2023 Gift Guide: 31 Best Gifts For Runners

Gift ideas for runners, according to runners—for road and trail running

Published November 3, 2023

Are you on the hunt for the perfect gifts for the runners in your life? Whether they're a seasoned marathoner or someone just starting their running journey, this gift guide is here to help you find the ideal presents that will not only make their runs more enjoyable but also show your support and appreciation.

Running has become more than just a form of exercise; it's a way of life for many. With millions of enthusiasts hitting the pavement and trails every day, the world of running has evolved to cater to diverse needs and preferences. From long-distance road runners to trailblazing adventurers, runners are a unique and passionate community, and finding gifts that align with their individual interests can be both fun and rewarding.

The act of giving is always meaningful, but when it comes to runners, thoughtful and practical gifts hold a special place. Running is more than just a hobby for many; it's a commitment to personal well-being, fitness, and mental clarity. The right gift can boost motivation, enhance performance, and contribute to their overall running experience. So, whether it's a high-tech gadget, comfortable apparel, or a sentimental keepsake, your thoughtful gift can make their miles even more memorable.

In this guide, we'll explore a range of gift ideas to cater to the unique needs and preferences of runners, helping you select the perfect present for the runner in your life.

Looking for more gift ideas? See our guide to Best Gifts for Climbers.


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what to consider before buying a gift

Runner's experience level

Consider whether the runner is a beginner or an experienced athlete. Beginners may appreciate items like running shoes, while more seasoned runners might prefer advanced gear or accessories.

Running goals

Different runners have different goals. Some may be training for marathons, while others may run for stress relief or leisure. Consider their running objectives when choosing a gift.

Running environment

Think about where the runner primarily trains. Are they a road runner, a trail runner, or a gym-goer? The type of terrain and weather they encounter can influence the gear and accessories they need.

Personal preferences

Runners have individual preferences, whether it's a particular brand of shoes, a favorite color for their gear, or specific dietary requirements for nutrition. Try to find out or keep these preferences in mind.

Technology compatibility

If you're considering tech-related gifts, such as fitness trackers or headphones, make sure they are compatible with the runner's existing devices (e.g., smartphone, fitness apps).


ESSENTIAL RUNNING GEAR

1. PATAGONIA HOUDINI AIR

Patagonia Houdini Air

(MEN'S AND WOMEN'S)

Ensure that the runner in your life is ready for another running season with one of our favorite wind jackets, the Patagonia Houdini Air.

This jacket weighs only 4.1 ounces and packs down to the size of a fist. While many windbreaker jackets feel slippery and look more like a trash bag than a jacket, this feels soft and looks pretty stylish. We love the material on this jacket. And after a year of trail running, backpacking, and mountain biking with this jacket, it has no tears.

This jacket is one of the only technical ones we don’t feel too sporty wearing. I wear this jacket around town and on the trail, and it’s equally comfortable in both settings. 

-Sam Schild, Contributing Writer

PATAGONIA HOUDINI AIR

WOMEN'S

MEN'S

For more jacket gift ideas, check out our The Best Women's Running Jackets and The Best Men’s Running Jackets guides.


2. Mountain Hardwear Polartec Power Grid Full Zip Hoody

Mountain Hardwear Men's Polartec Power Grid Full Zip Hoody

(MEN'S AND WOMEN'S)

This jacket is perfect for running, especially in colder weather. The power grid fleece is breathable while you are sweating while staying warm and slightly wind resistant. I love the pockets at the hip which are large enough for my phone but not so large that it bounces around while I am running. The chest pocket is perfect for keys and cards. Your runner will also appreciate that the hood is fitted and moves with you, so you can turn your head to the side and not have your vision blocked. I absolutely love thumbholes at the sleeve which make this the perfect layer allowing me to leave the gloves at home most days. It packs up to about the size of a liter so if you need to stash it when you heat up it won’t take up too much space. –Sara Kruglinski, Partnership Manager

MOUNTAIN HARDWEAR POLARTEC POWER GRID FULL ZIP HOODY

MEN'S
WOMEN'S

3. ULTIMATE DIRECTION ULTRA VESTA 6.0

Ultimate Direction Ultra Vest

(MEN'S AND WOMEN'S)

The Ultra Vesta is a minimalist running vest with maximized functionality. It’s incredibly light (7.8 oz.), with a roughly 10-liter capacity, including room for a 2-liter reservoir and a pair of water bottle pockets up front. An assortment of other pockets and attachment points on the front and back, along with an external bungee cord, hold a surprising amount—sunglasses, phone, chapstick, lunch, trekking poles, extra layers, and beyond.

