The Best Editor-Recommended Gifts for Runners

The running world is filled with new gadgets, accessories, and gels that promise faster results and greater comfort. I've tested a wide range of running gear in my unofficial role as Running Shoe Girl here at Switchback, and I can confidently say the following list is the running gear I'd be thrilled to receive as a gift. 

The following 20 items are all tested by me and other Switchback Travel editors. Each pick is meant to ease the burden of chafing, hydration, fueling, or uncomfortable headphones. Overall, my advice is to gift accessories or outer layers, but to steer clear of running apparel, including shorts, tops, and running shoes. Many runners (myself included) opt for the same time-tested outfit for comfort, chafe-prevention, or superstition, and chances are your runner has a shoe they love and have been buying since the dawn of time. If you want to help in the footwear department, opt for a gift card to a local running store. Finally, if you'd like to explore more options for your adventurous giftee, check out our gift guides tailored for hikers, backpackers, and skiers.
 

A High-Carb Recovery Shake ($3.25)

Perfect for tossing in your post-race duffel, Tailwind recently updated their Recovery Mix to include 20 grams of plant-based protein per serving, plus 2 grams of leucine in each pack to help boost muscle recovery. The new formula also removes fats for quicker absorption, making it easier on the stomach after hard runs. I have a hard time fueling after long efforts, and these mixes have been a go-to choice for post-run recovery. I'll toss one in my pack to mix into my water bottle during long days in the mountains. If your runner has a finicky stomach, drinking carbs can be easier than eating them, and they might also appreciate Skratch's Super High Carb Mix for easy-to-digest, clean-tasting fuel. 
See the Tailwind Nutrition Recovery Mix
 

Electrolytes With Balanced Flavors ($20)

I have tested plenty of electrolyte mixes, and most are either so sweet they make my teeth hurt or so bland I still don't want to drink the water. I was pleasantly surprised when I tried Cure Hydration Electrolyte Mix this season, with a variety of flavors that manage to pack a punch of fruity tartness. I love the $20 starter pack that includes my favorite blood orange flavor, but I haven't had a bad one yet. The mix combines powdered coconut water, stevia, salt, and electrolytes with powdered juice. If you want a mix that includes fiber and probiotics, Belli Welli has a silly name but a similar tangy flavor. For a higher concentration of salt, I've also loved Saltt electrolyte powders this year. 
See the Cure Hydration Starter Pack
 

Travel-Friendly Massage Ball ($14)

Not long after I turned 35, I stopped being able to hop out of bed without some amount of agonized stiffness. And while there's no real cure besides Benjamin Buttoning myself back to the age of 24, a pocket-sized pressure-point ball like Rawlogy's Cork Mini Massage Ball does a good job working knots and tension out of my calves, quads, glutes, and hamstrings. Cork massage balls work by utilizing your own body weight to apply pressure to muscles, thereby increasing blood flow and reducing tension. I started bringing them on backpacking trips last year, and rolling around on the dense little ball made a noticeable difference in my flexibility the next day. While there are many massage ball options available, Rawlogy is a small, queer-owned company that I'm happy to support. 
See the Rawlogy Cork Mini Massage Ball
 

A Chafe Stick That Goes On Smooth ($15)

Somewhere on the internet lies a comprehensive guide to chafe sticks with my byline on it. While it's not my proudest piece of writing, I did test a lot of chafe sticks, and the Squirrel's Nut Butter turned out to be the one I return to most frequently. Chafe sticks are a great stocking stuffer and go a long way in preventing runners' thighs or arms rubbing during long runs, effectively reducing friction from skin-on-skin or skin-on-clothing contact. While BodyGlide is better known and offers convenient travel-size options, I've found Squirrel's Nut Butter glides on more smoothly, whether it's warm or cold outside. It's also available in various containers, sizes, and scents. 
See the Squirrel's Nut Butter Anti-Chafe Stick
 

Socks For Blister-Prone Runners ($22)

I tested a lot of running socks this year, and the Fits Light Cushion Quarter Socks are among the softest and stretchiest. The soft-knit merino resists the stiff, dried-sweat feeling better than other pairs I've reviewed, and they don't shift around in my shoes, which helps prevent rubbing and hot spots. Sock height preference is mainly personal, but the quarter-crew cuff has become my go-to for both road runs and trail runs. Usually around 3 inches tall, quarter-crew socks help keep debris out of shoes without feeling like overkill on warm days. These socks feature a foot-mapped structure for light cushioning and reinforcement in high-abrasion areas, and they don't slide or roll down during long runs. 
See the Fits Light Cushion Quarter Socks
 

Fuel That Isn't An Energy Bar ($26.95)

