Here at Shop TODAY, we're a team full of runners, with most partaking in regular Central Park jaunts and some even having completed multiple marathons.
There's always more gear to buy, more fuel to replenish our supply with and an overabundance of shoes to be purchased and re-purchased.
Whether they're constantly posting their Strava stats or boasting their latest PR (personal record), we found gifts for every type of runner — from beginners to the pros — that'll carry them from prep to recovery.
Clothing and apparel gifts
Under Armour Tech Short Sleeve
This tee is a key component in what associate editor Kamari Stewart calls her "race day uniform." The brand notes this top has a looser fit compared to their more technical training apparel, allowing you to move freely in it.
It's made out of Under Armour's tech fabric and also has odor-control technology embedded within, promising to wick away sweat and keep odors at bay.
Under Armour HeatGear No-Slip Ankle Length Leggings
Deputy editorial director Ali Deabler says these leggings are great for high-performance activities.
“The material never feels like it’s going to rip or pill or damage,” she says, further describing them as sturdy. “They’re really dark, really soft and slick and sweat-wicking. Plus they have a pocket, which is great for putting your phone or keys.”
Bandit Running Cushion Run Quarter Socks
Stewart felt an immediate difference during her runs while wearing these socks. They have brand-specific CoolMax technology built-in, which is said to provide a trifecta of benefits including breathability, support and compression.
"I wore these during the Queens 10K and my feet felt great after 6.2 miles," Stewart says. "Usually I have a little bit of pinching or soreness at the pinkies but not with these! I wear the same shoes for training and race day so I know the difference is the socks."
Fabletics Sun Chaser Short
Editor Julie Ricevuto has been earning compliments on this pair of shorts left and right after wearing them to a local run club, and notes that their hidden secret is in the liner.
"The shorts feel lightweight and breezy, but because of the fitted inner short, they won’t ride up," she says of this pair she also appreciates due to the high knit waistband.
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra
Editor Rebecca Brown is getting back into her running routine postpartum, which comes with a whole new set of woes. She's hoping they're resolved with this supportive sports bra.
"Someone told me about the SheFit bra as it’s designed for runners who really need everything put into place," she says. "I think this would make a great gift for a mom who’s getting back into running and needs the extra support."
Duluth Trading Co. AKHG Trail Tech Shorts
Stewart has also employed the use of these biker-style shorts in her most recent races, attesting to the fact that they don’t ride up and are one of the more comfortable pairs of shorts she owns.
“They have pockets on both sides so when I don’t want to check a bag, I’m able to keep everything I need on me,” she says, noting that even with her pockets stuffed with essentials, the shorts don’t stretch “beyond repair.”
Reebok FloatZig 1 Running Sneakers
If they're training on a treadmill, Barry's chief instructor Kelly Whittaker recommends this sneaker from Reebok because it helps her feet feel supported despite having a lightweight construction.
They feature the brand's Floatride energy foam designed in a zig-zag pattern on the bottom of the shoe that the brand says provides a bulk of the cushioning while running.
Hoka Clifton 9 Running Sneakers
Podiatrists and Shop TODAY editors alike have high praise to share about Hokas — they're supportive, durable and help relieve foot pain. What more could you ask for?
"After many recommendations for the Clifton 9s specifically, I decided to start with them and I’m a fan!" says Stewart. "They’re super cushiony and have a pillowy bounce to them that makes taking the next step a little bit easier. Plus, I love that they come in so many cute colorways."
NOBULL JOURNEY Running Shoes
For longer runs, Whittaker recommends this trustworthy pair from NOBULL. They're crafted with nylon plates that act as a mini springboard, according to the brand, ensuring a more reactive step.
"I love these because they are supportive and responsive, especially for runners with high arches like I have," she says. "They are great for easy pace miles."
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13
"The 1080 is the most versatile shoe I’ve ever worn," says Christine Burke, senior vice president of strategic partnerships and runner products at New York Road Runners. "It’s cushioned, yet light weight and has great durability."
It's available in a wide range of sizes and four different widths, so you can get the most tailored fit possible.
Gear gifts
Honey Stinger Energy Waffle
For pre- or mid-run fuel without the sticky gel texture, associate social media editor Dani Musacchio recommends stocking up on Honey Stingers — a stroopwafel-like energy snack that has a thin layer of honey in between for “portable energy,” according to the brand.
