Holiday gift guide for runners

By Henry Howard

American Thanksgiving is as late as it can possibly be this year, which will likely press the accelerator on gift giving in the coming weeks. When it comes to finding the best clothing, gear and other essentials for runners, there is no shortage of options.

As an experienced runner, running coach and gear tester, I have a good handle on what works best for me and I’m happy to offer ideas to others. For my holiday gift guide for runners, I put together a list based on my personal experiences and feedback from other runners. For brands that I have an affiliation with, I have noted that in the text.

In my 2023 list, I offered recommendations in 24 categories highlighting running gear, accessories, food and drink, and miscellaneous items. Due to the popularity of that list, I’ve expanded the options for this year. Dig in for suggestions covering 28 categories in this year’s gift guide for runners.

Running shoes

For the trails: I’ve tested dozens of different running shoes (mostly trail) over the years for an independent review website. My two go-tos are the Hoka Challenger, which can handle pretty much any surface; and the Hoka Speedgoat, which is best for gnarly and highly technical terrain.

For the roads: My Hoka fandom extends to paved surfaces, where I prefer the Hoka Cliftons for most of my training and the Hoka Arahi model for recovery days. Before I ventured into Hokas for their cushioning, I had success in the Saucony Kinvara models, which I still recommend.

Super shoes: I had tried a different brand’s super shoes a few years ago and they did not work out well. For my marathon this fall, I decided to try the Nike Alphafly Next% 3 and boy was I impressed. They are an incredibly fast shoe and one I would recommend for runners looking to PR or BQ at a marathon.

Running clothes

Shorts: My top three preferences are Patagonia, which I wear the most frequently and I appreciate the brand’s commitment to sustainability; Janji, which are super comfortable and stylish; and Nathan, which are also very comfortable and the phone pocket is the best I’ve tried.

Shirts: For me, selecting one recommendation for a running shirt was easy. I’ve been a huge fan of rabbit for quite a long time. Nothing else comes close for rabbit’s comfort, fit and performance.

Rain jackets: My Patagonia Houdini has kept me dry during many a rainstorm. It is super light, performs well and even dries quickly.

Casual wear: The options from Roark are truly impressive and can be used for a variety of purposes such as running, hiking, working out or just hanging around. They are all comfortable, lightweight and have fun designs. I recently reviewed a half-dozen shorts and shirts options that you can check out here. Some are designed for running while others are best used in other ways.

Undies: PAKA, based in Peru, uses alpaca wool for its variety of clothing items. PAKA created its underwear line fully out of natural fibers, which eliminates any chance of micro-plastic or PFAS absorption into the body. You might also be interested in PAKA’s Mountain Crew sweater, its most durable sweater to date that comes in various colors.

Compression gear: I’ve been a fan of 2XU (Two Times U) for quite some time and had the opportunity to test some of their gear this past year. I genuinely felt like I recovered more quickly after harder efforts when wearing the 2XU Light Speed Shorts. They can be worn at the gym during a strength training workout or as undies under shorts while running. Either way, the compression makes them a standout option.

Accessories

Watch: I converted to Coros as they first burst on to the scene several years ago with their promise of incredible battery life. While other brands have improved their battery life, I’m completely satisfied with my Coros watches for their durability, data and ease of use.

Sunglasses: Tifosi is a repeat nominee here as it upgraded its already impressive sunglasses game, introducing the Swank in 2024. I found the Swank shades deliver high-performance, comfort and superior protection from the sun’s UV rays.

Gloves: My favorite pair of gloves are from REI, which work well until temperatures sink below 20 degrees. I really wish I had an answer for gloves for really cold temperatures as my hands constantly freeze.

Packs and vests: I’ve bought and/or tested probably 20 different packs, vests and waistbelts that are designed to carry gear during runs. Without a doubt my favorite is the UltrAspire Plexus 2.0 waist pack. I also like their Alpha 5.0 race vest but the waist pack is perfect for training runs and races where I don’t need to go a long distance between aid. Bottle in the back, light in the front and no extra weight on my shoulders. (For the record, I am an UltrAspire ambassador.)

Light source: Speaking of UltrAspire, discovering their Lumen Ally waist light was a game changer. Having a light source at my waist, rather than on my head, makes so much sense to see more of the path ahead of me. It’s ideal, whether running on roads, trails or a hybrid. Earlier this year UltrAspire released the Lumen 800 Solstice, the best solution for early morning training runs, all-night adventures or ultra races that require light sources.

