It’s the most wonderful time of the year – for runners in Houston! Not only do the cooler temps add a little more jingle to our jogs, but the gifting nature of the season means finding and stocking up on our favorite running essentials.
Read on to discover a few of my favorite runner’s gear, gadgets, goodies and more. Then hang your stocking – or your compression sock – and drop hints to your loved ones about these fabulous finds or gift them to yourself.
Gear
Gear includes athletic attire from head to toe. {For the functional/techy wearables like watches and headlamps – see Gadgets section.}
Headwear
Headwear provides many benefits, including sun protection and hair taming. This lightweight cap offers UPF50+ and ample room for a ponytail. For frostier mornings, consider a set of ear warmers in your favorite colors.
Sunglasses
I absolutely love the goodr OG sunglasses. They are fun and inexpensive yet have the necessary features for outdoor activity, including polarized lenses and a no-slip nose bridge.
Outerwear
The Lviefent crop jacket is one of my *hear me out* recommendations. It’s rare I’d suggest a crop top anything, but in this case, YES. Many athletic jackets fit long in the torso, and while that feels comfortable and safe at first, they can bunch chaotically around the middle and drive me insane over the course of a run. The crop jacket, however, is staying put! And as a bonus, it looks fabulous on.
Socks
Every distance runner needs several pairs of comfortable socks. My go-to style is Balega Hidden Comfort no-show socks.
Compression socks in novelty prints have also become a favorite for shorter runs and on recovery days when “no-show” is no big deal.
Shoes
I could dedicate an entire article to running shoes. {Actually, many people do!} Shoes are as unique as the runners who wear them, but if you are looking for something new to try for marathon training, these are some good options for beginners.
The Hoka Gaviota 5 is a great starter shoe for distance runners who pronate and need a little extra stability. Minimalist style and reasonable price.
Brooks Glycerin Max is a cute, comfortable, and bouncy shoe for runners who want cushion and a little speed.
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is the newest of the Endorphin Pro series and is a nice option for more advanced runners looking to up their speed.
Gadgets
Gadgets include electronic devices, exercise equipment, and personal safety aids.
Hi-Vis and Reflective Wear
For nighttime or early morning trail runs, a headlamp is a smart option for lighting your way while keeping your hands free.
Wearing a Nathan Streak Reflective Vest will increase your visibility while running along busy streets.
Belts and Packs
A FlipBelt might not look like much, but that’s the beauty of the design. Carry a few essentials like a phone, key, ID and a snack without weighing yourself down.
Hydration belts also hold small essentials and most importantly: water. The PYFK Running Belt is adjustable and comes with two 10-ounce water bottles.
For the long-distance runs, I have become quite attached to my Hydration Vest. There are many different styles of hydration vests, but I like the way this particular brand clips in the front and adjusts for a custom fit.
Watches
The Garmin Forerunner 55 and Coros Pace 3 are two GPS watches that deliver on quality, battery life, and of course, training data and customization features.
Goodies
Goodies include refueling gels and drinks, skincare, and recovery. Any of these make wonderful stocking stuffers.
Electrolyte Tablets
These Venture Pal tablets are another of my *hear me out* recommendations. The tart flavor and fizzy texture are spot-on for me. Instead of chewing them, I let them dissolve like a hard candy over the course of about a mile for a sensory fix. The little storage containers also fit nicely into my hydration vest. SaltStick is another top choice among runners.
Energy Gels and Gummies
Energy gels are an acquired…well, everything: taste, texture…all the senses. Yet, the Salted Caramel GU Energy Gel makes the list of favorites because it is by far the most palatable of all the gel flavors.
Energy chews are another convenient on-the-go refueling choice. Honey Stinger has several flavors like pink lemonade, caffeinated cherry cola {yes, please!}, and orange blossom.
Drink Mixes
Liquid IV Sugar-Free Lemon Lime drink mix is a treat for after long runs when water just isn’t cutting it. It also comes with added sugar, but I prefer the sugar-free option.
Skincare and Self-Care
Running outside is tough on skin, so sunscreen and anti-chafing balms are my top two skincare essentials for runners. The EltaMD UV Clear Face is excellent for sensitive skin. BodyGlide For Her applies like deodorant and I happily use it anywhere and everywhere clothes might cause friction burn.
I need very little convincing to take a nice soak in the tub to relieve sore muscles {or just because}. Ancient Minerals Magnesium Bath Flakes are a popular choice for salt soaks because the flat crystals dissolve nicely. You can happily soak just your feet or your whole self.
More Gift Ideas for Runners
Additionally, the following make great gifts for runners. {My personal favorite is the race entry fee.}
This inspirational goal planner and desktop calendar.
A book about running physiology to geek out over.
A race bib and medal display.
A race entry fee or running club membership fee.
A gift card to a popular running retailer like: Fleet Feet, Hoka, Brooks, Nathan, Wild Pear Running.
Happy Holidays to all my running friends!
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