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Despite it being two months after the holiday gifting season (or maybe because of it), Valentine’s Day manages to sneak up on some of us. And gifting on February 14 feels particularly fraught, since finding a present that reflects how you feel about them can be daunting. Luckily, if your special person is a runner, there are plenty of thoughtful options. You can make their training even more enjoyable by helping them recover faster, relax better, or run more comfortably—all good things for a partner to be associated with.
You know the athlete in your life better than we do, but we’ve rounded up some of the best Valentine’s Day gifts for runners you can give them this February that balance practicality, high quality, and a good price.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our suggestions for the best gifts for runners, presents under $30, and ideas for new runners.
For Achy Feet
Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe
For Achy Feet
Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe
What’s a positive feeling that’s even more potent than love? The feeling of slipping into a comfy pair of shoes after tearing up your feet on a long run.
We jest, but these recovery shoes from Kane are still some of the most comfortable kicks. And they’ll last for years. They feature a thick slab of cushy midsole foam, a perforated upper designed to air out sweaty feet, and a textured insole that feels fantastic after a few hours of repeated impacts. Did we mention you can choose from over a dozen colors?
It’s hard to imagine a stereotypical Valentine’s Day array without a box of chocolates front and center. But if your runner isn’t down to eat too much sugar in the lead-up to a spring marathon, a healthful alternative to the standard heart-shaped container of goodies might be in order.
These chocolate bars are gluten-free, vegan, paleo-friendly, and fair-trade certified—not to mention delicious. Impressively, they even manage to taste good with absolutely no refined sugar. Plus, there are options made up of 70 percent dark chocolate, making them a particularly tasty way to get an antioxidant boost.
These may finally get your partner to stop stealing your sweatpants once and for all. They’re made of a stretchy, moisture-wicking, polyester-elastane fabric—good for working out. But they’re also super soft, with a relaxed fit ideal for cuddling up for movie night or covering up before leaving the gym.
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For a Relaxing Massage
The Feelgood Lab Natural Pain Cream
For a Relaxing Massage
The Feelgood Lab Natural Pain Cream
Whether you’re massaging yourself or your partner’s lending a hand, this muscle cream from Feelgood adds some extra relief as you’re rubbing out your most stubborn knots. A favorite among Runner’s World editors, The Feelgood Lab’s Natural Pain Cream combines plant-extracted ingredients that’ll soothe sore muscles with a cooling effect provided by menthol. Better yet, it doesn’t reek of the same noxious aroma that some other menthol creams have—test editor Amanda Furrer even keeps a bottle next to her bed without a problem.
For Post-Run Relaxation
Bubbly Belle All Natural Bath Bombs
For Post-Run Relaxation
Bubbly Belle All Natural Bath Bombs
Here’s another gift idea for when they’re done with a long run: Draw them a warm bath, light some candles, and toss in one of these brightly colored bath bombs. They’re infused with scented essential oils, including lavender, orange, and peppermint. And they contain Epsom salts, which some experts say can help with inflammation and achy muscles.
For a Blend of Performance and Looks
Bombas Striped Calf Socks (4-Pack)
For a Blend of Performance and Looks
Bombas Striped Calf Socks (4-Pack)
Don’t let the historical disapproval of receiving socks steer you away from a quality gift. A comfy pair of running socks is an invaluable part of any dedicated runner’s gear, and these sturdy Bombas socks look and feel good whether you’re running or not.
These socks have no toe seams, a roomy heel that won’t wear down quickly, and plenty of fun colors to pick. Just make sure your runner is cool to wear cotton first. If not, check out more of the brand’s performance styles instead.
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For Sharing a Drink
CamelBak Horizon 12-Oz. Wine Tumbler
For Sharing a Drink
CamelBak Horizon 12-Oz. Wine Tumbler
Unwinding with a beverage this Valentine’s Day? If fancy glassware isn’t their vibe, these Camelbak wine cups are made of insulated stainless steel that can take quite a bit more turbulence than a standard stemmed glass. This model has grippy silicone on the outside and a lid to prevent spills. The rounded vessel should also aerate the vino similarly to a typical glass made for reds.
