Finishing a race is big achievement. All those early-morning runs and sore muscles are finally worth it, because there’s no feeling like crossing the finish line.
It’s a celebration in itself — but you want your race participants to feel a little extra love. Swag bags are a great way to strengthen brand identity and keep participants coming back year after year.
Want your race participants to grin ear to ear when they open your swag bag? Check out these 10 race swag bag ideas to get your participants’ hearts beating for a new reason.
Race swag idea #1: Self-care kits
Training can take a toll. Send participants home with aloe vera gel, muscle relaxing cream, sunscreen, and a mini ice pack so they are ready to face the morning free of aches and pains.
Race swag idea #2: Unique snacks
A good exercise session will make you hungry. Keep participants happy with packaged snacks, bars, and drinks. Some great options are health-conscious coconut water, energy drinks, or — if you’re feeling indulgent — chocolate milk. Bonus points for healthy snacks that will still keep everyone full, like nuts and date bars.
Race swag idea #3: Local coupon book
Want to give your participants a chance to unwind after all their hard work? Put together a coupon book of exclusive sweet deals for local hangout spots like beer gardens, family-friendly restaurants, or ice cream joints.
Race swag idea #4: Light-up shoe clips
Keep that healthy exercise glow by gifting light-up shoe clips that will keep participants safe on their evening runs. Keep the colors the same as your brand theme so they will think of your event fondly every time they lace up!
Race swag idea #5: Branded pins or patches
Include branded lapel pins or patches in your bag for some serious style points. Using your logo is great, but a cool custom design that celebrates the end of the race is even better. There are many different pin and patch types to choose from (button, hard/soft enamel, or die struck), so you are guaranteed to find something within your price range.
Race swag idea #6: A multi-tool
If you host trail races, give your participants something to remember you by on their next adventure with useful credit-card-sized multi-tool (flat plastic or metal tools that fit in a credit card slot) or Swiss army knife. Even better if you can get them branded.
Race swag idea #7: Local swag
Does your race take place somewhere with an easily recognizable monument or building? Get it printed (along with your logo) on a pendant, a mug, a shirt — the options are numerous. Even if you aren’t near the Space Needle or Half Dome, you can employ a local artist to portray your city or town through the eyes of someone who loves it. Adding in some local in-jokes can be great too.
Race swag idea #8: Fancy medals
Make your participants feel like champions with fancy medals that they can show off to family and friends. Like pins and patches, there are a plethora of different options, like diecast and acrylic, so you can shop around for a price that works for you. This is especially great for kid-friendly events.
Race swag idea #9: Stickers or temporary tattoos
Cheap but effective, stickers and tattoos give participants a way to celebrate their participation without the commitment of a branded shirt or hat. Frequently stuck on the back of a laptop or a water bottle, these swag ideas have high visibility for cheap.
Race swag idea #10: Sponsor goodies
You don’t want just your participants coming back for you next event – you want your sponsors to stick around, too. Make swag part of your initial talks with sponsors and make a deal to include on-theme goodies in your swag bags. The great part about this is that sponsors may be willing to pay for personalization. The swag is sure to feature their brand – but can include yours too.
Get your race event out there
Ready to impress your participants and get your event off to a running start? Create your event on Eventbrite now.
