Gifts for the Runner
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Runners can be tricky to buy for as they are very particular about their gear and justifiably so, the right gear can make the difference between hitting a new PR to making the daily run a complete delight. Here are some of our favorite running products, perfect for everyone from new runners to experienced racers, that they will be sure to love.
Nite Ize Radiant 250 Headlamp
The AAA battery powered Nite Ize Radiant 250 headlamp features an easy-to-use push button to cycle between four LED modes. With both red and white LEDs, the Radiant offers 250 lumens of illumination and a beam distance of approximately 215 feet with a battery life that lasts up to 46 hours, thanks in part of the lockout feature that prevents accidental battery drain. This versatile lighting solution is impact and water resistant (IPX4) and features a body that can be tilted up to 90° for easy beam adjustment. MSRP $29.99 www.amazon.com/niteize
Polar OH1+
The Polar OH1+ is an optical heart rate sensor ideal for runners who despise wearing chest straps. The OH1+ features ANT+ and BLE connectivity which allows it to be paired with various fitness apps, sports watches and smart watches. In addition to these devices, the OH1 + will can also connect with gym and studio equipment like treadmills, as well as ANT+ compatible cycling computers. It can also be used as a standalone device thanks to the internal memory capable of storing up to 200 hours of training and a battery life of up to 12 hours, giving you the freedom to track heart rate with or without the need of a wrist-based device. The Polar OH1+ combines versatility and simplicity in a comfortably light rechargeable package. MSRP $79.95 polar.com
Nathan HyperNight Beanie, Hat and Gloves
The Nathan HyperNight Hat delivers sun protection, moisture management, and style to keep you comfortable through the miles. Its lightweight and breathable construction features a built-in inner band to wick moisture to keep you feeling dry and comfortable as you run. When your runs go late into the evening, the reflective elements allow you to confidently continue to log miles when the sun dips behind the horizon. MSRP $24.99
The Nathan HyperNight Beanie is a lightweight stretch cover that provides reflective flair for those cool weather runs that transition from day to night. The soft polyester/spandex techno knit fabric traps warm air in while simultaneously moving sweat away, so your head stays comfortable when you’re working up a sweat in the cold. MSRP $29.99
The Nathan HyperNight gloves are lightweight, stretchy and keep the hands warm without restricting movement. Thanks to the glove’s touchscreen compatibility, you don’t have to take the gloves off when you want to change the tunes on your smartphone halfway through your run. They also have a built in chamois to wipe your nose in the cold. And most importantly, the high visibility graphics will ensure you are seen by others around you. MSRP $29.99
The Nathan Sports Hypernight series of gloves, hats, beanies, and headbands features reflective details that keep you both warm and visible on those cold weather runs. nathansports.com
Whoop Strap 3.0
The Whoop Strap 3.0 allows runners to unlock their full potential. Designed for the 24-hour active lifestyle, Whoop has built a system across hardware, analytics, and community to acutely understand the body and positively change behavior through actionable recommendations and a personalized understanding of Recovery, Strain and Sleep. The Whoop Strap 3.0 collects physiological data 24/7 to provide the most accurate and granular understanding of your body. Whoop analyzes the data collected from the Strap, providing daily recommendations for Recovery, Strain and Sleep, enabling users to make calculated next steps backed by science.
- RECOVERY: reflects how well prepared your body is to take on Strain
- STRAIN: measures how your body responds to cardiovascular stressors
- SLEEP: quantifies not only how long you sleep, but time spent in each stage to better understand sleep quality
Whoop breaks down the data into actionable sets so you can optimize the way you recover, train, and sleep with daily reporting on mobile and desktop apps. The Strain Coach and Sleep Coach within the app help you discover just how hard to run and how much sleep you actually need to perform at optimal levels. The Whoop Strap 3.0 is lightweight, comfortable, waterproof, and features a 5-day battery life. Take your running performance to its peak and optimize your life with the Whoop Band 3.0. MSRP $30/month whoop.com
Injinji Runner / Liner Socks
The Injinji Runner / Liner Socks is a remarkable two-sock system pairing the base-layer Injinji Liner sock with the Injinji Runner sock, a cushioned toe-fitted sock constructed with COOLMAX technology that provides wicking and temperature control. The ultra-thin Liner is the front line of protection against blisters with its five-toe-sock construction. The Runner is worn over the Liner to increase comfort and cushion with its terry mid-weight design throughout the bottom of the foot. By pairing both socks together, the mini-crew design provides a secure cuff barrier around the ankle to prevent debris from getting into the sock. MSRP $24 injinji.com
Takeya Actives Dual Lid Bundle
Keep your thirst quencher cool for hours with the Takeya Actives Dual Lid Bundle water bottle. Double-wall vacuum-insulated stainless steel is naturally BPA-free, won’t leave a weird taste, and prevents condensation on the outside on the bottle, all while keeping drinks cold for hours. The Dual Lid Bundle includes a leak-proof SpoutLid and a max-flow, leak-proof Straw Lid. The lids allow for easy one-handed or hands-free sipping when your on the move and the integrated loop handle makes for effortless transport. MSRP $41.99 takeyausa.com
REI Co-op Swiftland Trail Run Pants
Gear up for cold weather runs with the REI Co-op Swiftland Trail Run Pants. They’ve got an insulated, free moving design that ensures you won’t have to choose between running well and being warm when the weather’s on the chilly side. The fabric is light, stretchy, and breathable to keep you comfortable and free from distractions, while handy zippered pockets on the thighs keeps small essentials comfortable and secure when you are out there tearing up the trails. MSRP $89.95 rei.com
Obermeyer UltraGear 1/4 Zip
Grab the Obermeyer UltraGear 1/4 Zip and you will be ready for those cold weather runs. It’s got the warmth you need to keep you comfortable when you’re hitting the road on a frigid morning. The thermal stretch polyester keeps you warm in cold temperatures, but wicks and breathes well so you don’t feel stuffy or overheated. And if you need added ventilation for those times when you’re really cranking, the front zip effectively invites cold air in to cool you down. This shirt is made with stretchy fabric for unrestricted movement and pairs well with light running gloves. The UltraGear 1/4 Zip also makes for a great layering piece when you decide to rock it under shells for those below freezing outings. MSRP $79 www.amazon.com/obermeyer
Swiftwick Pursuit Seven Stripe
Stay warm this winter with the Swiftwick Pursuit Seven Stripe. This low-calf sock fits comfortably with tights to keep your feet warm when you’re running in the depths of winter. As always, merino wool is naturally warm, breathable, and stink free, allowing you to run in comfort till the flowers start to bloom. MSRP $21.99 swiftwick.com
