The 2024 runner’s holiday wishlist
The holidays are right around the corner and time is flying! We’ve teamed up with some of our amazing 2024 Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend Expo vendors to help you get a jump start on your gifting. Whether you’re looking to splurge or find something more budget-friendly, this thoughtful wishlist has plenty of gift ideas that are sure to make any runner on your list smile this season!
1. Coach Soak
For over 50 years, 360 Athletics has been Canada’s most trusted sporting goods wholesaler, known for its commitment to high-quality fitness products and top brands like Hyperice, Normatec, and KT Tape, ideal gifts for the runner who needs to work on their post run recovery plan!Â
Revive your body and elevate performance with Coach Soak‘s muscle recovery bath soaks and creams. Packed with fast-absorbing magnesium flakes and rich minerals, these natural ingredients soothe sore muscles and restore essential minerals—helping you recover faster and get back to your best.
2. USWE Hydration Vest
Perfect for the runner who loves long-distance training or races, an USWE Hydration Vest is designed with comfort in mind. It has a bounce-free fit and is equipped with a water reservoir that ensures runners stay hydrated without compromising mobility. Practical and durable, it’s the ideal gift to help any runner perform at their best, whether on the trails or the road.
3. Apparel from Plato’s Closet (Ottawa)
A great gift idea for the eco-conscious runner! You can shop from their collection of gently used athletic brands priced at 50-70% less than original retail pricing! They accept styles for all seasons, every day, with no appointment needed. Each Plato’s Closet is locally owned and operated, so you can shop with the satisfaction of supporting small businesses.
4. PERCY Cap
Rain or shine, you’re ready to brave the elements with this adjustable, water-resistant cap. Featuring an inner sweat band and a flexible brim, the PERCY keeps you dry and protected from the toughest workout and weather conditions alike. A reflective PRAISE print on both the front and back ensures that you stay visible at all times of day.Â
PRAISE ENDURANCE creates unisex products for runners of all backgrounds, promoting accessibility, diversity, and inclusion through a shared narrative of running. PRAISE aims to ignite a lasting love for running by blending storytelling with both aesthetic appeal and technical innovation.
5. Marsquest Momentum sunglasses
These are designed for active lifestyles! The Momentum designed frames are fully built with EMS memory plastic with a molded nose bridge, so runners can play rough and keep their sunglasses on. Tested by being run over by a car, Momentum sunglasses can endure the toughest impact. Marsquest Momentum sunglasses come with standard premium coatings, and UV protecting polarized lenses.
6. Xact Nutrition
Give the gift of performance and recovery nutrition with Xact Nutrition! Perfect for runners looking to fuel their best. Packed with high-quality ingredients and designed to optimize energy, hydration, and recovery, Xact Nutrition supports every step of a runner’s journey, whether training for a race or maintaining their fitness routine.
7. Balmoral Courcelle 1/4 Zip – Forest Green
This lightly breathable ¼ zip fleece is pill resistant and durable. It’s fast drying and extra soft to keep you comfortable post run.
Founded in Montreal in 2018, Balmoral is a premium Canadian running brand dedicated to sustainability, social responsibility, and high-performance sportswear. They create eco-friendly, durable apparel using innovative materials and ethical sourcing to support healthy lifestyles and local communities. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or just starting, Balmoral offers functional, stylish gear that enhances your performance while minimizing environmental impact.
8. Garmin Forerunner 55Â
Give the gift of precision and performance this Christmas with a Garmin smartwatch. With features like GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and advanced performance metrics, a Garmin will help runners optimize their training and reach their goals. Stylish and functional, it’s a gift that empowers runners to stay motivated, track progress, and push their limits every step of the way.
9. Shop local
A gift card to Running Room, Sports4, Bushtukah, or Euro-Sports is a perfect choice for any runner on your holiday gift list, allowing them to pick out the gear they truly need. These stores offer a wide range of products tailored to athletes of all levels. WIth a gift card, you’re giving the gift of choice and with a thoughtful and practical present.
Choosing the perfect gift for the runner in your life doesn’t have to be a challenge. Whether it’s gear to enhance performance, nutrition to fuel their workouts, or apparel and accessories to keep them motivated, the options are endless. This holiday season, show your favourite runner that you support their athletic journey by helping them to reach new goals, stay healthy, and enjoy every step along the way!