Runners give advice on the best gifts for runners - what to buy and what not to buy

Are you looking for the ideal gift for a running lover but you are not sure what will definitely go down well? Our team is very active in running and it has an irreplaceable place in our training. That is why we have put together the list below of the best gifts for all runners who spend a really large amount of time running. At the end you will also find out which gifts might not be suitable for a runner without agreeing on them first.

1. Entry to a running race

You will not offend any runner by giving them a race entry, quite the opposite. When choosing, we recommend taking the recipient's physical fitness into account. While standard races between 5-21 km can be completed even without any major preparation, a marathon is a genuine challenge. If you do not know for certain that the person would be up for a marathon, we do not recommend buying the entry without agreeing on it first.

The half marathon in Graz, Austria is a fast course, ideal for a new personal best

2. A session with a certified running coach

A session with a certified running coach will be appreciated by everyone you know who spends a lot of time running. A running coach will check your technique and advise on it, and pass on valuable advice and tips for improvement. The recipient may be making a technique mistake that can result in pain or injury without even knowing about it.

3. A good head torch: a must for running at night and in winter

A good head torch is an absolute basic for running in the winter months and at night. When choosing a model, make sure it has a protection rating of at least IPX4/5. For built-up urban areas we would go for a brightness of 400 lumens and up; for a trail runner, choose at least 900 lumens or more. The head torch should also be light - up to 125 g including the battery. Proven brands are, for example, Petzl and Silva

4. A voucher for a sports medical assessment: for those who take sport seriously

A voucher for a sports medical assessment will be appreciated by everyone who is serious about sport and running. These runners take part in races regularly and pay attention to even the smallest details, even if they are not professional competitors. A sports assessment can be booked in every larger town and includes, for example, a full medical history, spiroergometric tests, ECG stress tests, measurement of the lactate threshold and so on.

5. A sports massage or entry to a sauna world

A sports massage is an excellent gift and a nice change for any runner and athlete in general. We recommend choosing a facility that advertises experience of working with athletes, particularly runners, since they know what to concentrate on most during the massage so that they do not do more harm than good. A voucher for a sauna world is also a very suitable gift that runners will definitely appreciate.

6. A vest for long and trail runs

If you know that your loved one is preparing for a longer trail race or regularly does very long running sessions (from 20 km upwards), they will certainly appreciate a suitable and comfortable running vest with room for a hydration bladder or soft flasks and other essentials such as a phone, keys, gels or a light windproof jacket. Proven running vest brands are Salomon and Camelbak.

7. A pre-workout drink for runners

hyve Endurance pro is the ideal Christmas gift for any runner who wants to take their performance to a higher level. This premium pre-workout drink combines carbohydrates, electrolytes and key ingredients that help the body cope with long and intensive runs. Endurance pro supports, for example, the use of oxygen in the body and blood circulation, and thanks to taurine and citrulline it supports overall endurance during long activity. Thanks to its refreshing Blackberry&Lime flavour it will win over beginners and experienced (ultra) marathon runners alike.

An important note: what not to buy on your own initiative

As runners, we do not recommend buying running shoes, a sports watch or expensive clothing without first consulting the person you want to give the gift to. Every runner has a different preference in brand, cut, shoe model and above all size and functionality. It is no coincidence that these products are the most returned gifts.