If you have a trail runner in your life, this complete guide to gifts for trail runners will give you everything you need to give them a thoughtful and useful gift! The more years we spend in Colorado the more my gear closet has grown. This is also to say that my list of trail running gifts, wants, and needs expand with each season.
Trail runners need special gizmos and gadgets to make sure they not only have a good experience but an injury-free and safe one! I’ve gathered the best of all major categories of essentials and accessories every trail runner would love!
A lot of the time, our trail runs are really more like big hikes. So it’s fair to say a lot of the run gear I’ve picked out will make the perfect hiking gifts too!
They’re generally things that are going to make our time out in the wilderness easier or safer. And don’t worry I’ve got you covered from some of the big splurge items like the pack to smaller equally great gift ideas like anti-chafe creams.
I’ve mentioned the prices and listed the best option by category so that it’s super easy for you to find the right one for your favorite trail runner!
#1 Collapsible Trekking Poles for Trail Runners
I didn’t realize what I was missing by not having poles until I finally borrowed a pair during my daredevil Costa Rica trail running trip.
Suddenly I was much more confident going downhill, which is my major fear! Since then I’ve gotten my own pair for the Colorado trails and I LOVE having them to support me.
If the trail runner in your life doesn’t have a collapsible pole yet, this is going to be a life-changing gift for them and they’ll thank you for life!
There is a huge variety in price points of poles based on weight and quality. The key is they must be collapsible and then easy to put back together. I’ve got my top two picks that you should definitely check out:
Best Overall Trekking Pole: Black Diamond ($199)
This is definitely the best collapsible trekking pole on the market, especially for ultramarathon runners and technical trails. It’s made of carbon, making it ultra lightweight but it still folds up easily and is quite portable!
It has a great grip, thanks to the nonslip EVA foam grips with extensions that it comes with. This makes it great while using it on steep inclines. The built quality is great, and whoever you gift it to will be using it for years to come!
Additionally, they’re super light which is much appreciated the longer you go.
Best Inexpensive Collapsible Trekking Pole for Beginners – Trekkology ($45)
If you’re looking for an inexpensive, but durable option instead, this one by Trekkology is exactly what you need! It comes in a set of 2 and also has a great cork-texture grip that’s moisture wicking and helps keep the hands drier even when sweaty.
The firmer grip also comes in handy in muddy areas and other tricky terrains. It might not be built with carbon or ultra-lightweight, but it still weighs less than a standard umbrella and is a great collapsible trekking pole for beginners!
#2 Hydration Vests for Trail Runners
If there is one piece of gear I am asked about more than any other, it’s definitely running hydration vests!
They are an investment and so many runners want one, but won’t always spoil themselves with one. So if you get one of us these, you know we’re going to feel extra special!
For trail runners, you want to take into account how far they often go and how much gear they need to pack along. I’ve got two great options that should be perfect for your favorite trail runner:
Best Overall Hydration Vest: Nathan Pinnacle 4L ($175)
This one is my personal favorite for the easy access to the front pockets it comes with. It has 2 flasks and can also carry a bladder. There is some room in the pack for a small wind jacket and gloves to be stashed, but not a ton of extra for a SUPER LONG mountain day. Plus, the vertical pocket is ideal for storing a trekking pole.
When it comes to running hydration, Nathan is a fantastic brand and among the biggest and most well-known. Their Pinnacle is regarded as one of the best on the market. It is available in two sizes: 4L and 12L.
The long fit of the pack guarantees that weight is well distributed and is concentrated on the back for a more comfortable run. It’s quite simple to store away important items because of the 12 exterior pockets, including two water-resistant front pockets with zips.
The material chosen is soft and stretchy, with a focus on comfort and a bounce-free run. It’s noted for fitting like a T-shirt and remaining comfortable even on long runs.
