The Best Gifts For Runners In 2025
The best gifts for runners (by a seasoned running gear reviewer). For all budgets, inc. partners, friends, moms, dads or kids, I have you covered.
Whether you’re pushing for a PR, navigating rugged trails, or savoring your daily runs, the right gear can transform your experience. This year, I’ve put countless running shoes and lots of running gear to the test, but only a few have earned a place in this roundup. Here, I’m sharing my go-to picks—the gear that’s proven itself over miles of training.
From shoes that balance comfort with speed to tech that keeps my training in check, these essentials have become trusted companions on the road and trail. Every piece has made a meaningful difference, helping me stay focused on the journey, in both comfort and style.
Best Daily Trainer
ASICS Superblast 2
Why it’s the best daily trainer: The ASICS Superblast 2 ($200) is the ultimate daily trainer right now, designed to handle every type of run—from speed sessions to long, easy miles. Built with a dual-layer midsole featuring FF TURBO™ PLUS foam for energy return and FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO for cushioned comfort, it provides the perfect balance of softness and responsiveness.
A stable, wide platform and improved heel lockdown make it incredibly versatile, allowing for smooth transitions whether you’re a heel striker or forefoot runner. Plus, with a breathable mesh upper and a debris-resistant outsole, it’s ready for any route.
➡ Read my full ASICS Superblast 2 review to see why it’s a top choice for daily training this year.
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Best Speed Trainer
Saucony Endorphin Speed 4
Why it’s the best speed training shoe: The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 ($170) is a versatile, budget-friendly speed training shoe that performs brilliantly in tempo runs, interval sessions, and even race day. The midsole’s PWRRUN PB foam, paired with a flexible nylon plate, delivers a smooth, propulsive ride without sacrificing comfort.
The breathable upper and roomy toe box allow for foot expansion during intense sessions, and the overall lightness (8.5oz) ensures effortless transitions. The winged nylon plate provides added stability, making it a solid choice for runners looking for a reliable, high-performance shoe without breaking the bank.
➡ Read my full Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 review to find out why it’s my go-to for speedwork.
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Best Race Day Shoe
HOKA Cielo X1
Why it’s the best race day shoe: The HOKA Cielo X1 ($275) is my top pick for runners who want maximum speed on race day, without sacrificing comfort and fun. It features an ultra-responsive dual-layer PEBA foam midsole, an aggressive rocker geometry, and a winged carbon plate that combine to deliver an effortless, forward-propelling ride.
The breathable knit upper and innovative heel design offer a comfortable fit that locks your foot in place without pressure on the Achilles, while the outsole provides reliable traction on wet or dry surfaces. It’s perfect for running fast over distances from 5Ks to marathons.
➡ Read my full HOKA Cielo X1 review to learn why it’s my top pick for race day.
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Best Stability Shoe
Saucony Hurricane 24
Why it’s the best stability running shoe: The Saucony Hurricane 24 ($160) combines plush cushioning with stability, making it ideal for runners who need added support on their daily miles. Its dual-layer PWRRUN and PWRRUN PB midsole cradles the foot for exceptional comfort while providing a solid frame to reduce lateral roll, ensuring a stable, smooth gait. The shoe’s wide forefoot and heel platform maintain balance, making it suitable for both pronators and neutral runners. Plus, the rubber outsole offers solid traction.
➡ Read my full Saucony Hurricane 24 review to understand why it’s my top pick for stability.
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Best All-Mountain Trail Shoe
Hoka Speedgoat 6
Why it’s the best all-mountain trail running shoe: The Hoka Speedgoat 6 ($155) continues to dominate the trails with its robust build, designed for technical terrain and long distances. Equipped with a durable CMEVA midsole and Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5mm lugs, it provides unbeatable traction on everything from steep, rocky paths to muddy trails.
The newly woven upper offers a snug fit (size up a half size), though it’s slightly less breathable than the previous model, making it perfect for cooler conditions. This updated Speedgoat is lighter and more responsive than before, allowing for faster paces without compromising comfort or control on rugged downhills and challenging ascents.
