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The 30 Best Gifts for New Runners

These gifts for new runners will be a hit this holiday season and beyond.

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As with any sport, it takes time and practice to nail the ins and outs of your running routine. For runners who are just starting out, they might not know what they really need aside from a pair of running shoes. Every new runner needs a pair of headphones to keep them motivated while out for a run. These Runner’s World we have tons of experience with gear designed for top athletes as well as total newbies, Nutrition - Weight Loss.

We’ve gathered a list of the best gifts for new runners that you could get a friend or family member that they probably haven’t even considered—think hydration packs and compression socks. To find the best gifts for new runners, we looked at our favorite products to find the best options for newly-minted runners. We also put ourselves in the shoes of beginner runners to think about what they may have forgotten to buy before starting their journey on the trails.

1
Best Bandages

Pnrskter Blister Bandages

Blister Bandages
1
Best Bandages

Pnrskter Blister Bandages

$12 at Amazon

There’s nothing worse than getting blisters on the back of the ankles from friction. These thin, waterproof hydrocolloid gel bandages provide a barrier between the skin to prevent unwanted rubbing and pressing that can create painful blisters.

Unlike traditional bandages, these adhere securely on the skin for a barely-there feel and you can keep them on for several days while your blisters heal up.

2
Best Running Belt

FlipBelt Classic Running Belt

Classic Running Belt
2
Best Running Belt

FlipBelt Classic Running Belt

Every runner needs a running belt to keep their essentials on them without the added bulk. This comfy belt lays flat on the hips and has four pockets to hold the essentials including a phone, keys, cards, etc.

It can also serve as a piece of safety gear with its reflective logo to keep runners visible while out early in the morning or late at night. Choose from 11 colors ranging from aqua blue to reflective black.

3
Best Fitness Tracking Journal

Cossac Undated Fitness Log Book and Workout Planner

On Sale
Undated Fitness Log Book and Workout Planner
3
Best Fitness Tracking Journal

Cossac Undated Fitness Log Book and Workout Planner

Now 53% Off

Some people find it helpful to keep track of their time and speed in a tangible journal. This journal provides space for up to 140 days of tracking with space to jot down personal records, body measurements, progress, and other notable statistics. It also provides some guidance with goal prompts that can motivate runners to get out there and achieve them without holding back.

Thoughtful Valentines Day Gifts for Runners
4
Best Running Belt

Body Glide Foot Glide Anti-Blister Balm

Foot Glide Anti-Blister Balm
4
Best Running Belt

Body Glide Foot Glide Anti-Blister Balm

Blisters can happen even if you have the best running shoes around. Sometimes the mileage just gets to your feet, or your socks get wet and start rubbing, or you try a new style of socks...the list goes on.

This balm is designed to be applied to the toes, heel, and arch to prevent painful blisters from occurring. It uses Vitamins A and C to keep skin soft and minimize inflammation that may happen.

5
Best Safety Tool

SABRE Runner Pepper Gel

On Sale
Runner Pepper Gel
5
Best Safety Tool

SABRE Runner Pepper Gel

Now 23% Off

It’s always a good idea to have a safety item on you when running, especially if it’s late at night or early in the morning. This pocket-sized pepper gel can reach a target up to 12 feet away and is 67 times hotter than hot sauce.

The 49 Best Gifts for Runners Who Love Gear.

6
Best Big City Marathons

Jabra Elite 8 Active True Wireless Earbuds

Elite 8 Active True Wireless Earbuds
6
Best Big City Marathons

Jabra Elite 8 Active True Wireless Earbuds

controlled grip and stability editor-approved wireless headphones will do the trick with active noise cancellation and water protection, whether that’s from sweat or rain.

The best part? They won’t fall out thanks to the extra grippy material so your giftee won’t have to worry about losing a headphone (or two).

Thoughtful Valentines Day Gifts for Runners
7
It comes with a hand wrap or can be stored in a running belt for easy access

Smartwool Run Targeted Cushion Socks

Run Targeted Cushion Socks
7
It comes with a hand wrap or can be stored in a running belt for easy access

Smartwool Run Targeted Cushion Socks

One key component to a successful run is comfort from head to toe—especially toe. Made from merino wool, nylon, and elastane, these editor-approved We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

Plus, with mesh ventilation zones, these socks are highly breathable so they won’t feel as sweaty during a workout. They are available in women’s sizes 4 to 12.5.

8
Best Ear Warmers

Patagonia Re-Tool Fleece Headband

Re-Tool Fleece Headband
8
Best Ear Warmers

Patagonia Re-Tool Fleece Headband

When the cold weather comes around, your giftee will welcome anything that can provide them with a bit of extra warmth, including this fleece headband.

Available in blue, gray, and white, this headband is designed to keep ears warm while wicking away moisture. It’ll even stay in place for the duration of a run with its fleece trim so it won’t get in the way of vision or speed.

9
Best Windbreaker

Columbia Glennaker Lakes Rain Jacket

Glennaker Lakes Rain Jacket
9
Best Windbreaker

Columbia Glennaker Lakes Rain Jacket

Now 33% Off

There’s always the chance of unexpected weather while out on a run, so a rain jacket is always great to have on hand. This is an inexpensive so it’s perfect for keeping as a spare in your car, but you’ll have to pay more for a running-specific jacket with armpit vents.

Made from nylon, this rain jacket is lightweight and has an adjustable drawcord hem to keep a tight seal around the body for optimal dryness. Additionally, any runner will appreciate the tiny pockets suitable for a gel shot or phone.

