Buying Christmas presents for anyone can be tough, but when that special someone is a runner it gets a whole lot harder. What do you get some one who wants nothing more than  to be free to run as much as possible? The answer is absolutely anything but running shoes that they haven't picked or at least tried on themselves, just don't do it!

Instead follow our festive guide to buying for a runner.

1. Head Torch

Winter is most definitely upon us and while that means mince pies, Christmas parties and time off work it also means Christmas songs on an infinite loop, cold weather and darkness. And while there's nothing we can do about the overplaying of Mariah Carey in Costa or those frosty mornings, a good head torch can at least make night running a bit safer and lot more enjoyable. 

Big Spender - Petzl Nao 2014

On a Budget - PATHFINDER 21 LED Headlamp

2. Socks

Socks at Christmas get a bad (w)rap (pun tragically intended) but don't let that put you off. Unlike the last minute panic buy gift that most of us think of, good quality running socks can be a wonderful thing that really do make a world of difference especially on the long runs.

Big Spender - Bridgedale Speed Trail

On a Budget - More Mile Running Socks

3. Chia Charge

As runner there is nothing worse than burning out mid way through a tough race or training session. This nightmare has happened to us all at least once, both beginners and pros alike, this doesn't mean though that it isn't preventable with a little help.

Our flapjacks are designed for exactly this purpose and because they are only made from real ingredients they won't upset your tummy either.

4. Gloves

Remember that cold weather we were talking about earlier? Well it's one of the few things that can actually take the fun out of running, especially when it makes you're hands so numb you can't open the front door once you've finished. 

Big Spender - Fusion Windstopper 

On a Budget - SLB Winter Gloves

5. Race Entry

In theory running should be cheapest sport going, throw on a pair of trainers and you're good to go or if you're barefoot enthusiast skip the trainers all together. In reality however that just isn't the case, especially if your entering a lot of races, the cost can quickly add up. Get the runner in your life something they'll love this Christmas and enter them in a race. 

Northern Trail - Hardmoors

Southern Trail - Hermes

Northern Road - Great North Run 

Southern Road - Brighton Marathon Weekend

6. Coaching

There is a world of difference between knowing what do in theory and putting know how into practice on the road or on the trail. And it's a lot easier to stick to a plan that someone else has written for you especially, when you know they will be checking up on you to see if you did your mobility that morning. A good coach can make all the difference, helping even the best runner build on their strengths and bring their up weaknesses.

There are hundreds of great coaches out there and they all offer something a little different, so take a few minutes and look for who seems the best fit. As a starting point though we love Cavill Coaching. 

7. Be Injury Free

Ah to be injury free, this might seem like a pipe dream for some runners but it doesn't need to be. While there is no magic pill you can wrap up and give them on Christmas Morning, there are a few things out there that can really help keep anyone running. 

Big Spender - Voucher for a Sports Massage 

On a Budget - Steel Man Mobility Kit