Best Hydration Vest for Long Days: Ultimate Direction Vesta ($155)
Ultimate Direction’s Adventure Vesta is built to accommodate everything you need for a long day on the trail. It includes enough space and pockets for snacks, hydration, layers, and even a few safety items.
You get a total of 6 pockets with the Vesta. The front stretchy mesh storage can store your phone, some snacks for fuel, and even valuables. The total storage for this vest comes to 10.3L.
The new Comfort Cinch technology on the Vesta provides a nice, custom fit with easy on-the-go adjustments. It includes 4-way stretch material in key places to move with you and stay nice and snug. With the sliding rail sternum and waist straps, you’re bound to find a good fit.
It even has a new, redesigned trekking pole holder for your next trail run. It minimizes bounce and snaps out of the way when you’re not using it.
I’ve also run with this pack and again, as I mentioned above, it has tons of pockets. But I didn’t like that I needed to buy the bladder separately.
However, it’s a favorite among many of my runner friends who want to be able to take off jackets or gear as the weather changes.
It has more room in the pack to carry things, which makes it ideal for more trail running days where you need extra fuel and the weather is often changing on you.
#3 Trail Running Shoes & Gear
What trail running gear guide would overlook shoes?! The key is to ensure you know their size and buy from somewhere with an easy return policy!
As runners, we’re either rotating our shoes, looking for better ones, or needing a replacement because we’ve worn out our old ones. So, if you decide to gift us a pair of new trail running shoes, you can rest assured you’re going to make us really happy!
Best Light and Quick Trail Shoe: Saucony Peregrine Trail Shoe ($140)
In running, I quickly learned how important the right shoe was for my comfort and on the trails! I swear it matters even more for blister prevention and stability.
I love these for the cushion and grip, but also because I feel fine hiking in them as well as running so I don’t always need to bust out the big hiking boots. They come in a bunch of different colors, and I’m sure you’ll find something that fits the trail running you’re gifting!
Most Loved All Round Trail Shoe: Hoka Speedgoat ($155)
I absolutely love the cushion that these Hoka trail running shoes provide, especially since I’m often hitting the trails after a week on the roads!
These are great for less technical trails and those of us putting in a lot of mileage. They are another favorite of ultra runners, who appreciate the lower heel-toe drop and the built-in stability of the Hoka style.
The HOKA Speedgoat is a versatile trail running shoe that can handle any type of terrain. After asking for opinions on the best trail running shoe, this one came up so much that I decided I needed a pair.
The masses were right, I love it. I’ve now had multiple pairs.
Comfy, but not too heavy for a nice long run either.
While they’re also listed as a neutral shoe, I was thrilled to see my foot didn’t drop in one bit when I put them on which is common in other shoes. Another example of how their shoes have some natural support due to the bigger platform.
If you’re an all-weather runner like me, you know that keeping the snow, sand, rocks and leaves out of your shoes is essential for a comfortable run.
The Altra Trail Gaiters feature a strapless design that attaches seamlessly to all Altra trail shoes so you can change shoes and socks without having to remove the gaiters.
Don’t have Altras? No worries! They work on any other trail shoe as well because there’s an extra hook-and-loop piece included with each pair.
Help protect the life and longevity of your shoes by limiting the abrasion and wear that happen when that pesky sand and dirt slip in.
#4 Running Watch for Trail Runners
Nothing says I love you like gifting the trail runner in your life with a gadget that’ll improve their runs in more than a dozen ways! It’s something that, I promise you, is on every runner’s wishlist and it’s a great option if you’re looking to splurge a bit on your loved one.
Best Overall Trail Running Watch: Garmin Enduro 3 ($899+)
While we still think the original Enduro is AMAZING and costs less, we are putting the latest and greatest on the list.
This GPS watch from Garmin stands out from the crowd, thanks to its solar-charging capabilities! But even without it, the battery life is excellent with up to 120 hours in GPS mode, and 90 days in smartwatch mode (with solar)!
