10 Best Non-Toy Nike Gifts for Kids

Shopping for little ones requires creativity, especially when you're looking for non-toy gifts. If the kids in your life already have plenty of favourite playthings, consider a non-toy gift that will inspire them to show off their style or enjoy sports and movement.

Picking out a fun accessory, a pair of sporty shoes, a small-sized backpack or a cosy fleece layer is a great way to surprise them with something a little different this year.

In this gift guide for children, we offer 10 non-toy gift ideas from Nike to satisfy a wide range of interests. Great for birthdays, graduation or ticking the box on this year's Christmas list.

(Related: Nike Gift Guide)

1. Nike Blazers
2. Club Fleece jumpers
3. Winter hats
4. Backpacks
5. Puffer jackets
6. Nike Air Force 1s
7. Nike ACG gear
8. Basketball Shoes
9. Lunch Bags
10. Nike gift cards

These vintage-inspired kicks have become a favourite for young boys and girls who like fashion. Nike Blazers are an iconic sneaker that can be paired with all kinds of outfits.

For the child who likes to keep it basic, choose a monochromatic colourway or a white Blazer with black accents. For kids who want more colour in their wardrobe, the Blazer Mid '77 comes in playful and vibrant hues with unique accents.

Nike Blazers are available in three size categories:

• Toddlers (0 to 3 years)
• Younger kids (3 to 7 years)
• Older kids (7 to 15 years)

(Related: The Best Nike Shoes for Back to School)

A casual, everyday hoodie or sweatshirt, like a Nike Sportswear sweatshirt, is a great gift for kids, especially during the festive season. Nike kids' sweatshirts offer a comfortable, sporty layering option, with roomy fits and super-soft fleece for cosiness kids love. No itchy or uncomfortable fabrics here.

For active kids, opt for a hoodie made with Nike Therma-FIT technology. This technology is designed to keep the wearer warm while remaining breathable—ideal for chilly days when kids work up a sweat. Nike Tech Fleece sweats and hoodies also make fine choices.

(Related: Shop Matching Nike Outfits for the Whole Family)

From fuzzy bucket hats to ribbed beanies, Nike winter hats are a practical, go-to gift idea during cold-weather months. Available in age-appropriate options for all kids. Dress up a toddler in a matching hat-and-mitts set or give a teenager a simple beanie to pair with any outfit.

To help kids tote all their books and gear to and from school or extracurriculars, consider gifting a new backpack. Select from mini backpacks, duffels and standard backpacks in a variety of looks and sizes, with storage capacities from 11 to 32 litres. Nike backpacks also offer a wide variety of compartments and zipped pockets to accommodate every type of gear. A versatile backpack is a practical choice that works for school, travel or even as a thoughtful birthday surprise.

(Related: The Top Nike Kids' Backpacks for Back to School)

Few items are as cosy as a warm, fluffy puffer jacket. A high-quality winter coat is a crowd-pleasing non-toy gift idea for kids who want to show off their style even when it's time to bundle up. Choices include everything from shiny and bright fabrics to classic, all-black looks.

Nike puffer jackets for kids are machine-washable, which makes them a cinch to clean. Plus, many Nike kids' puffers feature a woven tag inside the jacket with multiple name slots. You can put one kid's name in the jacket when it's new, then write in a new name when it becomes a hand-me-down.

(Related: Best Winter Coat Styles for Children)

With its retro basketball aesthetic, the Air Force 1 is one of the most popular shoes in Nike history. Kids love these shoes and their responsive Nike Air cushioning, which makes them comfy for all-day wear at school or on the weekends.

They come in low-, mid- and high-top models and in loads of colourways to match the unique style and aesthetic of the youngster in your life. Perfect for back to school, end-of-year parties or birthdays.

(Related: Air Force 1s to Buy Right Now)

If the kid you're shopping for loves hiking and exploring the outdoors, the Nike ACG line is packed with gear that can keep up with their adventures. Nike ACG products are durable and designed to stand up to all kinds of weather conditions, so kids can enjoy screen-free outdoor play all year round. Shop warm fleeces, technical rain layers, waterproof boots and more.

