10 Trail Runner Gift Ideas
We have 10 gift ideas for your favorite trail runner. These trail running gift ideas apply to beginners as well as experts, so no worries if they are running just for fun or are looking to win a trail race. We have identified trail running gifts that are great for birthdays or just about any holiday. Make their special day one to remember with any one of these gifts. Keep them ready and equipped for what they like to do, run the trails. If you need more ideas, check out our Gift ideas for ultrarunners totally updated for 2023, 10 Ultrarunner and Trail Runner Gift Ideas and 10 More Ultrarunner and Trail Runner Gift Ideas posts.
1. A subscription to Gaia GPS
You can read about this gift suggestion in my article here and also sign up for a subscription at the Gaia GPS website. But suffice it to say, this is the #1 piece of gear I have when I set off on a trail run. Especially on my solo runs where it’s the first time I’ve ever been there it’s great to have a resource where you can download your tracks, satellite and also the tracks of other runners as a reference. This tools has gotten me out of a jam many times. Every runner should carry a mapping tool like this with them, and I believe this one to be the best.
2. Ultrarunning Europe Guidebook
The ultimate gift for the ultrarunner in your life, this comprehensive guidebook leads readers on a journey through the most exhilarating long-distance and extreme trails across Europe. With 40 carefully selected trails, Ultrarunning Europe features stunning photographs, detailed maps, and in-depth trail descriptions, all complemented by the author's personal experiences and insights. Whether your loved one is a seasoned ultrarunner or an intrepid adventurer seeking their next challenge, this essential guide offers a passport to the most captivating landscapes Europe has to offer. Give the gift of inspiration and exploration with Ultrarunning Europe!
Available to buy and ship from Amazon worldwide:
3. Goodr Sunglasses
Goodr Sunglasses are so good I’ve got multiple pairs. They are light weight, don’t bounce at all on my nose, and the price is so good, $25 and less, don’t just buy one pair!
4. Books and Blog from Brendan Leonard
5. Body Glide
Trail runners get into the dirt and accept any weather condition to go running on their favorite trail. Unfortunately, dirt, humidity, and rain can all lead to chaffing. A great way to combat that is with the original anti chafe and anti blister balm, Body Glide.
6. Backup GPS
My main GPS device is my iPhone with the Gaia GPS application. However, if your favorite ultrarunner is out on the trails alone, its best to have a backup. I have two suggestions:
Garmin Fenix6 Watch
A friend of mine introduced me to go with the Fenix6 watch. At the time I didn’t know they had finally incorporated a map that is detailed enough to navigate by. In addition, through the use of an app you can download onto the phone, Note2Watch, you can upload your emergency numbers and hotel information to your phone for quick access if needed.
Backup Cell Phone (Unlocked)
Just the other morning my wife’s iPhone 7 wouldn’t start. After several hard resets it got stuck in a loop of continually rebooting itself. We took it into the store and they said it most likely had a logic board error and would need to be sent in for repairs. I was immediately freaked out since when I’m traveling my entire life is on my phone, including my maps for how to get out of wherever I’m at. As such, I have an unlocked phone that I can buy a SIM card for anywhere in the world and also keep updated with my downloaded maps to Gaia GPS and Google Maps.
7. Running Gaiters
There are a lot of choices for these on the market, but I’ve found the REI gaiters to stay on the best. I don’t wear them on every run, but when I know there will be lots of loose rocks or dirt then I pull them on. It’s another item easily misplaced or that gets worn out, so every ultrarunner would appreciate these as a gift.
8. Not Without Peril Book
The White Mountains of New Hampshire have some of the most beautiful, but also treacherous, trails in the United States. The experiences of others are important to learn from when managing your own risks, especially for trail runners who frequently go out by themselves. Not Without Peril: 150 Years Of Misadventure On The Presidential Range Of New Hampshire is a great read for any adventure enthusiast or trail runner.
9. Pedicure Gift Card
I’d never had a pedicure until a few years back, and consider it one of my bigger mistakes in life. Before any ultramarathon I treat myself to a pedicure for two reasons:
It just feels good. You get a mini-massage, some hot compresses and your callouses get shaved down (sounds gross but feels nice)
It gets my toenails ready to be abused. I’m pretty fortunate to only have lost a few toenails, but also credit that to keeping my nails extra-short.
Check your local Google or Yelp directly to find something good and close bye. Even the most hardened ultramarathon runner will find this to be a great gift, and you can never have enough.
10. Runner Box Subscription
If you’ve made it to #10 and are not inspired yet, there is a solution. The folks over at Runner Box have a subscription plan for around $25 a month that will send a variety of goodies to your favorite trail runner. Let their inspiration be your inspiration and surprise your trail runner with new goodies every month.