By Jamie Walker
CEO and Founder of SweatGuru
If you’re having trouble shopping for the perfect stocking stuffer for your significant runner, you’re probably not alone. Do they need another pair of running shoes? Would they really need more boxes of that gooey energy gel? And do they have a favorite flavor? Yes, runners seem strange. But shopping for them doesn’t have to be difficult!
As a runner myself, I understand what an interesting breed we are and decided to help by putting together my favorite stocking stuffer gift ideas for the runner in your life:
Socks!
Forget the holiday socks. I mean, let’s face it, the runner in your life only has two categories of socks: running socks and compression socks (that often also double as dress socks). So get them what they really want this holiday season — here are a few of my personal favorites:
Pro Compression’s Snowflake Socks: these socks are both functional and festive. Your runner will probably put them on right out of the stocking. After all, they’ll need the compression to recover from their long early morning run.
Smart Wool’s Ultralight Micro Socks: these socks are lightweight but still have just the right amount of cushion. Plus, they come in fun colors for both men and women.
And if you really can’t get over the Santa socks, don’t worry Proud Runner has you covered. Check out these fun Santa-themed running socks. Beware, your runner may bolt for a run as soon as they put them on!
Jewelry and Accessories:
We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again, runners are a special breed. If you want to give them something shiny and shimmery in their stocking this year, don’t fret — even runners like a little bling!
The best place for runners to display their bling is on their favorite possession — their running shoes. Momentum Jewelry’s Foot Notes make the perfect stocking stuffer for the runner in your life. Pick a fun saying or create your own.
If you want to give them something that won’t get muddy, try EndureShop’srun-inspired necklaces or charm bracelets. They have tons of cute sayings to pick from to honor the runner in your life.
Sometimes the best accessories are the most functional ones. Give your runner a great way to store important belongings while putting in miles. FlipBelt’s waist packs are not only functional but look great on everyone.
Body Care and Beauty:
While fancy lotions and potions might not be your runner’s thing, here are a few body care and beauty products that even they can appreciate.
Whether it’s squeezing in a run on the lunch hour, before dinner, or even while traveling, every runner will benefit from having a good body wipe on hand. My favorite are ShowerPill Athletic Body Wipes because they are all-natural, antibacterial, and help eliminate funky odors.
Sunblock is essential for runners. Most runners spend a lot of time outdoors exposed to the elements, which makes us more in tune with nature, but also more susceptible to skin cancer. One of my favorite sunscreens is Raw Elements Sunblock. Raw Elements is fully waterproof and lets your skin breathe and sweat freely without feeling too heavy on your skin. And the best part: it won’t run into your eyes while sweating!
Chafing is perhaps one of the most haunting experiences for runners. It often occurs mid-race – when everything else is going right — and is extremely uncomfortable in (often) unmentionable places. Help your runner protect themselves and pile their stocking high with chafing prevention products. My favorites are Red11 Sports and2Toms SportShield wipes — they can work just about anywhere you need them to! Red11 Sport comes in a portable little pot and is easy to rub on any area you need protection. If you want something you can stuff in your pocket and take with you, try 2Toms Sportshield as they come in individually wrapped toilettes perfect for stuffing in your fuel belt, hydration pack or pockets.
While all of these products will make great stocking stuffer ideas for the runner in your life, they can also make great gifts for any fitness enthusiast. Happy Holidays!