Considering I sweat like a sautéed onion, I’m grateful that the pack structure contains a lot of mesh that dries fairly quickly and never feels waterlogged during a run. I also appreciate that the thin sternum straps and cinching system along the sides allow for a great fit. The fit is snug enough that no matter what I have shoved inside—say, an entire package of marshmallows that I picked up at the grocery store—the vest rides with my body instead of bouncing up and down against It. 

-Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer

ULTIMATE DIRECTION ULTRA VEST/A

MEN'S
WOMEN'S

For a more detailed look at hydration vests, check out our guide to Best Running Hydration Vests.


4. HOKA CLIFTON 9 ROAD RUNNING SHOES

Hoka Clifton 9

(MEN'S AND WOMEN'S)

While I am a devoted fan of HOKA Speedgoats for cruising on dirt, I wanted a dedicated pair for my urban forays. After researching options and scouring reviews, I popped over to my local running shop and tried on a pair of Cliftons—then bought ‘em on the spot.

While they’re good-looking shoes (with almost two dozen colorways available), it was truly love at first feel. Stepping into a pair of Cliftons feels like nothing less than receiving a foot hug, a soft and squishy but supportive tender embrace—and thanks to a cozy, elongated heel tab, they don’t require a crowbar to slip on or remove. 

Personally, I experienced zero break-in time. Proof? Less than three hours after hopping off of that international flight, I used my Cliftons to run my fastest-ever 5k in the middle of Copenhagen. Of course, your mileage may vary.

-Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer

HOKA CLIFTON 9

WOMEN'S
MEN'S

For a more in-depth look of the Clifton 9s, check out our full review of them here.


Tracksmith Allston Bra

The first time I pulled on the Tracksmith Allston Bra, I wanted to throw everything else in the garbage. It’s blissfully pad-free, smooth, and soft but still compressive, thanks to a blend of nylon and elastane that keeps everything in place without feeling like your goods have been shoved into your chest cavity. Kudos to the designers and engineers who created this marvel because I’ve had this sucker for four years, and it’s held its shape remarkably well, keeping me bounce-free run after run.

While this bra won’t work for everyone (the suggested range is between an AA and C cup), I can’t imagine a runner in that size bracket who wouldn’t be stoked to add this lightly compressive dream piece to their Quiver. 

-Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer

TRACKSMITH ALLSTON BRA

For more of our favorite sports bras, take a look through our guides for The Best Sports Bras AA to D cup and The Best Sports Bras D cup and up.


Ultimate direction utility belt

The Ultimate Direction Utility Belt lets you carry the essentials on runs without needing to wear a running vest.

This belt is great for most run distances–on the trails or road runs around town. The ability to carry extra layers, some water, and snacks without putting on a running vest is liberating. This belt changed how we think about medium-distance runs since it allows you to go a little longer. Every runner in your life would benefit from this useful running gear.

We find the Utility Belt especially helpful in colder weather when you often need extra layers, but it’s also our favorite way to carry water on hot summer days. We’ve even packed a small water filter in this belt and used it to take everything we need on longer mountain runs.

-Sam Schild, Contributing Writer

ULTIMATE DIRECTION UTILITY BELT

For similar gift ideas, check out our guide on The Best Fanny Packs, Waist Packs, and Lumbar Packs


Hoka All Gender Performance Hat

We aren’t often impressed enough with a hat to tell anyone about it, but the Hoka All Gender Performance Hat is worth mentioning. This hat is by far the best running hat we’ve ever worn. It’s ultra-comfortable, breathable, packable, and uses an elastic cord to quickly tighten or loosen when adjusting the fit. If that runner in your life spends any time running in windy conditions, they’ll love this hat. 

-Sam Schild, Contributing Writer

HOKA ALL GENDER PERFORMANCE HAT

If the runner in your life loves hats, we have a guide to The Best Running Hats to help you make your buying decision.


