Stocking stuffers for runners

Featuring Smartwool’s most sophisticated construction, these socks provide a superior fit, as well as the additional warmth and comfort required during cold winter runs. Smartwool uses its Indestructawool technology for enhanced durability, while the crew-length height offers extra warmth around the ankle and lower leg. Targeted cushioning at the forefoot and heel improves during longer runs, while the strategically-located mesh zones reduce overheating if temperatures rise.

Tucked into a jersey pocket, the GU Energy Gel is ready for deployment any time your energy levels start to wane. The gel consists of a tasty carbohydrate blend for a quick energy boost, while the addition of antioxidants and amino acids reduce muscle tissue damage and delay muscle fatigue. Finally, the 20 to 40 mg of caffeine added to some flavours provides an extra energy lift on longer runs.

Weighing in at just 120 grams (with batteries) and providing up to 450 lumens of light, the Storm 450 is perfect for the low-light running conditions many of us must deal with all winter. The headlamp can run with a rechargeable battery (sold separately) or three AAA batteries (included). Multiple brightness modes allow runners to fine-tune lighting based on the situation, and the headlamp’s PowerTap technology provides an instant transition from low beam to full power.

Built with a blend of merino wool and Tencel Lyocell, the Active Beanie is perfect for cool weather running. The beanie’s sophisticated fabric delivers exceptional moisture management, resists odours and offers a broad temperature comfort range. Thanks to its lightweight fabric, you can put the beanie on at the start of your run, and if the temperature increases, you can easily tuck it into a pocket.

The Bobcat features a unique hybrid shape that provides goggle-like coverage without compromising airflow and lightness. The result is a pair of glasses that deliver exceptional sun protection while remaining light and airy enough for serious (and even semi-serious) summer runs. Smith specs their ChromaPop lens, which offers excellent optics and detail, whether you are running on the road or on trails. Like many high-end sport glasses, the Bobcat allows for easy lens changes and comes with a clear lens that’s suitable for running in low light conditions. Finally, the Bobcat is built on a smaller frame and will be appreciated by many women and runners with smaller faces.

With its three bright LEDs and up to 110 hours of operating time, the Nathan Strobelight ensures you’ll be visible to drivers, runners and pedestrians. This light features a clip-on attachment system, so it can easily be affixed to clothing and gear. Savvy runners may even want to use multiple lights (one clipped to the front and one to the back) for increased visibility when running in low-light environments. The Strobelight has two modes (steady on and strobe), has an IPX3 water-resistance rating and uses two replaceable 3V lithium 2023 batteries.

Honey Stinger’s Organic Energy Chews are perfect for keeping your energy levels topped up during longer runs. The chews are naturally flavoured and easier to consume than traditional energy bars, and less sweet than syrupy energy gels. The chews are made with 95 per cent organic ingredients, are gluten and dairy-free, have no trans fats and no partially hydrogenated oils. Honey Stinger also packs these chews with electrolytes, making them ideal for use before or during your run.

You can never have too many socks, and the Swiftwick Flite XT Five is a great addition to every runner’s kit. With their sophisticated construction, these socks provide the mild compression, cushioning and moisture management necessary to keep your feet comfortable when running. Swiftwick employs its unique AnkleLock technology and GripDry fibres to prevent the socks from shifting and sagging during long runs. Grab a couple of pairs and treat your feet!

Weighing in at just 100 grams and providing up to 1,100 lumens of light, the Swift RL is perfect for the low-light running conditions most of us experience when training in winter. While these specs alone make the Swift RL an ideal running headlamp, it’s also worth noting that Petzl has used a unique light sensor that, when employed, allows the Swift RL to automatically adjust the brightness of the lamp based on ambient light. The result is extended battery life, while still retaining the visibility necessary when running in low light conditions. If you want to control the brightness yourself, the Swift RL also offers three manual settings. A comfortable and easy-to-adjust headband and USB recharging round out the features on this impressive headlamp.

These lightly flavoured electrolyte tablets are ideal for replenishing electrolytes during or after longer, more challenging runs. Simply drop a tablet into about 500 ml of water, wait until it dissolves, and you have a refreshing, slightly fizzy hydration drink. The drink contains no preservatives or artificial sweeteners and now only uses non-GMO dextrose and stevia. For those seeking a bit more kick, Nuun adds 40 mg of caffeine to some flavours.

With their comfortable minimalist frames and midsize lenses, the Resolve glasses deliver exceptional eye protection and excellent airflow. The result is the perfect pair of running glasses when you’re training hard in warm conditions. Like many Smith glasses, the Resolve is available with various lenses, allowing runners to fine-tune the optics for different light conditions. Still not sold? Then consider that Smith employs their ChromaPop lens technology that provides phenomenal clarity and contrast. Get rid of those cheap, scratched specs and treat yourself to a pair of Resolve glasses.

Staying hydrated during long training runs has never been easier, thanks to Nathan’s Quick Squeeze Insulated Handheld Bottle. This handy bit of kit features a unique and highly adjustable hand-harness that securely holds the 18-oz water bottle. The harness has a large stretch-woven pocket (perfectly sized for most phones), as well as a smaller zippered stash pocket for carrying keys, ID, or a credit card. The harness’s open foam and wicking mesh construction prevent excessive hand sweating, and the insulated water bottle ensures runners can enjoy cool fluids when training in warm conditions.

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