These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (2024)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (1)

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It’s no exaggeration to say that student-athletes work hard. Beyond maintaining a certain GPA to qualify for school sports, they must train and compete at impressive levels. Life is all about balance, but sometimes, your loved one might forget to prioritize self-care. Thankfully, these gifts for student-athletes can aid in recovery, enhance training, and improve daily life — all without breaking the bank.

To ensure these are truly helpful gift ideas, I consulted an NCAA Division 1 athlete about some of her daily must-have products and the items her teammates love. I also spoke with our in-house senior tech editor, an avid health and wellness enthusiast outside of work. And as a pop culture-obsessed beauty editor, I dug deep to find the exact products that world-class athletes like Venus Williams and Cristiano Ronaldo actually use.

As for what’s not included? I initially considered pre-workout supplements to help your favorite student-athlete feel more energized during exercise, but the NCAA has strict rules and regulations on supplements. The safest bet is to avoid them so your gift doesn’t inadvertently cause any issues. “So many supplements have to be approved for competition, and if it’s approved by the National Science Foundation, it’s safe,” explains Fordham rower and Hearst branding intern Carley Walker. Although she's a fan of cold plunges, most college athletes live on campus where dorms are small, so I cut a portable cold plunge from the story.

Keep scrolling for the best student-athlete gift ideas for your loved ones, regardless of their skill level or sport. These products, ranging from meal prep and snacks to smart gadgets and gear, are mostly $45 and under. The pricier picks are gifts that can be used frequently, like colorful Oakley sunglasses for training, vacations, the commute, or heading to practice.

1

For True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds

Beats Fit Pro

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (2)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (3)

Everyone deserves a great pair of Bluetooth earbuds, and your loved one will gladly appreciate these sweat-resistant Beats for their secure in-ear fit. They're handy for exercising, studying, or tuning out bus and plane noise during long-distance away games. This student-athlete gift idea earned high marks from senior tech editor Stefan Vazharov, who relies on these timeless earbuds for their excellent spatial audio.

"The Beats Fit Pro earphones have been among my go-to true wireless sets since their launch for their sleek and durable design, flawless ergonomics, great all-around audio performance, and seamless integration with iPhone and Android phones," he says.

More: Save Big on Smart Mirrors With These Editor-Vetted Picks

2

Cristiano Ronaldo's Go-To Brand

Whoop 4.0 Fitness Tracker

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (4)

I'm a Fitbit loyalist, but this minimal fitness tracker impressed Cristiano Ronaldo enough to become an investor in the brand. And every soccer — I mean — football fanatic knows CR is picky about what he attaches his name to, so Whoop must be worth considering.

The device is also a buzzy gift idea among student-athletes. Intern Carley Walker is a member of Fordham's rowing team and recently treated herself to a Whoop device on Amazon Prime Day.

"It was high on my wishlist, especially after seeing how much my fellow student-athletes benefit from it. A close friend of mine loves her Whoop because it helps her manage the balance between work and recovery. Its features, like tracking sleep, recovery, and strain, are incredibly useful for optimizing performance," she says.

She's excited about how the journal feature will allow her to monitor how her meal time, hydration, mood, and menstrual cycle can impact her recovery and sleep. "In rowing, where every second counts, understanding these factors can make a significant difference in improving recovery and overall fitness," she says.

More: Fitness Trackers That Motivate You to Move

3

Venus Williams' Favorite Brand

Asutra Dead Sea Bath Salts

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (5)

As a beauty editor, I'm a big fan of self-care gifts, like bubble baths and body soaks. And tennis great Venus Williams agrees. She curated a collection of Asutra products to promote TLC. One standout from Williams' selections is the Dead Sea Bath Salts, which comes with mineral-rich sea salts with coconut and chamomile oils. There's also organic lavender, cedarwood, and marjoram essential oils for additional calming nature and aromatic scents

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4

For Easing Muscle Tension

DoSensePro Acupressure Mat and Pillow Massage Set

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (6)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (7)

Walker says this is the exact model her strength coach has, and for added reassurance, it earned thousands of glowing Amazon reviews. This acupressure mat promises to alleviate pain and discomfort—all your student-athlete has to do is lay down on the long mat, which can accommodate their entire back. There's also a pillow with acupressure points for added comfort and pain relief.

