The best gift ideas, according to Nike Well Collective trainers
Buying guide
Beloved Nike fitness experts share what they will be giving their loved ones this festive season—and beyond.
There's nothing more satisfying than gifting your loved ones something they've been wanting for a while. If you're shopping for a gift for the fitness enthusiasts in your life, there's a good chance that new workout gear is on their list.
Trainers at Nike Well Collective have a passion for all types of movement—from cycling and strength training to yoga and hiking—just like so many fitness lovers out there. Here, find out which items trainers plan on gifting to others (and themselves) this year.
Ahead, you'll find the best Nike gift ideas for the festive season, birthdays or "just because" to impress the wellness-minded person in your life.
(Related: 7 best Nike gift ideas for runners)
For the dumbbell fanatic
1. Form-fitting crop top
Nike Well Collective strength coach Betina Gozo knows a thing or two about gear that can withstand tough sweat sessions. She loves the Nike Pro Dri-FIT women's crop tank top because it can help wick away moisture during workouts. Not to mention, it can double as a sporty, chic top outside of the weight room or home gym.
"You can style it with any bottom for a casual brunch or evening out with friends", she said.
2. Training shoes
For a lightweight yet stable training shoe to help you power through gym workouts, the Flex Control 4 is Nike Well Collective trainer Ben Bruno's go-to pair of sneakers.
"They're super-comfy and also [have] a pretty simple look, so it's a safe gift without knowing someone's exact taste because [the shoes] can go with a wide variety of outfits", he said.
For the yoga lover
1. Long-line sports bras
"There is nothing worse than being in a practice and worrying about your clothes", said Nike Well Collective yoga instructor Rebeckah Price. She suggested gifting the long-line Nike Alate Solo sports bra for its comfortability and coverage—it's also one of her favourite bras to wear while teaching a class.
"I especially appreciate that it's made from sustainable materials", Price said.
(Related: The best plus-size sports bras by Nike)
2. Sleek long-sleeved tops
Nike Well Collective yoga instructor Fabian Domenech recommended gifting the Nike Dri-FIT One Luxe long-sleeved crop top. The stretchy and smooth top features Nike Dri-FIT technology, which helps athletes stay cool and dry—even during hot yoga sessions. It also features thumbholes to keep sleeves in place during inversions (think: Downward-Facing Dog).
"Styling this top on and off the mat [provides] a big motivation to show up at the studio", he said.
3. Breathable bottoms
Bruno enjoys wearing clothing items from the Nike men's yoga line. He wears the Nike Dri-FIT 18cm (approx.) unlined shorts and the Nike Yoga Dri-FIT trousers, "and always gets compliments on them", he said. Both items' versatility goes far beyond the yoga studio, too. "I wear them both to train and to walk around town", he said.
For the avid cyclist
1. Compressive biker shorts
If cycling is your gift recipient's activity of choice, consider the Nike Universa women's medium-support high-waisted 20cm (approx.) biker shorts with pockets to enhance their future rides. "I love a biker short moment", said Nike Athlete and Peloton cycling instructor Tunde Oyeneyin. "The length gives perfect coverage and I'm a big fan of the pockets".
2. Supportive Nike Swoosh sports bra
Another essential clothing item Oyeneyin suggested gifting is a sports bra that complements the whole 'fit. Oyeneyin said she loves the Nike Swoosh medium-support women's padded sports bra, which is prime for hitting a workout on the bike or styling underneath everyday tops and is available in multiple hues.
"I'm always on the go. Having a classic, supportive sports bra means I can wear it in a range of ways. From meetings to tough workouts, I can always stand to have another of these", she said.
(Related: 4 benefits of cycling, according to experts)
For the explorer
1. Fleece zip-up jackets
If you're looking for a great gift idea for the person in your life who loves to go hiking, no matter how chilly it is outside, equipping them with a warm jacket is sure to be appreciated.
"I love a fleece and there's something special about gifting a piece [of clothing] that will inspire travel and adventure", said Nike Well Collective performance coach Lauren Schramm. She said she especially enjoys the ACG "Arctic Wolf" Polartec®, a full-zip fleece with an oversized fit. "This jacket could be worn alone on a crisp morning or layered for a winter hike", she said.
2. Cosy sweatshirts
"I love the practicality of the ACG collection as it's both functional and fashionable", Price said. "I'm a sucker for a cosy hoodie. The Nike ACG 'Wolf Tree' men's pullover hoodie would make the perfect gift to give someone for those cooler days".
3. Comfortable walking shoes
If the person you're buying a gift for can always be found tracking their steps or power walking at their local park, Schramm recommended the Motiva Walking Shoes.
"They feel like clouds under your feet", she said. The shoes feature a uniquely patterned outsole for extra cushioning (it happens to look pretty cool, too).
"They also make a great gift for anyone just getting into a workout routine", Schramm said, adding that any form of movement is positive. "Walking is a great way to get yourself moving".
For the person who prioritises comfort
1. Insulating hoodies
A Nike Tech Fleece hoodie or sweatshirt is not only a thoughtful gift, but it's also a reliable staple to have in the wardrobe, Gozo said.
"Whether you're looking to wear it over your workout outfit while heading to and from the gym or you want to wear it with matching trousers, the tech fleece gives anyone a [sleek] and cosy look", she said.
For the loved one who loves taking fashion risks, opt for the oversized asymmetrical hoodie. And, when looking for a friend or family member who prefers to keep it classic, you can't go wrong with the classic men's pullover hoodie that's soft and warm without feeling bulky.
2. Plush sweatshirts for kids
If you have a little one on your list to buy gifts for, check out Nike Sportswear Club fleece hoodies and sweatshirts for kids. "My nephew loves the outdoors and playing with his style. I'm sure he'll love [any of these]", Domenech said.
Words by Kylie Gilbert