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Holiday Gift Ideas That Won’t Break Your Budget
By Brenda Barrera
November/December 2010
For the Washington Running Report
As the competitive running year winds down, the holiday season swings into full gear. And speaking of gear, there is nothing that will put a smile on the face of a new, seasoned, or even elite level runner than opening a present that will enhance his or her running experience.
Below are a few moderately priced and fun items that have come across our desks or that I saw out on the trails this summer (e.g., puppy product). Think of it as a start to help you "toe off' your holiday shopping list.
As you decide where to shop this holiday season, we always recommend making a trip to your local specialty running store where helpful sales staff can direct you to a wide range of gift choices. If you are stumped, you can never go wrong with a gift certificate. For a complete list of stores in DC, MD, and VA go to www.runwashington.com and click on Resources tab. (And, while you are in your favorite running store, be sure to mention Washington Running Report recommended you shop there).
Chica BandsTM
A fashionable, yet functional way to keep hair in place
These are non-slip, nonbinding hair bands in 1" and 1/2" styles for active girls and women. It has a special lining that keeps flyaway hair in place and an elastic band that keeps it snug on your head. There are more than 200 styles to choose from including a running specific 13.1 design and reflective bands.
Cost: $12-15. For information: www.chicabands.com
Outward Hound Port-A-Bowl
If you run with your dog, here is something it will lap up
Like all of us, dogs require plenty of water when they run with their owners, too. This is a convenient 48 oz. portable food or water bowl that expands when you add water. When you are done, it collapses so you can fold it up and continue your run with Fido well hydrated.
Cost: $5-6. For information: www.myoutwardhound.com
Marathon Gift Collection - Race Pillow
Sweet dreams of your race when you rest your head on this pillow
The Marathon Gift Collection offers hand embroidered pillows and beach towels (coming soon) for marathon runners. This is a unique line of products specific for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon, Marine Corps Marathon, ING New York City Marathon, and Boston Marathon. In addition, a percentage of sales will benefit www.backonmyfeet.org. Pillow dimensions: 18×18 inches.
Cost: $129. (Note: option to customize).
For information: https://marathongiftcollection.com
SOLE Sport Slides
Ahhh . . . post-run, post-race comfort
Who doesn't want comfort and support for post-exercise recovery? These hug your foot, free your toes, and, as the name says, they slide right on so you do not need to bend over and tie laces. In addition, they are moldable, meaning they conform to your feet. Also recommended for anyone suffering from plantar fasciitis.
Cost $69. For information: www.yoursole.com
CRAFT Storm Jacket
It is inevitable. Winter will be here; so why not be warm and comfortable?
Sometimes the name of a product says it all. Craft introduces its Storm Jacket that complements the Storm Tight. It has Flex Fleece fabric with strategically placed elastic windproof chest panels for cold weather protection, plus two zippered front pockets for storage and reflective details for safety. Because many runners also participate in other winter sports, it is ideal for skiing or cycling, too.
Cost: $129. For information: www.craft-usa.com
Washington Running Report
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Okay, so we are shameless. In case you forget to pick up a copy at your favorite running store or at one of the many races Capital Running Company manages, this guarantees you will have a copy in your mailbox. WRR is the best resource for anyone running in DC, MD, or VA for inspiration+motivation+education+race information. Cost: $25 (1 year), $43 (2 years), $57 (3 years).
For information: www.runwashington.com (click on Magazine tab at top).