I will admit that I have not been running as much I’d like. I can come up with a bunch of excuses but the bottom line is I love running and I miss it. I want it back in my regular schedule. Putting together this list of my top holiday gifts for runners is inspiring me to get out there and start running again, even though it’s going to likely be a rough start. If you’ve got runners on your gifting list this year, here’s a look at five items that will make them want to log extra miles!
1. Serious Leggings: Sugoi Women’s Firewall 180 Zap Tight ($150): Windproof and thermal plus reflective safety details make these the perfect tights for cold wintery runs when the sun sets way too early.
2. Tech Friendly Gloves: Lululemon Frosty Run Gloves ($32): These gloves are designed to keep heat in while the sweat-wicking material allow your hands to breathe. Because these are slim-fitting they are also great for a double layer on extra cold days under a pair of mittens (ideal for skiing).
3. Performance Gear: PRO Compression is a must for serious runners. Choose from calf sleeves, leggings and socks for gear that will help your giftee stay safe on long runs. The compression technology helps improve blood flow and oxygen in the legs, leading to less fatigue and faster recovery. I really could have used a pair of these during the NYC marathon last year and have added them to my workout gear for future races. Calf sleeves are a good place to start ($45). Order before Dec 15 and all gear at procompression.com is 40% off with code PINK2.
4. Destination Race Weekend: For a more experience-based gift, an awesome gift would be an entire destination race weekend. I have my eye on the Nashville Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon April 25, 2015. I’ve always wanted to go to Nashville and I love country music; running 13.1 miles to country doesn’t sound so bad. If you want to go all out with this gift, plan the entire weekend including pre-race carbo loading, a post-race decadent brunch and so on. Give this gift in December and you and your giftee have four months to train together.
5. Custom Necklace: I’m not the biggest fan of race-inspired jewelry but I love the understated items from Erica Sara Designs. Instead of an in your face look how far I’ve run sort of jewelry, she has a range of items that are more personal. I love this Roman Numeral Distance Plate Necklace (pictured 26.2 for $98) and this One Mile At a Time Necklace ($74), a little something to keep your head in the game on those really tough runs. I have an Erica Sara bracelet that reminds me to keep moving forward.
