Buying that perfect present for the runner on your list is no easy feat—and it can be a particularly daunting task when you're trying to stick to a budget. Instead of adding yet another novelty gift to their collection that will go unused, or—worse yet—just handing them a gift card, make your favorite runner feel special this holiday season with an inexpensive gift they'll actually love and use for years to come. We've carefully curated a list of cheap gifts for runners, with each item priced under $30 at the time of this writing. These products make great small gifts, stocking stuffers, or secret Santa presents—or you can combine a bunch for a fun gift basket.
Surprise your favorite runner with this cheeky book. Full of answers to every question you don’t want to ask and training tips to help improve performance, it contains (almost) all the knowledge they need.
Save yourself the anxiety of putting together a curated selection of gifts; RunnerBox will do it for you. The subscription service sends a shipment every two months, with gear like energy bars and smaller accessories included.
These quick laces are great for triathletes—or those who just can't take the time to tie their shoes properly. They're elastic, so your gift recipient can easily slide their foot into the shoe. Plus, the locks keep them snug and secure without risk of falling off.
You can't go wrong with a quality pair of socks. These are super soft and have a comfortable fit. The heel tab keeps them in place, and they are moisture-wicking, so there will be no blisters here!
What better way for them to celebrate finishing a marathon than by imbibing from a glass with the race’s route on it? The vessel is also a good conversation starter (read: an excuse to regale others with tales of your running exploits).
These deodorizers use charcoal to absorb odors and moisture, which prevents bacteria from growing in your gear bag or shoes. Each pair keeps its funk-fighting power for up to one year.
The Whoop is the perfect accessory for times when they're not running—which is likely most of the day. It’ll compile data on the recipient's heart rate, movement, sleep habits, and more, giving them a recovery score that's a a good gauge for how hard they should push while exercising each day.
Now, we’re a bit biased here, of course. But a subscription to—or a year’s renewal of—a magazine packed with advice, inspiration stories, and gear recommendations can help maintain the stoke for running.
These silicone wedding rings are designed to endure the moments when they'd usually take off their traditional metal band, like lifting weights, swimming, cooking, and traveling.
Give them a break from the gels with these tasty stroopwafels. Yes, they take up more room in a pocket or pack, but the crunchy exterior and gooey honey inside are worth it.
These gloves are perfect for chilly fall runs, and are lightweight enough to throw in your pocket if you get too hot. Plus they have touchscreen pads on the thumb and index finger which allows you to use your phone without removing the gloves.
This sunscreen stick is great for quick protection on the go. It's made with a mineral formula, so it has no harsh chemicals. Plus, the olive oil extract will keep their skin smooth and hydrated.
Believe it or not, lips are one of the most susceptible areas to skin damage and cancer. The skin is delicate and they usually get passed over when applying sunscreen to the rest of the body. This lip balm offers great sun protection, and has a hydrating formula perfect for long, sunny runs.
While it may not be the most glamorous gift, Body Glide can be a lifesaver for long runs and races. Your giftee can use it to prevent chafing between their thighs, in their armpits, and anywhere clothing might rub, like the line of a sports bra.
Help your favorite runner stay hydrated with a new water bottle. These Hydro Flasks come in lots of fun colors and they keep your water cold all day long.
You'd never believe how long a pair of $25 shades can last. Whatever their favorite style or color, Goodr probably has it. The best part: On the run, these things don’t bounce or budge.
While not as cozy as a puffer vest, this reflective option can help keep your giftee safe. It has an adjustable waist that fits most men and women and has reflective features on back and front. It also is made of mesh, so it can be worn as a top layer in all seasons.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.