5 Accessories Runners Love

I've been a runner for years, running for fun, running in 5Ks and running with local clubs. The longer you run, it seems, the more you realize how much else goes into running aside from putting one foot in front of the other.

Hydration, nutrition, stretching, strength-conditioning—it all plays a role in running. And so does your equipment, from shoes to hydration packs to recovery aids.

As we edge into the holiday season, I wanted to share some running accessories that could make a huge difference in your favorite runner's life, courtesy of my friends at Runner's Roost.

1) CEP Sportswear's compression sportswear, including socks, sleeves, short socks, and plantar fasiitis sleeves. Compression improves circulation and protects the body during activity, so you run better and recover faster. They also can act as a second skin and prevent blisters!

2) NATHAN hydration and visibility gear. This time of year especially, it's important to have reflective vests if you're running near vehicles or in wooded areas. Runners Roost has a large selection of reflective and active visibility gear, as well as hydration vests, belts, handhelds, bottles, running packs.

3) TriggerPoint Grid foam roller. Firmer than traditional foam rollers, the three-dimensional surface promotes blood and oxygen flow by aerating the tissue as you roll. Or check out TriggerPoint's MB1 Massage Ball for small muscles such as calves, piriformis and pecs and the MB5 Massage Ball for larger muscles including the shoulders or hips.

4) Moji steel ball massagers. These have freely rotating steel balls that can be chilled to use cool therapy to aid recovery.

5) Moji heated massagers can provide 30 minutes of therapeutic heat.

Runner's Roost has a variety of products from all these brands, so head on over there to treat yourself or your favorite runner. These are gifts they'll really use and appreciate.