27 best gifts for runners to shop ahead of Marathon Sunday
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With the biggest marathon day in the calendar quickly rolling around, it's only right that we speed up your search for the best gifts for runners. Yep, both the London and Manchester Marathons set to take place on Sunday, April 27 – so it's no surprise GLAMOUR's shopping editors (read: experts) have been inundated with requests for the best running socks, wireless headphones and the activewear worth gifting in recent months.
Having completed a couple of (half) marathons myself, I like to think I've got a good idea of the practical presents your fitness fan really wants. Be that a seriously smart fitness tracker, workout-related gift subscriptions, or lust-worthy lululemon buys, we — a team of GLAMOUR editors and writers who moonlight as keen athletes on the weekends — have trawled the virtual shelves to find the very best sweat-wicking celebratory gifts.
So, whether it's your mum, dad, sister, partner or best friend who's now considered (at least in your mind) a full-blown athlete, here are the 27 secrets to scoring a damp hug.
Ahead, the best gifts for runners in 2025, whatever your budget:
Best runsie
Yep, even activewear is subject to the influence of trends — however, the runsie is one we think might hang about. The practical sister of the playsuit, the all-in-one is great if your giftee hates having to coordinate their leggings with their sports bra. We're also a big fan of the flattering, floaty shorts, which won't cause uncomfortable chafing.
Save when you shop for gifts for runners with these Free People discount codes.
Best running tank top
lululemon Align Waist-Length Racerback Tank Top
While it's totally fine to wear your sports bra as your top, you may want a little more coverage during those springtime showers — even when sprinting and attempting a new PB. Luckily, this tank allows for a full range of movement, thanks to its racerback design and contours to the body for a flattering fit. However, she'll look just as cute when paired with your giftee's beloved flared leggings while lounging, too.
Best Hair Accessory For Runners
Anthropologie Cotton Stripe Headband
If your runner's embraced the trend of cutting in bangs, she's likely struggling to know what to do with them on her long runs. Luckily, this will keep her tresses under control and protect her ears from the cold.
Save when you shop for gifts for runners with these Anthropologie discount codes.
Best Run-Themed Read
From city-based short runs and marathons to cross-country trails and challenging ultras, this book boasts fifty must-do runs across the world. Each one comes with a map and details of the route, as well as stunning photos, and details on how to get there.
Save when you shop for gifts for runners with these Amazon discount codes.
TALA FormTech Quarter Zip Long Sleeve Running Top
TALA effortlessly combines fashion, form and function with each of its athleisure offerings. This stylish and sculpting running top — also available in sleek, classic black — is crafted from 82% recycled polyester and 18% elastane, the latter making it super comfortable to wear during interval training, hill sprints or on race day. And if you're worried about it showing off their sweat marks, don't be.
Best Running Socks
Sweaty Betty Crew Running Socks
Quality running socks make a great gift for runners. These breathable Sweaty Better ones — also available in an electric blue and slightly more subtle rose hue — are made from 71% recycled polyamide and come with extra padding to prevent blisters on the soles of their feet.
Under Armour Women's UA Storm Session Run Vest
If your giftee is set to attempt the London or Manchester Marathon this month, they'll be (mentally) preparing to encounter all weathers during their 26 miles. Enter: the lightweight runner-friendly gilet, designed to repel water without sacrificing breathability.
Save when you shop for gifts for runners with these Under Armour discount codes.
Because lacing up your running vest can be a lot of effort for a quick jog to the shops, a running belt is a handy accessory that'll hold all their post-workout essentials (keys, mini deodorant and a light snack). This one has an easily adjustable waist and buckle closure, plus comes in a load of cute colours.
Best Running Vest
Salomon ADV Skin 12 Running Vest
If they're a regular road racer, they'll likely already have a running vest. However, there's a reason this Salomon one has received top marks from multiple testers, including our Senior Commerce Writer, Sophie. Super lightweight and with a capacity of up to 12 litres, it's the perfect size for carrying their keys, water, gels and a light waterproof layer. But, the brand has also skipped bulky buckles in favour of adjustable elastic to keep chests of all sizes comfortable.
Beats by Dre Powerbeats Pro 2 Noise-Cancelling Sports Earbuds
You might remember that at the start of Bride Wars, Liv tells Emma that only those who can't be alone with their thoughts run with headphones. However, she totally forgot about Swifties who keep their trail-running interesting by blasting the Eras Tour soundtrack (guilty). To elevate your giftee's audio, we suggest you send them a pair of the sweat and water-resistant Powerbeats Pro 2, also built to offer up to 45 hours of listening time.
Best Loungewear For Runners
lululemon Scuba Oversized Full-Zip Hoodie
Every runner can confirm that there's no better feeling post-workout than climbing into clean, cosy loungewear. However, this hoodie's also smart enough to take them to/from the finish line, or to the supermarket to stock up on snacks. Shock, Team GLAMOUR voted this teal hue as their fave of the nine (!) options.
Save when you shop the best gifts for runners with these lululemon discount codes.
Best Sunglasses For Runners
If the 46,578 TikToks of the final few miles of the 2024 New York City Marathon have taught us anything, it's that running glasses are a must on that route. Yep, that race day sunset was stunning, but also a little distracting. Fitted with nose pads and temple grips, these Oakley fitness-friendly frames won't shift.
