Running Gifts for Kids: Safe Ideas Suited to Their Age

Running gifts for kids have to meet two conditions: they should encourage children to move and they should suit their age. A child who runs does not need adult kit. They do not need carbon plate shoes, watches with training plans or gels. What they do need is comfortable footwear, clothing that makes them visible and something that makes the sport more fun. Here are running gifts for kids chosen with that in mind, from well-known brands with good buyer ratings.

We chose these products for their brand, buyer ratings and what they are for; we have not tested all of them. Prices change often, so we only give budget ranges. This guide contains affiliate links: if you buy through them, KnowPace may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, KnowPace earns from qualifying purchases.

Running shoes for kids

This is the most practical gift if the child runs at school, in a club or in kids’ races. Look for a light model with good cushioning that is easy to fasten.

Children’s feet grow fast. Leave about a finger’s width of space at the front, but do not buy two sizes up “so they last”: a shoe that is too big lets the foot slide around and does not hold it well.

Clothing that makes them visible

If the child runs or cycles at dusk, being seen is what matters most.

An activity tracker, not a training watch

For kids, a GPS running watch is more than they need. An activity tracker motivates them to move without fixating on pace or distance.

Other running gifts for kids

• Medal and bib hanger: kids love seeing their race medals on their bedroom wall.
• Entering them in a kids’ race: many popular races have events for children. You can find them in our race calendar.

How much should kids run?

At these ages the goal is to enjoy themselves and move a lot, not to train like adults. The World Health Organization recommends that children and teenagers aged 5 to 17 do an average of at least 60 minutes a day of moderate to vigorous physical activity, and running is a great way to get there if it is done through play. If the child gets hooked, the best option is an athletics club, where training is adapted to their age.

Running gifts for kids we do not recommend

• Carbon plate shoes or adult racing shoes.
• Energy gels or supplements: a child does not need them to run.
• Watches with training plans and performance metrics.

Running gifts for kids FAQ

Which shoes should I give a child who runs?

Light, comfortable shoes from a running brand, such as the adidas Runfalcon 6 Junior or the ASICS GT-1000 GS, in their exact size with a finger’s width of room.

Is it a good idea to give a child a GPS watch?

An activity tracker for kids, such as the Garmin vívofit jr. 3, is better, as it encourages them to move without focusing on pace or distance.

From what age can a child run in popular races?

Many races have kids’ categories from a very young age, with distances adapted to each age group. What matters is that the distances are short and that the child wants to take part.

What cheap gift can I give a child who likes running?

The cheapest running gifts for kids are a reflective vest, a watch with a stopwatch or a medal hanger.