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The best Father’s Day gifts for runners

Dad might say he doesn't need anything, but new gear makes every runner smile

ciele

Father’s Day is June 15, and the date will sneak up on you. To make it a little easier to pick out something for your dad who runs, consider our list of perfect gift ideas. You love your dad–and he’s going to love any one of these gear picks.

Best for runners seeking a hat with excellent sun protection and breathability
Ciele FSTCap

Ciele Athletics FSTCap SC Field Iconic SL

A highly breathable running hat

With its highly breathable and wicking COOLmatic | PLUS fabric, the Ciele Athletics FSTCap SC Field Iconic SL hat is perfect for warm-weather running. The hat’s sophisticated construction provides UPF +40 sun protection, while the pre-curved soft brim keeps the sun’s damaging rays out of your face. Ciele employs a simple yet highly adjustable back closure that accommodates a wide range of head sizes and also ensures the hat stays in place in breezy conditions. And, as it only weighs 48 g, it won’t hold you back when you’re sprinting to the finish line. This is a highly versatile hat that’s ideal for running or any other outdoor activity. 

Best for runners seeking merino performance with classic T-shirt styling
Smartwool Men's Merino Short Sleeve

Smartwool Men's Merino Short Sleeve Tee

A versatile, slim-fitting running shirt

With its understated, slim-fitting aesthetic and performance-enhancing merino wool construction, the Smartwool Men’s Merino Short Sleeve Tee can easily serve double-duty as a technical running top and an everyday warm-weather T-shirt. Much of the performance and versatility stems from Smartwool’s unique Core Spun technology, where merino wool fibres are spun around a recycled nylon core. The result is a fabric that resists odours (thanks, merino) while offering a surprising level of durability (hats off to you, nylon). This is a versatile shirt that should be part of every runner’s training and urban-wear kit.

Best for runners seeking comfort and ankle-cut height socks
Smartwool Run Ankle Socks Zero Cushion

Smartwool Run Ankle Socks

Ankle-height merino running socks

The Run Ankle Socks hit the sweet spot for most runners, providing additional ankle coverage compared to lower-cut socks, without the bulk associated with crew-height offerings. As with almost all Smartwool socks, these feature Indestructawool construction technology for exceptional durability, as well as Smartwool’s 4 Degree elite fit system for a foot-hugging fit. The addition of targeted cushioning zones and mesh panels ensures exceptional comfort and breathability during long runs.

Best for runners seeking maximum cushioning for daily training and easy long runs
Hoka Clifton 10

Hoka Clifton 10

A max-cushion neutral shoe

The Clifton 10 showcases a number of updates that should appeal to most runners. Starting with the forefoot, the Clifton 10 now offers a noticeably roomier fit, which will accommodate a broader range of runners. Hoka has also increased the stack height by an additional 3 mm, resulting in 42 mm in the heel, 34 mm in the forefoot and an 8 mm drop for the men’s version. The women’s shoe clocks in with a stack height of 38 mm in the heel and 30 mm in the forefoot. This increase will be welcomed by most heel strikers without alienating more mid-oriented runners. The Clifton 10 employs a lightweight compression-moulded EVA (CMEVA) midsole, which does an admirable job of providing cushioning and responsiveness. For the upper, Hoka has spec’d a durable jacquard knit textile that provides excellent ventilation and a secure fit. Finally, the updated outsole delivers improved grip in both dry and wet conditions. If you’re looking for a neutral, well-cushioned shoe for daily training, check out the new Clifton 10.

Best for runners seeking excellent optics, sun protection and maximum airflow
Smith Resolve Sunglasses

Smith Resolve Sunglasses

Lightweight wraparound sunglasses

With their ChromaPop lenses and wraparound design, the Smith Resolve Sunglasses provide exceptional eye protection and optical clarity when running in sunny weather. The minimalist frame allows for excellent airflow without compromising the secure fit required when you’re picking up the pace. Interchangeable lenses allow you to fine-tune the clarity for different light conditions, and the adjustable nose pads offer a comfortable custom fit.

Best for runners seeking technical recovery slides for daily use
Hoka Recovery Slides

Hoka Ora Athletic Slides

A highly cushioned recovery slide

Whether you prefer to call it a sandal or a slide, the Hoka ORA Recovery slide will become an essential piece in your summer running and lounging kit. Sure, they are the perfect recovery footwear, thanks to their plush oversized dual-density EVA midsole and Meta-Rocker geometry, but their lightness and fabulously comfortable design also makes them ideal for daily use. So, whether you wear them after a run or just to hang out on the porch with your morning coffee, grab a pair and treat your feet.

Products reviewed in this article:

Best for runners seeking a hat with excellent sun protection and breathability

Ciele Athletics FSTCap SC Field Iconic SL

Ciele FSTCap

Buy Now - $54.95

Buy Now - $50

Best for runners seeking merino performance with classic T-shirt styling

Smartwool Men's Merino Short Sleeve Tee

Smartwool Men's Merino Short Sleeve

Buy Now - $100

Buy Now - $80

Best for runners seeking comfort and ankle-cut height socks

Smartwool Run Ankle Socks

Smartwool Run Ankle Socks Zero Cushion

Buy Now - $26

Buy Now - $21

Best for runners seeking maximum cushioning for daily training and easy long runs

Hoka Clifton 10

Hoka Clifton 10

Buy Now - $179.99

Buy Now - $149.95

Best for runners seeking excellent optics, sun protection and maximum airflow

Smith Resolve Sunglasses

Smith Resolve Sunglasses

Buy Now - From $126

Buy Now - From $101.40

Best for runners seeking technical recovery slides for daily use

Hoka Ora Athletic Slides

Hoka Recovery Slides

Buy Now - $64.99

Buy Now - $59.95

Check out the latest buyer's guide:

The best Father’s Day gifts for runners

Dad might say he doesn't need anything, but new gear makes every runner smile