There’s nothing like a deadline to get some people hustling, as the holidaze suggests. If you still don’t know what to gift the runners in your life, here are three things I recommend:
1. Jaybird Vista Headphones
Bombproof? Maybe. Durable? Certainly. Slick? Yep! The versatile Vista solves many-a-woe of the runner who likes to listen to music, podcasts, or whale sounds while running—or doing anything else, including taking calls on-the-go. They’re wireless, long-lasting, waterproof, sweatproof, and dustproof, somehow without sacrificing sound quality. They’ve got an array of easy-to-customize settings for the audiophile. They come in a compact charging case that’s easy to stash. Most importantly for city- and trail-runners alike, you can use one earbud at a time so your other ear stays alert to your surroundings.
$180 160 *on sale right now, available at Jaybird.com
2. Trail Sisters Crusher Hat
IMHO, a reliable running hat with a brim should be a year-round staple in a runner’s gear closet. Yes, even in the winter; it keeps precipitation out of your eyes and heat in your dome. Trail Sisters, a community founded by Gina Lucrezi to increase women’s participation in trail running, has several solid options that support an empowering mission. This new packable and stashable style called the Crusher is soft, breathable, and lightweight. While you’re on the site, check out your own local chapter. Psst, Seattle-area folks: Join me and other group leaders for trail runs, including monthly social runs at Discovery Park!
$32, available on TrailSisters’ online store
3. Picky Bar Intro Bundle
If you know runners, you may know runger. (We are sorry for what we said.) Picky Bars stave off such horrors. Founded by pro coach Lauren Fleshman, her husband and triathlete Jesse Thomas, and their friend and pro runner Steph Bruce, Picky Bars bars, oats, and granola are all gluten-free but flavorful. As a company, it seems they’re constantly tweaking for better all-around performance, be it granola (Sassy Molassy FTW) or including more responsibly sourced ingredients, like chocolate, which comes from an industry fraught with issues.
$49, available at PickyBars.com and retailers
Many thanks to the illustrious blogger and long-time friend Lydia Lauer for her “5 Things” series that inspired this post and a forthcoming series. Check out her site, Making La Madre, and Instagram for delightful insights on motherhood and much more.
Elizabeth W. Carey 