The mat is covered in thousands of acupressure spikes that feel a bit unusual at first, but the sensation will quickly improve after about a minute or two. This meat also heats up for a spa-like feel.

These microfiber cooling towels will be a welcome reprieve from grueling exercise and a much-needed treat to aid a student-athlete's post-game recovery. They'll need to soak the towel, wring out excess water, and snap it to activate the chilling sensation that wicks sweat away from the skin.

Each towel can stay cool for up to three hours, and can be used by humans or pets. They're also practical for anyone's emergency medical kit as a way to help cool down from fevers, sunburns, or hot flashes.

6

For Full Body Pain Relief

Theragun Pro Plus

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (10)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (11)

CR is also a fan of Theragun and in 2021, he became an ambassador for the device. The brand's current roster of pro athletes include Pao Gasol and James Harden, plus mega soccer club Paris Saint-Germain.

Walker notes that her University's athletic trainers provide Theraguns for student-athletes to use as needed. "I personally love the Theragun because it effectively loosens up any sore muscles before or after practice," she says.

And I know the Theragun is a splurge, but I gifted my dad this 6-in-1 model and the device still holds up four years later.

More: Fitness Gifts Active People Will Love

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7

For a Reader-Favorite Body Sunscreen

THINK Thinksport SPF 50

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (12)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (13)

This sport sunscreen is perfect for water sports and those who train outdoors as it has a mineral formula that provides instant broad-spectrum protection.

Think is sweat-resistant for cycling, running, and other HIIT exercises, so your student-athlete can remain confident their skin is protected and remain focused on their training. It is also reef-safe and contains biodegradable and non-toxic ingredients that won't harm your loved one, coral reefs, and marine life.

Its oil-free formula means it won't clog pores that lead to blackheads and acne, common summer skincare concerns.

8

For Protecting the Face and Scalp

Sun Bum Kids SPF 50 Clear Sunscreen Face Stick

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (14)

Stick sunscreens are a totally underrated, but are essential for head-to-to sun protection. Dermatologists advise using scalp sunscreens because they can be used on the part, hairline, or bald heads without any mess. They can also be applied to the face and body as needed, but given their small size, you'll have to restock quicker than using a large body sunscreen.

Walker is a big fan of Sun Bum products, and this stick sunscreen combines four types of active ingredients for broad-spectrum coverage. It's got an invisible finish, making it ideal for reapplying sunscreen on the face. It also can be used on dry or wet skin for easy reapplication in between swim or workout sessions.

9

For Meal Prepping

Rubbermaid Brilliance BPA Free Food Storage Containers

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (15)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (16)

Walker highlights meal prepping as an integral part of the student-athlete lifestyle and suggests gifting glass food containers. These 100% airtight containers are both odor- and stain-resistant, so they will look brand new for longer. The lids also feature built-in vents for splatter-free microwaving when they warm up Sunday sauce leftovers.

These food storage containers are also stackable, so they won't take up too much space in their small dorm room or apartment.

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10

For Perfectly-Blended Protein Shakes

Blender Bottle Classic Shaker Bottle

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (17)

Walker notes protein shakes are a staple for student-athletes, so I wanted to find a top-rated option worth gifting. Blender Bottle is a popular brand that has been around for 20 years, so you know it'll be a no-fail student athlete gift idea.

With a lightweight feel and multiple sizes and colors to choose from, your giftee will appreciate this thoughtful and practical present. They can make smooth, lump-free protein shakes with the included BlenderBall whisk that helps mix the powder. Each bottle also comes with measurement markings so your loved one can easily make a protein shake.

11

As Seen on "Shark Tank"

LARQ Bottle Filtered

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (18)

A 2021 study found that proper hydration is an essential part of athletic performance, injury prevention, and recovery. This unique bottle cleans drinking water with a proprietary Nano Zero filter technology. The filter will eliminate everything from chlorine and lead to mercury and heavy metals, to name a few. Overall, your giftee can enjoy clean, fresh, and crisp water when a water fountain isn't around. Each filter lasts up to two months, which is the equivalent of 40 gallons or 300 single-use plastic bottles.