Skida Nordic Headband

Skida is a small, woman-owned brand based in Vermont. The founder started by sewing hats for friends on her ski team, and the brand has since grown to make accessories of all sorts, from balaclavas to bucket hats.

My favorite piece for winter running (and just about any aerobic cold-weather activity) is the Nordic Headband. It’s a thin synthetic headband that offers just enough warmth and protection to keep your ears toasty while you’re out working up a sweat mid-winter. Better yet, it’s thin enough and wicks and breathes well enough to use any time of year. It’s something simple that makes a fun and functional gift for the runner in your life. 

We love the variety of patterns it comes in (you can even get a matching neck warmer). For runners often out on the fringes of daylight, Skida makes a super bright and reflective option, too. 

-Stasia Stockwell, Contributing Writer

SKIDA NORDIC HEADBAND

You may also want to consider some more of our favorite Cold Weather Running Gear to accompany the Skida headband.


Goodr Sunglasses

Thanks to the magic of the internet, I learned that every single runner seems to love Goodr glasses—and given their popularity, it’s not surprising that they also earned a nod as Treeline’s pick for Best Affordable Sunglasses, coming in at a cool $25 a pair.

While the price tag was enticing enough on its own, their performance is what ultimately won me over. As a prolific sweathog, I’m used to sunglasses practically rocketing off my face during a run; but these suckers don’t budge a millimeter, even when I’m moving erratically over technical terrain or cranking out miles in the rain. Truly a miracle! The style factor is also a major bonus, with an array of options in color and shape (I’m an Electric Dinotopia Carnival person, myself), cute enough to wear even when you’re not sweating it out.

And if you happen to scratch ‘em—as I did earlier this year—you can send the Goodr folks documentation of the damage, and if it’s within your first year of purchase, they’ll send you a brand new pair! It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

-Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer

GOODR SUNGLASSES

If you’re willing to spend beyond the $25 Goodr price, we’ve reviewed some other nice running sunglasses in our guide to Best Running Sunglasses.


Stance performance run socks

Quality socks are such a kind gift to give your feet–that literally bear your weight all day–and are seldom a thing we think or want to buy ourselves. That’s why my go-to gift recommendation to anyone who exercises and loves themselves is Stance Performance socks.

As a former marathoner and ultra runner, I’ve had my fair share of blisters. I’ve chaffed everywhere a person can chafe. I’ve worn holes into every pair of socks I’ve ever owned. But the socks that hold up best? That don’t rub, don’t cause me blisters, don’t wear down as fast as the others? Stance Performance socks. The crew length, in particular, with above ankle coverage, has served me well on both the trails and the road.

And with their fun designs (like this Star Wars pair), you can gift these babies without feeling like you’re giving your Aunt Nancy–whose name you drew in the family gift exchange and who just got into running–a lame pair of boring socks. (Though, for what it’s worth, the basic black pair are my favorite.)

-Becca Downs, Contributing Writer

STANCE PERFORMANCE SOCKS

We’ve reviewed other great socks in The Best Running Socks guide as well.


FITNESS TRACKERS AND RUNNING TECH

1. GARMIN FORERUNNER 55

Garmin Forerunner 55

I am not a tech person. I am not a gadget person. I do not want my wrist to beep or buzz. But holy cow, do I love the Garmin Forerunner 55, an entry-level smartwatch designed for runners. As a complete amateur, I never thought I’d be the kind of person who’d strap on a tiny computer and pay attention to performance data. Still, the Forerunner 55 changed my entire approach to running and fitness.

Relatively affordable and loaded with intuitive functions that are fairly easy to navigate, the Forerunner 55 is the perfect gift for newbie runners—or even more experienced ones who haven’t yet explored training with a smartwatch.

I used this feature to train and build consistency for my first half-marathon (5k and 10k distances are also available) and later used it to build up to a 5k personal best. Thanks, coach! 

-Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer

For a more in-depth look at this watch, read our full review of the Garmin Forerunner 55 GPS Running Watch. We also have a guide to the Best GPS Hiking Watches.

GARMIN FORERUNNER 55


2. A WAY TO ALWAYS STAY IN TOUCH:  GARMIN INREACH MINI 2

Garmin Inreach Mini 2

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 may be the best present you can get for a trail runner (because it’s also a present for yourself). 

