Running Shoes
Serious runners wear out their running shoes fairly quickly, so a new pair of running shoes is always welcome. Running shoes need to be personally selected and must be tried on for proper comfort and fit. Unless you know exactly what size and model your runner prefers, don't try to pick out a pair.
A better idea is a gift certificate for a new pair of running shoes. For the best selection, pick a store that specializes in running shoes and has a staff knowledgeable about running and running shoes.
Shoe Dryer
Those new running shoes will get wet. During the summer, especially in humid climates, they get wet from sweat. During the winter, running through slushy snow will get running shoes very wet. Then there are the serious runners who would never let a little rain stop their run.
Throwing wet or dirty running shoes in the washer and dryer will lead to disaster. The running shoes will never fit comfortably again.
Running shoes must dry out more slowly, but they need to be dry by the next run. A shoe dryer can be the answer. A PEET shoe dryer will provide just enough gentle heat and air circulation to allow wet running shoes to dry slowly in time for the next day's run.
Running Apparel
Running clothing should fit comfortably. Layers are best to allow for running in a wide range of temperatures. During both summer and winter the inner layer should be one of the new technical fabrics that wicks sweat away from the skin. In winter the outermost layer should be both wind and rain proof yet breathable.
During winter most runners must run in early morning or evening darkness. Highly reflective running apparel is a nice added safety feature that will help insure your runner is visible to drivers.
Running Related Gadgets
There are many options for the gadget loving runner. At a basic level, watches with built in chronometers, allow runners to time their workouts. Pedometers allow runners to measure their workout distances.
Runners who like more complex gadgets to monitor their workouts in detail might enjoy heart rate monitors and similar devices. There are very sophisticated watches that can monitor workout distances, times, heart rates, and so forth then send the data to a computer. Runners who like to plan every detail of their training programs are more likely to use these more sophisticated gadgets than runners who prefer to be more spontaneous.
Runners who dislike fighting the elements when they run might like a treadmill to run on in bad weather. However many runners run because they enjoy being outdoors and dislike exercising indoors.
Reading Materials
Runners who like to read will enjoy running related books and magazines. Runner's World is the leading running related magazine. A gift subscription or renewal will keep your runner reading all year. Or check out your runner's running bookshelf and select something that's not there.
