Hello and happy Friday!

Instead of my normal Five Things Friday post, I wanted to bring you some early gift ideas.  Here is my list of 10 holiday gift ideas for runners:

1. Running Books

There are a million different running books on training and motivation, but if the runner in your life is looking for a laugh at the same time, check out The Terrible and Wonderful Reasons Why I Run Long Distances by the creator of the comic The Oatmeal.

2. GPS Watch/Fitness Tracker

I have used a couple trackers and for me the easiest to use is a simple GPS watch.  I use the Garmin Forerunner 10 GPS watch, which is pretty basic.  All I really care about when running is my distance and my pace and this offers that and more.  There are other watches with heart rate monitors, but I’m not a huge fan of those.

For people who are more visual (like me), I also prefer being able to look at my route on a map.  You can do that with such fitness trackers as Fitbit and Jawbone.  I have only had a Fitbit and stopped wearing it after some time, but that’s a post for another day.  They are definitely worthwhile gifts, but you’ll have to understand your recipient’s goals and if features such as sleep tracking, food and water logging, and daily step tracking are important.

3. Ponytail Hat

I have wanted one of these for some time, but haven’t gotten around to buying one.  When I lived in VA I would end up going to the gym when it got cold, but here in Chicago it is going to be cold for a little while longer than in VA and I still want to run outside.  The headbands and hats I have worn haven’t had a ponytail  hole, so I think many runners would appreciate this.  There are many good brands to choose from, like this one from Saucony.

4. ClassPass

Although running is great, cross-training is equally important in making sure that your body is not over-trained in one particular area.  It is through strength training, yoga, and a diversity of other exercise that your body is able to perform in peak condition.  If your runner lives in or near the cities of Boston, Chicago, New York, Seattle, LA, San Fran, DC, San Diego, Portland, Ausin, or Dallas, ClassPass is a great way for them to add some variety to their training regimen.  To purchase ClassPass as a gift, click here.  You can purchase 1 class for $19, 1 month for $99, or 3 months for $297!

5. Race Bib Gear

Do you know someone who has run a million races and still keeps all of his/her race bibs?  Rather than have them sit idly in a closet or plastered over an entire wall like wallpaper, turn them into something that can showcase their achievement on a regular basis.  From bags to coasters, there are a million different ways to recycle and showcase their achievement!

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6. Compression Socks

As you all know, I am a huge fan of PRO Compression socks, have written about them before, and even done an unsponsored giveaway because I like them so much.  They are great for recovery after long runs and have helped me be able to get back out there the next day.  Plus they come in lots of fancy colors like their December sock of the month.  You can get 40% off this sock by entering the code SNOW at checkout!

Update: Enter code DAILY to get 40% off storewide!

7. Running Clothes

With as expensive as running clothes are now, the cost can be somewhat prohibitive.  As an active person, I can never have enough workout clothes (and don’t).  I find some great deals at places like Old Navy, Target, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls.  Make sure to check out eBay as well for discounted designer threads such as Lululemon and others.

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8. Flipbelt

I confess that I haven’t had a chance to try this yet, but as a runner it definitely appeals to me.  Any running pants/shorts that I own need to have a zippered pocket for when I run outside and need to keep track of my keys or anything else I might need along the way (toilet paper?). This belt gets good reviews and what really appeals to me is how light it looks.  I often see people running with what amounts to a fanny pack bouncing up and down and it looks heavy and awful.  Another feature that is nice is the phone holder since I am always holding mine the entire time I run.

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9. Race Entrance

For the avid racer in your life, take some of the financial load off of them by purchasing their race entrance.  Constantly racing can be a burden on the wallet, so let someone know you care and that you support them by picking up the bill.

10. Road ID

I have been contemplating getting one of these for awhile since there are times when I will run off into oblivion and not have any ID on me.  With 6 lines of engraving, you can list your name, DOB, emergency contact, allergies, and any other important information like your favorite food or wanting to go for long walks on the beach. Update: Enter code JINGLE14 at checkout to receive 10% off your entire purchase!

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These are just a few things that you can get for the runner in your life this holiday season.  If you think of more, I’d love to hear about (and buy) them! I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Note: There are a few affiliate links included in this list, but none of these items are sponsored in any way.  They’re just things I as a runner would enjoy and as always I appreciate your support!

Question of the day: If you are a runner, what are some things that are on your list this year? If you’re not a runner, I still want to know what’s on your list!