Don’t know what to buy the runner in your life? Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for a newbie or an ultra-running endurance athlete, we’ve put together a list of thoughtful running essentials that they’ll love.

 

Want to know who you’re buying for? Check out one writer’s relationship with trail running and then check out our guide to trail running gear.

Or if the gear is too overwhelming – you thought it was just shoes right? — then why not something from left field? Consider a down payment on their next set of race photos or even pay for their entry into a race — not only will they appreciate the free entry, but they can also pretend they’re a sponsored athlete!

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1. Polar Grit X Pro Multisport GPS Training Watch

 

For those looking to take their training to the next level, the Polar Grit X Pro features the ultimate training solutions.

It’s designed to military-level standards with scratch-resistant sapphire glass, water resistance up to 100m, unrivalled GPS accuracy and an ultra-long battery life of up to 40 hours in training mode and up to 100 hours in power saver modes.

It includes smartwatch integrations like music controls, weather reports and phone notifications along with always-on outdoor features like a compass, elevation, sunrise/sunset times and the ability to track back your route if you get lost. The list goes on!

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Read: Our Guide To GPS and Sports Watches

2. ON Running Cloudstratus Road Running Shoes

 

 

The new Cloudstratus running shoe from On Running lives up to the hype.

It’s nice and roomy, great for those with wider feet and features maximum cushioning that’s perfect for running on roads whether it’s 5k or 50km.

The rubber grip on the outside provides great traction on the road with a heel-to-toe drop of 6mm and a weight of 305 grams, you can run easy knowing that 75% of the polyester used in the upper is recycled. 

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Read: ON Running Is Turning Carbon Emissions Into Running Shoes

3. Ultimate Direction Fastdraw 500 Handheld Running Water Bottle

 

 

The Ultimate Direction Fastdraw 500 makes running with a water bottle way easier.

It was the world’s first handheld bottle for runners and it still works well and looks great. Original and the best vibes.

Weighing in at only 34 grams it includes a pocket that can fit phones up to the size of an iPhone X and allows you to use your phone without having to remove it from the pocket.

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4. Flow Mini Handheld Massage Gun

The Flow MINI is the perfect gift for literally anyone with a human body, running certainly isn’t a prerequisite.

This sleek handheld massager is ultra-portable and uses four levels of powerful vibration to reduce muscle fatigue, swelling, and tension.

Designed with input from the world’s top athletes and sports physiotherapists it targets trigger points, helps with warmup and may help ease muscle aches and joint pain.

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5. Salomon Adv Skin 5 Set Unisex Running Vest

The Salomon Adv Skin 5 is a quality hydration vest that’s great for trail runners looking to clock up bigger distances on remote trails.

Designed with endurance runners in mind, with easy access to 5 litres of storage, snacks and hydration on the go. 2 x Salomon 500 ml soft flasks are included and it’s compatible with a 1.5 litre hydration bladder.

The Sensifit construction adjusts to the body shape for a comfortable fit with breathable fabrics that are optimised for stability and load management.

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6. Ledlenser NEO3 400 Lumen Headlamp

The Ledlenser NEO3 400 Lumen Headlamp is designed specifically for running and lights the way on adventures in the dark. You might think that it’s only useful in winter, but many runners run very late or early in the warmer months to avoid the heat.

The balanced design minimises bouncing as you run while a reflective headband and red flashing rear light increase safety, especially in urban environments around traffic. 

This compact headlamp weighs in at only 96 grams but packs a 400-lumen punch, has 360-degree visibility and perfect near and far-range illumination with a variety of settings.

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7. Born To Run By Christopher McDougall

 

 

You don’t need to be a runner to get inspired by this bestselling book by Christopher McDougall.

It’s an unbelievable tale of adventure that spans the continents in the search of the answer to an all too familiar question that runners often ask themselves, ‘Why does my foot hurt?’.

Just make sure you tell whoever you gift it to that they don’t have to immediately start barefoot running!

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8. Bodyglide Anti-Chafe Balm

 

The chafe is real and it sucks. BodyGlide Anti Chafe Balm is the number one choice for runners.

It’s natural, invisible and non-greasy formula protects the skin from friction caused by clothing, footwear and skin-on-skin contact. As a bonus, it also helps to deal with chapped and cracked skin.

And you can never have too much.

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9. Naked SL Unisex Running Band

The Naked SL Running Band feels like you’re wearing nothing at all! (Nothing at all, nothing at all.)

Whether you’re cranking out shorter distances like a 5k, 10k, or half marathon, or even just heading to your local cafe, this belt can carry everything you need.

It’s capable of holding up to 3 x 500ml soft bottles so your keys, wallet, phone, sunglasses and some snacks easily fit inside. The belt weighs in at only 57 grams and is made of a fast-drying, non-chafing and breathable material.

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10. OOFOS Oahh Slide Sandals

The ideal gift for the runner that’s always getting injured! OOfoam® technology absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear and allows for deep rest and recovery. Their unique design reduces stress on joints including knees and ankles.

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Feature image thanks to @mattwisemanmedia