The holidays are here again, and if you haven’t already gotten your shopping done over black Friday, or are looking for some more great options, we are here to help. If you are shopping for a man in your life, you may already be struggling to find something more inventive than a tie and more personal than another world’s best husband/dad/grandpa mug—though we’re sure they live up to the hype. On top of being the guy that has it all, runners can also be tricky to shop for—especially if you are not a runner yourself. To help you out, we gathered up 25 of the best running gifts for men that run this holiday season.
These include everything from running tech and gear, to a new way to make their morning coffee before running, to some new ways to help them unwind after a strenuous training cycle.
We chose items that were either personally tested by myself, or come highly recommended by customers like you. We also tried to stay away from tough running gear buys like clothes and running shoes so they can toss the gift receipt with the wrapping paper.
Keep reading to see our top picks for gifts for men who run this holiday season.
If you’re sweating about holiday season and it’s not from your run, you might want to check out our gift guides on recommended running gifts for women and more general the best gifts for runners.
Our Top Running Gifts for Men
- For Those Who Love Music On A Run: Apple AirPods 3rd Generation
- For Those Who Need A Runner’s Getaway: Getaway Gift Card
- For Those Who Love Adventure: Rogue Expeditions Running Adventure
- For Those Who Hate Suits: The lululemon ABC Jogger
- For Those Who Want The Best T-Shirt: The Rabbit EZ T-Shirt
- For Those Who Want To Stop Holding Their Phone On A Run The FlipBelt
- For Those Who Love to Camp: RTIC Lowball Tumbler
- For Those Who Love A Morning Cup: Chemex Coffee Maker
- For Those Who Can’t Stand The Winter Running: New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves
- For Those Who Finally Want to Upgrade Their Running: COROS Pace 3
- For Those Who Are New Dads: Baby Trend Jogging Stroller
- For Those Who Take Running Seriously: Normatec Go Calf Sleeves
- For Those Who Are Fashion Forward: Bandit Sweatset
- For Those Who Have Cold Heads Ciele Sherpa Trooper Hat
- For Those Who Want a Classic Lounge Shoe: UGG Tasman Slippers
- For Those Who Are Sick of Squinting: Goodr OG Sunglasses
- For Those Who Love Earth Tones: Tracksmith Hare A.C. Gift Membership
- For Those Who Are Proud of Their Swag: Medal Holder
- For Those Who Have a 50-State Goal: Half Marathon Tracker
- For Those Who Late Night Run: NoxGear Tracer 2
- For Those Who Need Upgraded Beats: Raycon Fitness Headphones
- For Those Who Need to Fuel Better: Huma Chia Gel
- For Those Who Run in Summer Heat: Drip Drop Hydration Packets
- For Those Who Are Tech Obsessed: Apple Watch Ultra
- For Those Who Are Over Sweaty Feet: Bombas Men’s Running Quarter Sock
- For Those Who Care About Their Skin: Supergoop! Play Sunscreen
- For Those Who Are Training in Winter: Carhartt Men’s Beanie
- For Those Who Want Peace of Mind: Core Meditation Trainer
- For Those Who Travel to Run: Pluto Pod Travel Pillow
Apple Airpods 3rd Generation
Whether that special man in your life runs or not, Apple’s AirPods earbuds are always a safe bet. The third generation of these are more sweat and water-resistant than previous models so they can hold up to rainy and sweaty runs. They’ve also improved the spatial audio which provides an immersive experience wherever they may go. Not sure what to listen to? Consider one of the best running books.
Getaway Gift Card
Want to help them relax before or after a big race? Getaway provides luxury glamping experiences in rural locations all across the US. This gift card can hold anywhere from $50-$2,000, so you can fully or partially fund a dream vacation any time of year. This is one of those gifts for men who run they can enjoy year round.
Rogue Expeditions Running Vacation
One of the best gift ideas we’ve been obsessed with all year, is the idea of a running vacation. Why run a backyard 5K when you could climb the Dolomite mountains in Italy or run across the Sahara Desert? For more than a decade, Rogue Expeditions has been organizing running tours of the most beautiful trail running locations on Earth. These trips sell out months in advance.
