25 Budget-Friendly Gifts Runners Will Actually Love

I know, I know we’re talking Christmas gifts before the table has even been set for Turkey…but Colorado snowfalls and Christmas trees everywhere have got me thinking, so it’s just that’s just too bad! Budget-friendly gifts for runners should also be a year round thing right…excuses to buy running shoes.

Yup, this list has a little bit of something for everyone on your presents for runners list, and it won’t break the bank if you need to thank a running buddy or just add something fun to the stocking for the ones you love.

Plus, these generally work for anyone in your life who loves fitness.

Gifts for Runners Under $50

Here are just a handful of the things our gear-testing team has loved this year! Who knows, you may also wind up finding something you want to treat yourself to as well.

Personalized Running Shoe Keychain – $16+

Nothing says I’m a marathon runner, like having symbols on you everywhere you go. A great way to recognize their achievement.

Bomba Socks – $24

Every sock you buy gives socks to others, that’s a gift that’s hard to beat. A feel good from head to toe, ha!! But truly these are great running socks that are soft and cushioned.

They come in low rise, ankle, high rise and even trail socks!

High Density Foam Roller – $18

An evil little tool that will reap mass rewards for those achy feet and glutes, especially while traveling.

I use mine daily and when it doesn’t make me cry, I really love it.

Run To The Finish the BOOK!!! – $12

Yes, it’s written by yours truly and I’m clearly biased.

However, I do think that all of you middle-of-the-pack runners will enjoy my approach to embracing your role in the running lifestyle and staying injury-free!

Some of the topics include:

• Understanding discomfort vs. pain
• The mental side of running
• Movements to treat the most common injuries
• Humor like “Weird Thoughts We all Have at the Start Line”

Do a gal a favor and take a peek over at Amazon.

We Run on Art Prints – $18

If you’re looking for something special to celebrate a race or hitting a big goal, We Run on Art is a must. Every piece of art is one of a kind and makes the perfect gift for the runner in your life, or let’s be honest, yourself!

Artist and runner Jess also creates pieces that celebrate the everyday joy of running. Think motivational quotes, inside jokes only runners get, and artwork that reminds you why you love this sport in the first place.

5lbs Dead Sea Bath Salts – $22

SOAK away the muscle soreness!! It’s 100% worth it. I piled these in the tub after a long run the other day and between the salts and the oils just felt everything relax.

Trust me your runner needs a reminder to sit down sometimes too!

Kudos Medal Coasters $25

I just found this fun new way to display medals and know it’s a runner love! You can put any medal of yours in the enclosed case and voila they’re now displayed as coasters all year round! Bonus because you can easily switch them out as you have new favorites.

HydraPak SkyFlask – $31

This handheld bottle is one you’ll want to bring along on nearly every run, no matter the season.

This is the insulated version, which is a lifesaver on hot summer days when you want your hydration to actually stay cold.

Refilling mid-run is easy too, the top flips open quickly, so there’s no need to wrestle off the entire lid…or risk dropping in the dirt.

Plus, cleaning the bottle is so easy. The top comes apart completely, so there’s zero chance of mold hiding in any tricky spots.

SaltStick Electrolyte Capsules ($25)

It doesn’t make my must have list every year for no reason! Cramps are the foe of every runner and I’ve seen these help many keep them at bay.

If you have a sweaty runner in your life, they may not even realize how much electrolytes could help them!

Fuel Goods Snack Box – $26+

Fuel Goods was born from their desire to build a brand where every athlete feels like they belong. It’s your one-stop shop for fueling whatever sport is, whether you’re training, racing, or just out for some fun.

As run coaches, one of our favorites is their Race Day boxes. These are packed with exactly what you need to get through your marathon, like 60 grams of carbs per hour, plus a few extras to keep you fueled and feeling good from the start of race day all the way through the end.

Mantra Bracelet ($28+)

A lot of great options exist for bracelets, but there’s nothing like having a cute, good looking mantra that you can wear to work or with your running watch to keep you focused.

From “keep moving forward” to “I can and I will”, you’ll find an option that fits.

TrailHeads Women’s Headband with Ponytail  Holder – ($10)

While I tend to opt for a full on beanie usually, that’s to hot for many runners who simply want to keep their ears warm.

This one is bonus awesome because of the ponytail hole which just makes it easier to wear.

Runner Strength Training Plan for At Home – $20+

Love working out at home, but need some ongoing ideas to keep it fresh? This is a great way to find new moves or remind you to work muscles in different ways.

K’lani Rise Necklace Set – $30

This layered necklace has a minimalist boho look that’s sweet and delicate, and feels well-made.