12

For Soft and Supple Hands

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (19)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (20)

Rough, dry hands, and callouses are the norm for some student-athletes like rowers. This bestseller is one of the best in the game and earned major snaps from one of our testers for our guide to the best hand creams. To quote their glowing feedback, “I love this hand cream because it’s small enough to toss into my bag. It smells amazing, and it’s super thick and moisturizing—not greasy."

L'Occitane's hand cream is made with an impressive blend of 20% organic shea butter, coconut oil, honey, and almond extracts for baby-soft hands. Despite its nourishing formula and relatively thick consistency, this student-athlete gift is non-greasy and absorbs quickly.

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13

For Sneaker Odor Elimination

Glovestix StankStix Shoe Deodorizer

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (21)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (22)

Athletes go hard while training and competing, and the combination of hot summer weather, sweat, and bacteria can cause their feet and shoes to smell. This unique gift idea helps eliminate smelly odors in shoes like cleats and boots. It has a similar look to a jump rope and handles, but the long bars fit into your shoes and use non-toxic ingredients to help remove odor. They can also leave this student-athlete gift in their gym bag or locker to help absorb any unpleasant scent.

14

For Training Sessions

Nike Women's Pro 3 Shorts

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (23)

Not all student-athlete swag bags are created equal. Your busy loved one will need some extra gear for training and lounging.

Walker says her team loves these Nike Pro three-inch shorts and matching sports bra so much that she considers them both staples in the team's wardrobes. "The shorts are extremely comfortable and stay in place during our workouts. The shorts have a classic design that never feels outdated. I think all female athletes should incorporate Nike Pro shorts into their workout gear," she says.

15

For Cushiony Summer Slides

KuaiLu Womens Recovery Sandals

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (24)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (25)

Now 42% Off

Thanks to TikTok, cloud slippers are the shoe of the moment. They're stylish, supportive, and even offer light orthopedic support for plantar fasciitis. These non-slip slides are comfy to wear for long hours, but still offer firm support for the feet to ease tight muscles post-workout and promote quicker recovery. The back of these cloud slippers also have a hollowed out design to help the feet breathe, dry quickly post swim (or from sweating), and prevent smelly odors.

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16

For Spa-Like Exfoliation

CSM Dry Body Brush

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (26)

Dry brushing is a technique that has been around for centuries. It increases blood flow and collagen production, which lessens the appearance of fat cells and making cellulite less obvious. Dry brushing is an easy way exfoliate, circulate, lift, and tone skin. This skincare tool also enables body lotions to absorb quicker and help soften skin over time.

Most dry body brushes feature strictly bristles, but this affordable self-care gift is equipped with rounded bumps for added massage benefits. Don't worry; the bristles are also on point! They're firm enough to reap all of the benefits of dry brushing without irritating skin or causing any micro-cuts or nicks.

17

For a Great Night's Sleep

Slip Silk Sleep Mask

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (27)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (28)

A 2020 study found that athletes get inadequate sleep on average compared to non-athletes. According to the research, "There is increasing evidence that poor sleep is a good predictor for injuries and, more importantly, concussion." The Mayo Clinic, a non-profit academic medical center, also argues that sleep is equally as important as training, nutrition, and hydration. With an increased importance of sleep for everyone's well-being, I knew I wanted to spotlight my favorite eye mask.

Made of the finest mulberry silk, Slip's luxurious sleep mask is incredibly comfy. It fits snugly even when I twist and turn in bed. Plus, it has a pillowy, soft texture that remains comfortable after frequent washing.

18

For Moisturizing and Healing the Face and Lips

DERMATONE Skin Protector

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (29)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (30)

Meet the affordable student-athlete gift idea that can be used 365 days a year. This unique balm prevents chapped skin, sunburns, and windburns, so it's equally practical across outdoor sports like skiing, snowboarding, biking, wind sailing, and surfing.

Your giftee will only need a little bit of product on their face and lips to help prevent dryness from the elements. Thanks to its zinc oxide, it's also a handy SPF with broad-spectrum coverage against the sun's ultraviolet A and B rays that cause signs of aging and burning.

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19

For a Stink-Free Body

Lume Whole Body Deodorant

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (31)

Your favorite student-athlete can banish stink with this full-body deodorant from Lume. This bubbling TikTok micro-trend is more than just hype. A board-certified dermatologist recently told me in our Summer Beauty Awards package that full-body deodorants are safe and help absorb sweat and reduce odor.

