The Local newsletter is your free, daily guide to life in Colorado. For locals, by locals.
The best part about running is that, unlike those other Colorado pastimes, it requires very little buy-in at the outset. With a decent pair of shoes, all you really need to do is lace up and head out the door. But for as minimalistic as the activity can be, runners have a not-so-secret secret: Most of them are obsessed with gear—and we’re not just talking about shoes. Runners tend to love all of the bobbles that come along with the sport: apparel, watches, vests, snacks, hydration, recovery tools, and, yes, shoes.
If you’re struggling to come up with the perfect surprise for your favorite runner, check out our list below. We’ve outlined 10 perfect gifts for Colorado runners—all from local manufacturers. Truth be told, this is the stuff headlining our own wish lists.
Osprey Dyna 1.5
Give your aspiring Kara Goucher the gift of no-hassle hydration with the Dyna 1.5 ($120) from Cortez-based Osprey. This minimal vest with two adjustable chest straps holds a 1.5-liter bladder (included) in a zippered pouch to keep your favorite athlete quenched on Colorado’s remote trails. Bonus points for the plethora of pockets that provide ample storage for gels, keys, soft flasks, and sour gummy worms (if you know, you know). Available online and at various retailers
Runher Magazine
Female runners who crave stories that reflect their experiences will love Runher ($60 annually), a quarterly print magazine dedicated exclusively to lady runners. Founded by Denver-based runner and journalist Ashley Mateo, Runher celebrates the joy, grit, and community of women who lace up and pound the pavement. Each beautifully designed issue dives into the culture of running through empowering profiles, gear guides, and personal essays. Available by subscription at runhermag.com
Headsweats Flatirons Crusher Hat
Lightweight, breathable, and built to take a beating, the Headsweats Flatiron Crusher Hat ($25) is a trail-running essential that doesn’t quit, no matter how many miles (or laundry cycles) it sees. Made from quick-drying polyester with a soft brim you can crush (or stuff inside your running vest), it keeps sun and sweat out of your eyes with a terry sweatband around the rim. And since it’s from Boulder-based Headsweats, those Flatirons on the front aren’t just a design—they’re a hometown badge of honor. Available online and at various retailers
Kari Traa Ella Base Layer Half Zip
Your sister’s marathon training plan doesn’t care that it’s December. Help her tackle those cold-weather miles with the Kari Traa Ella Base Layer Half Zip ($70). Made from stretchy, breathable fabric and finished with vibrant color blocking, it’s built for women who’d rather sweat buckets than blend in. Designed by a women-founded brand with its North American headquarters in Broomfield, this top nails that sweet spot between functional and fashionable. Available online and at various retailers
La Sportiva Bushido III Trail Running Shoes
For the runner who treats technical trails like a playground, the La Sportiva Bushido III ($160) will be their new favorite playmate. This mountain-ready shoe grips like crazy on rocky terrain, offering a stable, low-profile feel that keeps you nimble on steep climbs and sketchy descents. Designed at La Sportiva’s North American headquarters in Boulder, it’s built for the kind of rugged, high-country miles Colorado runners know best. And let’s be honest: If your shoes have dirt on them by mile one, you’re doing it right. Available online and at various retailers
Stryd
The only thing runners might love more than the actual act of running is obsessing over their training data afterward. If your loved one spends hours going over their Garmin stats, they’ll almost certainly geek out over Boulder-based wearable Stryd ($300). Unlike other fitness trackers, this one clips to your shoe, pairs with a variety of watches (Garmin, Apple Watch, Polar, etc.), and focuses on running power. Like cycling power meters, Stryd monitors a runner’s output (in watts), which can provide a more accurate picture of effort than heart rate or pace. It also tracks cadence, distance (even when you’re in a GPD dead zone), and will build you a custom training plan based on your goals, fitness, and availability. Available online
Smartwool Run Targeted Cushion Ankle Socks (Women’s, Men’s)
We’re not sure when and where socks earned such a bad reputation when it comes to holiday gifts. Here’s a tip: Runners love high-quality socks like these ($21) from Denver-based Smartwool. Designers added extra cushioning in high impact areas like the ball and heel of the foot, which protects runners’ feet while ensuring a smooth ride. The ankle height means no slippage or rubbing, and because the socks are constructed with the brand’s signature merino wool, they’re naturally breathable and odor-resistant. Available online and at various retailers
Flylow Liner Glove
Every runner knows it’s nearly impossible to rip open a Gu when your fingers are frozen. Enter: the Flylow Liner Glove ($35). Made from a lightweight, stretchy polyester blend with grippy palms and touchscreen-compatible fingers, these gloves deliver just the right amount of warmth for chilly runs without the bulk or sweat. Plus, they’re designed by Denver-based Flylow, so shipping will be speedy. Available online and at various retailers
Ultimate Direction Fastdraw Elite 500 Onyx
Some runs don’t call for a full-blown hydration vest—but that doesn’t mean your road racer should forego water completely. Boulder-based Ultimate Direction’s Fastdraw Elite 500 Onyx ($40) is the ideal companion for shorter runs (or races with plentiful aid stations). A wide, chafe-free hand strap makes logging miles with this 500 milliliter handheld water bottle a breeze. Slip your phone and keys into the two zippered pockets, and you won’t have to worry about losing them on your loop. Available online and at various retailers
Roll Recovery R3 Orthopedic Foot Roller
Your feet carry you through every mile, so it’s only fair to return the favor. The R3 Foot Roller ($35) from Boulder-based Roll Recovery delivers deep, targeted relief for sore arches and tight fascia thanks to its smart design: a firm center for pressure and softer edges to make your foot say ahhhhhhh. Small enough to live under your desk or in your gym bag, it’s the post-run relaxation ritual your feet didn’t know they needed. Just one warning: your dog will definitely think you bought them a new chew toy. (Don’t ask us how we know.) Available online and at various retailers