It’s made from waterproof 18k gold-plated stainless steel, making it perfect for those extra sweaty days!

Comrad Compression Socks – $34

The socks come in cheerful colors, patterns, and different lengths. If you like to put together fun matching outfits for runs and races these are going to be perfect because there’s something for everyone!

Once you figure out the technique for putting on the Comrad compression socks, they are very comfortable, providing compression without feeling restrictive. Comrad even provides a video with helpful tips on how to get the socks on correctly!

Tifosi Savago Sunglasses – $25

The Tifosi Svago features a much lower price point for a highly durable pair of sunglasses. The rounded lens design with a non-slip grip makes them the perfect crossover between running and lifestyle.

The Svago has polycarbonate lenses to provide increased durability by being shatterproof and scratch-resistant. It also provides 100% UVA and UVB protection.

The proprietary Glare Guard™ technology adds a reflective lens coating that reduces glare and eye fatigue, which is perfect to conserve energy while running.

Tifosi glides also allow the frame to slide on comfortably and provide an anti-bounce fit so you don’t have to worry about your sunglasses flying off during a run.

They’re one of the best running sunglasses to get if you’re on a budget.

Mission Cooling Hat – $29

Mission makes both running hats and bucket hats that help keep you cool! They’re great for any season, lots of colors and easy to care for.

Plus, all of their hats are super lightweight and easy to pack if you are heading on a racecation!

Lululemon Crossbody Or Everywhere Bags – $38-48

The Crossbody or Everywhere bags from Lululemon are some the more affordable options from the high-end brand. Not only are they stylish, but they’re also made from water-repellent materials and feature a versatile interior pocket for holding your valuables securely.

The bags also have elastic loops that you can tuck excess strap to into so you can find a perfect, snug fit without that annoying overhang.

Flipbelt – $37

I’ve tested out a few belts and always hated them, until I found FlipBelt.

It’s wide enough that it stays in place and makes a tight fit for keys, phone, cards and more. Plus you can balance the weight around your body.

Runner’s World Magazine – $13.50/1 year

The biggest and most trusted magazine for runners, you’ll definitely be on their mind every month when it shows up. This magazine frequently provides training plans and well yes it’s featured advice from your’s truly a few times!

PR Running Hat –  $25

This is such a fun way to celebrate your finish lines all year long. These hats from PR Running are super lightweight and breathable, perfect for runs, races, or just everyday wear.

But the really cool part is that you can customize them with snap-in race badges ($9.99) that fit right into the holes on the back and side panels. There are tons of race badges on their site, so you can add one for your latest PR.

And since hats can be tricky with fit and style, what we really love is that there are 4 different hat styles to choose from:

• Classic Pace Setter
• Cadence Crusher
• Street Sprinter
• Every Day Trucker

You pick can the one that feels just right for you!

Dip Bar Shampoo

Not only is it travel friendly (also great for all of you who need something light and small in your gym bag), but it won’t strip your hair!

Dip’s formulations are gentle and pH-balanced, promoting scalp health even after rigorous workouts.

BONUS points we love that this is an eco-friendly option. Something that we know as runners we really have to spend time considering so that we can fully enjoy the outdoors for many more years.

Car Run Decal – $5+

It’s true I have yet to put one on my car, but I LOVE seeing them because I always know there is a fellow crazy runner nearby.

SPIbelt – $25

These style belts were perfect for short runs where you didn’t have to carry gels or hydration support. You can carry everything that you need-  phone, a few gels, and some Saltstick chews, and if you packed it just right, it was easy to grab what you needed!

Bonus points because it never moves around on the run.

Biolite Dash 450 Running Headlamp – $60

Okay, we know this one is just a little over the $50 but it’s too good not to include!

The Dash 450 offers high-performance illumination in a lightweight wearable designed to stay in place at any pace.

Weighing just 78 grams, it’s built to feel like you’re not even wearing it.

Built to meet runners’ needs, this headlamp is significantly less bounce-prone and allows for more customization than the single-switch headlamp.

Honestly, after writing this website since 2007  and testing out products for weekly for brands, I couldn’t just contain it to one list…so in case you need additional ideas:

• Stocking Stuffers Under $20 (when you need to go even cheaper)
• Wellness Gift Guide (helping them recover better!)
• Gifts for Triathletes (get your runner cross training)
• Creative Gifts for Runners
• Trail Running Gifts
• Men’s Fitness Gift Guide

Other ways to connect with Amanda
Instagram Daily Fun: RunToTheFinish

Facebook Community Chatter: RunToTheFinish

Sign Up to Receive a Weekly Newsletter with Top Running Tips and Laughs