Every individual that enters and completes a marathon is deserving of a gift, no argument about that. If you have a marathoner friend, you can find yourself overwhelmed with gift options to choose from.
One thing to keep in mind is that marathon runners can be quite picky about the equipment they use. As a result, it can prove an uphill task to choose the ideal gift for them.
In a rush? Here are our top picks:
With that in mind, we have compiled some of the must-haves gifts for marathon runners after the race so that you will not go wrong.
Gifts for Marathon Runners after the Race
1. Amphipod Water Bottle
The stylish and ultralight bottle is not your ordinary water bottle, no need to argue on this fact. It is one of the most thoughtful gifts for runners. In contrast to the standard bottles you come across, the Amphipod comes in an ergonomic configuration to prevent tension and hand cramping.
Your marathoner friend can take quick short hydration, thanks to the Jett-Squeeze cap, as they enter the final stretch in the competition. The insulating sleeve is comfortable on the hands, even when sweaty. It does not become slippery. The sleeve is easily removable for cleaning.
Other features that your friend will find useful include the expandable utility pocket on the minimalist strap. The zippered strap pocket is perfect for your phone, car keys, and other small items that you cannot leave behind when taking the morning jog or practicing. You’ve got to love the well-designed and comfortable strap that allows you to hold the water bottle without having to grip it.
Have you ever tried running with an ordinary water bottle?
If you have, then you will appreciate the design and features of the Amphipod – to call the water bottle revolutionary is an understatement; it is one of the most thoughtful gifts for runners.
2. Garmin Forerunner GPS Running Smartwatch
The GPS running watch is one of the best in its class and one of the most thoughtful gifts for runners. Garmin allows you to track critical running data such as heart rate, stride length, routes, and miles.
But apart from the advanced training features, this running smart watch syncs with music streaming services to make the running exercise a bit more enjoyable. Your friend may find that training and reaching their goal has never been such enjoyable and fun.
The smartwatch evaluates your current training status to determine whether you are underperforming or overdoing it. The other great features that we like include the Garmin coach with free adaptive training programs for a runner of any level. It does not matter whether they are a pro marathon runner or just starting to see if it works out for them on the track.
The various safety features include incident detection that connects to emergency contacts and sends them the real-time location. Sometimes, you cannot be too careful when jogging.
3. PETZL – ACTIK Headlamp
Your running friend needs to be safe, and this headlamp helps make sure of that. It helps them see and be seen by others on the road. ACTIK is versatile, and you can use it on any outdoor adventure that comes to mind, such as mountaineering and camping.
The headlamp has different modes to accommodate different lighting conditions. As such, your friend does not have to postpone the run just because of the dark clouds appearing on the horizon and the resulting low lighting.
The headlamp comes with standard batteries that work quite well. But still, you have the option of buying rechargeable batteries, especially if you are an avid outdoorsy person.
4. Nathan Hipster Running Belt
Sometimes, your marathon-running friend encounters some challenges, such as where to put their iPhone and other essentials. Of course, there are various solutions on the market, but most of them may not guarantee the safety of your items. Small items such as AirPods can slip through the gaps when running, and that spoils the rest of your day.
The super-soft stretch belt is as comfortable as it can get and a good thing for your runner friend. More importantly, the running belt is perfect for stashing some of those essentials that you can never leave behind, such as your large-screen smartphone and keys. There are multiple pockets for this purpose.
Arguably, the hipster running belt is one of the most comfortable because it stretches to accommodate your body’s different contours. The belt does not have any straps or buckle that may get in the way of a comfortable dash to the finish line. Its low profile fit and design is something that your marathon-running friend or relative will fall in love with – most probably!
Canvas Wall Art Sports Theme
Canvas art is now a standard feature in modern homes. In the context of this growing trend, bare walls, especially in the living room, will look a little stale. They will not make you proud, especially if you have a habit of hosting important guests into your home. This also applies if you are a marathon runner.
You will need some form of art to showcase your passion and taste for the fine things in life. If you are struggling to find the best gift for marathon runners, then a canvas wall art with a sports theme is more than enough. It will help sprinkle some excitement into the room, and most importantly, the gift will serve as a constant reminder that they are on your mind.
Typically, the high-quality printed canvas and high-definition printing artwork make it the perfect gift for that relative or friend into the marathon. It is the perfect wall decoration for the living room, dining room, or even bedroom.
The abstract shape of a running man has some inspiration and would be a great thing to wake up to, especially when installed in the bedroom. The gift has a durable shrink resistant frame to make sure that it stays around for longer.
5. Bose SoundSport Free Wireless Headphones
Wireless headphones are never this good, especially when it comes to marathon runners. Bose SoundSport Free is at the top of the tier when it comes to freedom of movement.
They are designed to stay comfortable and secure throughout the competition or run.
These headphones are water and sweat resistant, which pretty much makes them an excellent gift for marathon runners.
Our favorite feature is the clarity and the power in the music they produce. As a result, it would be impossible only to use these wireless headphones when running. It is the kind of technology that you don’t mind sticking to you like a shadow because of the fun you are getting.
The integrated dual-microphone makes it possible to use the headphones during calls. You don’t have to miss that important business call when jogging.
When it comes to thoughtful gifts for runners, the options are mind-boggling. However, every marathon runner has their tastes and preferences, making it hard to pick a gift for them. What makes the above suggestions, possibly the gifts for marathon runners after the race is that they are universal.
Something like wireless headphones or a piece of canvas art will hit the right nerve. Choose their gift wisely, and you will probably end up becoming one of their favorite human beings.
