11 Sustainable Gift Ideas for Runners
Looking to gift the runner in your life something special, but want it to be sustainable? As a conscious lifestyle blogger and marathoner, I have just the list for you. Even better, I’ve used and loved items from all of these brands.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission on any purchases through those links, at no extra cost to you.
Higher-end sustainable running gifts
I’ll start the list with some investment items your runner will use and love for years, but if you’re looking for something more affordable, feel free to scroll to the next section.
1. Shinzo Tamura sunglasses
Shinzo Tamura is a family-owned Japanese sunglasses brand that is my go-to for more sustainable sunglasses.
Their sunglasses are made in-house by craftspeople who have often been in the business for generations. They also have a 5-year warranty, and if you experience any defects, they’ll repair them for free or send a replacement. I actually broke the arm of my sunglasses in 2024, and even though it was my fault, the team sent me a new arm free of charge.
I’ve personally tried a few styles, but I’d say the Nagai is the best frame for running. I got the Pyrite M lenses and would recommend them if you want a reflective coating, but if you don’t, I’d get the Sand.
2. Used running watch
If your runner doesn’t have a GPS watch yet or wants an upgrade, getting them a secondhand/refurbished watch is a fantastic gift. Just make sure you discuss with them beforehand as watches are extremely personal.
For great entry-level watches, I recommend the:
- Forerunner 165 or 265
- COROS PACE 3 or PACE 4, or the PACE Pro
You can find them used on eBay, or COROS also has a refurbished section of their site. Tip: if you buy new from COROS, you can use my code COROS-Lily for a free extra watch band (I recommend the nylon bands).
3. Marathon or race entry
Race entries are getting so expensive, with 5ks costing $40+ now and marathons at $150+. If you know your runner wants to do a specific race, consider gifting them the race registration fee.
If you want to be even more elaborate, consider a destination race with a vacation built-in. Think Amsterdam, Paris, Rome, and more!
4. Kyrgies wool slippers
After a long run, there’s nothing better than some cozy slippers on your tired feet. At lot of slippers are made from synthetic materials, however, Kyrgies uses 100% natural materials, including Kyrgyz wool from family-run farms, rubber, and cotton canvas.
I’ve tried their Bishek kicks and they’re extremely warm and comfortable. You can even wear them outside (though I haven’t tried that yet since I like them as house slippers). And when they’re completely worn out, the kicks can return to the earth via your compost.
5. Janji gear
Janji is my favorite small running brand. They offer a variety of running gear, from apparel to accessories and bags. They use mostly recycled materials, have a 5-year warranty, and donate 2% back to clean water.
I personally love their packable rain jacket and tech joggers, and they also have shorts, tops, and running accessories like gloves and sling bags.
6. T-shirt blanket
Chances are, your runner has too many race shirts and can’t wear them all. They can be turned into a beautiful quilt full of memories thanks to some Etsy sellers. I like this one since they use cotton backing instead of synthetic fleece like most sellers.
More affordable sustainable running gifts
7. Medal hanger
Your runner also probably has too many medals and nowhere to put them. You can get them a custom medal holder on Etsy as well. There are several options in many price ranges.
8. Water bottle with filter
My Lifestraw bottles have been some of my best purchases/gifts of this year. I used their collapsible squeeze bottle on my trail runs and hikes, so I could filter out stream water and not worry about finding a drinking fountain. Their traditional water bottle was also useful on hikes.
9. Gift card to The Feed
Sometimes you just want to play it safe and gift your loved one more freedom to decide. I would recommend a gift card to The Feed, an athletic fueling marketplace. I buy my gels and electrolyte drink tablets there.
10. Peak Design shoe pouch
One of the hardest things to pack for trips are my running shoes. It definitely helps to have a dedicated pouch instead of a random plastic bag. Peak Design makes a sleek shoe pouch that packs down into a small pocket when empty. Plus, it’s made from recycled materials.
11. Lifetime warranty socks
Darn Tough is a Vermont brand making cool pattern merino wool socks with lifetime warranty. I’m extremely picky about socks, but I quite like their running and hiking socks. They dry quickly and are naturally odor-resistant.
Bombas also has a happiness guarantee for their socks, and they donate one pair for every pair bought. I like their everyday socks, but they also make running ones I haven’t tried yet.
Let us know what you end up getting and if you have any other suggestions!