➡ Read my full Hoka Speedgoat 6 review to see why it’s my top choice for all-mountain trail runs.
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Best Trail Racing Shoe
Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx
Why it’s the best trail racing shoe: The Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx ($160) is a fantastic trail racing shoe, crafted specifically for mountain running and Skyrunning-style events but also performs great as an all mountain shoe for fast runs. With a lightweight yet rugged build, it combines a durable Matryx upper made from Kevlar and polyamide with a responsive dual-density FloatPro™ foam midsole, providing a secure fit and excellent ground feel.
The Vibram Megagrip outsole, equipped with 5mm lugs, ensures outstanding traction on steep climbs and fast descents, while the 4mm drop supports a natural running position. This trail running shoe keeps you agile, connected, and in total control on technical trails.
➡ Read my full Merrell MTL Long Sky 2 Matryx review to see why it’s my top choice for trail racing.
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Best Road-To-Trail Running Shoe
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 and GTX Version
Why it’s the best road to trail running shoe: The Nike Pegasus Trail 5 ($150) is an excellent choice for runners who need a versatile shoe that performs seamlessly on both roads and moderate trails. The updated ReactX midsole offers a balanced ride with 13% more energy return, while the new Nike Trail All Terrain Compound (ATC) outsole delivers reliable traction on varied surfaces. With a snug, breathable mesh upper and a heel lock that keeps your foot secure, the Pegasus Trail 5 feels stable even on steep ascents.
➡ Read my full Nike Pegasus Trail 5 review to find out why it’s my top pick for road-to-trail running. The GTX Version is fantastic too.
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Best Running Socks
Paka Crew Socks
Why it’s the best running socks choice: The Paka Trail Socks ($24 at PakaApparel.com) are my pick for top performance, delivering cozy, long-lasting comfort. Constructed with 33% baby alpaca fiber, these socks regulate temperature, wick moisture, and offer remarkable odor resistance. The soft, 3/4 length design includes arch support, extra heel cushioning, and mesh for breathability—ideal for demanding trail runs and extended use.
The alpaca wool construction stands out for staying fresh even after multiple runs, a major bonus for multi-day hikes or long trail races. Paka’s sustainable practices also mean each purchase supports Peruvian women artisans, making these a high-performance, eco-friendly choice for serious trail runners.
➡ Read my full Paka Trail Socks review to learn more about their durability and comfort.
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Best Running Watch
Garmin Forerunner 965
Why it’s the best running watch overall: The Garmin Forerunner 965 ($600) combines advanced features, lightweight design, and reliable performance, making it my go-to watch for road and trail runs. It’s comfortable for long races and intense training sessions. With robust tracking metrics, a large, clear display, and excellent battery life, it meets the needs of dedicated runners.
While I previously used the Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar for its extra durability and extended battery, the Forerunner 965 delivers similar features with a lighter build and streamlined design, making it a top choice for runners. If you don’t need a watch for long distance running, I recommend checking out my other top picks for more affordable running watches.
➡ Read my Garmin Forerunner 965 review to find out why it’s my favorite running watch.
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Best Running Hat
Janji AFO Hyperlight Cap
Why it’s the best running hat: The Janji AFO Hyperlight Cap ($38) earns its spot as the top choice for runners due to its ultra-lightweight, breathable design that feels virtually weightless. Made from quick-drying, packable materials, it’s ideal for everything from road runs to trail adventures and if you follow my Youtube channel, you’ve likely seen me wearing my AFO caps a lot.
The adjustable fit and flippable brim allow for customization and visibility on steep climbs, making it a practical choice for varied conditions.
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Best Running Sunglasses
KOO NOVA Running Sunglasses
Why they’re the best running sunglasses: The KOO NOVA Running Sunglasses ($200) combine ultra-lightweight comfort and high-performance vision, making them an ideal choice for running. Weighing only 0.7 oz (21g), they feature a sleek, wraparound frame for a secure fit, ensuring minimal movement during runs. The Zeiss lenses provide excellent clarity and a wide field of vision, adaptable to both road and trail environments. With replaceable lenses and a polarized option available, they’re versatile for various conditions, and their stylish, aerodynamic design caters to runners who prioritize both function and aesthetics.