For all my runners with bad stomachs (hi), one of the only forms of on-route fueling that doesn't make me gag or wish I was chewing on tree bark are these energy-packed Skratch Labs Energy Chews. Made with a combination of easily absorbed glucose and fructose, the chews are coated in a sour sugar for a varied texture that makes them easier to eat, even with a sour stomach. Stashing these in a pocket of my pack has saved my butt on more trail runs and races than I can count. I always recommend trail fuel like this as gifts because they can add up in price, and it's a great gift that people might not splurge for on their own. Just be aware that some flavors, like Tart Cherry, have caffeine, so choose based on what you think your runner wants.
See the Skratch Labs Energy Chews
 

Headphones With Built-in Charge Cable ($30)

You'll find a few pairs of headphones in this guide at different prices, and the $30 JLab Go Sport+ Wireless Earbuds hit all the marks for quality, battery life, and comfort for a great price. While the wraparound design is larger than in-ear headphones, these stay secure even on bouncy, sweaty runs. They hold a charge so well that I've never actually had them die on me, and the case itself holds three additional charges. Perfect for runners who constantly forget to charge their headphones, this set comes with a built-in USB cord attached to the case. I often charge it in my truck on my way to the trail, and a 10-minute charge gets more than an hour of playback time. The call quality is also excellent, and the on-ear commands are decently intuitive. For $30, that's a pretty sweet deal. 
See the JLab Go Sport+ Wireless Earbuds
 

A Lightweight Winter Running Hat ($36)

There are plenty of lightweight, wicking, breathable hats out there, but I've been loving the Lumi Active Hat from Ulko Gear, a small brand based in Duluth, Minnesota. The hats come in a range of fun, bright colors and patterns and have a secure fit thanks to the elastic closure at the back. This pulls double duty as a ponytail opening and a tension adjustment, and the double-layer keeps my ears extra warm and prevents it from sliding. The material is a lightweight, wicking Lycra/polyester blend for no-fuss warmth without too much insulation, and I love the soft band around the ear area. It's perfect for harder efforts in colder weather, and you can always stash it in your pocket once your heart rate goes up. 
See the Lumi Active Hat 
 

Sweat-Proof, Residue-Free Mineral Sunscreen ($38)

Suntegrity Sunscreen's Clear SPF is more expensive than many other sunscreens I've used, but the travel-friendly bottle, residue-free formula, and moisturizing B-vitamins make it a nice treat I use sparingly. It stays on well even during sweaty runs, and the pump bottle is small and secure enough to tuck into a running pack or travel bag. It's hard to find a mineral-based sunscreen that doesn't leave my skin chalky, but this one nails it—I frequently use it on my face without feeling oily or risking breakouts. 
See the Suntegrity Clear SPF
 

A Running Cap That Stays In Place ($40)

Finding a well-fitting running hat can be tricky. Most models I've found are either too tall for my head or so shallow they make me look like a background actor in Fiddler on the Roof. The Ciele GoCap Classic dodges both of these size issues, with a moderate fit that doesn't sit too low but also isn't so tight it blows off my head in the wind. The webbing strap is adjustable and perfect for a ponytail, and the wicking material is lightweight and fast-drying. Ciele offers a range of hats in different sizes, brim shapes, and colors, but the Classic is the one I wear the most. Highly recommend for any runners who have trouble finding a nicely fitting running cap that is also somewhat flattering. 
See the Ciele GoCap Classic
 

A Goldilocks-Capacity Waistpack ($44)

Not all long runs require a full running pack, but they still need more space than clothing pockets provide. The Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack is a middle-ground size. It has a low-profile design with one main pocket and a secure bottle holder, and it comes with one of Nathan's 18-ounce SpeedFlasks. The pocket is just a quarter-liter, but I can fit my phone, a gel, and my truck key with little issue. This is my go-to pack for runs where I don't need extra layers or too much food, but appreciate the security of water and extra fuel. This pack comes in just one size, but the waist belt is highly adjustable and is easy to wear high on the waist or lower on your hips. 
See the Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack
 

Recovery Slides With a Spongecake Aesthetic ($50)

If the runner on your list regularly regales you with tales of their weekend-long run, chances are they'll be thrilled to receive a squishy, supportive pair of Oka Recovery Slides. The single-piece foam platform features a 35-millimeter underfoot cushion, ergonomic arch support, and a deep heel cup, making these surprisingly easy to walk around in. The top has 12 vents to help feet breathe, and the forefoot is wide enough to wear socks for extra warmth or fashion statements. Sizing is unisex, but I've gone with my normal size and they fit well. I was also recently introduced to Bert Shoes, a super packable, barefoot-style shoe with a grippy outsole that functions as a slipper, recovery shoe, camp shoe, and water shoe. If you'd like your gift dollars to do some good, they donate a portion of their proceeds to spay / neuter programs in Colombia.  
See the Oka Recovery Slides
 

Convenient, Lightweight Filter Solution ($52)

