Triathletes Ultimate Gift Giving Guide

It’s no secret that triathletes need a lot of stuff for training and racing. As a long-time triathlon and running coach and athlete I have developed a list of favorites that are sure to please your triathlete for any special occasion; birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just because. This list is chalk full of popular gadgets and must-have supplies for the triathlete or runner in your life, or yourself. This list has been conveniently divided into sections to meet anyone’s budget.

Low Cost Ideas (under $35):

Road ID ($20-35)Safety first! Accidents are never expected…like when I was hit by a truck on my bicycle. It’s at this time I was grateful I have ID on me. Even though I was not knocked unconscious, I could have been. If you care about your loved one, buy them Road ID. This handy identification tag can let emergency personnel know who to contact and can even identify medical conditions like diabetes, asthma or medication allergies when you are not conscious to speak for yourself. This could quite literally save a life! They also have gift certificates. Check it out: Road ID Gift Cards

Basic Running or Cycling Socks ($5-22)Check out the displays at your local running or cycling stores. You are bound to find a cute design that will bring a smile to any athletes face. Here are some of my favorite local shops: Bountiful Bicycle

Wasatch Running Center

RockTape

Most all athletes at one time or another have sustained some body injury. RockTape has been a lifesaver for me with all my long course training. I especially love all the cool prints they offer. Check it out!

Wrist Wraps, Necklaces & Shoe charms ($10-35)Many shoe charms can be customized with the name of a loved one to honor and wear on running shoes like many have done at the local Race For Grief event on Memorial Day (virtual entry available). Or choose a favorite power word or saying for a wrist wrap or necklace. Check out these two great shops with lots of items to choose from:Momentum Jewelry They also have fun themed gift boxes!Charm Factory

Books ($15-35)There are so many great books out there, I couldn’t even name them all, but I highly encourage you to asked your loved one and friends what they want. Or you could always buy gift certificates and they can shop for themselves. If you know they like cookbooks you might consider this one: The Feedzone Cookbook

Moderate Budget Ideas ($45 plus):

Wireless or wired Earbuds or Headphones ($20-99)I hear good things about jaybirds wireless earbuds Jaybird Wireless Earbuds so you could look at them. If you are looking for a less expensive gift YurBuds have worked pretty well for me. Feel free to leave a comment on any you have found that are great.

Race entry ($25-125)Any triathlete or runner would appreciate a gift race entry. Many races offer the option of getting a gift entry or gift cards. It’s the gift that gives back. Here are some of the local favorites:Salt Lake Marathon – Use the code slcblonderunner19 to save 20%Ogden Marathon – Look for the discount code coming out in January.Get more race discounts

Noxgear Tracer 360 Visibility vest ($45 with code)This is my very favorite light vest. It feels like you are having a party when you put it on and is especially great in the winter when it’s dark often. Be sure and use the code BLONDERUN to save 35%. They also have tracers for dogs! Check it out:Tracer 360

Kodiak CakesDoes your athlete like to bake? Check out the great line of high protein products from Kodiak Cakes. I particularly like their chocolate pancakes.Running Shoes ($85-160)As a long time runner, I can tell you there is no such thing as too many shoes. Runners need good shoes. Since shoes are highly individual I recommend getting a gift cert from local running store. One of my favorites in my area is Wasatch Running Center If you are not pleased with your current running shoes or aren’t sure what brand to look for I am personally a big fan of HOKA’s. They offer so many great shoes!Compression Socks ($20-85)Compression socks can really speed recovery and help prevent swelling. I really love the quality of ProCompression and they always have the cutest styles and prints. I know they have a sale going on most of the time. Check them outEnso Roller ($52 with discount code)Self myofascial release (SMR) techniques have been known to speed recovery. This practice increases blood flow, elongates tissue, can breakup adhesions, and release tight muscles for better posture and increase flexibility. This high quality, completely customizable roller really helps relax tired muscles and is the perfect gift. Be sure and use the discount code to save money and get free shipping. Check it out!Learn more, read my Enso Muscle Roller Product Review.Hire a Coach ($65 plus)A coaches expertise is invaluable to elevate training and can be so helpful for all level of athletes. I offer one-time consultation gift certificates for $65; I also offer online training programs from 5K’s and up to Ironman events. Consultation sessions can cover swimming, cycling skills, running form, nutrition and race planning. Please inquire if you would like to learn more by messaging Coach Lora Erickson directly at theblonderunner@gmail.com or visit BlondeRunner.comXterra Wetsuits – Lava Pants or Shorts ($99 with code)These buoyant pants and shorts are great for training indoor in the winter months. Especially for those new to swimming or those who struggle with kicking and their legs sink. This allows you to kick while maintaining streamline position. Use the code CO-BLONDE for 60% off (also works on wetsuits). What do you think? Xterra Wetsuits

Healthy or High Budget Ideas ($150-500 plus):

Hydration Pack ($65-200)Running vests are particularly helpful for long runs or even hiking. One of my favorite packs is this Nathan VaporAiress Pack It has pockets on the front with a sipper straw and magnetic button leading to the 2L hydrating sleeve conveniently tucked in special pocket. Others come with removable bottles in the front pockets. I especially love the cross-strap to keep it tight against me when I run so it doesn’t jump around. The side pockets are especially nice to carry a few extra things. This is very utilitarian. They also have many other packs to choose from.Garmin GPS Watch ($65-$600)While there is a large range of GPS watches I believe the Garmin brand watch is the best. GPS watches can track distance, speed and other metrics to help you train better. Prices range from $80 to $600 depending on how many bells and whistles you want. As an avid triathlete I highly recommend the Garmin 935xt with heart rate. Here is a great review that details all of the many things this watch can do. https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2017/03/garmin-forerunner-935-depth-review.html This is my go-to watch and always on my wrist showing me detailed metrics from current heart rate, average resting heart rate, power numbers and even tracks my sleep. Garmin also has kids watches that track exercise and allow you to set chore and health reminders. No matter the watch, you can’t go wrong with Garmin! Learn moreGarmin Bicycle Computer ($65 - $600)For the avid cyclist in your life, I would consider gifting them a Garmin Edge computer. The different models range from $200-600 but they make a great addition to a cyclists quiver. Many are touch screen with turn-by-turn navigation and connects to a host of devices from power meters to smart light networks. This is a must have! Check out this great review from DC Rainmaker on the Garmin Edge Explore

Xterra Paddle Boards ($500 plus)To aide your swimmers in the water and stay near them in case of an emergency I highly recommend a paddleboard. I particularly love the blow-up ones. They are very portable and easily fit into a car. Use the code CO-BLONDE for discounts. I prefer the stability of the Yoga board. Check it out Happy Shopping,Coach Lora EricksonBlondeRunner.comRelated blog posts: Beginner Triathletes Guide to the Off Season