5 Best Nike Running Gifts for Women

Wearing comfortable gear makes a run all the more enjoyable. The runner in your life (or the person resolving to run in the new year) is sure to appreciate new garb and gear, whether it's a new pair of running shoes or a practical running gilet. Check out below the best gifts for women runners.

Nike has no shortage of women's running shoes, offering several collections that accommodate different fit and style preferences. The Nike Pegasus collection, for example, has several road running and trail running options from which to choose. Known for its lightweight, durable foam (a nod to Nike React technology), the Pegasus also features at least one Zoom Air unit, which helps to support the foot as it lands and pushes off the ground.

Also, consider checking out the various shoe models made with Nike Flyknit technology, a material that's lightweight, durable and fits snugly around the foot—almost like a sock. This technology is known to boost breathability and provide ample support while hitting the pavement, grass or trail.

A runner can never have too many sports bras, and Nike has various options available depending on the level of support needed. The Nike Swoosh collection, for instance, features medium- and high-support sports bras that either come padded (with removable foam inserts) or unpadded.

Though, if you're looking to give a sports bra that offers more compression, check out the ones in the Nike Alpha collection as they provide the highest level of support—all thanks to foam pads. An adjustable back can help the wearer feel secure, but not at the expense of trapping heat, because these bras provide front and back ventilation.

(Related: The Best Plus-size Sports Bras From Nike)

Fun fact: you'll notice the sports bras in both of these collections boast the sustainable materials tag. That's because these bras are all made from recycled polyester. More specifically, Nike converts cleaned and shredded flakes of recycled plastic bottles into pellets that are then spun into high-quality yarn. Why? Using recycled polyester to create clothing cuts carbon emissions by as much as 30 percent compared to new polyester.

From joggers to leggings, every runner needs several pairs of jog-friendly trousers in their workout wardrobe.

For the person who loves form-fitting trousers, consider giving some leggings made with Nike Dri-FIT. Among these include the Nike Go collection, which come in both full- and ⅞-length styles, as well as capris and biker shorts. The items in the Nike Go collection are lauded for their compressive and supportive feel. Here are some of the highlights:

A smooth, extra-wide waistband is designed to stay in place, helping to reduce pinching, rolling and sliding. And, an internal drawcord enables the athlete to easily customise the fit of the leggings—even while racking up the kilometres. Plus, Nike Dri-FIT Technology wicks away sweat from the skin, enabling a runner to remain dry while crushing a sweat sesh.

The best part? The tights in the Nike Go collection are equipped with up to six pockets, so the wearer can stash away items including gels, keys, cards, headphones and a phone.

For the runner in need of a new pair of running shorts, give one of Nike's various soft, lightweight and sweat-wicking options. From compressive high-waisted biker shorts with pockets to breathable, mid-waist brief-lined split shorts, there are many choices—most of which are made from sustainable materials.

For those who like shorts that are a bit form-fitting, the biker shorts in the Nike Go collection may be a suitable gift. Thanks to InfinaLock fabric, this pair of high-waist biker shorts hug the body in all the places that require support during high-intensity activity.

When in doubt, you can't go wrong with the Nike Tempo running shorts, which come in a variety of different styles, prints and sizes. Whether the runner prefers shorts that fall at the mid-thigh or brief-lined options adorned with funky prints, there are plenty of fits to select from.

Wearing a running jacket or gilets is especially important when it's cold outside. Nike has jackets and gilets that are engineered to help runners stay warm and dry during both cold and wet weather conditions. The jackets and gilets include those in the Nike Therma-FIT collection, for example, which are lightweight yet insulating and can help a runner stay cosy on even the chilliest days. Some of the options made from this material sport a loose fitting collar lined with fleece, which can help conserve heat around the neck without constricting airflow.

Consider gifting one of the jackets found in the Nike Storm-FIT collection, which feature wind- and water-resistance technology that will protect a runner from the elements. Some jackets even have reflective design features on their exterior, which can help boost visibility amid a sudden downpour.

Words by Jessica Estrada