It is that time of year again where we start thinking about what we are going to get the fitness-obsessed friend, sister or girlfriend (ladies, pass this article along to your partners) in our lives for Christmas. Here are my five favourite must-haves for 2015, all ranging in price and function. And trust me, if you are at all into fitness as well as looking good while being fit, these items are essentials. 

New Balance Classics

These shoes are all over Hollywood, spotted frequently on the feet of Rihanna. I own quite a few pairs myself and when I am trying to avoid the “I just finished a run look” while running errands after I just finished a run, I throw on my classics. They are great for days where you are on your feet from 9-5, they work perfect to throw on after a workout as they look great with tights, and you can also wear them with a pair of skinnies when you are meeting the girls for brunch and a stroll. They range in price, but you can usually find a cute pair for around $100. Grab a pair for your favourite girlfriend and perhaps one to wrap up under the tree for yourself.

La Vie Boheme Yoga Mat

I am not sure about the rest of the country but a yoga mat is an essential piece of fitness equipment here in Vancouver. You can’t go into a coffee shop on a Sunday morning without seeing at least one girl walking with her yoga matt strapped on her shoulder. I recently stumbled upon these mats and even though I don’t do yoga (Pilates is my go to) I had to have one regardless. If you want to stand out in your next yoga class and possibly strike up a conversation with the cute guy or girl beside you, then La Vie Boheme yoga mat is your thing. They are a tad pricey but the lifetime warranty and their unique design and feel makes them well worth the expense.

Nike Fuel Band

People are obsessed with numbers, especially when it comes to fitness. These days it is not uncommon for office water cooler talk to be focused on how far we have moved in a day, how much sleep we managed the night before, and how many calories we have consumed. Nike+ fuel bands can record all of this, which then can be uploaded into the Nike+ community, allowing you to monitor your progress, set individual goals and compete with others doing the same. Surprisingly, they actually do not look that bad on a wrist. If you have someone on your list who you know is a numbers obsessed fitness freak, then this gift is a must for them. 

Gentsco Hats

This cap is one of those gifts that you can buy for the man in your life and then steal it back for yourself on those bad hair days or post workout errand days. I came across this hat a few months ago and it is now a staple in my wardrobe as it has made my 5am wakeup calls a little easier, especially on the days where I can’t remember the last time I washed my hair. It is super adorable and you’ll be sporting it alongside many celebrities, including Madonna, Eva Longoria, Reese Witherspoon, Sandra Bullock and Charlize Theron.

S’well Water Bottles

This is my latest obsession and makes a perfect stocking stuffer for the workout buddy in your life.  Coming in a variety of colours and styles along with a promise of keeping hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold, you can’t go wrong giving this as a gift to someone you love.