This two-way satellite transmitter turns a smartphone into a use-anywhere two-way texting machine–so you can contact them (and visa versa) even if they are off the grid. It sends out the runner’s GPS coordinates so you can track them down to the 10-second interval.

See our detailed review for more on why we love this Personal Satellite Messenger

-Liz Thomas, Editor-in-Chief

GARMIN INREACH MINI 2


3. LISTEN TO MUSIC AND STILL HEAR THE BIRDS (AND CARS!): SHOKZ OPEN RUN HEADPHONES 

Shokz Open Run

I’d been reluctant to try wireless headphones—I always just used the free headphones that came with my phone. And bone-conducting headphones? Not even on my radar. But then, in the name of science and testing for Treeline Review, I tried on a demo pair of the Shokz Open Run headphones and bought them on the spot.

The sound quality is incredible, and the fact that they don’t go in your ears makes them perfect for use outside. Situational awareness was a term I was unfamiliar with until I read about the Shokz, and now I’m a huge proponent of it. Running around town requires staying safe from cars on roads or other runners, hikers, and bikes on trails. 

The Aftershokz Air is the Best Situational Awareness winner in our Best Wireless Headphones for Running and Working Out. Still, I’m increasingly thinking situational awareness headphones are the best option for most. You just can’t beat hearing music while also being aware of what is around you. 

-Naomi Hudetz, Chief Operating Officer

SHOKZ OPEN RUN HEADPHONES


RECOVERY AND SELF-CARE

Theragun Pro Massage Gun

1. THERAGUN PRO MASSAGE GUN

How about a massage that doesn’t require you to book an appointment with a professional? The Theragun (literally a therapeutic massage gun) is a life changer for anyone who leads an active lifestyle — or who happens to sleep in the wrong position once in a while. It gives one the ability to give the self (and/or others–sharing recommended) a therapeutic and efficient percussion-based massage. Imagine being able to provide yourself with hamstring recovery therapy after a long climb.

Theraguns exist in the perfect limbo between luxury item and absolute well-being investment–which makes them a true treat of a gift for any runner in your life. Injury is not even necessary to reap the benefits a Theragun can provide

-Gabaccia Moreno, Contributing Writer

THERAGUN PRO MASSAGE GUN


Hoka Ora 3 Slide Recovery Sandals

Runners often find their feet want the most comfortable shoes to support tired feet after a run. This is especially true for runners who cover long distances or have just finished a race.

Treeline Review writer Gabaccia Moreno swears by the Hoka Ora 3 Recovery Sandals. These slip-in sandals have plenty of room for the feet to splay with soft cushioning for walking on hard surfaces. When the runner in your life is too sore to move, these sandals make walking around more comfortable. Plus, they come in lots of fun colors, patterns, and styles to personalize the experience. 

Along with the Hoka Ora 3s, many of the shoes in our Best Recovery Shoes guide make great gifts.

-Treeline Review Team

HOKA ORA 3 SLIDE RECOVERY SANDALS


Rawlogy Massage Ball

To combat some of the creakiness that comes with running, I started carrying Rawlogy’s “OG” cork massage ball during my backpacking trips as an alternative to the tennis ball I used to lug around. The cork is ridiculously lightweight, and the ball is dense enough to provide a firm, thorough “self-massage” even on uneven surfaces. It also works fine when your skin is wet, although you want to avoid using it right after applying lotions or oils to avoid greasing up the cork. I’ve since switched to the brand’s “Mini” ball (which comes in at 0.7oz—half the original weight) for backpacking, but I use my OG to loosen up my sore calves before and after my runs at home.

Beyond their usefulness as recovery tools, I love that Rawlogy balls are chemical-free and eco-friendly. I appreciate founder Marek Bowers’ messaging that we all deserve to feel good in our bodies. On that note, I’ve gifted this plenty of times to folks who aren’t runners; my mom uses hers to loosen up her arthritic hands. Let the good (self-care) times roll!

-Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer

RAWLOGY CORK MASSAGE BALL


Zensah Compression Leg Sleeves

I can’t get enough of the Zensah compression calf sleeves.  I love compression sleeves, and I have tried so many brands that are either too tight, too loose or too fragile, these are perfect.  The Zenzah sleeves come in so many fun colors and they provide compression without being tight.  

