With the holidays round the corner and runner friends celebrating birthdays left and right, finding an appropriate gift could be a task fraught with peril and false choices. What possibly could a runner want apart from shoes? If it’s shoes, what exact type should you buy? Which of these many running watches are ideal for someone that’s only starting to run but looking to pick up the habit for good?
These are questions that plagued those who are looking for great gift ideas for runners. To that end, we’ve compiled a short and easy reference on 10 gifts for a runner to simplify the task of gift-selecting and gift-giving.
1. BOOKS AND DVD ON RUNNING AND NUTRITION.
Discover : Evolution Running: Run Faster with Fewer Injuries
Runners are very keen about diet and nutrition because one’s weight and physique can easily make or break a race. Runners also love learning new stuff about running and eating and a book is always an excellent source for new information on training, workout routines and fitness. By getting your runner friend a good book, you are not just giving a material gift but a priceless body of knowledge that will help boost his/her running performance in future races.
2. COMPRESSION SOCKS.
Find compression socks here.
These high-tech socks are designed to engage the muscles during a run while also supporting the calves with every step. Compression socks also enhance healing and recovery of fatigued muscles so it is an excellent gift item to show that you care about a friend’s actual running performance.
3. GPS WATCHES.
Best GPS watch for runner : Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor
There are so many running watches out in the market, picking the right one is a challenge in itself. If you are looking for high-end gift items, then GPS watches from Garmin and Polar are your best bets. You can be assured that you will forever be loved by your friend for buying a Garmin or a Polar because to many, this is the Holy Grail of running gadgetry. High-end versions include the Garmin Forerunner 610 and Polar RCX5 both retailing for $399. For still excellent choices at a lower selling price, consider Garmin’s FR305, FR310, FR405, FR310 and Polar’s RS800CX. Popular brand Timex also sells a GPS watch in the Timex Ironman Global Trainer. Other watch brands that offer GPS functionality are Suunto and Soleus but you have to be careful with picking the right model so you are getting top-of-the-line products that offer accurate distance and pace data.
Barring an escapade into GPS territory, there are also sporting watches that are cheaper but equally useful. At the top of the list is Timex’s Ironman Sleek-150, the Nike+ Armband, Adidas miCoach (not really a watch but still a reliable running gadget), and models from Casio and Asics. If you must go low-end, make sure you are buying a watch with a stopwatch and countdown timer and capability to save lap splits. These are the essential and non-negotiable features for any running watch and you would do better to know these important considerations.
4. RUNNING MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS.
Check out : Runner’s World Magazine
Everyone loves a good running book but they are not always current. For purposes of being abreast with current events in the running world, the latest nutrition and workout tips, and information on new races, new shoes and new gadgets, running magazine subscriptions are excellent gift items. At the top of the list is Runner’s World which is one of the most respected running publications in many countries all over the world.
5. RUNNING APPAREL.
For him : ASICS Men’s Myles II Running Pant by ASICS
There are many things to remember when buying clothes for gift-giving purposes. First, fit is very important. The apparel should not be too lose or too tight. Breathability is also critical to allow normal ventilation to cool the runner. On top of this, sweat-wicking shirts such as those of the ClimaCool and Dry-Fit fame from Adidas and Nike respectively help to prevent the build-up of perspiration which can weigh a runner down. Last but certainly not least, color and enhanced visibility features are a must. Runners often run in nighttime conditions so making provisions for high visibility in the dark is something that should never be forgotten.
6. HYDRATION KITS.
Discover : Nathan Speed 2 Waistpack
There are many types of hydration gear in the market. The simplest are handheld water bottles that are lightweight and fit snugly in the hands. More sophisticated hydration gear include waist belts with multiple containers for partitioning water and energy drinks, and even a hydro-pack such as those made by Camelback for effortless hydration during long runs.
7. A RUNNING JOURNAL.
This Year’s Log : The Complete Runner’s Day-By-Day Log: 2012 Weekly Planner Calendar
One of the most identifying traits of many runners is that there is a compulsive need to document a run all the time in order to properly track training. True, most runners already do this on the internet, in an Excel file, or through their mobile devices. Still, nothing beats a good handy running journal which is readily available in running specialty shops for under $10.
8. A MASSAGE GIFT CERTIFICATE.
You know what all that running can do to a loved one; muscle fatigue must immediately be addressed by a capable masseuse who can flush out the lactic acid build-up with controlled strokes. Foot massages aren’t a bad idea either. In general, an hour or two at the spa is enough to bring a runner to nirvana and back, ready for a fresh round of training workouts.
9. A MUSIC PLAYER.
We suggest : Sony 2 GB Digital Music Player
If you can afford an iPod with an armband, then go for it. However, there are also equally capable devices on the market that do not have to be a touch-screen mobile device with capability for other features. For example, Sony’s Walkman which already integrates the music into the headphones is more than a capable running music player. Do not be constrained by market perception, rather talk to sales people for a chance to discover something new that can revolutionize your loved one’s running.
10. RUNNING SHOES.
Shoes were intentional left for last on this list because buying a running shoe is a very complicated process. The easiest technique for shoe gift-giving is to buy something that your friend is already wearing on a regular basis. If he’s always wearing an Adizero Tempo Size 9, then you are most safe getting him the same pair with a potential color change as the only thing that’s different.
If you must buy a new pair, then consider these mind-boggling tips for shoe buying. There are a variety of running shoe types that depend on the gait of the runner. You will find Neutral, Stability, and Motion Control shoes on the market and the most appropriate is determined based on function more than looks. If you know exactly what pair your friend needs, then go ahead. However, if do not even know the difference between Motion Control, Stability and Neutral, then save yourself the trouble and go for something that has already been proven and tested to work on your friend.
Gift-giving for runners can be tricky but it doesn’t mean it’s not doable. Apply these 10 gift-giving tips for runners and you cannot go wrong with your choices.
