair of slippers? Teva’s ReEmber has enough of a midsole and outsole to it that you could totally wear your pair for some last-minute shopping, but the collapsable heel makes it easy enough to wear around the house, too. Would we run in a pair? No, absolutely not, but we might grab more than one colorway so that it doesn’t look like we’re showing up to every Christmas party in the same kicks.
Winter Warmth
If you like the look of the ReEmber but want something even more casual, the OOcoozie Thermo Mule might be calling your name. Oofos is no stranger to comfort, but this new version of its classic mule adds Primaloft insulation to a slip-on that rivals some of the cozier jackets in our closet. It’s… probably not one we’d wear out of the house, but it looks just right for post-run relaxing.
Snowboot Lite
If neither of our slip-on picks has been up to your adventurous standards, then let’s try something a little different. Hoka’s Kaha 2 Frost Moc GTX is an equal parts hiking boot and slipper, and it combines the best of Gore-Tex with Primaloft insulation for a go-anywhere, do-anything type of fit. Maybe it would look more appropriate as part of a space suit or atop Mount Everest, but we’d grab it for the chance at a white Christmas, too.
For Inside Your Favorite Shoes
Sometimes, the best pair of shoes you can buy isn’t a pair of shoes — it’s a pair of inserts that can extend the life of your shoes. After all, most running shoe insoles are as generic as can be so that they meet the needs of most runners. With Remind Insoles, you get a much more customizable fit. Remind has four different styles, from the low-arched Destin to the high-arched Cush, and you can even go custom with the made-for-you Remedy.
Up next is the other piece of a successful running fit — everything that goes above your feet. Alright, so we’ll once again have a good mix of performance and casual picks, but we had to find a way to switch sections as smoothly as possible. If you thought we had a good number of footwear picks, you ain’t seen nothing yet — our apparel section goes way deeper for all manner of conditions. Let’s get dressed.
Everyday Layering
We just picked this one as one of our favorite pieces of gear for the month of November, but it deserves a second shout. Path Projects’ Shacket is made of 100% merino wool, which means it should put up with a lot of wear while holding stink at bay — just what you want from a garment that’s meant to last for years upon years. Oh, and the classy charcoal colorway means you can wear it with just about anything in your closet.
Stayin’ Puff’d
Are you gonna get a few jokes about dressing like the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man in this one? Yeah, maybe, but you won’t mind because you’re comfy and cozy in a puffer jacket that’s packed with PrimaLoft Gold insulation. Even better, it has a water-repellent finish to shed light rain and snow, and you actually know that it’ll work because it has the Gore-Tex name attached.
Dress like a Ninja
There are hoodies, and then there’s the Rho from Arc’teryx. It takes base layering to another level with a hood that covers your head (I mean, duh) and pairs it with a face covering for those bone-chilling morning runs. The finished look makes you look more than a little bit like a ninja, and you’d probably even look sneaky in the soft purple Interstellar colorway that we picked out.
Everyday comfort
And now, back to a more casual layer with the Paka Mountain Crew. It’s the very definition of comfort, wrapping you in a rib-knit texture of Alpaca wool while skipping the uncomfortable shoulder seams that usually make you itchy. Oh, and Paka makes every one of its sweaters by hand, so you’ll get a woven Inca ID and a signature from the woman who made your sweater.
Tights for the Trails
One of our favorite tights for a number of reasons, the Trail Tight excels thanks to its Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric with 4-way stretch, but most importantly, the storage. Deep double-tiered side pockets can accommodate the largest phone sizes or gel packs, and even if you need more — well, you get a couple of interior pockets as well.
Shorts with Speed
Possibly our favorite short of the year, Robbe wore this for the Chicago Marathon, and it was perfect. With five strategic pockets and a half-split style, plus a liner made of Polartec Power Dry with Fresh Face tech, this is one of the best running shorts that money can buy (and it comes in three lengths for men).
Shorts with Support
We love ourselves some Roark, whether it’s their lifestyle gear or running apparel, and the camouflage Bommer is the perfect lined short that combines style and performance.
Simple Style
I mean, it’s just a cool jacket; I’m not sure what else to say. It’s really well made, with classic metal snap buttons and enough insulation to keep you warm while looking cool.
Great Cap, No Cap
The classic corduroy dad cap that we gave away at a bunch of major marathons this year, just available to everyone this go-around.
An Updated Classic
This update to the classic short features an all-new silky smooth Italian liner and three drop-in pockets for all your long-run needs. It’s lightweight and comfortable and has quickly become one of our favorites.