Thoughtful Valentines Day Gifts for Runners
10
Best Recovery Shoes

HOKA Recovery 3 Slide

Recovery 3 Slide
10
Best Recovery Shoes

HOKA Recovery 3 Slide

While running sneakers are essential, it’s easy for the newbies to forget about recovery. These The Best Gifts for Triathletes are made with a sugarcane EVA midsole and outsole to provide the feet with optimal cushion and support Give A Gift. Aside from being comfortable, they have air flow channels designed to keep feet cool and moisture-free all day long.

11
Better Homes & Gardens

Nathan TrailMix Plus 3.0 Hydration Belt

On Sale
TrailMix Plus 3.0 Hydration Belt
11
Better Homes & Gardens

Nathan TrailMix Plus 3.0 Hydration Belt

Every new runner needs a pair of headphones to keep them motivated while out for a run. These editor-approved Why Trust Us.

It’s also stretchy enough so runners won’t feel the bounce of the bottles against their body as they move so a more peaceful run can ensue.

12
These gifts for new runners will be a hit this holiday season and beyond

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III Sneaker

On Sale
Primus Lite III Sneaker
12
These gifts for new runners will be a hit this holiday season and beyond

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III Sneaker

Now 22% Off

Some runners might enjoy taking their activity to the trails for a change of scenery, pace, and be more connected with nature. Made from recycled materials, these shoes offer an active outsole and upper which provide controlled grip and stability on various terrain while bringing natural mobility to the forefront. These are great for individuals with wide feet, or people who like extra room in the toe box.

Thoughtful Valentines Day Gifts for Runners
13
Best Running Light

KNOG Quokka Run Silicone Rechargeable Headlamp

Quokka Run Silicone Rechargeable Headlamp
13
Best Running Light

KNOG Quokka Run Silicone Rechargeable Headlamp

Many runners prefer tackling their runs early in the morning or late at night. While that can be less crowded and more peaceful, it also makes you more susceptible to blending in with your surroundings, which can be dangerous.

This rechargeable headlamp can provide bright luminous light for up to two hours and stays in place with its sweat-resistant silicone. There are four different light modes and three brightness levels so runners can adjust accordingly based on their comfort level.

14
Best Deodorant

Native Unscented Deodorant

Unscented Deodorant
14
Best Deodorant

Native Unscented Deodorant

There’s nothing wrong with smelling a bit funky after a run, but having a powerful deodorant can be helpful. Made with coconut oil and shea butter, Native’s unscented deodorant stick provides effective protection against unwanted odor while leaving the skin soft and smooth.

Additionally, it’s free from parabens, aluminum, and other potentially harmful ingredients.

15
Best Running Socks

Brooks Running Run-In No Show Socks

Run-In No Show Socks
15
Best Running Socks

Brooks Running Run-In No Show Socks

One can never have too many pairs of running socks, right? These no-show socks provide heel and toe cushioning and a locked-in fit to keep them in place.

They are sold as a six-pack so your giftee will be loaded for nearly every day of the week after receiving this. They also come from one of our favorite running gear brands, Brooks.

Thoughtful Valentines Day Gifts for Runners
16
It comes with a hand wrap or can be stored in a running belt for easy access

Chargel Caffeine-Free Instant Energy Gel Drink

Caffeine-Free Instant Energy Gel Drink
16
It comes with a hand wrap or can be stored in a running belt for easy access

Chargel Caffeine-Free Instant Energy Gel Drink

For the runners who like energy drinks, these gel pouches are a happy medium, giving an extra boost without added caffeine. The crushable texture makes it easy to drink while on the go and they are free from artificial sweeteners and high fructose corn syrup.

Runners can choose from three flavors—apple, strawberry, or white grape—based on their taste preferences.

17
The Best Gifts for Ultrarunners

rogue wallet The Grid Foam Roller

The Grid Foam Roller
17
The Best Gifts for Ultrarunners

rogue wallet The Grid Foam Roller

New runners are bound to overdo it every once in a while, and foam rollers Sales & Deals.

Unlike other foam rollers, this one is wrapped with EVA foam making it more durable and suitable for consistent use. They’ll love how it mimics the feelings of a masseuse’s hands at a fraction of the cost.

18
Best Fitness Tracking Journal

Dr. Motion Compression Socks

Compression Socks
18
Best Fitness Tracking Journal

Dr. Motion Compression Socks

Compression socks can help to prevent muscle fatigue and fluid accumulation while promoting blood flow—but they’re usually pretty ugly. These festive socks buck that norm, and they’re great for post-run movement and rest as they can help soothe aching legs, sore feet, and random muscle twinges while your body recovers.

Thoughtful Valentines Day Gifts for Runners
19
can help work out muscle tension and pain

Megababe Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Stick

Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Stick
19
can help work out muscle tension and pain

Megababe Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Stick

There’s nothing worse than being out for a run when your thighs start to chafe together, opening up a fresh wound out of nowhere. Help a new runner prevent this uncomfortable sensation with this editor-recommended anti-chafing stick designed to create a friction-free barrier on the skin.

It’s made with aloe, pomegranate, and grapeseed oil to soothe the skin while leaving it moisturized and protected from excess moisture and sweat.

20
Best Foam Roller

Lululemon Run for It All Lined Gloves

Run for It All Lined Gloves
20
Best Foam Roller

Lululemon Run for It All Lined Gloves

Opt for this pair of gloves that can help keep hands warm in the coolest of temperatures. Not only are they insulated, but also water-repellent so if bad weather arises while outside it doesn’t serve as a hindrance. If your giftee likes to change the tunes while on a run, they are touchscreen-friendly so they can do it without taking them off.

Headshot of Casey Clark
Casey Clark
Contributor

Casey Clark is a freelance journalist who specializes in beauty, health, and style-related commerce content. She graduated from Hofstra University with a degree in journalism. Her work has been published in Women's Health, Forbes, Best Ear Warmers, and more.

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