The lululemon ABC Jogger
I personally own three pairs of these joggers. If you’re not sure what gifts for men who run are looking for – it’s probably something like this. Due to the rise of athleisure, these pants are the closest you’ll get to walking into a business meeting with sweatpants on. They’re great for every man who doesn’t like wearing suits or jeans and wants to be able to launch into a dead sprint wherever they might be.
The Rabbit EZ T-Shirt
It’s just the best men’s running shirt. We ran in 30 of them. We experimented with every brand, every type of material, and every construction. This is pound-for-pound an affordable, high-quality, perfectly fitting running shirt every guy will love.
The FlipBelt
I own three FlipBelt running belts and I own the water bottles that come with them. Whether you’re running the New York City Marathon or you’re running a cross country 5K, you don’t want to be holding your phone, energy gels, keys and wallet while you’re fighting for your life. This is a fitness gift you can give to any level of runner whether they’re just starting or on their 100th ultramarathon. This is one of the best gifts for men who run and women who run.
RTIC Lowball Tumbler
This tumbler is great for holding everything from a morning coffee to an afternoon highball. It can keep ice for up to 24 hours, and since it is insulated and vacuum sealed, it also keeps drinks hot for hours. A great gift for trail runners, campers, hikers, trikers – any outdoorsman really!
Chemex Coffee Maker
Lauded by coffee enthusiasts for its ability to bring out the most delicate flavors of any roast, the Chemex brewer is a great way to spice up his morning caffeine routine. The non-porous Borosilicate glass prevents any residual odors or staining, and the leather and wooden collar makes it both aesthetically pleasing and protects the hands.
New Balance Lightweight Running Gloves
You can’t go wrong with a pair of gloves. Life is so much less fun with cold hands. These by New Balance are lightweight so he can wear them all through the beginning of spring. They also have grippy palms and touchscreen compatible finger tips so he can use his phone without exposing his digits to the elements. For more ideas for the man who really doesn’t like running in the winter running, we’ve got more cold weather running gear.
COROS Pace 3
If you want to get your runner a watch but aren’t sure which to pick, the COROS Pace 3 is a safe bet. This watch has all of the in depth training data that most runners want and need, up to 13 days of battery life, and a bright touchscreen display that is user friendly even for GPS watch newbies. This is the perfect gift for any runner interested in improving racing performance this year. These running watches are sophisticated. They help manage fitness, help with in-race pacing, and even can anticipate your marathon or half marathon finish time. Not a COROS fan for one reason or another? The Garmin Forerunner 265 is a great alternative.
Baby Trend Jogging Stroller
Know a new dad? This jogging stroller will give him bonding time and help him keep up with his training. It is compatible with baby trend car seats for newborns, and can hold kids up to toddler size. It also has two easy-to reach cupholders, and a large undercarriage basket for everything baby and dad might need.
Normatec Go Calf Sleeves
These calf sleeves were a personal life saver during marathon training and recovery, and I can’t recommend them enough to those that suffer from shin splints and calf tightness. They use targeted massage compression technology to help loosen muscles and improve circulation to shorten recovery time.
Now, this is for a more advanced runner who needs to perfect running recovery protocol. If you’re just buying for a runner with a few aches, pains and tight muscles, consider a classic TriggerPoint foam roller.
Bandit Sweatpants & Quarter Zip
This matching sweat set by Bandit was made by runners, for runners. But instead of workout tech, this 100% cotton set is focused on recovery. Made from brushed fleece, it is super soft and plush—and the neutral colors and classic design make it a staple in any recovery day wardrobe. Technically, the sweat combination is unisex so don’t feel like you couldn’t get for the female runner in your life.
We also love the Bandit Japanese Wool Quarter Zip.
$196 on Bandit.com
Ciele Sherpa Trooper Hat
This sherpa running hat is made to perform on the run, but it also makes a great accessory for casual wear. It is breathable but warm, machine washable, and has a soft brim for maximum packability.
