Runner’s Gift Guide 2022: Recovery

What better gift for the fellow runner than the one of recovery? If you cannot pop the cash for a month-long vacation in the Maldives, here are our recommendations to help you relax and build your body back up for a better tomorrow.

Best Recovery Picks for Runners

Shakti Acupressure Mat | $89

Give the gift of deeper recovery — for body and mind — this year with an acupressure mat from Shakti. Not familiar with the concept? The mat is equipped with precisely placed spikes (ouch) that apply pressure in a way that promotes blood flow, relaxes muscles (ooh), and restores balance (aah). The creators at Shakti recommend at least 10-20 minutes on the mat to move past the pain and into the pleasure — making this a perfect gift for runners who struggle to sit still and focus on recovery.

Oiselle Tall Bird Compression Socks for Women | $50

Oiselle has proved time and again that it makes a quality product, designed to fit runners’ needs. And it does that with a style that is uniquely Oiselle. Like these tall compression socks, complete with signature bird details that remind runners to fly. We appreciate the extra toe and heel padding, and that the material is light enough to wear on a run.

CEP Compression Socks | $60

Looking to give socks that don’t suck this holiday season? For the runner hoping to simplify their wardrobe, these compression socks from CEP are made with adaptive fabrics that keep feet comfortable in all temperatures and seasons. And the compression is targeted to help those commonly fickle areas like the ankles and arches.

CWX Endurance Insulator Joint & Muscle Support Compression Tights | $180

Ever had a pair of pants that hugged you in all the right places? These leggings from CW-X are just that, for runners. Specifically designed to support knees, hips, pelvis, and lower back, while offering muscle compression, these leggings do a lot to lighten the load and speed up recovery.

Restcloud Neck Stretcher | $30

Don’t let tech neck put a crick in your running posture. Staring at computers and phones may be our way of life right now, but products like the Restcloud Neck Stretcher can offer much-needed relief. This traction therapy device works naturally via gravity and body weight and aligns to the natural curves of the spine. Plus, it’s easy to use: just lay on it for 10 easy minutes a day.

Molecule Infinity Pro Adjustable Foam Pillow | $60

A good night’s rest is absolutely essential for tissue repair, restoring glycogen, strengthening the immune system, and more. And if a pillow will make or break your sleep, then the Molecule Infinity Pro Pillow is just what you need because you can add or remove foam to get the exact amount of support you want. The shredded foam style also allows for more air flow than a traditional memory foam pillow, so you can expect a cooler night’s sleep.

Summersalt French Terry Tie Waist Pant | $85

We want recovery-wear … but can you make it cute? The sustainable French terry fabric on these Summersalt lounge pants are divinely soft and the belt-tie detailing and tapered cut are a definite style choice. Perfect for wherever the rest day takes you — near and far.

Paka Breathe Men’s Joggers | $125

Paka, a company that makes athletic wear from all natural fibers, has discovered the recipe for softness: alpaca fleece + bamboo + organic cotton. Put it all together and you’ve got a cozy recovery from a long day on the trail in the form of the Breathe Men’s Joggers. These can easily become a campfire or couch-crashing favorite.

Trigger Point Eco Grid 1.0 Foam Roller | $42

A foam roller is a foam roller is a foam roller, right? We’d argue that the TriggerPoint Eco Grid Foam Roller manages to differentiate itself in two distinct ways: 1) A hollow but reinforced core allows for a firmer surface to roll out tight muscles and get a satisfying myofascial release. 2) It’s constructed of 30 percent renewable materials with a recycled plastic core, making it a better choice for the planet.

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