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If you're looking for a stocking stuffer, secret Santa or Hanukkah gift, you want something that makes a big impact for not a lot of cash. We polled our running friends and scoured the web for this season's best running gifts priced under $50. Add a few to your shopping cart this holiday season—and maybe even grab a few treats for yourself.
Swiftwick National Park Socks
For the hiker, trail runner or traveler on your list, the National Park Socks from Swiftwick are a great way to remember (or look forward to) an outdoor trip. Featuring a mid-rise crew, moderate cushioning and high performance fabric, this sock will keep your gift recipient moving comfortably and blister-free. Choose from the following National Park designs: Rocky Mountains, Denali, Arches, Joshua Tree, Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, Zion, Great Smoky Mountains, Yosemite and Grand Canyon.
BUY: Swiftwick National Park Socks, $20
Nathan Polarized Running Sunglasses
Most running sunglasses have the polarization on the outside of the lens, but Nathan embeds it into the lens leading to more durability and fewer scratches. The glasses also feature 100% UV Protection, and super grippy TPE inserts on the nose and temple to keep them in place. In addition to being functional, the sunglasses are also fashionable. We wouldn't mind wearing these all day!
BUY: Nathan Polarized Running Sunglasses, $50
Gnarly Fuel Sample
For the runner dialing into their nutrition routine, you can't go wrong with a Gnarly Fuel sample box. Each pack includes a mix of pre-workout fuel, hydration drink mix, BCAAs, performance greens mix, collagen and protein (choose from whey or vegan). With this variety, they can try a little bit of everything and then add the full-size product to next year's wish list.
BUY: Gnarly Fuel Sample Box, $15
Body Glide Travel and Pocket Size
Every runner deals with chafing at some point, so tuck a mini container of body glide into their stocking to keep them active and pain-free. Body glide is easy to use (just rub it on problem spots) and will protect their skin from chafing and irritation—without clogging pores.
BUY: Body Glide Travel and Pocket Size, $5-8
Lululemon Skinny Scrunchie
Lululemon's scrunchies are a serious upgrade from what you used as a kid. Their slim design holds hair firmly in place, but unlike rubber bands, they're gentle and won't cause breakage. Pick up a pack in a variety of colors and help her have a good hair day!
BUY: Lululemon Skinny Scrunchie, $28 for 6-pack
Koala Clip Original
Need or want to carry a phone during a workout? Whether she's running or lifting weights, finding a spot for a phone can be challenging, but the Koala Clip will keep it safely tucked into the back of her sports bra. The pouch features a water resistant liner, as well as a zipper and a magnetic clip. Made to carry all sizes of phones, this is a must have for runs without pockets.
Picky Bars Performance Pancakes
For many runners, the post-run breakfast is what makes it all worth it. Now your favorite runner can indulge in a way that will keep them energized. With a base of ancient grains, 7 grams of protein and only 7 grams of sugar, the performance pancakes from Picky Bars are a nutritious and delicious option.
BUY: Picky Bars Performance Pancakes, $16 for a 10-serving bag
Feetures Merino Wool No Show Sock
It's time to put the sock in stocking stuffer! Slip in a pair (or two) of merino wool socks from Feetures, and your runner will be able to log comfy miles even in wet, cold weather. With an anatomical design and no irritating toe seams, this sock hugs the foot and won't cause blisters.
BUY: Feetures Merino Wool No Show Sock, $18
ACTIVE Advantage Gift Card
An ACTIVE Advantage Membership makes it affordable to live a healthy lifestyle. Get discounts on gear and services you already use for fitness, cooking, health and fun. This premium membership comes with exclusive perks from top health and fitness brands, like Adidas, HelloFresh, Aaptiv and more! Plus, save on fun with discounts on camping, live events and hotels. Give the gift of savings with the ACTIVE Advantage Membership eGift Card. Whether they're into marathons, yoga, personal training, cooking, camping or travel, the discounts will give them more of what they love for less. Buy an Advantage Membership eGift today! Learn more about all the benefits included with ACTIVE Advantage here.
BUY: ACTIVE Advantage Gift Card, $89.95
Momentous PR Lotion
For the runner looking to nab a personal best, give them a leg up with a bottle of PR Lotion. The lotion is meant to be slathered on pre-run and is designed to maximize performance by unlocking bicarb, a natural electrolyte that improves muscle function and combats fatigue.
Stojo Collapsible Coffee Cup
For the coffee-loving runner on the go, this collapsible coffee cup is the perfect addition to a morning routine. It's eco-friendly, BPA- and phthalate-free, dishwasher safe and has a leak-proof mouth seal (seriously, is there anything this cup can't do?). It's a great option for runners who commute by foot, but it also fits in a standard car cup holder.
BUY: Stojo Collapsible Coffee Cup, $15
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