UGG Tasman Slippers
Another great recovery day find, these ugg slippers can be worn both in and outside the house. The classic design is a sought after model this year, and it comes in 20 different color options. While this is not a max-cushioning recovery shoe designed specifically for runners like you can expect from Oofos OOahh Slide, the UGG is the classic all weather Australian relaxing shoe.
Goodr OG Sunglasses
Affordable, lightweight, shatterproof, polarized…what don’t these sun glasses have? Whether looking for a stocking stuffer or a small gift, Goodrs are a sure win with any runner—plus they come in every color and style under the sun so theres a pair for every runner on your list.
Tracksmith Hare A.C. Gift Membership
Give the gift of incentive this holiday season. The Hare A.C. membership gives runners special access to new and limited drops, special discounts, annual gifts and more. Plus, they will be eligible for a $100 bonus if they run a verified PR while wearing Tracksmith apparel.
Medal Holder
Display his achievements with this unique medal holder. Not only does it have hooks for all of his race-day awards, but it can also hold bibs from past races, and is a chalk board to keep track of his most recent 5k, 10k, half, and marathon PRs.
Half Marathon Tracker
Is your guy on a mission to run races all across the US? This wooden tracker is a great way to keep track of the states he has run in as he ticks them off his list.
NoxGear Tracer 2
Keep him visible in low light training. This wearable light vest has a combination illumination, reflection, and fluorescence to make sure that he is seen from every angle no matter how dark it is outside. Pair with a headlamp and your favorite runner will have no problem being visible for those early morning or late night long distance runs.
Raycon Fitness Headphones
There’s nothing quite like an over ear headphone to help you zone in on your training, but they also tend to get sweaty and disgusting—especially after a tough workout. These however have removable, washable ear pads as well as faux leather ones for every day wear. They also have excellent noise cancellation and are comfortable for long periods of wear. One of the great gifts for men who run who need a little entertainment out on the lonely roads.
Huma Chia Gel
Fuel his training with some energy gels. These are made from chia seeds which many find to be easier on the stomach than some of the more synthetic options, and this variety pack comes with 12 different flavors so he can experiment until he finds a favorite.
Drip Drop Hydration Packets
These packets will keep him hydrated without even realizing. They are made without artificial colors or flavors, taste great, and the individual packets are great for taking on the go.
Apple Watch Ultra
If he’s more of a smartwatch guy, he may prefer the Apple Watch Ultra over a Garmin or other running watch. This watch has been ruggedized to stand up to the elements, provides excellent tracking and battery life, and even added a button on the side for quick splits and accurate data. One of those gifts for men who run who are tech obsessed and need a reason to indulge.
Bombas Men’s Running Quarter Sock
This has been my favorite running sock for years. The quarter length is perfect for keeping the cold off the ankles but not so tall as it squeezes the calf. It also has an arch lock that holds snugly to the foot and prevents it from slipping around in the shoe. It’s always a toss up between the Bombas and the Balegas on which sock will make the list. Both are superior for blister prevention, chafing, and moisture-wicking. Both have no-show, quarter, and higher lengths as well. It’s up to you to decide what feels the best for your recipient!
Supergoop! Play Sunscreen
Even if your guy uses a 3-in-1 shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, he won’t bat an eye at slipping on some of this sunscreen before a run. It comes in a large jug with a pump so it’s easily accessible (and hard to ignore) and it offers SPF 50 protection, and skin nourishing ingredients.
Carhartt Men’s Beanie
The Carhartt beanie is one of the most versatile winter hats one can buy. It fits any head, is thick, comfortable and warm, and won’t fall off even during his most intense workouts. Plus it comes in 36 great color options.
Core Meditation Trainer
Help him find his zen this holiday season with the Core meditation trainer. This device pairs with the Core app to lead him through guided meditations while gentle vibrations keep the body and mind engaged in the exercise. It also tracks heart rate to determine stress levels during each practice. One of the great gifts for men who run who are investing into mental health this year.
Pluto Pod Travel Pillow
Whether traveling for work or races, the Pluto Pod pillow will help him sleep his best on bus, train, or plane. It has a supportive neck pillow, a padded hood that allows him to rest his head on either side, and a retractable eye mask that blocks out light.
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