The Fairweather Runner
Got a fairweather outdoor enthusiast on your list? Or maybe someone who has signed up for their first race this coming spring. Here are the essentials to get them started.
A nice windshell will keep your runner protected from most elements, while a nice technical tee will wick away sweat, and keep them warm without overheating. A lightweight pant will do the same! Look for a stable shoe with light support and good cushioning.
MEN
Jacket: Inov-8, All Terrain Windshell, $160. Shirt and pants: Asics, PR Lyte Printed Short Sleeve, $55; Essentials Pant, $80. Shoes: Topo, MT-2 Trail, $160.
WOMEN
Jacket: Inov-8, All Terrain Windshell, $160. Shirt, pants, and shoes: Asics, Long Sleeve Top, $50; PR Tight, $80; GT 1000 6, $140.
The Dedicated Runner
These runners are dedicated to the sport and are going to head out in most types of weather and at any time of day. They need to be both visible and maybe a little stylish. Hey, we want to look good when we go for that post-run latte!
A water repellent jacket with built in reflective elements, means your loved one will stay protected from both weather and vehicles. A slightly more sophisticated technical shirt will keep them that much more comfortable, and also have a bit more of a refined fit. When it comes to pants, think warmth, and for shoes, think lightweight.
MEN
Jacket: Inov-8, All Terrain Windshell, $160. Shirt and pants: Asics, PR Lyte Printed Short Sleeve, $55; Essentials Pant, $80m Shoes: Topo, MT-2 Trail, $160.
WOMEN
Jacket: Inov-8, All Terrain Windshell, $160. Shirt, pants, and shoes: Asics, Long Sleeve Top, $50; PR Tight, $80; GT 1000 6, $140.
The Obsessed Runner
Neither snow nor rain nor freezing temperature nor gloom of night stays these runners from the swift completion of their workouts! They need to be prepared for it all!
Breathable waterproof shells will win the day, as well as warm, insulating base layers. Shoes with grippy outsoles and waterproof uppers are a must to keep these crazy runners in tip top form.
MEN
Jacket: Inov-8, All Terrain Windshell, $160. Shirt and pants: Asics, PR Lyte Printed Short Sleeve, $55; Essentials Pant, $80. Shoes: Topo, MT-2 Trail, $160.
WOMEN
Jacket: Inov-8, All Terrain Windshell, $160. Shirt, pants, and shoes: Asics, Long Sleeve Top, $50; PR Tight, $80; GT 1000 6, $140.
Accessories
Runners love their accessories! Everything from the practical (socks, gloves, hats) to the gadgety (headlamps and GPS watches). This is just a small sampling of items that could fill their stockings on Christmas morning.
Sugoi MidZero Ponytail Tuke, $34. On Lightweight Cap in Black or Navy, $45. Petzl Headlamps, from $27. Garmin GPS watches, from $250. Injinji Trail Mini-crew Sock, $24. SOLE Active Footbed, $50. Skratch Excercise Hydration Mix (apples + cinnamon—serve hot!), $2.50/serving. Sugoi Zap Training Glove, $40. Injinji Compression Sock, $69.
Don't forget the kids
Just for the holidays, we have water bottles for mini runners. It's never too early to start a healthy hydration habit! These spill-proof bottles will delight your little ones when they find them in their stockings.
Camelbak Eddy Kids Insulated, $24; Eddy Kids, $21.