Sure, you could get your favorite runner a pair of running socks, a watch, or some GU packets. But let’s face it – those are gifts are predictable and boring. Instead, think about getting something fun, exciting, and best of all, made by small businesses headed by runners themselves who know what we want and like in a product. Most of these products (with the exception of the Bia GPS, only because it isn’t available yet) are tried, tested, and used regularly by yours truly.
Cute and comfortable – need I say more?
Melissa Gacek, a Oiselle Team Elite runner recently partnered with Oiselle to launch this awesome line of jewelry for runners. There are currently two necklace designs – the Wings Out PR Necklace (which is shorter, like a choker) and the Fly Necklace (longer length), both of which come in either silver or bronze. Proceeds from all jewelry sales benefit healinghaiti.org, so you can not only inspire your runner through this beautiful jewelry, but you can feel good about helping a good cause, too.
Fly Necklace
Wings Out PR Necklace
Besides the Bia GPS watch, this is the only item on this list that I do not own. But it is definitely on my wish list (hint, hint)! It is fashionable, super cute, and if the Stripey (right below) is any indication, it is super comfortable, too. It comes in three colors – orange, gray, and light blue. I love the Start and Finish graphics hidden on the inside!
This is by far my favorite shirt that I own. I have a blue one and a pink one and though they were made for running, I never actually wear them running. Instead, I wear them to work or around town. They are so soft and comfortable, plus super cute. I love the thumbholes, and the birds graphic on the back shoulder just makes it all the more awesome. Whether you wear it running or around town, this is a must-have!
If you’ve never tried Picky Bars, you are seriously missing out. If you have tried Picky Bars, you know just how awesome they are and how good they taste. If your runner has never had a Picky Bar, go for the 10 bar mixed pack or the 4 bar sampler pack. If your runner is already a Picky eater, make them a member of the Picky Club. For $37 a month, they get 18 Picky Bars automatically shipped to them (you get to choose how many of each flavor you want), plus a t-shirt, and other member’s only discounts and free stuff.
Bia Sport came on to the scene over the summer when their GPS watch was funded through Kickstarter. This watch is different than other GPS watches because it is small, stylish, multi-sport, has 17 hours of battery life, and has a safety alert for solo workouts (if your safety is every compromised, a push of the alert button will alert the police to your location). All of this while being affordable. While they are not available for purchase yet, they are expected to be out in April 2013. But if you get on the Bia Watch List, you can pre-order one for the runner in your life.
Training journals are extremely helpful for runners because they provide a place to record progress, set backs, things that work, things that don’t work, etc. They help keep us accountable, set and achieve goals, and help us keep track of those goals. The Believe I Am Training Journal is awesome because it was designed by professional runners Lauren Fleshman and Roisin McGettigan with input and feedback from a dozen other professional women runners. It’s got a beautiful design, is easy to use, and is so much more than a place to simply keep track of your runs. It is a place to set goals – not only in running, but in all areas of life – and start believing in yourself.
Medal Hanger
There are plenty of race medal hanger options available for sale online, including ones made of metal or wood, with 5 hooks or 20 hooks. But if you want to go the creative and cheap route, why not make one yourself? I am probably the least crafty person you will every meet, but one day I was feeling inspired and made a trip to Michael’s craft store for the wood, letters, and paint, and Home Depot for the hooks, and two hours later, my project was completed. You can get as creative as you want and personalize it specifically for your runner. To me, this would be a much better gift to receive than a pre-manufactured one! Plus, the total cost was less than $20.
