THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE RUNNER IN YOUR LIFE
With Christmas around the corner, we thought it was about time we shared some inspiration on what to gift the runner in your life. So we asked avid runner Beth Jones, from This Is London magazine about what she’d love to receive under the tree this year.
It’s the time of year when everyone is looking for something to buy their loved ones or worse, a meagre budget for the office Secret Santa. Well, if they’re a runner, there’s no need to panic as there are so many options, whether you have a big budget or just a small amount for the work Christmas do. First things first, clothing is always a sure bet as runners need different clothing depending on the time of year. As we’re now well into the winter training season, you might want to think about some of the following options which will help keep their training on track:
WATERPROOF RUNNING JACKETS
Running when soaking wet isn’t a pleasant experience, and when you stop and get cold, it’s much worse! Staying dry is the best option, so a lightweight, breathable waterproof running jacket is an essential for anyone wanting to train through the winter. A lightweight gilets will help keep their core warm and dry, while a full-length waterproof will keep the rain away from as much of their body as possible. Trust us, they’ll thank you for this one!
LAYERS
Thermal layers can be a lifesaver when training outside during the coldest months of the year. When planning a training run in negative degrees, it’s imperative to take necessary measures to keep the body at a consistent temperature throughout. Layering is mainly down to personal preference because everyone feels cold differently. For some, a long-sleeved top is a must, whereas others may prefer a short-sleeved top with a gilet or a coat on top to protect from the worst weather.
Taking an extra layer is imperative too, especially if a run doesn’t finish at home. The last thing anyone wants is sit on the train in cold, wet clothes.
RUCKSACKS
Rucksacks are an essential for any keen run commuter as they provide the space they need to carry their working clothes to the office and their gym kit back home again at the end of the day, or vice versa. But, they’re also great for general runners through the winter months as they provide a place to pack away layers when not needed.
There are a huge range of runners’ backpacks available, so it’s easy to find one to suit the runner in your life. Many have specific water pockets enabling runners to carry water with them on their run and feature lots of little pockets for keys, a phone, gloves or anything else they need to carry with them.
SOCKS
It may be a bit of a Christmas cliché to gift socks, but trust me, investing in a pair of quality running socks is far better than reaching for a novelty pair in your nearest store. Running socks are designed to be highly breathable and wick away moisture to keep runners’ feet warm and dry no matter the conditions. As a runner, I can testify to the difference they can make to your run! You’ll find them in different lengths and thicknesses to suit a wide range of running needs.
GLOVES
Gloves can often be forgotten by runners, but on cold, winter slogs, they can make all the difference. Our extremities often feel the cold first and can take the longest to warm up, so finding a pair of lightweight yet warm gloves is essential. Although some people may prefer a simple black pair, there are plenty of more colourful options, including hi-vis and reflective options to help improve visibility too.
HATS
Hats come in all shapes and sizes and are designed to provide different support on a run. In winter, a beanie hat is the go-to, providing extra warmth on cold days, whereas in the summer, a cap is essential to help shield your eyes from the sun. They add to comfort and performance no matter what time of year, so they’re a safe bet if you’re not sure what to get.
HEAD TORCH
Maintaining your training through winter can be tough as trying to squeeze a run in during daylight hours becomes even harder. To help the runner in your life stay on track, why not get them a head torch? Allowing them to light their way hands-free and ensuring they are more visible to oncoming traffic, they are the perfect choice for anyone serious about running.
WATER BOTTLE
Staying hydrated during a run is imperative, especially if you’re running for longer periods. So, if you know a long-distance runner, a water bottle may just be the perfect gift. With everything from hydration bladders to handheld water bottles, you’re sure to find just what they need.
GIFTS FOR LOVED ONES
ELECTRONICS
If it’s a family member or a loved one, you might want to invest in some tech for their running. I would suggest chatting to them about what they might like because the choice is huge, and it’s easy to be overwhelmed and end up with something that doesn’t meet their needs.
Not so long ago, Garmin was the go-to smartwatch, but now, other options like COROS and Suunto are available depending on what the person wants to achieve from their training. The in-store experts at Runners Need can offer advice too, and as runners themselves, many of them have first-hand knowledge of the options available.
Headphones are also a popular choice for tech-loving runners. But again, with so many options available, from in-ear devices to conduction headphones, it’s best to get an idea of their preferences to help you make the right choice. You can always take them along to your nearest Runners Need and let them try a few out, before returning solo to pick up their chosen pair.
RUNNING SHOES
A failsafe gift for every runner, a pair of running shoes will always go down a storm. As someone passionate about running, I’ve probably had around 15 pairs for birthdays and Christmas’ over the years and never tire of unwrapping the tell-tale rectangular box.
As someone who runs regularly, I have my favourite brands and models, so it’s easy for my family to know which pair to gift me and if I want to try something new, I just drop plenty of hints!
However, for those looking to get into running, knowing which pair will suit them can be a little trickier. I’d recommend taking them to a Runners Need for a gait analysis appointment, where they’ll watch them running and recommend a few different pairs. They get trainers which suit how they run, and you get an idea of which they like best and can come back another day to purchase so that they’re none the wiser– it’s a win-win.
GIFT CARDS AND VOUCHERS
If you don’t know what to buy, a voucher is a great idea as it allows them to choose the perfect gift for themselves. Getting a Runner Need gift voucher is much more personal than just handing over some money in a card and shows you’ve thought about what they love to do and know what their favourite shop is!
So, there you have it, my rundown of the best gifts for runners. Hopefully, I’ve given you some great ideas and shown you that there really is something for every type of runner. Now you just need to head down to your nearest Runners Need or browse their range online to find the perfect gift. You never know, you might end up picking something up for yourself, too!
Beth Jones | This is London
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