➡ Read my full KOO NOVA sunglasses review to learn more about why these are my top pick for running eyewear.
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Best Running Headlamp
BioLite Headlamp 425
Why it’s the best running headlamp: The BioLite Headlamp 425 ($60) offers unbeatable value for runners needing a lightweight, reliable headlamp with multiple beam options. At just 2.75 oz, its slim, bounce-free design provides a comfortable fit without added bulk, making it ideal for both running and hiking.
With a max light output of 425 lumens, it delivers powerful illumination through dimmable spot and flood beams, plus red and strobe options for night vision and safety. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 4 hours on high, and USB-C passthrough charging enables extended use, making it versatile for various run times and conditions.
➡ Read my BioLite Headlamp 425 review to see why it’s the best choice for running in low-light conditions.
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Best Waterproof Running Jacket
Arc’teryx Norvan Shell Jacket
Why it’s the best waterproof running jacket: The Arc’teryx Norvan Shell Jacket ($400) sets the bar high for waterproof performance with a lightweight, minimalist design tailored for serious runners. Constructed with GORE-TEX materials, it provides excellent protection from rain and wind. Weighing just 6.7 oz (190g), it packs down compactly, perfect for stowing in a hydration pack when conditions improve.
Thoughtful features like a low-profile hood, reflective details, and an embedded RECCO reflector add safety and versatility, ensuring it performs well in both urban and backcountry settings.
➡ Read my full Arc’teryx Norvan Shell Jacket review to see why it’s my top choice for waterproof running gear.
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Best Hydration Pack For Running
Why it’s the best hydration pack for running: The Salomon Active Skin 4 ($100) is a lightweight and versatile hydration vest, that’s comfortable, and has a bounce-free fit for road and trail adventures. Equipped with two 500ml soft flasks, it keeps hydration easily accessible, while the 4L storage capacity provides ample room for essentials. It’s designed for extended wear and includes practical features like multiple front pockets, a large rear pocket, and a safety whistle. Ideal for short to medium-distance runs, this vest combines hydration, storage, and comfort, making it my go-to choice for everyday training and racing.
➡ Read my full Salomon Active Skin 4 review to learn more about its features and why it’s my favorite hydration pack.
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Best Running Belt
Naked Running Band
Why it’s the best running belt: The Naked Running Band ($55) is a versatile, lightweight belt designed for runners who want a snug fit and maximum storage. Weighing just 2.3 oz (65g) and available in 12 sizes, it provides an accurate, bounce-free fit that can accommodate essentials like a smartphone, nutrition, and up to two 500ml soft flasks. The belt’s four-way stretch fabric securely holds items, and the silicone-backed elastic straps offer additional storage for a jacket or running poles, making it ideal for both training and racing scenarios.
➡ Read my full Naked Running Band review to learn why it’s my top pick for carrying essentials on the run.
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Best Running Shorts
Path Projects Sykes PX – 5″ Short
Why it’s the best running short for men: The Path Projects Sykes PX 5″ Short ($58) brings versatility and comfort to a new level, designed with a unique concept that separates the short from the liner. This modular approach allows runners to choose from various liners tailored for different weather and distance needs, making these shorts ideal for year-round use. Featuring three back pockets for convenient storage, the Sykes PX lets you securely carry essentials like your phone, keys, and fuel.
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Best Trail Running Poles
LEKI Ultratrail FX.One
Why it’s the best trail running pole: The LEKI Ultratrail FX.One ($220) is built for serious trail runners and ultra-distance racers who need lightweight, durable support on technical terrain. Weighing 12.9 oz (366g) per pair, these poles are strong enough for rugged conditions yet light enough to go unnoticed when stowed.
The push-button mechanism enables quick breakdown, and the breathable mesh wrist strap offers comfort and stability, so you can put all your body weight behind pushing your way up inclines. While there’s a lighter Superlite model available, the FX.One balances durability and weight, making it ideal for regular training and racing.
➡ Read my in-depth LEKI Ultratrail FX.One review to see why these are my top trail running poles.
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