Top running gift ideas for the trail or ultra-runner in your life - under $50!

Looking for the perfect gift idea for an ultra runner or trail runner? Discover top-notch ultra runner gift ideas tailored for the dedicated trail and ultramarathon enthusiasts. We understand the unique preferences of this community, being part of it ourselves. Whether you're an ultra runner searching for gear or simply seeking the ideal present for a trail-running friend, delve into our curated list of must-have items for every ultrarunner.

1.Trail running hat for less than $30

With nearly 2000 four star plus reviews on Amazon, and coming in nearly 30 color combinations, this will quickly become your runners favorite. I always have 3-4 hats in my rotation, it’s hard to have have too many hats. When there is no cover on the trail, this hat is ideal to keep the sun off your head.

2. Electrolytes on the go for less than $35

This 6 pack will help your runner on their hottest days, and the variety pack means they won’t get tired of the same flavor. With nearly 20,000 four and five star reviews on Amazon, these are the go-to hydration solution for ultra and trail runners alike. Trail and ultra runners alike appreciate good hydration, this is always a welcome stocking stuffer.

3. The end of chafe for just $10

Given there are over 20,000 four and five star Amazon reviews on Body Glide, chaffing is a real problem for ultra and trail runners. Body Glide also comes in a formulation made especially for women.

4. Run fast and comfortable in men’s and women’s shorts less than $35

Under Armour Fly By 2.0 shorts for women, with nearly 30,000 four and five star reviews on Amazon are the real favorites for many ultra and trail runners. The Men’s Launch short, with a 7” in-seam, is perfect for town and trail, and with nearly 5,000 reviews, these are sure to be a hit with your trail or ultra runner.

5. Guaranteed blister free, socks for less than $20

My own experience has proven that the Wight Sock delivers on their guarantee. These are the only socks I’ve fun in for nearly 20 years and their 4.5 review score on Amazon, means it isn’t just me who find them as their favorite sock. Easily match whatever your style is since they are unisex and come in black and white colors.

6. Aspirational coffee table running book for $35

Does your runner love new ideas for their next trail or ultra running adventure? If so, the book Ultrarunning Europe, having only 5 star reviews on Amazon, details over 40 runs throughout some of the most beautiful long distance trails in Europe. Comes in paperback, just $25, or the beautifully bound hard cover edition, $35.

7. No bounce, no slip, no fuss, sunglasses for just $25

Goodr sunglasses quickly became my favorite the first running steps I took when I realized that they’d mastered the fine art of no bounce sunglasses. Runners might not talk to non-runners about the annoyance of trying to get their sunglasses just right to not bounce, but it is a very common problem. With nearly 6,000 reviews on Amazon at an average score of 4.6, Goodr has proven they got the formula right on this design, AND, they come in nearly 20 colors/styles.

8. Peace of mind for less than $50

Concerned about your runner being out on their own and something happening to them? The Road Id band ensures that they are quickly identified, and that emergency responders are immediately made aware of any medical conditions of something were to happen. It comes in 4 colors, has a silicon clasp for comfort, and over 1,200 reviews on Amazon from satisfied customers giving it a 4.6 rating.

9. Warm fingers for less than $20

Nearly 6,000 four and five star reviews on Amazon means these New Balance gloves for men and women, also coming in 4 colors, are sure to please any trail or ultra runner. My fingers start to get cold when the temperature dips into the 50s, and what I really appreciate about these gloves is I don’t need to take them off to operate by phone. So many tail and ultra runners are using apps like Strava, Gaia GPS, and All Trails that they need to be able to quickly open their phone and check the map or their current stats. The grip on these gloves also means they can open water bottles, tear open a gu or bar, or just not drop their phone.

10. Foot pillows for after that long run

OK, so this one is not under $50, but they are so nice we had to include them in the list. With over 25,000 reviews on Amazon, these are proven to be the best post activity recovery slide. After a long run I like to let my feet rest, and these recovery slides are one of the best ways to enable your feet to get some air, and cushion them while recovering for that next run. They come in men’s and women’s sizes, and in 16 colors!