As a runner, I can confirm that some of us need a lot of gear to get out the door. Good news: not all of it is as expensive as our springy neon running shoes or fancy sag-proof leggings. If you want to help the runners in your life break their PRs without breaking your bank, here are 13 gifts under $25 to get the job done this holiday season.
Gear Beast Smartphone Fitness and Running Backpack
I can personally recommend [2] the Gear Beast Smartphone Fitness and Running Backpack [3] ($20), which I've used on my runs for months. It's lightweight and comfortable, just big enough to fit my phone, keys, and ID, and snug enough that it doesn't bounce when I jog. It's a great gift for any runner sick of clutching their sweaty phone for miles at a time!
TClian Women's Ear Warmer Headband
Most of your body gets warm on a run. Your ears definitely do not. This cute TClian Women's Ear Warmer Headband [4] ($9) solves that chilly Winter problem, fitting snugly over the ears with plenty of space for a braid or ponytail.
Nathan Quick Shot Plus Handheld Hydration Pack
The Nathan Quick Shot Plus Handheld Hydration Pack [5] ($17) is a handheld water bottle that's great for mid-run water breaks, with a zippered pack to hold keys, IDs, and energy chews.
Nike Women's Perforated Hat
Sun protection is important on long runs, but so is keeping your head cool. The Nike Women's Perforated Hat [6] ($22) solves both problems with its lightweight mesh material.
Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow.: Quick-Fix Recipes For Hangry Athletes
Written by New York marathon winner Shalane Flanagan and chef Elyse Kopecky, Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow.: Quick-Fix Recipes For Hangry Athletes [7] ($16, originally $25) is perfect for the runner who wants more nourishing pre- and post-run snacks, but doesn't know where to start. It's full of fun, simple, and healthy recipes that'll help them chase that PR.
321 Strong Foam Roller
Foam rolling is crucial for running recovery [8] and injury prevention, and this cute 321 Strong Foam Roller [9] ($22) has a textured surface to provide trigger point release, too.
RaceDots Race Bib Magnets
RaceDots Race Bib Magnets [10] ($14-$20) are pure genius. Instead of poking safety pin holes in their shirt to hold up a race bib, your runner friend can snap on these powerful magnets, which come in a variety of fun patterns including state flags, Captain America, and Hello Kitty.
Persist Winter Gloves
Persist Winter Gloves [11] ($12-$13) are warm but not bulky, keeping your runner friend comfortable on Winter runs. The gloves also include touchscreen capability on the thumb and forefingers, so they can use their phone without exposing their fingers to the cold.
Copper Compression Socks For Men & Women
Maybe socks are a weird present for most of the population, but for runners, they're an essential part of the uniform. This three pack of Copper Compression Socks For Men & Women [12] ($8-$17) provide compression to aid with circulation and recovery, and come in bright colours to match with all the neon leggings and shirts a runner could have.
Clif Bar Shot Energy Gel Variety Pack
Need stocking stuffers? This Clif Bar Shot Energy Gel Variety Pack [13] ($12) comes with eight different flavours to suit every taste.
FlipBelt
The FlipBelt [14] ($20-$37) has 5,000-plus reviews (and a 4.5-star average rating) for a reason. It's tight enough to hold a phone and other necessities and sits snug around your waist without bouncing. If there's a runner in your life who hasn't tried it yet, it's time to fix that. (Note: the FlipBelt ranges in price depending on size and colour.)
WTactful Soft Fleece Neck Gaiter
The WTactful Soft Fleece Neck Gaiter [15] ($10) is lightweight but warm to keep your runner friend's neck and face toasty on cold Winter runs.
Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm
Not the most conventional stocking stuffer, but the runner in your life will love you for this Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm [16] ($15) when their skin stays smooth and chafe-free during runs.