Why you can trust Sabrina Wieser

Runningbrina is committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Her editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. Sabrina uses data-driven methodologies to evaluate all products, so all brands are measured equally.

• Most featured running blog, past 6 years
• USATF certified running coach
• Experienced endurance athlete
• 7 marathons

A guide to finding terrific gifts for runners, including running gear, technology, medal holders, and more, created by a long-time runner!

Runners can be a little picky, especially when it comes to the gear and equipment we use while on a run. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a perfect gift for the runner in your life!

We like presents too! Below, I’ve listed some of my favorite items to add to your shopping list if you’ve got a runner you want to celebrate. What do you get a runner for his birthday? Here are my ideas for you:

What is a good gift for a runner?

For the runner who likes to track everything: Running GPS watch These amazing watches can help your favorite runner keep track of their distance, pace, heart rate, and more.

They’ve also got a GPS tracker on them for the runner that likes to go exploring! If you’re not sure which one to get, check out my previous post on finding a good Garmin running watch.

For the runner that forgets to hydrate: Running water bottle Hydration is crucial, but carrying a water bottle on a run can be a pain. Bottles made especially for runners have a strap built-in so that hands can be free.

For the runner that likes to jam: Running headphones A great playlist goes a long way on a run, but no one wants to be fiddling with wires and earbuds while trying to get in the zone.

My favorite set of running headphones is the Apple Air Pods Pro, which pairs easily with Apple devices, has multiple sizes of earbuds, is sweat and water-resistant, and can even tune music to the shape of your ear!

For the runner with lots of knots: Trigger point foam roller A big part of running is recovery, and not enough runners take the time to wind down and work out their muscles after a run.

This can lead to injury. These rollers provide much-needed therapy. There are tons of them on the market, but my favorite is the Trigger Point Grid Foam Roller, which comes with free online instructional videos.

For the runner who has worn out their normal socks: Running socks The right footwear is incredibly important. Regular socks just don’t cut it for devoted runners. Special socks made for running are always a safe bet for a good gift. There is a lot to choose from — take a look at this previous post to learn about finding the perfect pair for your gift recipient.

For the runner who’s proud of their accomplishments: Race bib and medal display If you know a runner that does marathons, they’ll want a place to proudly display their race tags and medals! I love seeing how much I’ve accomplished when I look at mine hanging on my wall. Get one from Amazon.com here.

For the runner who just crossed the finish line: Show your love to a runner who just finished a race in a million sweet ways: Signs, flowers, teddy bears, balloons, and champagne are all great ways to let them see how proud you are.

Special gifts for women who run

• We like to look cute when we run! Look for sports bras, leggings, and tank tops in our favorite colors and designs.
• Self-care is important for runners. Get us some Biofreeze, body glide, nice-smelling lip balm, or especially strong sunscreen.
• Book a trip for the extra special runner in your life. Find a race in a city she’s never been to, then check out flights and schedule a few days where she can run a race and explore the surroundings.

Special gifts for men who run

A lot of the same ideas apply to men: Good-looking gear, pain-relief balms, and sunscreen are always a good way to show a male runner that you care.

Men also have different nutritional needs than women when they’re running, so you might want to check out some supplements that they can use.

As a longtime runner, I can guarantee that if you get a runner an item on this list, they will see how much you care! Like I mentioned earlier runners are very picky when it comes to their gear. So even though finding the right running socks for your running friend can be hard to find, simply because you don't know which ones are their favorite (and we sure have one). Maybe you have noticed a brand while seeing them on a run, or you can also just ask them to make sure, you're getting the right ones. Buy from amazon.com

What to get someone after they run a marathon?

After I completed my first marathon I received flowers, a T-Shirt, balloons, a marathon teddy bear, and a bottle of champagne. My friends keep up the tradition with flowers and balloons which I really love.

If you're at the finish line waiting for someone to finish a marathon and are wondering what to get someone after they run a marathon, don't think too much about it.

Something very simple like flowers or a cute sign may totally be enough. My best friend always brings me a bottle of sparkling water, because she knows how much I'm craving it after running a marathon. Regardless of what you're gifting your marathoner, they will be grateful.