Shirts Need Zippers Too
Made in New York City, Miler makes some of our favorite running gear, and this is no different. A quarter-zip, ultralightweight tee made of imported European fabrics, this thing gives a whole new silhouette for the trails. It’s not cheap, but it is worth it.
Cozy, Comfy Crew Socks
When we’re going out for a run in the winter months, we always try and put some Merino wool on our feet. Nobody does socks better than Swiftwick, and this one comes with a reinforced heel and a slightly shorter cuff length than traditional crew.
Warm Ya’ Noggin
If there was ever a run cap for winter, this is the one. Featuring PolarTec Wind Pro fleece and a water-repellent outer surface, this cap is the perfect accompaniment to all your outdoor miles.
Warm and Functional
If you just want to flex with some Bandit gear both on and off the run, then grab this waffle beanie made of a wool/acrylic fine knit construction.
Maybe it’s not the most exciting apparel or the newest shoes, but it might just make your running life a bit more enjoyable and easier. Here are some of the coziest gloves that we’ve found to get our fingers through the dark wintry days.
For Moderate Cold
This glove, made of a soft-brushed Merino wool blend, will keep your hands at just the right temperature for moderate cold. Silicone grippers and touchscreen-compatible thumb and forefinger round out the design.
For Wind and Colder Temps
When temperatures dip further, and the wind picks up, then you absolutely need a convertible mitten to retain finger warmth. This one is made from 100% Merino wool, meaning you get the versatility of temps and anti-odor protection.
For Those with Bad Circulation
This is the secret weapon of runners in the coldest climes. Real ones know that this mitten is unbelievable for the price point and will keep any hand warm. Great for those with poor circulation or Reynaud’s.
Now, for an even wider look at some of the smaller pieces of gear that helped us through the year. Whether it’s a headlamp, a fanny pack, or a new GPS watch, we used a whole lot of different running accessories to make our miles a little more fun.
Light Up The Night
If you’re running in the dark, you are nearly invisible, no matter what the reflective elements on your shoes may say. These rechargeable clip-on lights from Knog are simple and slim and will help you stand out from far away.
Stank-Be-Gone
This two-for-one package includes a waterproofing spray to re-up the DWR coating on your jackets, plus another to help remove that summer stink from your shoes.
Carrying The Essentials
This is the perfect go-to backpack for carrying running shoes, gear, or whatever else you need. With a fold-over closure and a back panel system for ventilation, it can handle any micro adventure, from urban spaces to the great outdoors.
Stow n’ Go
We put packing cubes on this list every year because they are a game changer when it comes to travel, especially with dirty running clothes and shoes. Eagle Creek has everything you need to keep things organized and separate, and this 4-pack of cubes will pretty much cover your needs.
It’s a Turtleneck, Right?
This superfine Merino wool neck gaiter is a must for winter running. It can be worn as a face warmer, an ear warmer, or just a general neck warmer (there are actually 10 ways to wear it). Its strength lies in its versatility and its adaptability to any temperature.
Take That, Batman
Whenever we travel, we always have a bunch of odds and ends that we need to access quickly — from our wallets to passports to chapstick or just stickers to vandalize light posts. These pouches come in three sizes and a slew of colors and are made in the USA from Dimension Polyant’s iconic X-Pac fabric.
Super-duper Sling
We’re pretty sure this is the fifth year in a row we’ve included this here, and we won’t stop now. One of the most useful items we own, the 2L Slingbag is perfect for carrying small items while running. It doesn’t bounce, it’s easy to put on and lock in place, and it looks good on and off the run.
An AMOLED Upgrade
This watch is the evolution of the Coros Pace, a simple, no-nonsense GPS watch that now features a bright AMOLED display, detailed maps, and route guidance. It also has the best accuracy in the world (according to Coros) and the easiest app interface, which includes the full Coros training suite.
Hot, Cold, or In-between
Sometimes you just want a hot drink to stay hot, like your coffee after the run. Our go-to is Yeti, so grab this stackable cup or any of their other mugs to keep your beverages right at the desired temps. Plus, it’s just Yeti — you get it.
Post-run Hangin’
For all those post-race hangouts or parking lot meetups after a trail run (or kids’ soccer games), the Sunset Chair is the pinnacle of lounging. It packs down to nothing and weighs almost the same, making it the perfect chair for those on the go.
Go-To Hydration
Essentially our go-to hydration vest, the no-bounce Active Skin 12 has just the right amount of storage for an extra layer and some fuel, while the front soft flasks stay locked in with the bungees in their pockets. I personally wore this for all my marathon training this past summer, and I’m never going back.
