These Stocking Stuffers Are the Perfect “Little Something” for Runners
Sometimes the smallest gifts are the best ones.
Some of the most practical and fun-to-use gear runners rely on in their workouts (and while doing errands, on rest days, and, well, all the time) are the small items that don’t often get top billing on holiday wish lists. But what they lack in size, they more than make up for in impact and usefulness. Think about it—what runner doesn’t have a special appreciation for the comfort, support, and security of their favorite socks? That’s why we rounded up these highly functional, sure-to-please goodies that are compact enough to slip into any runner’s other most-loved sock: the one hanging above the fireplace.
If you didn’t open a fresh new pair of socks, did you even holiday? For runners, it’s not a festive party pair that unleashes their excitement, but a set of blister-free, no-stink, perfectly cushioned running socks. The Balega UltraGlide delivers all that and eliminates hot spots and chafing thanks to a lightweight construction of friction-free yarn. There may not be a better no-show sock out there—meaning there’s no better way to kick off a new year of running than pulling on these clouds of comfort.
A little big for a stocking stuffer? Maybe. Worth the over-stuffing? Totally. These go-anywhere shorts are silky soft while also packed with thoughtful, tactical features like zippered pockets and a no-bounce phone pouch. Whatever the activity—yoga class, a run, an impromptu swim during said run, or lounging after any of the above—this is T.H.E. Short.
With so much time spent sweating in the sun, runners feel the dreaded pain of dry, cracked, bleeding lips more often than most. This silky, never-goopy lip balm is made of all-natural, soothing ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and healing Vitamin E. It also helps prevent sunburn with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Now, where’s that mistletoe?
Whether it’s for music, GPS, or #seenonmyrun selfies, runners are going to carry their phones. And when—not if—they drop those exasperatingly fragile devices, they’ll be relieved to have the protection of Otterbox’s high-strength glass screen shield. It provides up to five times greater scratch resistance than the leading screen protector and is backed by a lifetime warranty.
Developed by a former ski-racing champ from Vermont, this unlined headband (which looks great on both men and women) keeps ears from getting cold and heads from getting hot. Plus there are dozens of prints to match any kit—a bright spot on even the coldest and gloomiest winter days.
This silicone bottle has a groove running up its side, making it easy to grip. More importantly, the design allows it to collapse for easy storage, no matter how small the space. Which might come in handy if you’ve only got the size of a big sock to work with.
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