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Hi runners, Jessy here with a special-edition weekend email for you!

Happy Sunday! We all know November is a busy time of year, with the Holidays, Black Friday, and so much more coming right around the corner.

Today, we're sharing with you the 20 best gifts for runners, whether it's for the holidays, a birthday, or maybe just a gift for yourself, all hand-picked by our editors at Marathon Handbook.

Get ready to get faster!

Jessy Carveth
Senior News Editor

#1 Best Headphones for Music Lovers: Shokz Open Run Pro​

Our Head Coach, Katelyn, loves these and said, "Shokz bone conduction headphones are perfect for getting through intense workouts, long runs, or races. They allow you to stay aware of your surroundings for added safety while still enjoying your favorite playlist."

#2 Best Cookbook for Foodie Runners: Run Fast, Eat Slow​

I love this cookbook for its easy-to-follow recipes. It’s become a go-to resource for many runners I know who want to eat clean without compromising on flavor (plus, you HAVE to try making the spelt banana bread).

#3 Best Tech for Data Lovers: Nix Biosensors​

Nix Biosensors provide personalized hydration recommendations, helping athletes optimize their fluid intake with scientific precision.
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For me, as someone who does not fare well in the heat, I've found this to be an invaluable tool for making hot weather training a bit more bearable.

#4 Best Foot Massager: Bob and Brad Foot Massager​

Our Head Coach, Katelyn, loves this product and said, "This foot massager is a fantastic treat for soothing tired feet after logging miles—a small splurge that makes a big difference."

#5 Best Running Socks: Balega Running Socks​

Katelyn says, "Nothing beats a fresh, comfy pair of running socks, and Balegas are a long-time favorite for comfort and durability."

#6 Best Sunglasses for Runners: Goodr OG Sunglasses​

Goodr OG Sunglasses bring together fun, style, and functionality in one affordable package, making them a top choice for any runner.

#7 Best Running Cap for Hot Days: Ciele Go Cap​

With its breathable material and reflective details, the Ciele Go Cap is perfect for runners who need sun protection and cooling comfort.

#8 Best Running Belt: FlipBelt Classic Running Belt​

The FlipBelt combines convenience with comfort, letting runners keep their hands free and their pockets light. It’s a minimalist storage solution that offers maximum functionality, keeping everything in place during any activity.

#9 Best Gel for Running Long: Maurten Energy Gels​

I love these gels because they keep me fueled on long workouts and races, all while being easy on the stomach and not sickeningly sweet.

#10 Best Insoles For Performance: VKTRY Carbon Insoles​

VKTRY Insoles are a game-changer for runners looking to improve performance while protecting their joints. They deliver noticeable energy return, almost like having a “spring” in each step.

#11 Best Way to Carry Your Phone: Koala Clip​

The Koala Clip is the ultimate in minimalist storage, allowing runners to carry their phone without adding bulk or discomfort. It’s an innovative accessory for anyone who values simplicity and security on the run.

#12 Best Massage Gun: Hyperice Hypervolt​

The Hypervolt allows runners to take recovery into their own hands, providing targeted relief for sore muscles and helping to prevent injuries.

#13 Best Running Watch: Garmin Forerunner 265​

This watch is a powerhouse for runners who want precise tracking and coaching on their wrist, giving insights into every aspect of training, from heart rate variability to recovery times.

#14 Best Big Ticket Item: Normatec Recovery System​

These always seem to bring my legs back to life and have become a daily part of my routine. Whether following a hard workout or on a recovery day, they never let me down.

#15 Best Running Vest for All Your Gear: Salomon Active Skin 8 Set Vest​

This hydration vest provides reliable storage and hydration without weighing you down, making it ideal for those who love hitting the trails or running long distances.

#16 Best Headlamp for Dark Runs: Petzl Bindi Headlamp​

The Petzl Bindi headlamp combines convenience and power in a feather-light design, giving runners a reliable source of light that’s barely noticeable.

#17 Best Watch For Daily Wear: Apple Watch Series 10​

Here's what our CEO, Thomas, has to say:

"Controversial take: most runners don’t need a dedicated running GPS these days. The Apple Watch does just as good a job (in my humble opinion), syncs automatically with all your favorite apps (Strava, TrainingPeaks, etc), and logs all your daily fitness and activity too."

#18 Best Gel Alternative: UnTapped Maple Gels​

"These are just awesome-tasting gel alternatives without all the weird stuff in there. It’s just maple syrup and some natural flavors; they pack the same calorific punch as other gels, and the stomach absorbs them just as fast. I find them easier to take when on a long run (and my stomach does too), and their maple-soaked waffles are a great little pre-run treat," our CEO, Thomas, said.

#19 Best Under Desk Gizmo: TheraFlow Foot Massager​

Here's what Thomas, thinks about it: "For anyone who uses a standing desk, it’s a total winner. I’m not going to pretend to know anything about reflexology, but let me tell you: I just stand and idly roll my soles over this little gizmo, and it gives a very satisfying little massage. Especially nice after a run."

#20 Best Daily Trainer: Brooks Glycerin Max​

Our Editor-in-Chief, Michael, said, "I would say that it’s both a great every day trainer but also something a little different and a little bit special. It’s incredibly comfortable and very gentle and generous underfoot. I think a lot of different types of runner would enjoy this shoe and get a lot of miles out of it."

#21 Best Super Shoe: Adidas Adios Pro Evo 1​

Our Editor-in-Chief, Michael, said, "This is the ultimate luxury gift. It’s an incredible and extremely rare item to get your hands on, and if you can find a pair and know a runner that has ambitious goal times and wants to try to run really fast. This is a no-brainer gift. It’s like giving someone a luxury product along the lines of a Rolex watch or even a Porsche 911, but on your feet and less than $1000."