(Related: The Best Outdoorsy Gifts By Nike)

With their grippy rubber, responsive cushioning and game-changing style inspired by Nike pro athletes, a fresh pair of basketball shoes will be a hit with any hoops-loving kid.

Shop high- or low-top styles, and look for kid-friendly design features, like a zip around the ankle cuff or an adjustable strap to make it easier to get the shoes on and off. No laces necessary.

(Related: Gifts for Basketball Players)

Let the kid in your life show off their style at lunch time. Nike lunch bags come in an array of styles, from classic shapes to mini backpacks.

With playful patterns, bold logos and bright colours, these lunch bags look cool while keeping contents temperature-controlled through padded insulation.

(Related: Top Nike Totes)

An all-too-common parent lament is spending time and money on a special present for their child, only to see it swiftly discarded and never used. The easy solution is to let them pick out their own gift, and a Nike gift card is a safe bet. 

With a gift card, a kid can choose something they'll love and use frequently. Just select the amount you want to load onto the gift card and let them enjoy the experience of shopping for their own favourite footwear, apparel or trendy accessories. If you want to let the kid in your life pick out their own gift, a Nike gift card is a safe bet. With a gift card, a kid can choose a gift they'll love and use frequently. Just pick the amount you want to load onto the gift card and let them enjoy the process of picking something out.

• Gifts for under £20: hats, socks, lunch bags
• £20 to £80: backpacks, Nike Blazers, Club Fleece items, select basketball shoes
• Splurge-worthy: puffer jackets, Air Force 1s, ACG boots

Finding the right gift for a child doesn't always mean buying another toy. Sometimes the most cherished gifts are the ones that inspire imagination, encourage activity or make everyday life a little easier. Here are some ideas to keep in mind the next time you're shopping for a kid's birthday, Christmas or just to show you care.

1. Consider the child's age and stage

A 3-year-old has very different needs from a teenager. Think about the everyday life of the child you're shopping for. Younger children may need basics like backpacks, lunch bags or fleece layers, while older kids might want sneakers, jackets or gift cards that let them choose their own style. Matching the gift to the right age ensures it's useful and appreciated.

2. Balance fun and function

Parents appreciate presents that are both practical and enjoyable. For example, a new hoodie, water bottle or backpack may not seem exciting at first, but when it comes in their favourite colours and sporty looks, it instantly becomes a fun part of their everyday routine. The best non-toy gifts give a child something they'll use regularly while still making them smile.

3. Encourage creative activities

Not all playtime has to revolve around toys. Pairing sporty Nike gear with books, journals or sketchpads can encourage a child to explore art, music or writing. A paint set or craft kit, paired with a cosy Nike sweatshirt, makes a thoughtful combo that nurtures both creativity and comfort. These gifts give children ways to explore beyond the screen and develop new interests.

4. Think about everyday moments

Practical non-toy gifts can make a difference during daily routines, whether it's bath time, getting ready for school or heading off to practice. Cosy slippers, soft towels or even a sporty tote filled with essentials are small but meaningful surprises. A snack box with healthy treats, paired with a Nike lunch bag, also makes a useful, budget-friendly option.

5. Personalise the experience

Sometimes it's not the gift but the intention behind it. Add a personalised touch, like choosing their favourite colour of hoodie or a cap from their favourite sports team. Nike gear offers plenty of options that both boys and girls will love. Personal touches help transform practical items into special keepsakes that a child will treasure.

If you're still not sure what direction to go, here are a few themed gifts to inspire you:

• Books and learning: pair sporty gear with age-appropriate books to inspire reading and creativity. Perfect for birthdays or Christmas mornings.
• Art and music: encourage kids to explore art, paint or music with supplies they can use alongside their favourite Nike outfits.
• Subscriptions: a magazine subscription or monthly activity kit is a fun add-on that lasts all year. Pair it with gear for a combo that keeps giving.
• Bath Time: For younger children, cosy robes and slippers turn bath time into something they look forward to after a long day of play.
• Family & friends activities: sports balls, skipping ropes or active gear create ways for children to spend time with family and friends outdoors.