Open-Ear Jams
Sorry, Shokz, but we keep telling people to just spend the extra dough and get these because we actually like our music to sound good. It’s unbelievable how good they sound, an engineering feat that only Bose could pull off. And yes, you can still hear everything around you. It seems impossible, but they’ve done it. Hands down, one of our favorite products of the year.
Post-race Recovery
I don’t know about you, but we get sore after races. Thomas swears by epsom salt baths, and he’s been using the Waders Bath, made with a mix of three distinct salts and natural essential oil. Treat yourself.
Buy The Salt (Used code BITR for 30% off you first order)
The sun burns bright even when it’s cold, so you know we have to keep a fresh rotation of shades coming. From the cheap to the premium, there’s no shortage of ways to protect your eyes from the winter winds (or just the sun).
Speed Goggles
You really can’t go wrong with Goodr, especially as runners who destroy everything we touch. The Bug G is their “eye jacket” silhouette, with a solid construction and modern styling. We’ve been loving them, and the price can’t be beat.
No Arms, No Problem
These are personally my favorite sunglasses, which is why they end up on every list. Sorry, the editor makes the rules. I love them for everything – running, cycling, swimming, hanging out – and the armless style is the most comfortable one I’ve come across. Plus, they’re the best for winter running.
Gold Medal Approved
I mean, if they’re good enough for Noah Lyles to win gold, then they’re good enough for us. Featuring Super-light polycarbonate lenses at only 28 grams, these sunglasses stay light on the face while offering all the protection you need from the sun’s rays.
Premium Protection
If you really want the best of the best, then we have to recommend the Smith Mag. The quality is stunning, with ChromaPop lenses that enhance contrast and natural color to make the details pop. A bonus clear lens is also included for switching out when cycling.
If that Christmas bonus came early this year, then have fun with the items below. Depending where you are in life, one of them is very necessary , the other not so much (but fun as hell). Depending where you are in life, maybe it’s the opposite. Either way, we fully approve of both.
Bougie Base Layer
We’re not saying this is four times better than other waffle layers, but we are saying it’s four times cooler. Also, CloudMerino is one of the best things you’ll ever put against your skin, so there’s that.
Zero-Gravity Training
If you’re recovering from an injury, then you could pay a bunch of insurance copays, or you could just get the Lever Up+, your own in-home version of an anti-gravity treadmill. We’ve used it to recover from injuries and we’ll use it again when the need arises.
All The Bells and Whistles
If you’re gonna get a treadmill, then you may as well get one built for runners. The all-new Wahoo Kicker is unreal, featuring adjustments on the fly with the RunFree mode, allowing you to run hands free and adjusting to your pace. It also goes fast, the whole way down to 4:00 miles, so you can hit every hard workout.
The Ultimate Travel Bag
We just used this to haul all our gear to and from The Running Event, and, in conjunction with the packing cubes above, this thing can handle everything. We appreciate the front separate pocket as well as the tuckaway backpack straps, and the telescoping handle is perfect for pulling it wherever you may go.
It’s Electric (Boogie Oogie Oogie)
Sometimes you just don’t want to run, and sometimes you just want to have fun. That’s where Engwe comes in. This LE20 cargo bike can get up to 30 mph, and the smooth assist acceleration makes you feel like you’re riding on something from the future because you kind of are.
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Robbe is the senior editor of Believe in the Run. He loves going on weird routes through Baltimore, finding trash on the ground, and running with the Faster Bastards. At home in the city, but country at heart. Loves his two boys more than anything. Has the weakest ankles in the game.
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Ryan is kind of like Robbe’s Igor behind the scenes. He helps to compile and clean up everyone’s reviews, and finds time to get in a few miles of his own. When he’s not running or editing, Ryan writes and reviews for Android Authority, spending time with the latest tech and complaining when things don’t work quite right. If he’s not doing any of that, maybe you’ll find him nose-deep in a crossword puzzle or trying to catch up on an endless backlog of shows to stream.
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As the founder of Believe in the Run, Thomas’s goal is to help runners pick the shoes and gear that will make their running experience the best that it can be.
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Meaghan signed up for her first marathon three weeks before the race, because it was $10 more than the half she planned to run. She learned everything in running the hard way. Now a USATF & UESCA certified run coach, she loves encouraging friends to go for big goals as she continues to chase faster times. She enjoys a hot cup of coffee, a cold martini, and making bagels for friends and family.
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