These make a great gift for your favorite runner, hiker or biker with so many colors to choose from I am sure you can find one that will fit.  I also like that the sleeves allow me to wear my favorite socks with them.  

I have tried compression socks but I usually find the sock part isn’t as good as the sleeve part and I feel like I have to sacrifice foot comfort for calf comfort.  With the sleeves you can wear your favorite socks and still have super fun colors on your calves and enjoy the compression and keep moving. 

-Sara Kruglinski, Operations Coordinator

ZENSAH COMPRESSION LEG SLEEVES


5. RUNNING WHILE BLACK (AMAZON | BOOKSHOP.ORG)

Cover art for running while black book by desir

Running While Black: Finding Freedom in a Sport that Wasn't Built for Us by Alison Mariella Désir is a new book that explores the sport of running and a call to action to re-imagine running as a more inclusive space.

Désir is a marathon runner and mental health advocate who knows firsthand the benefits of long distance running and re-imagines running as a safer space for Black runners. I recommend this book for runners of all backgrounds looking to create a more inclusive outdoor community.

-Gabaccia Moreno, Contributing Writer

RUNNING WHILE BLACK


6. HAVE FUN OUT THERE OR NOT: THE SEMI-RAD RUNNING ESSAYS BY BRENDAN LEONARD (AMAZON | BOOKSHOP.ORG)

Have fun out there or not semi rad book in front of boombox

Books about running often fall into one of two camps: tried-and-true instructional manuals or documentation of superhuman feats that you will probably never, ever come close to accomplishing. Brendan Leonard’s Have Fun Out There or Not: The Semi-Rad Running Essays (so named for his popular outdoor-ish humor website, Semi-Rad) is neither of these.

My favorite thing about Leonard—and this book—is that he’s not an Olympian or even someone who wins races; he’s just some dude who likes to squeeze as much fun as possible into his life and is stoked to take you along for the ride (or run, as it were). He has a way with self-deprecating humor that makes you feel in on the joke and inspired to do some of the wacky stuff he dreams up—and boy, could I relate. I related so much that I blasted through this entire collection of 25 running-related stories during a pair of solo backpacking trips this summer, and I loved it so much that I started rereading the whole thing from the top

-Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer

HAVE FUN OUT THERE OR NOT: THE SEMI-RAD RUNNING ESSAYS


NUTRITION AND HYDRATION

1. SOFT FLASK: ULTIMATE DIRECTION BODY BOTTLE V3 500ML 

Ultimate Direction Body Bottle

When reviewing men’s running vests, I had the chance to try out a lot of flasks and other hydration reservoirs made to fit in these packs and other running hydration gear. The Ultimate Direction Body Bottle III 500ml is my clear favorite.

It’s thicker, more durable, and only marginally heavier and bulky compared to other flasks. The standout for me, however, is that the bottle top nozzles lock, and they lock well enough that I couldn’t figure out how to get water out of my bottles the first time I ran with them. Most flasks seem to omit a lockable nozzle, maybe because it adds an extra step to take a drink. A quick pull of the soft nozzle with my teeth is a nonissue.

I’ve even started taking them backcountry skiing, where getting wet can be a little more consequential than running. I’m asking for the insulated version of the UD Body Bottles for colder temperatures. 

-Trey French, Contributing Writer

SOFT FLASK: ULTIMATE DIRECTION BODY BOTTLE V3 500ML

If you’re looking for gifts for a trail runner who already has a nice hydration vest, take a look through our Trail Running Gear Listfor more gift ideas.


2. FOOT LOG: GIVE THEIR MUSCLES SOME AFTERCARE

Colorful foot log massage care for runners

I learned about the Foot Log when I started dating my now-husband, who was working at a running store. I was training for a trail marathon and not taking proper care of my feet. As a result, I started experiencing metatarsalgia (when the ball of your foot becomes inflamed). He brought over the Foot Log and recommended I use it daily, especially after runs. I’ve made the Foot Log part of my post-run cooldown. 

