All I Want For Christmas - Part 1

(Originally Posted 12/5/14 - By Lisa)

Sure, I'm kind of biased.  I think our bags are awesome as presents.  So my number one suggestion for those looking to get a gift for the runner in their lives would be one of our bags (and like potato chips, you can't just stop at one, so buy 2 or more).  But what other gift would runners like?  I've decided to compile my favorite running items I've received as gifts or as a gift I bought for myself! (Disclaimer: I am receiving no compensation for mentioning these products-I truly just like them all!!)  I'm going to break it into 2 parts because if I wait until I've written about all ten items before posting, it may be Dec 2015 before I publish this post.

1.  Road ID-www.roadid.com
I received my bracelet awhile back and I love it.  I wanted the bracelet verses the shoe ID, as I had read numerous places that if you are struck by a car while running, your shoes usually go flying (I know, terrible thought).  This way, the ID will still be on you.  Everyone who sees my bracelet makes fun of me though.  Why?  Well, when I chose the "contact" info on my bracelet, I chose my home number, my spouse and his cell phone, and my mother and her number.  But instead of putting her first name, I wrote "Mom" and her phone number.  Hey, if she ever needs to be reached, they can just say, "Are you Lisa's mom?"  No need to know her on a first name basis.  

Yep - There Reads "MOM"

2.  Sparkle Skirts www.sparkleskirts.com

Wearing Flower Power Sparkle Skirt
I'm a part of a lot of running groups on Facebook, and the name "Sparkle Skirts" was constantly being mentioned as having skirts with running shorts underneath that would not ride up.  I was skeptical, to say the least, as I have a closet full of cute running skirts that I cannot wear if I'd like my thigh flesh to remain intact.  After reading lots and lots of reviews, I decided to buy one.  First, the shorts did NOT move.  Thighs=intact.  Second, they have pockets.  I'm not talking those stupid pockets that aren't even big enough to hold a crumpled tissue.  These are 2 big pockets on the shorts, plus a giant pocket across the top that has a zipper.  Finally, something to hold my keys, my tissues, my jelly beans and my phone.  On top of all of this practicality, they are absolutely adorable.  Kudos to them for also realizing that runners come in every shape and size-the skirts are available in XS-3XL.  I discovered them only at the beginning of 2014, and I am now the proud owner of 10 of them.  ​

3.  Anything From Your Local Running Community http://six03endurance.com
I am lucky enough to live in New Hampshire, where the running community is alive and well.  We have a great support system of local runners, as well as numerous running companies and groups that put on tremendous races and training runs.   These groups go beyond just running-they foster life-long friendships and relationships.   I'm a big believer in supporting these local groups.  And there's a sense of camaraderie when you're running a race (often times, a race not even close to home!) and someone is sporting a tee shirt or a tank top with the same logo as you.  So look up a local running group in your town, support them by running their races/buying their merchandise/showing up to their training runs, and prepare yourself to meet some awesome runners and make great friends!! ​

4.  BeeCause Charms  https://www.beecausecharms.com/
I bought a charm each time I ran the Boston Marathon (as a charity runner through www.charityteams.org).  Running Boston as a charity runner still ranks in my top 5 running experiences, so I wanted a daily reminder on those days I cant believe I ever accomplished not only the training and the run itself, but all that came along with fundraising.  In addition, I have a very practical use for the charms.  Since I usually have 2 pairs of sneakers at any given time, and both pairs are usually the exact same shoe, I will put the charms on my newest pair, so I know which one is which!

5.  2 Toms Sports Shield http://www.2toms.com/sportshield/
I was an avid user of another anti-chafe product, but had really mixed results.  After running a few races where my skin irritation hurt more than my muscles, I knew I needed to find another option.  This, my friends, is it.  I LOVE this product.  It kind of looks (and feels) like Ban deodorant in the same roll-on style.  Ever since I started to use it, I have had zero issues with chafing.  I will sing its praises, especially when I get in the shower following a race, and I don't scream from the water hitting my cuts.