Guest Blog: Samantha Hagness
Every year, it is the same old story. My mom asks repeatedly what I want for Christmas. I insist that I really, truly don’t need anything, and in return, my stocking is filled with personalized key chains and ornaments. This year, I have decided to save myself, and all of you, from a stocking full of personalized memorabilia and snow globes. Here is a list of 6 items of running gear that most trail running enthusiasts wouldn’t mind finding in their stockings on Christmas morning:
My Running Gear List
1. Headwear
From trucker hats to visors to headbands, whatever it is your runner chooses to wear, they probably could use another one. I’m a Buff kind of girl myself. Not only does this magical headband catch the sunscreen-filled sweat before it sneaks into my poor, unsuspecting eyes, it also doubles as an ear/neck warmer on chilly mornings.
2. Salt Sticks
Salt Sticks are like vitamins for runners; except, instead of taking one a day, I gulp down 8 or so on a long run. The bottom line is that they are expensive, and I go through a lot of them. So I wouldn’t mind Santa dropping a bottle or two in my stocking this year.
3. Energy Chews
They are basically candy that you only get to eat while working out. So if your runner is bound to turn his nose up at candy canes and gum drops this year, try filling his stocking with his favorite running fuel. I prefer Clif Shot Bloks myself. First of all, they are practically giant gummy bears. Second, they are filled with caffeine and salt, all the things I need to keep me moving.
4. Magic Shoe Strings
I call them “magic” because you don’t have to tie them…ever. Clearly, that is a huge plus and makes the $14 for a pair of shoe laces almost worth it. The other magical feature is that their elasticity allows them to stretch when your feet swell up.
5. ID Tag
This is one of those devices that I always think to myself I should really have when I am all alone in the mountains and the closest thing to human contact I have had for hours is a staring match with a coyote. This is also one of those things that you don’t ever take the initiative to buy for yourself, which makes it the perfect Christmas gift. And don’t forget your runner most likely switches between 2-3 pairs of shoes, so you can probably double or even triple down on this gift.
6. Deep Blue
Sore muscles are inevitable, and a little bottle of essential oils fits nicely in my purse. The real advantage of Deep Blue though is that it actually smells good, which is saying a lot when I think back to my IcyHot days.
Happy Holidays & Merry Christmas!