For Protecting Their Ring
Enso Rings Infinity Silicone Ring
Metal wedding bands can sometimes add risk to outdoor activities, especially ones like cycling and lifting that involve your hands. Rings can get caught and hurt you pretty badly. Not to mention there’s the stress of damaging your wedding ring.
If you want to continue to celebrate your union without risking damage to your main ring (or ring finger), a silicone band like this one from Enso can give you peace of mind as you thrash around on trails or work on your deadlift. It’s soft and pliable, and it’s inexpensive, so if it gets lost or damaged it’s no big deal.
For Stubborn Knots
Theragun Pro Percussion Massager
Rubbing tired muscles with your hands feels good, but nothing works quite like a thumping percussion massager, such as this Theragun model. It comes with six interchangeable attachments to spread out or focus the pressure. And the machine’s different modes and intensities help tailor the massage.
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For Starting the Morning Right
Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker
Want to add some nuance to their morning coffee brewing without shelling out hundreds on a quality espresso machine? A French press is one of the simplest ways to get a richer, fuller cup that barely takes more time to make than your average filter batch.
This French press in particular is easy to clean thanks to its removable beaker and easy plunger disassembly. It’s also all dishwasher-safe—just be sure to toss your used grounds before you put everything in.
For Wintry Post-Run Lips
Burt’s Bees Lip Balm
Long winter runs in cold, dry air can do plenty of damage to lips, leaving them chapped and cracked. As such, a quality lip balm might just be what you need to save a tender moment on Valentine’s Day. This variety pack from Burt’s Bees has four flavors, and they all use cooling menthol to add extra freshness.
For Keeping Gear Handy
Free People Movement Runner Sling
For Keeping Gear Handy
Free People Movement Runner Sling
Running with a phone, keys, and nutrition can get annoying if your runner has to carry it all. Luckily, this sleek sling gives just enough room to store your essentials without tethering a bulky, floppy weight to your waist. It’s also made of a comfy, water-resistant neoprene material that won’t feel rough against skin.
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For Bringing Tunes on the Run
Skullcandy Push Ultra Wireless Earbuds
For many runners, music makes long miles on the road or trail go by faster. But that requires a quality pair of earbuds that won’t fall out after a few minutes. These Skullcandy earbuds have a subtle ear hook that will keep them in place, and they’re slender enough that they don’t look garish in casual settings.
For Logging Miles and Setting Goals
Gone for a Run Day-by-Day Run Planner
For Logging Miles and Setting Goals
Gone for a Run Day-by-Day Run Planner
Runners love setting fitness goals for the new year, and yours will love a tidy place to spell them out. This journal from Gone for a Run is packed with dedicated sections for goal setting, workout logs, race times, and weekly and monthly activity summaries. Plus, this book is full of motivational quotes that can help keep them looking forward through hard weeks.
Adam Schram
Adam Schram is an Assistant Editor of Commerce at Runner's World, though you might see his byline on Bicycling and Popular Mechanics, too. A lover of all things outdoors, Adam's writing career comes after six years as a bike mechanic in his hometown of State College, PA. His journalism experience is steeped in cycling and running gear reviews, and he's also a published creative nonfiction and satire author. When he's not writing, riding, or running, you can catch Adam at home mixing co*cktails, watching Star Wars, or trying in vain to do the Sunday crossword. You can check out his latest work below.