Having taken this out on trails all over Colorado well in to the mountains, this remains a go to watch for me. While it’s LARGE, it’s also really accurate and these newer models make it easier than ever to download maps and routes. All of which are going to make your trail runner exceptionally happy.
It comes with all the standard features any trail runner would need for GPS accuracy, and other features such as VO2 max, blood oxygen, and everything in between.
Best Running Watch for Heart Rate: Polar Vantage V3 ($570+)
If you’re looking for a great GPS watch, but maybe not something as intense as the Garmin Enduro, then this Polar watch is the one you’re looking for!
I can’t say enough good things about this family of watches; in fact, I’ve even written a whole review on the V2 version. I love these watches because it’s the one with the best wrist-based HR reading technology currently in any watch on the market!
Some of the features include:
- Most accurate wrist based heart rate sensor
- Connects to smartphones to show notifications, weather and control your music
- Super accurate, dual-frequency GPS system
- Will show altitude, elevation gain and loss
- Optional HR strap – I do pull this out in winter when the blood flow in your wrist is much harder for any watch to read
- Extended battery life of up to 8 days of for regular use and 140 hours of training time on a single charge
- A vast menu of training and recovery suggestions, with 150+ sports to choose from
It gives a comprehensive view of how your trail run went, including the strain it put on your body and how to recover afterward, including insights into your sleep too! This makes it a great watch to avoid injuries and overtraining.
If you’re looking for more options, here is a full breakdown of the Best Trail Running Watches.
#5 Best Budget Gifts for Trail Runners
If some of the products I’ve mentioned till now were a bit out of your budget, don’t worry I’ve got your back! Here’s a section with all the trail running accessories we runners need, but usually don’t buy for ourselves.
All the gift ideas here are under $40, but will still make the trail runner in your life super happy!
Trail Running Socks: Smartwool Socks ($28)
Oh baby, I love talking about running socks as gifts because they seem so silly…but are appreciated beyond belief. Because they tend to feel like an indulgence even though we know they keep our feet happy.
These merino wool socks in particular are going to pull away the sweat keeping your feet dry. Which means warmer in the winter or cooler in the summer. And for trail runners, yes we like the taller socks that help to protect us from grass hitting our ankles, so have fun with the designs.
Trail Running Hat for Winters: Trailhead Fleece Ponytail Hat ($32)
Helllllloooo perfect winter running item. It’s also just kind of hilarious.
Covering the head, with an optional ear flap, but still a spot for our ponytail to hang out! There’s not back snap, it fits more like a beanie, which is perfect for keeping in that warmth.
Most trail runners I know aren’t put off by the weather, which just means we need the right gear to keep on enjoying what we do! And Trailhead is a brand with a great guarantee and return policy, so you know it’s an item to last.
Anytime Trail Running Hat: Oiselle Runner Trucker Hat ($38)
If you want that trucker hat fit for your trail runs, the Oiselle Runner Trucker Hat is the one for you. The hat features a sweat wicking mesh sweatband, breathable mesh crown and an adjustable toggle closure for a stay put fit.
No joke, you as me about this hat with scenes of mountains from my IG photos more than any other!
One of the best parts about this hat is when the sun goes down you can use the easy-pull, adjustable elastic back to fold the bill and easily store it in your pocket.
Great Back-country Gift: Survival Paracord Bracelet ($13)
Talk about a small gift that packs a punch! The Paracord is worn just like a normal bracelet, but can be used to start a fire, has a whistle, a compass, small tools, and an SOS LED light.
I’ve seen some dog collars that work this way. But love the idea of a bracelet I can simply slip on for trail runs that might save me if something goes wrong.
Best Chafing Cream: Squirrel’s Nut Butter ($15)
It’s not what you think.
While packets of nut butter are 100% an amazing gift, we are talking about a balm to keep us from chafing. It just has a hilarious name.
Our Ultrarunning Coach and guru, Laura Swenson, swears by it and all of her athletes now use it too!
