Holiday Shopping Guide: For the Athlete

Finding the perfect gift for the athlete in your life is all about supporting their drive, passion, and commitment to staying active. Whether they’re a dedicated runner, a fitness enthusiast, or someone who loves exploring the great outdoors, thoughtful gifts can help elevate their game and keep them motivated. In this gift guide section, we’ll highlight top-notch gear, apparel, and accessories that combine performance with style, ensuring you’ll find something they’ll truly appreciate—and use—on their fitness journey.

Fleet Feet (Oak Park)

Fleet Feet in Oak Park is more than a store—it’s a hub for fitness enthusiasts and runners alike. Locally owned and operated by Dave and Lisa Zimmer, Fleet Feet is on a mission to inspire a passion for running and active living within the community.

This athletic retailer offers a wide selection of running shoes, apparel, and accessories designed to help runners of all levels perform their best. With personalized fitting services and expert advice, Fleet Feet ensures every athlete finds the perfect gear to hit their stride. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just starting your fitness journey, Fleet Feet has everything you need to move with confidence.

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Lively Athletics (Oak Park)

Lively Athletics is a locally-owned boutique specializing in women’s athletic apparel, offering everything from yoga pants to running shoes in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere (although they do offer options for men and children as well!). Beyond just retail, Lively Athletics is deeply rooted in the Oak Park community, giving back through donations, fundraisers, and partnerships with local organizations like the park district and Hephzibah.

The store’s year-round initiatives include collecting gently used athletic shoes for the MORE Foundation and hosting donation drives to support local causes. They also partner with BFF, a women’s running group, to provide free shoes for children at Hephzibah. At Lively Athletics, every purchase goes beyond fitness—it’s an investment in the community.

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Play it Again Sports (Forest Park)

Play It Again Sports in Forest Park is your go-to destination for all things sports, offering a wide variety of new and secondhand sporting goods. Locally owned and operated, this unique sporting goods chain buys, sells, and trades equipment, making it easy to find high-quality gear at a fraction of the cost.

Whether you’re upgrading your equipment, clearing out unused items, or looking for a great deal, Play It Again Sports provides an affordable, sustainable way to gear up for your favorite activities while supporting a local business.

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Wheel & Sprockets (Oak Park)

Wheel & Sprocket in Oak Park is the ultimate destination for cyclists, offering a wide range of bicycles, gear, and expert services to meet all your cycling needs. Located in a stunning new development on Westgate Street, this outfitter stocks top-notch bikes perfect for commuting, fitness, or family rides.

In addition to selling high-quality bicycles, Wheel & Sprocket provides a full-service repair shop, bike fitting, and a selection of used bikes. With their convenient repair pickup and delivery service, keeping your ride in top shape has never been easier. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, Wheel & Sprocket is here to support your cycling journey.

Visit their destination profile to learn the best times to visit and what's nearby!