Hydrapak's new Ultraflask + Filter Cap is one of several filter-and-flask integrations, perfect for runners traveling light on routes with plentiful natural water sources. The Hydrapak is my top pick for its combination of reservoir durability and packability. The 500-milliliter flask is long and narrow, slotting easily into the front pocket of my running pack. For runs where I don't want to carry a full hydration reservoir but know I'll have plenty of water along the way, I just replace one of my soft flasks with this filter and don't have to stress about running out of water. The included hollow-fiber filter screws right into the flask, and the whole unit weighs just over 2 ounces. The flow is fast, and I backflush it every few runs to keep it that way. 
See the Hydrapak Ultraflask + Filter Cap
 

CBD Muscle Cream ($90)

Extract Labs' Organic CBD Muscle Cream is on the spendy side, but a little goes a long way. Made in Boulder, Colorado, this 2.5-ounce tin has lasted a full season of regular use, and I still have plenty left. The plant-based cream is made with just eight ingredients and is non-oily, absorbing quickly. Each tin contains 2,000 milligrams of CBD, mixed with menthol and arnica, formulated to promote muscle relaxation and reduce tension. I've used this on my lower back for general aches and my quads and hamstrings for targeted soreness. It won't heal injuries, but I've noticed a real effect in reducing soreness. 
See the Extract Labs Organic CBD Muscle Cream
 

Earbuds That Don't Budge ($130)

With immersive sound quality from Bose and some of the best noise-cancellation I've tested, Skullcandy's Method 360 ANC Earbuds are an all-around excellent pair that don't budge during runs. The active noise cancellation works for everything from ambient traffic noise to screeching train whistles, and you can turn it off for conversation and greater awareness during road runs. The battery life is also impressive, with 9 hours per charge, plus 23 extra hours per case charge. They come with three silicone ear tips for optimal fit, and I've never had an issue with them falling out of my ears. The on-bud commands are simple and responsive, and the call quality is clear. I especially love that these paired easily to my phone without having to download yet another app. And yes, they come in more colors than just leopard print. 
See the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC Earbuds
 

A Running Pack With The Right Number of Pockets ($145)

Salomon's ADV Skin 5 pack took our top-ranked spot in a crowded field of running packs this year thanks to its impeccable pocket placement, versatile size, and revamped Y-shaped construction that distributes weight better than the older version. I wear this pack with both a reservoir and bottles, and the bounce is minimal, no matter how much I stuff into its pockets. The zipper pocket can fit my phone and credit card, and the other stash pockets are easy to reach without taking the pack off. The deep shoulder pockets hold soft flasks securely, and the pack comes with two of Salomon's recently redesigned 500-milliliter bottles that resist slumping down even when half full. 
See the Salomon ADV Skin 5
 

Travel-Friendly Massage Gun ($220)

Therabody's Theragun Mini Gen 3 is one of the lightest and most portable massage guns in our massage gun guide. While less ergonomic than some of the larger models, the Mini is comfortable for small hands, and we found it effective and easy to use on sore muscles. It's lasted us over two years of consistent use, and has the brand's premium feel and sleek design. Compact enough for packing for running-oriented trips or races, this massage gun takes up minimal room in a pack. This latest mini also dropped around 2 ounces from the previous version, but didn't lose power, and actually increased battery life by 30 minutes. Roll Recovery also makes the R1, another travel-friendly massage gun, for $129 if you're looking for a similarly sized device for nearly $100 less. 
See the Therabody Theragun Mini Gen 3

Speaker-Enabled Sunglasses That Aren't Gimmicky ($260)

Chamelo Music Shield Sunglasses were one of my biggest surprises in testing this year. While the idea is somewhat gimmicky, they function incredibly well as both sunglasses and music players, with better sound quality than some of my bone-conduction headphones. As soon as you move them away from your ears, you can't hear the music, which means you won't annoy other people on the trail. The speaker placement delivers crisp, clear sound that works for both music and audiobooks, and I can still stay aware since they aren't technically in-ear. A touch-tuned swipe along the right temple arm changes the tint, and they weigh under 2 ounces despite having built-in speakers. For runners who prefer regular old-fashioned speakerless sunglasses, check out our guide to top sports sunglasses. 
See the Chamelo Music Shield Sunglasses
 

A Low-Profile Smartwatch ($349)

Fitness watches are another crowded field, but the Suunto Race S Watch stands out for its low-profile design, unfussy features, and easy-to-use interface. I've been impressed with the mapping and route-tracking accuracy, and it doesn't feel overly bulky like others I've tested. While it doesn't have the level of GPS mapping ability as some of the more expensive Garmin models, it's more than enough for most runners looking for basic route mapping, a reliable signal, and a user-friendly app to track metrics and data. It charges quickly, and the readouts are easy to see at a glance. It's a great middle ground for runners who want some data and tracking but don't need all the bells and whistles of the more advanced Garmin or Coros options. The Race S is the more compact version of Suunto's original Race, which we reviewed in our full list of fitness watches. 
See the Suunto Race S Watch