But in all honesty, we runners definitely need our chafing creams to make our running experience enjoyable! It’s a great gift that’s under $10 but will still be super useful!
Best Backcountry Gift: Bear Bell ($6)
A friend of mine picked one of these up and I thought it was genius. This little bell has a magnetic strip at the bottom. So instead of being like a cat tinkling around it holds the ball of the bell in place to stop the ringing while you run.
When you are in a spot, like say my late night Ragnar where there were animals, you can allow it to ring!
#6 Best Training Gifts for Trail Runners
As runners, we’re always trying to educate ourselves more to not only get the most out of running but to also keep ourselves free of injuries!
If you were to gift your favorite trail runner one of these, I’m sure it’ll make a huge impact on their running journey.
New Runner: Trail Running Course ($30)
If you know a trail runner that’s about to take on their first trail race or ultramarathon, this course has everything they’ll need to successfully tackle it!
It starts from the beginning and lays down everything they’d need from safety tips to how to run with poles, training plans, gear guide, and even one on one coaching access! For the price, it’s a steal and it’s the perfect gift for any occasion!
Runner Strength Training Course ($28)
When it comes to staying injury-free, nothing is as important as strength training to stay strong, improve any muscle imbalances, and build strength to handle trails better.
It truly is the key to staying free of injuries, so if you know someone you care for, I’m sure they’ll truly appreciate this great, thoughtful gift.
#7 Best Gifts For Pet Owners
Listen, I’ve coached enough trail runners to know that A LOT of you don’t go solo, you go with your best friend.
A Dog Owner’s Delight: Ruffwear Trail Runner Dog Running Vest ($90)
If you’re hitting the trails with the goodest four-legged friend you have, the Ruffwear Trailer Runner dog running vest can give them a way to join in the fun and even help out on the run!
This comfy, bounce-free vest features two pockets made of nylon so there’s enough stretch for them to hold essentials like wallet, keys or the two hydro flasks that come included.
There’s also a third pocket towards the back that’s perfect for doggie bags or a collapsible water bowl!
Ruffwear Bungee Leash
When we asked a dog training expert about a great leash option, she immediately had a response!
This is the leash we use for daily walks, hikes, shorter runs, everything. I love that I can adjust the length with a simple slide of the buckle and clip it around my waist if I need both hands. This is my perfect leash.
#8 Best Way To Limit Sun Exposure
Sun Shirts from REI ($40-104)
We all know how important it is to limit sun exposure, and there are plenty of sweat-wicking, ray-shading choices over at REI to fit any style or size.
Take the Sahara Long-Sleeve t-shirt for example. It’s designed for the trail, made of partially recycled fabric, comes in six different colors and is very affordable at the $40 price point.
Or maybe you want to upgrade to the Heavyweight Merino Base Layer Half-Zip Top, that’s made from 100% merino wool for those colder adventures.
You really can’t go wrong when it comes to REI quality and their industry-leading return policy. Check out all the options if you’re looking for a new way to stay safe from the sun.
Smith Vert Pivlock Sunglasses ($215)
And of course, we gave you a go to hat option above, but let’s throw in one more really key sun must have: Sunglasses!!
The Olympic Trials this year set of a wave of runners suddenly seeking out the bigger full eye coverage sunglasses. Smith has long been on the scene creating top of the line gear that not only fits well, but has some pretty great tech involved too.
This style really started with cyclists, but there are benefits to runners who are getting better eye coverage and some protection of those potential crows feet!
For trail runners this means keeping more dirt grit and more out of our eyes!
Good news, there is 100% a budget option that they will also love: Ukoly Cycling Sunglasses ($19)
Coach Lindsey is very picky when it comes to quality running gear, but has found this budget option does the job and meets her style standard!
All right, did these gifts for trail runners get your wheels turning?? Are there others that you think are a MUST, let us know!
Still looking for more trail running gift ideas?
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