Gabrielle Hondorp
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
Heather Mayer Irvine
Freelance Writer
Heather is the former food and nutrition editor for Runner’s World, the author of The Runner’s World Vegetarian Cookbook, and a seven-time marathoner with a best of 3:31—but she is most proud of her 1:32 half, 19:40 5K, and 5:33 mile. Her work has been published in The Boston Globe, Popular Mechanics, The Wall Street Journal Buy Side, Forbes Vetted, Cooking Light, CNN, Glamour, The Associated Press, and Livestrong.com.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert and enthusiast, I have personal experiences or expertise. However, I can provide you with information based on the search results I have access to. Here is some information related to the concepts mentioned in the article:
Valentine's Day Gifts for Runners:
Valentine's Day can be a great opportunity to show your love and support for the runner in your life. The article suggests several gift ideas that balance practicality, high quality, and a good price. Some of these gift ideas include:
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Kane Revive Active Recovery Shoe: These recovery shoes from Kane are known for their comfort and durability. They feature a thick slab of cushy midsole foam, a perforated upper for breathability, and a textured insole for added comfort [[1]].
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Hu Dark Chocolate Bars: For runners who prefer a healthful alternative to traditional chocolates, Hu Dark Chocolate Bars are a gluten-free, vegan, paleo-friendly, and fair-trade certified option. They are made without refined sugar and come in various flavors [[2]].
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Vuori Boyfriend Jogger: These joggers are made of a stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric that is suitable for both working out and lounging. They offer a relaxed fit and are known for their softness and comfort [[3]].
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The Feelgood Lab Natural Pain Cream: This muscle cream from The Feelgood Lab is designed to soothe sore muscles and provide relief during massages. It combines plant-extracted ingredients with a cooling effect provided by menthol [[4]].
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Bubbly Belle All Natural Bath Bombs: These bath bombs are infused with scented essential oils and contain Epsom salts, which some experts believe can help with inflammation and achy muscles. They are a great option for post-run relaxation [[5]].
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Bombas Striped Calf Socks: A comfy pair of running socks is an invaluable part of any runner's gear. Bombas Striped Calf Socks are known for their comfort, durability, and fun colors. They have no toe seams and a roomy heel [[6]].
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CamelBak Horizon 12-Oz. Wine Tumbler: If your runner enjoys unwinding with a beverage, these insulated stainless steel wine tumblers from CamelBak are a great option. They are designed to withstand turbulence and prevent spills [[7]].
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Enso Rings Infinity Silicone Ring: For runners who want to protect their metal wedding bands during outdoor activities, a silicone ring like the Enso Rings Infinity Silicone Ring can be a practical and affordable alternative. It is soft, pliable, and safe to wear during physical activities [[8]].
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Theragun Pro Percussion Massager: This percussion massager from Theragun is designed to provide relief for tired muscles. It comes with interchangeable attachments and offers different modes and intensities for a tailored massage experience [[9]].
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Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker: A French press can be a great addition to a runner's morning routine. It allows for a richer, fuller cup of coffee and is easy to use and clean. The Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker is a popular choice [[10]].
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Burt's Bees Lip Balm: Long winter runs in cold, dry air can be tough on the lips. Burt's Bees Lip Balm is a quality lip balm that can help moisturize and protect lips from chapping. It comes in various flavors and contains cooling menthol [[11]].
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Free People Movement Runner Sling: Carrying essentials like a phone, keys, and nutrition can be cumbersome during runs. The Free People Movement Runner Sling offers a sleek and comfortable solution. It is made of water-resistant neoprene material and provides enough room for essentials without weighing the runner down [[12]].
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Skullcandy Push Ultra Wireless Earbuds: Many runners enjoy listening to music during their runs. The Skullcandy Push Ultra Wireless Earbuds are designed to stay in place and provide a quality audio experience. They have a subtle ear hook and a sleek design [[13]].
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Gone for a Run Day-by-Day Run Planner: For runners who love setting fitness goals, a dedicated run planner can be a useful tool. The Gone for a Run Day-by-Day Run Planner offers sections for goal setting, workout logs, race times, and activity summaries. It also includes motivational quotes [[14]].
Please note that the information provided above is based on the search results I have access to, and I have cited the relevant sources accordingly.
