After receiving numerous texts from my mom and also Alyse (who is also receiving texts from my mom) about what my husband and I want in our stockings and under the tree this holiday season, I realized two things: 1. my mom is wonderful and crazy all at the same time. 2. a lot of the things we want have to do with trail running (with a little yoga mixed in between). So to help other crazy moms of trail runners, significant others, coworkers, friends and Santa, of course, I put together a list of the best gifts for trail runners this holiday season.
ShowerPill Athletic Body Wipes: ShowerPill Athletic Body Wipes make the PERFECT stocking stuffer. And while it might seem strange to a non trail runner to give body wipes as a gift, trust me, trail runners will love you for it. In fact, these are great for anyone who spends a lot of time outside running around. Whether your runner is constantly taking a mid-day run and in need of a good wipe down before returning to work, or out on the trails for an extended period of time (like say an ultra) where wiping off the face can feel like the best thing in the whole world (or, er, wiping other things) or you just want to feel fresh after yoga or a workout – ShowerPill wipes are the answer. They’re antibacterial, easy to use and even easier to carry. It’ll help your runner kill the stink, the germs and the rumors about why they smell so bad (or have mud on their ankles). Use the code holiday20 to receive 20% off when you buy 2 or more boxes. BOOM.
Coeur Sports Compression Capris: Sorry to all you dude runners out there, this one is for the ladies only. I am OBSESSED with Coeur Sports compression capris. They’re a great compression pant and they look super cute. The fit is flattering and can take your runner from run to coffee shop or errands. Just make sure your runner wipes the trail off before going inside…
Pro Compression Socks: Ok, more compression. But how can you not love a compression sock (or calf sleeve) that doubles as a holiday sock? I love these Snowflake Compression Socks from Pro Compression and I’m willing to bet the trail runner in your life will too! Use the code pink2 for 40% off your entire purchase!! AWESOME.
Nathan Hydration Pack: Listen up, if your trail runner doesn’t have a hydration pack, they definitely need one. Trust me. And if they have a hydration pack but don’t have a Nathan Hydration Pack, well, then they desperately need a Nathan. I swear it’s magical. It fits like a glove, never feels super heavy or clunky when you’re on the move and you can use the space to store everything and anything you need (like ShowerPill wipes, rice balls, salt tabs, and jolly ranchers). Hint: I want a new one – mine is disgustingly old and filthy.
Suunto Watch: For the last decade or so or running, I’ve been a non watch kind of person. And then I got a Suunto and my whole world changed. I absolutely love my watch (I have a Suunto Ambit). It fits well and looks sharp (as my husband would say) and tracks all the things I would want to track. Plus, it connects with Strava making data uploading super easy. They’re pricey but they’re worth it.
Snowshoes: I recently discovered snowshoeing (really recently). I mean, I had heard of snowshoeing but as a long time snowboarder, it never really occured to me to try it. Then I saw that people race in showshoes, just like runners and of course, I wanted in on the action. And when I tried snowshoes the first time, I was hooked. It’s not only an incredible workout, its also the perfect way to cross train. Whether your runner lives in cold temps or visits places in cold temps, I highly recommend snowshoeing. I want to find a way to do it more regularly, myself, as I figure its probably a great way to prepare for my upcoming 100 miler. On what snowshoes to buy…..well….you have options…cheaper models to more expensive “racing” modes. Just be sure to do your homework and make sure your runner likes the snow first. 😉
Victory Drop Bags: These bags are great for maximizing your time at aid stations – they are a great way to store gear, food and other supplies – all easily divided so you can get what you need without having to dig. Plus, they make great car coolers for the way to a race as well!
Headlamp: Every trail runner should own a good headlamp. I learned this the hard way with a dimly lit light at my first 100K (eeek). I was tripping and sliding down everything. Seriously, everything. There are a ton to choose from but I’ve had a lot of success with my Petzl and have heard great things about the Fenix (another reasonably priced headlamp).
If you still don’t know what to get for your trail runner, you could always go with a gift certificate to their nearest running store. You never can have too many shoes.
Stay sweaty friends!
XOXO,
Jamie
Sandra Laflamme says
December 18, 2014 at 8:07 pmWhat a great list! You can’t go wrong with a sweet hydration pack or a good pair of compression socks! Merry Christmas, almost 🙂
Jamie says
December 18, 2014 at 8:15 pmI totally agree, Sandra! And thank you, Merry almost Christmas to you too! 😉 XOXO