Holiday Gift Ideas for Runners

With the holiday season in full swing and the madness of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, I thought I would share some gift giving ideas for the runners in your life.

#1 Headphones - now I have tried a lot of different brands of headphones over the years.  My husband will be the first to tell you that I have headphone addiction (similar to a shoe addiction :)).  I am super picky when it comes to the right headphones.  They have to fit snugly in my ears and be able to stay there when doing some hardcore speed work and not fall out due to sweat.  I have tried Yurbuds Ironman Headphones and they were ok, but the wrap around the ear didn't fit the best for me.  I've been using the Polk Audio Ultrafit 3000 Headphones and they do stay in place and work well.  My only downside on those is the foam ear piece tends to fall off.  Now, I am coveting the Jabra Sport Pulse Bluetooth Headphones big time.  These bad boys act as a in ear heart rate monitor, are wireless, and offer real-time voice coaching during your workouts.  A little on the pricey side...but a girl can dream, right?

#2 Running Jacket - with the winter weather in effect lately (even in North Carolina), a good running jacket is a must.  Especially one that can help block the wind and is water resistant.  I have my eye on the Frontrunner Jacket from Athleta...hoping to see some Black Friday deals on it.

#3 Marathon Stick - this is an absolute must for any serious runner.  I actually prefer the Marathon Stick over a foam roller because it is portable and because of the design you can tailor the pressure to whatever you need.  I use it religiously on my IT bands and it works!  

#4 GPS Watch - there are a lot of options in this category and the technology continues to change so do your research here and get one that meets your specific needs.  I have been loyal to Garmin during my running career - I started with a Forerunner 305 and now I use a Garmin Forerunner 10 and I love it.  In doing my research on some of the latest and greatest ones out there I came across a review Comparaboo did of the 10 best running watches - some great information there.

Some other gift ideas for the runner in your life:
#6 Runner's Plaque
#7 Balega Socks
#8 Bodyglide Anti-Chaffing Cream
#9 Hydration Gear
#10 Headbands

Hope you all have a great Turkey Day!