Save when you shop the best gifts for runners with these Oakley discount codes.
Best Running Gloves
Because nothing will throw them off a PB like frozen limbs, running gloves are essential for getting their miles in, come rain or shine. Finished with velcro wrist straps to keep them in place, reflective details, and available in three sizes, this is a pretty low-risk gift we can confirm your sports-mad loved one will, well, love.
Best Massage Gun For Runners
Therabody Theragun 3rd Generation Mini Massager
The most thoughtful gift of them all: saving them regular splurges on pricey sports massages. The third iteration of Therabody's bestselling massage gun is its smallest and lightest ever, plus super effective at easing sore muscles. Every automated massager also comes with three attachments, meaning your runner can tailor the pressure to their needs.
Save when you shop the best gifts for runners with these Therabody discount codes.
Best Running Armband
Making it easy to change songs or keep an eye on their route, armbands are the unsung heroes of running gear. A cut above the rest, this one also has a zippered pocket that's big enough to hold their headphones case, keys or a single gel for a quick mid-meander pick-me-up.
Best Sentimental Gift For Runners
Any Marathon Inc Virtual Photo, Medal And Map Frame
Whether it was a 5K or a marathon, training and taking part in a race is a big deal. A sentimental way to recognise their achievement, this special frame can be customised with a map of their exact route and a photo, plus it acts as a permanent home for their medal.
Save when you shop for gifts for runners with these Not On The High Street discount codes.
Best Bath Soak For Runners
Aromatherapy Associates De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil
There's nothing like a soak in the bath to help soothe those sore muscles after a long run. Infused with essential oils including lavender, coconut and rosemary, this therapeutic blend helps to relieve aching limbs and rehydrate dry spots.
Save when you shop for gifts for runners with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Best Fleece For Runners
Columbia Women's Park View Technical Fleece Jacket
This technical fleece deserves a spot in the rucksack of any trail runner. Warm and not at all bulky, but also moisture-wicking, it ticks every box — plus has a chin guard and thumb holes to ensure a full-coverage fit.
Whether they're pounding the pavement during the height of summer or the cold depths of winter, the elements can leave their lips looking and feeling a bit dry. The perfect duo, this stackable lip scrub and balm will restore their pout in seconds — and makes a prime stocking filler come Christmas.
Best Magazine Subscription Gift For Runners
Runner's World Magazine Subscription
Packed with technique tips, nutritional advice and gear recommendations, your sports lover has likely already heard of Runner's World mag. With a year's subscription, they'll get 12 print issues delivered straight to their door, as well as instant digital access. The perfect companion for their well-earned rest day.
When the race starts to get tough, a small sign of encouragement can make a real difference. These shoe tags each have space for a short engraved message (up to 18 characters) and will make a thoughtful addition to their trusty pair of trainers.
Best Body Brush For Runners
Geske 9-in-1 Sonic LED Full-Body Brush & Intensive Exfoliator
Even with the right footwear, a runner's feet take a beating throughout 26.2 miles. Luckily, this automated body brush and exfoliator effortlessly removes coarse skin from their soles and toes — or anywhere else on their body. On the other side sits a cushioned brush made to deliver an ultra-hygienic deep clean, perfect for refreshing their sweaty face post-jog.
Shop our carefully curated edit of the best skin care tools here.
Best Activewear Hijab
Gymshark Seamless Sports Hijab
Shaped to fit under a shirt, this lightweight hijab provides both comfort and coverage when training or running. It's pin-less, yet designed to stay put, and the gathered material at the back leaves plenty of room for a bun or ponytail.
Best Digital Gift For Runners
ICYMI, for some runners, collecting kudos is what makes the many, many miles worthwhile. But the £8.99 a month stacks up, so give them 12 months off with this handy gift subscription. This will also provide them access to a host of unique mapping tools, helping them discover new routes, as well as personalised insights on their performance.
Fitbit Versa 4 Health & Fitness Smartwatch
Considering that we all wear our fitness tracker to do literally everything but shower, they'll want an aesthetic option. But this Fitbit is both practical and fashionable. This version not only comes with all-day activity tracking, 24/7 heart rate measuring and the ability to answer calls and texts, but that battery should also last up to six whole days.
Save when you shop the best gifts for runners with these Boots discount codes.
Best Oversized Scrunchie For Runners
Made By Maman Mama La Vie En Rose Scrunchie
It's science* that adding an oversized scrunchie to your ensemble makes you run faster. This small business was launched at the start of 2024 by the mother-daughter team Jacqueline, Georgia and Nicola and vows to always donate a percentage of their profits to the suicide-prevention charity, PAPYRUS. Crafted from offcuts and available in a host of vibrant hues, we recommend picking a print that'll match their running shoes.
*girl science
Best Practical Gift For Runners
Zenoplige Runners Chest LED Lamp
Okay, so it's not the cutest or most exciting accessory; however, a chest lamp is vital if your athlete is road running after dark. Easy to slip on over your (light, breathable) layers and fitted with a battery lasting up to six hours, this Amazon buy is a seriously practical present. We also appreciate the customisable beam; simply choose from one of three settings (50%, 100% or flashing).




