Handheld bottles: Three in a row for UltrAspire. The Iso Pocket 3.0 handheld is what I generally run with when I don’t need the waist belt. It fits securely in my hand, is durable and has a zippered pocket for keys, gels or something similar.

Stash and go: The Nathan Zipster Lite features two zippered, weather-resistant pockets and two folded pockets, a solution for runners on short runs. It serves as a great way to carry a phone, gels, car keys and similar-sized items.

Food and drink

Coffee: For many runners, coffee is a great way to start the morning before a run. But they also need electrolytes so they don’t get depleted. Long Run Coffee combines caffeine with electrolytes for runners, cyclists and other endurance athletes who need both. I regularly have some Long Run Coffee before my weekend runs.

Fueling: My discovery of Science in Sport gels has been a game changer. The Beta version of these gels packs 40g of carbs. Even better, they do not have the gross consistency of most gels. They are liquidy and give me the boost I need on the go. I also am a big fan of gluten-free Honey Stinger waffles, which taste great and digest easily. (For the record, I am a Honey Stinger ambassador. Feel free to use my unique referral link when you order.) 

Hydration: Each morning I drink about 16 ounces of water, then mix a second serving with Gnarly Nutrition’s BCAAs. The BCAAs offer 5 grams of vegan essential branched chain amino acids, which promote muscle synthesis, decrease fatigue and damage, and alleviate soreness. (For the record, I am a Gnarly ambassador.)

Protein powder: When it comes to post-run recovery, I turn to Gnarly Nutrition Vegan Protein Powder. The plant-based protein blend has 20g of protein, is NSF-sport certified and tastes great — unlike most powders.

The Feed: This resource has helped introduce me to new products for nutrition, hydration, snacks and much more. Their customer service is outstanding, as is their warehouse of options. I’ve used The Feed to reorder and quickly replenish diminished supplies, as well as trying out new products, some of which I have continued to use. Now, I am proud to have a RunSpirited Team at The Feed. Join my team here for free and receive $80 of credit at The Feed.

Strength training

Kettlebell for travelers: The Runnerbanditz Adjustable Aqua Kettlebell Weight is the best kettlebell for travelers. As someone who is often on the road for more than 100 nights a year, this kettlebell is easy to bring along on trips. The kettlebell’s plastic container has a puncture-proof shell, features straps sealed on the sides for lifting the kettlebell in a variety of moves

Band for legs: The Nordstick Omnistrap Pro 2 attaches easily, offers the ability to do more than 100 exercises and can hold up to 200 pounds. Users can attach dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands and cables from machines, giving it a wide variety of options for workout moves.

Miscellaneous

Coaching: I’m a certified running coach through Road Runners Club of America and have coached athletes to achieve their personal bests or records, Boston Marathon qualifiers, their first ultra or marathon distance, and other achievements. This holiday season, I have a limited number of spots available for clients in early 2025 — however, I am offering a special deal. Purchase three months of individual training plans and coaching and get one month free. For a fairly standard 16-week training cycle, you are saving 25%. Contact me for more details and/or to set up a no-obligation coaching call to see if we are a good fit.

Lube: Squirrel’s Nut Butter produces all-natural salves, including vegan options, for endurance athletes that prevent chafing. I’ve literally never had blisters or chafing when using Squirrel’s Nut Butter, whether I’ve run in the rain, heat, snow or any other conditions. (For the record, I am a Squirrel’s Nut Butter ambassador.)

InsideTracker: I have been using InsideTracker for years to get a better gauge on my health and fitness. A simple blood draw leads to an easy-to-understand report of how more than 40 biomarkers are faring, plus customized recommendations for improvement. I’m an InsideTracker Pro and happy to pass along my special discount code. Get 20 percent off any InsideTracker test with my code: HENRYHOWARD.   

Duffle bag: Every runner needs a duffle bag for carting their gear around, especially when flying to a race or taking a bunch of items on an adventure. The Roark Pony Keg 60L Duffle Bag is a durable all-weather duffel bag built with water resistant material to battle the elements. It comes with two straps so that you can use the bag as a duffel or backpack. Either way, it is just the right capacity for short trips to carry and protect your essentials. Additionally, it is a carry-on size for airplanes and will fit in storage bins.

Sunscreen: Vertra has you covered from head to toe. I sampled its body spray, face stick and lip balm, and came away impressed. The body spray was easy to apply to the exposed skin on my arms and legs, as were the two different kinds of face stick. I only needed a little bit of the face stick to safely cover my grill. And the lip balm, also simple to apply, did a good job of protecting my lips while not drying them out.