It feels spectacular to roll out my barking dogs with the Foot Log after a 10-mile jaunt. It’s covered in 250 tiny nubs that help stimulate the nerves on the bottom of your feet, optimizing the massage experience. What’s great about the Foot Log versus a massage ball is that you can apply plenty of pressure without losing balance. You can also gently roll out both feet while sitting at a desk or watching TV (I’m rolling mine out as I type this!).

Hikers who suffer from plantar fasciitis state that using the Foot Log regularly helps immensely alleviate pain. We think the Foot Log makes the perfect gift for any active person in your life. Their feet will thank you. 

-Gianna Starble, Contributing Writer

FOOT LOG


Body Glide

Do you want to help someone experience less friction in their life (or across their various body parts)? Consider gifting them some Body Glide, the classic anti-chafe product that looks like a colorful deodorant container. I’ve tried plenty of other topicals—powders, creams, ointments—but this is my tried and true, the one that never fails me, even on the swampiest days.

I use the regular but have tried the “women’s” formulation, which comes loaded with extra emollients. The product also comes in four different sizes; the smaller ones are perfect for tossing in my running vest or even into a fanny pack for longer excursions. In addition, not only is Body Glide plant-based, but it’s also not tested on animals—except for you, you sweaty animal. 

-Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer

BODY GLIDE


4. BOX OF ENERGY BARS, GELS, AND POWER DRINK MIXES 

honey stinger waffle

Giving a box of chocolates may be a traditional holiday present. But a hand-picked box of performance energy foods, including energy bars, gels, and drink mixes, is even more exciting than chocolate for a runner. 

 Almost every runner loves to try new flavors of bars, gels, and performance drinks. Everyone is always trying to find the best-tasting new bar or the next exciting flavor. 

Here are a few of our favorites:

1.  Honey Stinger Energy Waffles (also available in Gluten-Free) – a favorite of Shawnté Salabert

2. Nuun Hydration Tablets (one of our most popular items at Treeline Review!)

3. ProBar Energy Chews

4. Tailwind Nutrition Rebuild Recovery Drink

5. Muir Energy Gel

Pro Tip: If you’re giving Performance Food Gift Sets to several runners, such as all the people in a running group, you can get items like Ultima Replenisher or GU 24-Pack in bulk to save even more.

Plus, REI runs a deal where you save 10% if you purchase 10 or more performance foods. 

-Treeline Review Team

We’ve tested and reviewed even more electrolyte powders, which you can learn about in our guide to The Best Electrolyte Powders.


GIFTS FOR SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE

1. Petzl Iko Core Headlamp 

Petzl Iko Core Headlamp

Winter nights are long, and that means one thing for runners: more miles in the dark. When it’s cold (and or windy, snowing, or raining), finding the motivation to embrace the darkness challenges my will…until I found the IKO Core headlamp. Ultralight at just 79 grams but punching above its weight at 500 lumens, this headlamp conforms to my head and whatever hat, headband, or beanie I might be rocking for the day. With a rechargeable battery, flexible halo-like design, and highly durable design, this headlamp has quite literally changed my life.

Dani Reyes-Acosta, Contributing Writer


Read more about our favorite headlamps here.

PETZL IKO CORE HEADLAMP


Nathan Laser Light 3 L Hydration Pack

For the person that likes to get their miles in early in the morning or late in the evening, this sleek, minimalist 3-liter hydration pack has built-in illumination that enhances your visibility during low-light outings. The on/off on the shoulder is fun to push and the 16 lumens of integrated yellow LED light threading on the back panel makes you feel a little like a superhero. It has two modes — solid and strobe — and a 1.5-liter built-in hydration reservoir and another 1.5 liters of storage for small items like nutrition and a phone. It’s comfortable to wear, sheds water adequately well, and the luxe fabric is quiet, so it doesn't make an annoying “swishing” sound when running. 

-Ebony Roberts, Contributing Writer


Read more about our favorite running hydration packs.

NATHAN LASER LIGHT 3 L HYDRATION PACK


Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm

Something I always need? Lip balm with SPF. Something I never think to buy for myself until I’m in the elements, lips cracking? Lip balm with SPF. There are lots of lip balm options out there with various active ingredients, but I’ve learned to love the Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm. It goes on smooth and keeps my lips happy when the sun’s reflecting off water and snow, as well as on top of windy summits.