“They are literally so delicious that I actually look forward to eating them during my runs,” she says. “They’re also great to have on hand for hikes or other workouts for a quick boost of energy.”
SPIbelt Running Belt
A running belt is a convenient (and budget-friendly) accessory for any runner, which is why editor Vivien Moon knew it'd be the perfect gift for her best friend (who doubles as a marathoner).
"I’ve always been on the lookout for gifts to get her that will help with her training/runs and this is one I’ve gifted her before that she uses for shorter runs and loves," she says. "It’s an adjustable belt with a little pocket that your ID, phone and keys can fit into. It’s really lightweight and good for travel as well if you want to make sure to have a secure little hidden pocket on you in case of emergencies."
Aonijie Hydration Vest Backpack
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goodr Running Polarized Sunglasses
We know what you're thinking: "These are running sunglasses?" That's what makes them so great! You can slip them on for a marathon or just meeting your friends for brunch and they still provide a comfortable, yet stylish look.
These are my go-to pair of sunglasses for any activity. I recently wore them during the RBC Brooklyn Half where they stayed in place the entire time, despite scorching temperatures and a forehead full of sweat.
Nathan Sports QuickSqueeze Plus Handheld Water Bottle
A handheld water bottle is a must, says Burke, especially during warmer months and longer runs where water fountains might not be as accessible.
"This water bottle stays stuck on my hand and I don’t have to use any muscles in my hand to keep it in place," she says.
Knockaround Rubberized Sunglasses
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Soundcore Sport X20 Earbuds
High-quality sound at a comparatively low cost is what Ricevuto enjoys about Soundcore as a whole, owning two sets of their headphones.
"These earbuds are perfect for runners because of the sweat guard technology and adjustable ear hooks to keep them in place," she says. They can rotate up to 30 degrees for a comfortable fit.
Osprey Dyna LT Running Hydration Vest
This running vest is on associate editor Lauren Witonsky's wish list, noting that having hydration on hand is crucial on long runs during hot summer days.
This nylon vest has multiple pockets, including two for slim water bottles. "I knew my running path on the West Side Highway had water fountains, but was surprised to find several of them not working on a hot summer day," says Witonsky. "I would love one of these hydration vests to take on my next run so I stay hydrated without having to carry a water bottle in hand."
SHOKZ OpenRun Bone Conduction Headphones
Three different Shop TODAY editors and Whittaker named these as their go-to set of headphones when running, attributing their adoration to the fact that they're bone-conducting, meaning they sit outside of your ears rather than inside which allows you to be more aware of your surroundings.
"Not only do I not have to worry about ear discomfort anymore, but I can now hear both my music and my surroundings," says Musacchio. "As a solo female runner, these headphones have made me feel so much safer while out for my runs."
Recovery gifts
Dr. Teal's Wellness and Therapy Pure Epsom Salt Soak
Whether she's recovering from a workout or just relaxing, writer Emma Stessman has started integrating these epsom salts into her daily routine. Benefits include soothing sore muscles and aches thanks to ingredients like rosemary and mint essential oils.
The only con Stessman notes is how quickly you can go through a bag, so you might want to opt for this four-pack to stock up ahead of time instead.
Oofos OOahh Slides
Should you be wearing shoes to recover from runs? Experts say yes, and editors agree. Recovery shoes or sandals help give your feet a well-deserved break by providing a softer, oftentimes more cushioned fit.
"After long runs, there’s nothing I love more than relaxing in these recovery slides," says Ricevuto. "I recently ran six miles and then spent the day walking in this pick by Oofos — my feet felt like I was walking on clouds."
TheraGun Pro Handheld Deep Massage Gun
Last year, Stessman ran the New York City Marathon, increasing the amount of miles ran from the year prior by 400%. With that amount of output, she needed to ensure she was recovering properly.
A massage gun provides at-home relief that is easy to do yourself, whether you're gearing up for a run or just getting back from one.
Stessman calls this the "ultimate splurge gift." She says, "It’s great for aches and pains all over, from sore legs to stiff shoulders and feet. I love how you can customize the intensity and it has preset functions to help you either warm up or cool down."
Meet the experts
- Christine Burke is the senior vice president of strategic partnerships and runner products at New York Road Runners, the non-profit that produces the New York City Marathon and other events in New York City. She's completed 30 marathons among other races since she started running in the '90s.
- Kelly Whittaker is a Boston-based chief instructor at Barry's, a gym with locations around the country. She's run 43 marathons and is a certified run coach.
