When we asked the Lounge what gifts they really want, they shared generously!   With their input, we were able to create a great list of the gifts runners really want.   If you are looking for the perfect gift for your  runner, look no further than this list of great ideas.

Special thanks to our contributors for adding their tips to this list:

fivekviv, cdnrunnergal,   curlyj, dennis, eyeballrene, spartan7, runatthemouth,  momofthree, axrun262, milanorunner, marlene, glen20910, felicepd, runnindb, lauras, roobabs, boucher, piecesofme1, absamaz, blainemoore,  mamarta, slbplus, coffeebetsy,  marie1010, brook31  , melanie1300, distancerunner, debbie jrt        

Low Price and/or Stocking Stuffers

Just because these items have a low price, don't discount the value they have for runners.   Runners go through many of these gifts on a regular basis so you know the gift will be well received and quickly used.

• Gels, Drinks, Bars.  Many Loungers told us that a packet, box or case of their favorite energy gel (Gu, Powergel, Hammer) or replacement drink (Gatorade, Powerade, etc), or blocks, beans, etc  would be a welcome gift.  Runners can be very particular about their favorite so make sure to peek into their current stash, ask them about their favorite or send an email to their running partner to find out which one. 
• Road ID.   Safety is a priority for runners and there is no better gift than a Road ID.  Road ID lets runners run without worrying about carrying other bulky identification.   Runners who dropped off this tip mentioned that they believe it is one of the best gifts to give or receive.
• Running socks.  A runner can never have enough running socks because there are seasons (hot, cold, wet, dry).  And although runners can be particular about socks, a quick look into their sock drawer will tell you their preference.  Wicking socks keep feet happy!  A few of the favorite brands mentioned are Wigman, Wright, and Ininji.
• Foot care.  It's not glamorous, but runners need help taking care of their feet.  Items like bandaids, blister pads, NuSkin, pumices, foot lotions, foot pampering products, etc are always needed and appreciated.   A collection dressed up in a basket or a stocking would be great.
• Body glide.  Body Glide was a popular item on the list.  It keeps friction at bay during those long runs which means fewer sore spots and blisters on your favorite runner.
• Running magazines.   Not only do runners like to run, they like to read about it to.  A subscription to their favorite running magazine like Runners World or Running Times would be enjoyable during their nonrunning time.
• iTunes card or music.  If your runner has an iPod or MP3 player, they need music.  Without a doubt.  I haven't met a runner yet who had enough "fresh" music on their player.   Replacement head phones or sport headphones were also on their list.
• Lip balm, sunscreen and baby wipes.  Especially for cold weather runners - they need a fresh supply of lip balm (chapstick, blistex, etc.).  Sun is always a concern so no sweat sunscreen is good.  And baby wipes will make your runner smell instantly sweeter when they don't have time for a well deserved shower.
• Running gloves and hats.  Gloves and hats that wicker away sweat and moisture are fantastic gifts guaranteed to get your runner out there in all weather.
• Trinkets.  Little items like 13.1 or 26.2 key chains, stickers, ornaments or plaques can really brighten a runners day.

Moderate priced items

• Running gear.  Running tights, jackets, shirts, tights, running bras, shorts are always needed.   Go through the running drawers to find out sizes and preferences and always attach a gift receipt.
• Massage.  Running bodies get sore throughout the year.   A well placed body or foot massage  or pedicures keeps runners running - and with less aches and pains - which means less whining at home. 
• Post run gear.   Soft, comfortable shoes like sandals or slippers and comfortable clothes to change into after a run and a shower are tops for runners.
• Running books and movies.  Runners like to read, watch, learn and talk about running.  If you don't know the books on your runners list, check out Amazon's list of running books (http://www.amazon.com/Running-Jogging-Individual-Sports-Books/b?ie=UTF8&node=16587) or also a post on RL about great books (http://www.runnerslounge.com/knowhow/index.cfm?ID=44&ArticleID=339e37ac-f370-4c2d-947a-655d5b93b584).   Start with Amazon's list (http://www.amazon.com/Inspirational-Running-Movies/lm/3QGHQDZ1SF3AE).   Don't forget some of the good ones of 2008 including Spirit of the Marathon, Run Fat Boy Run, and Volcanic Spirit to name a few.
• Gift certificate to favorite running store.  If you aren't sure about what to buy, never fear - your runner does.  A gift certificate to their favorite running store is always in style.
• Money for race entries or travel to races.  Most runners will race at least one each year if not more.  Race fees and travel adds up in a hurry.  Gift certificates, money or offers to pay race expenses is as good as running the race with them.
• Race photos/frames.   This one was added catiously by the Lounge.  Many would love more pictures but race photos can be really unflattering.  Look through them carefully and choose the one you know your runner would love to post.  Frames can be great gifts as well!
• Sunglasses.  Sporty sunglasses that are light weight and work well with running are needed for all seasons and regions.
• Headlights and other safety gear.  If you runner likes to run at night, don't forget the standard safety running stuff like headlights, clip on flashlights, mace, reflective running vests, and safety items for dogs too!
• Running Tshirts.   Fun running tshirts put a smile on a runners face.  One More Mile is a great running tshirt online site.  Or make your own at sites like Running Banana or Cafe Press.
• Running recovery tools.  Massagers, foam rollers, tennis balls, and "The Stick" are great running tools for all runners to have and use to take away sore muscles and prevent injuries.

Big ticket items

• Running shoes.   Don't buy the shoes unless you know the EXACT size, brand and style.  If you do, make sure your runner wants another pair.
• Running outerwear.  High quality jackets, windbreakers, and vests are great investments for runners but many do without.   Ask your runner for their wish list and even advice from running experts at the running store.
• Garmin/GPS watch.  If your runner doesn't have a Garmin to keep track of their runs (pace, distance, splits, etc), it is a good bet they want one.    Having a Garmin to measure and track running progress gives your runner freedom to run anywhere and still know how far and fast they are running.
• iPod/MP3.  If your runner runs with music but doesn't have an easy way to change it up - look at all the different options available.  iPod shuffles and some MP3 start for as low as $50 and can give hours of running music to your runner.
• Running Tshirt quilt.   There is a purpose for all those running tshirts that build up and your runner doesn't wear.   Have them made into a quilt.   Don't take the technical shirts but all the other regular soft cottony ones make great quilts.   These are highly coveted gifts by runners!
• Treadmill.
• Fitness club membership.
• Bike.

Priceless items

• Babysitting certificates.  Time to run is the scarest of all resources.   Giving a runner time to run is a luxurious gift.   Create a book of certificates for short, medium and long runs and make it easy to redeem.
• Race support.   Most runners will deny it, but no matter what they say they love to have family and friends at races.   Seeing people they care about and also care for them as they run through a tough patch in a race or better yet - cross the line - doesn't cost much for the giver but is a priceless experience for the runner.
• Massages.   Massages can be big ticket items when done by the professionals, but they are equally as welcome when done by friends or family.  Helping a runner stretch or massage a hard to reach area, massaging shoulder or feet is always welcome.
• Post Run Star Treatment.  Having some hot soup and tea waiting after a long run or the chance to take a nap is a treat many runners go without.   A bit of pampering and care and feeding after a long or tough run is a great gift for runners - one kids can give too!
• Run along.  Offers to run along or cross train can be a real boost for your runner.  One idea was to start running and enter your running friend and you in a race and do it together.
• Give memories.  Help your runner (or do it for them) add a page to a scrapbook or photo album is a way to help relieve great races and runs.   Photo collages are fun gifts too!