For chemical-sensitive buyers, the organic formula for this balm incorporates shea butter and avocado oil for an extra moisturizing, liquid texture—no chunks of beeswax hanging out on your face. And since sharing lip balm is not exactly in the interest of public health these days, having a few extras kicking around in daypacks and dry bags ensures I can dig around and not be left empty-handed on my next outdoor adventure. 

-Bri Dostie, Contributing Writer

JACK BLACK INTENSE THERAPY LIP BALM


Noxgear's Tracer 2 vest

During dark winter days, a reflective vest is one of the best gifts you can give the runner in your life. As a road runner, I always consider increasing my visibility as nights get longer. I looked for reflective running vests and tried Noxgear's Tracer 2 vest, which has over 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. 

It's a lightweight, waterproof vest that will fit nearly everyone and has a rechargeable battery (USB-C charger included). The Tracer 2 vest slips on easily, attached with a chest strap buckle.

I wore the vest during a night run and didn’t notice it for the rest of the jog. Even more fun, I looked like a science-fiction character from Tron or Star Wars. Did it make me a faster runner? Nope. Did it make me safer? Yes! Just also remember to wear a headlamp and reflective fabric on your ankles or wrists. 

-Sonja Lind, Contributing Writer

NOXGEAR TRACER 2 VEST

For more nighttime safety running gear ideas, take a look at our guides to The Best Reflective Gear for Running in the Dark and The Best (and Brightest) Headlamps.


Hex Performance Laundry Detergent

5. HEX DETERGENT: REVIVE THEIR FAVORITE RUNNING APPAREL

Sometimes the best gift is the one that also benefits the gift-giver. If you live, work, or spend your holidays with a runner, chances are you know the smell of clothes or gear that never seem to get clean—no matter how many times they’re washed. 

Although sports detergent is a relatively inexpensive gift, it’s one of those things we bought that significantly improved our daily existence. (Turns out that turning clothes that are perpetually smelly to only-stinky-after-use is a real mood booster.) 

While it may seem like a backhanded gift to give a runner some sports detergent, trust us—they’ll be stoked. Finding a good sport detergent that actually works takes trial and error. They’ll be overjoyed to receive one that actually works.

-Treeline Review Team

HEX DETERGENT


GIFT CARDS AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

1. A GUIDED RUNNING TRIP LED BY A COACH

woman trail running in dolomites

Guided trail running trip in the Dolomites. Photo courtesy 57Hours.

If the runner in your life has always dreamed about running in another country or scenic destination but would feel more comfortable going with someone who speaks the language who is a certified guide, 57Hours makes it easy to find a guide for any destination and any sport. 

For example, this Guided Hut-to-Hut Trail Running Trip in the Dolomites led by a running coach and NCAA Division 1 runner. 

Or there is always the super popular adventure gift card. If they do any winter running, the gift card covers classes like avalanche education, multi-sport guided trips or guided trips rock climbing, trekking, and mountain biking. 

-Treeline Review Team


2. THE GIFT FOR WHATEVER THEY WANT: REI GIFT CARD

REi gift card with a running rabbit on it

Still not sure what to get a friend or family member? Do what my family does and give the REI Gift Card. Even if you’ve got an excellent grasp on what a runner wants, it can be tricky to know what gear they already own. 

.-Treeline Review Team


3. A GIFT TO A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION IN THEIR NAME

To keep playing outdoors, we must conserve nature.

Our writers and editors included a few of their favorites:

Free to Run: “Free to Run works to support women and girls in areas of conflict through adventure sports to build their physical, emotional, and social well being; developing them into community leaders so they can bring people together across cultural, ethnic and religious lines.” 

Girl Ventures: combines outdoor adventure with social-emotional learning for adolescent girls at a critical time in their lives and is a favorite of Treeline communications leader Lauren Hudgins "Our programs nurture girls’ self-esteem, resilience, and leadership skills, catalyzing their development as empathetic, confident conservationists and allies.” GirlVentures invites youth of many genders to participate.

Wild Diversity is a favorite of editor Amanda Jameson and contributing writer Bri Dostie. A safe and welcoming space for Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and LGBTQIA2S+ to create a personal connection to the outdoors through adventure and education.

-Treeline Review Team