The Best Gifts for Runners, According to Nike Athletes and Experts  

Need gift ideas for the runners in your life? You might think a good pair of shoes are all a runner really needs. But what if you could give them gear designed to push their pace? To help you find the perfect item, we’ve tapped elite Nike athletes and product experts to unwrap the best running gifts.

From supportive socks to sweat-wicking clothing, consider this the ideal gift guide for all your favorite runners.

Many runners are, understandably, particular about the shoes they wear. It’s best to know their preferences when it comes to gifting. Are they road runners or trail runners? What cushioning do they like: supportive, responsive or maximum? Each cushioning type has its own benefits and distinct feel. Learn more and see our top picks below.

Know someone looking for ultra-responsive cushioning? Supercharge their run with the Peg Premium. It’s engineered for high-energy return thanks to a triple stack of ZoomX foam, ReactX foam and Air Zoom units. “It really carries you,” Professional sprinter Rai Benjamin explains. “Air Zoom throughout the entire shoe is a game changer.”

The Vomero 18 has ZoomX foam stacked on top of ReactX foam, giving runners maximum cushioning for a soft, comfortable ride. Two-time bronze medalist Grant Fischer says he loves it “because its plush cushioning keeps me going strong.”

With lightweight, responsive ZoomX foam, the Pegasus Plus delivers next-level energy return. Up top, layered yarns create a breathable upper that’s comfortable and durable enough for the daily runner.

The 41 is Nike’s first Pegasus model to feature a full-length ReactX foam midsole. ReactX foam is 13% more responsive than previous React technology and pairs with two Air Zoom units to deliver a comfortable, energized ride.

If cushioning is all they talk about, consider the Vomero Plus. A giant stack of full-length ZoomX foam provides maximum cushioning for everything from marathons to every day runs. As marathoner Conner Mantz explains “the maximum cushioning saves the pounding of my legs hitting the ground, especially when I’m running on the road.”

“Zegama is the perfect gift for trail runners who are looking for maximum cushion,” Nike product manager Andrew Bumbalough says. “The ZoomX midsole is both soft and supportive, offering a high level of protection and energy return.”

Socks can have a big impact on the quality of a run. That’s why Nike uses athlete insights to prevent annoyances like blisters and overly sweaty feet. Gift them their next favorite pair of running socks.

Nike product manager Liza Wolfe describes these as “perfect for runners who prefer a close-to-foot feel.” They offer targeted cushioning and reinforcement at high-impact zones. Micro crew and no-show versions are also available.

Ideal for the daily runner and those who love chilly temps, Nike’s Midweight socks have micro cushioning at the heel and toe for added comfort and impact absorption. Zonal mapping in high-wear areas like the Achilles and under the laces helps prevent blisters that could cut a run short. Micro crew and no-show versions are also available.

There’s no such thing as too many tops in a runner’s rotation. Pick one engineered to keep them cool and dry with Nike’s sweat-wicking Dri-FIT technology.

Nike product manager Sean Slootmaker describes Nike’s Swift collection for women as “essential running styles—the pieces any runner needs in her wardrobe.” Consider the collection’s lightweight and breathable tank, a short-sleeve top that’s designed to reduce underarm chafing or a half-zip mid layer with UV protection built in. 

Nike’s Stride collection for men also offers high-performing running staples ideal for everyone from beginners to seasoned athletes. Those who want advanced sweat-wicking tech may prefer the Stride Tank, Stride Short-Sleeve Top or Stride Long Sleeve. For a little extra warmth or coverage, you can’t go wrong gifting the soft, sweat-wicking Stride Waffle Knit Top or water-repellent, UV-blocking Stride Jacket. 

Every runner needs leggings, pants and shorts designed to keep them moving. Look for bottoms made with stretchy fabric, sweat-wicking tech and plenty of pocket storage for stashing gear.

Designed to reduce chafing, the Swift Brief-Lined Running Shorts are made with lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric and plenty of stretch. They have an internal stash pocket and a zippered waistband pocket large enough to fit most phones. Also designed to be lightweight and sweat wicking, the Swift 2-in-1 Shorts pair a stretchy inner short with a loose outer one. Runners who want more coverage may prefer the Swift High-Waisted Running Leggings, which have three pockets. These midweight, sweat-wicking leggings were designed without seams along the inner legs to help reduce chafing during runs.

With unlined, 2-in-1, brief-lined and hybrid versions, the Stride collection offers a variety of lightweight and sweat-wicking shorts—all with a zippered pocket that allows them to keep their phone close at hand. With simplified seam lines to help reduce chafing, Nike’s sweat-wicking Stride pants (available in both knit and woven fabrics) also make a great lightweight and breathable option for runners.

What if you could give your favorite runner the gift of injury prevention, reduced soreness and muscle recovery? With gifts designed specifically for warm-ups and recovery, you can.

Help them warm up or recover for their next big race or even their daily run with the battery-powered Nike x Hyperice Hyperboot. As gold medal sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson explains, “every millisecond matters, so having my feet and ankles already activated helps me prepare to perform at my best.” With three levels to choose from, this wearable tech uses heat and dynamic air compression to help accelerate their warm-up or relieve tired feet and ankles after training.

With a durable but hollow plastic core and textured surface, the Nike Foam Roller allows runners to target specific muscle groups with intense massage. Plus, its lightweight and portable design easily lets them take it to the gym or on trips.

Help your favorite runner hit their hydration goals on race days and training days with a hydration accessory. Whether they prefer to wear their water or carry a good ol’ fashioned water bottle in their hand, there are options for every type of runner.

Stuck on which option to buy? Think about where they prefer to log their miles. For treadmill runners, a bottle like the Nike Stride Handheld Water Bottle or Nike Big Mouth Water Bottle will likely make the most sense. Outdoor runners, on the other hand, will likely prefer a hands-free option such as the Nike Commuter Elite Backpack, which has reflective details and is compatible with a water bladder, or the Nike Flex Stride Running Hydration Belt, which comes with two 12-ounce bottles.

Runners need gear, and sometimes they need to haul that gear with them mile after mile after mile. But it’s important that carrying fuel, a phone and keys doesn’t distract from training. 

The packable design of the Nike Transform Running Vest—it can be worn as either a fanny pack or a vest—makes it a convenient and versatile option. Large enough to hold most phones, the slim Nike Tempo Running Waist Pack and Nike Pocket Arm Band make great picks for runners who prefer to only take the essentials with them. For race-day storage, consider the Nike Run Backpack, which features mesh panels for breathability and a stabilized design to reduce movement during running. 

From their fastest race time to the most miles run in a week, every runner is chasing their next personal best, and the right gear can make all the difference. Visit Nike.com to find running gifts designed to support their goals and keep them moving forward.