Wearers can apply this whole body deodorant in stick or cream form to their armpits and other areas, such as the inner thighs, body folds, creases, and along the bikini line. Beyond sweat and odor protection, Lume uses mandelic acid derived from bitter almonds to brighten dull skin, like dark underarms.

20

For Instant Inflammation Relief

Tiger Balm Tiger Balm Pain Relieving Ointment

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (32)

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (33)

Walker discovered Tiger Balm while on a high school training trip and considers this pain-relief ointment a "game-changer." She says, "Whether it's soothing the strain in my muscles after long days on the water or providing instant relief when I wake up sore from an intensive gym session, Tiger Balm continues to deliver immediate comfort and relief."

It provides a warming sensation and works by increasing blood flow to the application area to minimize pain. The brand also makes inflammation products to ease tension.

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (34)

Tested byCarley Walker

Intern

Carley Walker is a brand licensing intern at Hearst Magazines and a rising senior at Fordham University. At Fordham, she is a part of the Division 1 Women's Rowing Team and the social media coordinator for the team.

These Genius Gifts for Student-Athletes Earned Major Snaps From a D-1 Athlete (2024)

FAQs

What does the student athlete at a university really gain from participating in a competitive sport program at the university level? ›

As such, student-athletes learn and develop, foster, and build essential interpersonal skills such as leadership, time management, and working with others to achieve common goals.

What is Mark Few's position on student athletes profiting from their name image and likeness? ›

Gonzaga men's basketball coach Mark Few said at the recent Senate hearing that granting athletes the ability to profit off their fame “absolutely needs to happen right now.” Few added: “But we do need some parameters to preserve the collegiate model and protect the recruiting environment.

What do student athletes get? ›

Athletic scholarships cover a portion of the costs for tuition and fees, course-related books, room, board and, sometimes, living expenses. The amount covered is dependent on whether the offer is a full or partial scholarship.

How much time do D1 athletes practice? ›

How many hours a week do D1 football players practice? Each team has its own practice schedule, but you're probably going to practice two-three hours a day. This amounts to about 10-15 hours per week.

What are the benefits of being a D1 athlete? ›

Academic and Support Services

Student-athletes receive academic support, such as state-of-the-art technology and tutoring, and have access to athlete-focused academic advisors in addition to traditional academic advisors. The NCAA also provides resources each year to schools as part of the Academic Enhancement Fund.

Do student-athletes make more money after college? ›

former college athletes are in a 0.028 higher earnings category than non-athletes, ceteris paribus. Because most income categories represent a $5,000 wage gap, this coefficient can be interpreted as approximately a $140 wage benefit.

Can college athletes make money off their likeness? ›

Effective July 1, 2021, the NCAA approved name, image, and likeness policy allows student-athletes to monetize their NIL.

Will student-athletes be paid? ›

Show them the money

(College athletes can now legally make money indirectly, after a Supreme Court decision in 2021 forced the NCAA to allow them to be compensated by businesses for the use of their name or likeness, but the NCAA still prohibited colleges from paying them directly.)

Do D1 athletes get an allowance? ›

Student-athletes may receive partial scholarships or full-tuition scholarships, room, board, and other benefits such as academic support and healthcare. Still, they are not paid in the form of a salary.

Do D1 athletes get free food? ›

According to the legislation, Division I and Division II universities require that all student-athletes receive “unlimited meals and snacks in conjunction with their athletics participation.” This flexibility allows for tailored support to fit the needs of an individual and team.

How many D1 athletes go pro? ›

Fewer than 2 percent of NCAA student-athletes go on to be professional athletes. In reality, most student-athletes depend on academics to prepare them for life after college.

How often do D1 athletes train? ›

For example, when you travel for matches or competitions you often miss classes or skip practices for that particular day. Generally speaking, a College athlete will have three hours of classes per day on average. They'll also be at practice for two hours a day, with an hour either side for 'prehab' and rehab.

Do D1 athletes go to class? ›

The premier collegiate student-athletes essentially have two full-time jobs: student and athlete. To meet the demands of both, many Division I student-athletes end up committing nearly 60 hours to school and sports, leaving very little time for anything else.

Is D2 better than D1? ›

D1 athletes are more competitive, and typically have a better chance of receiving scholarships and going pro in their sport. That being said, D2 athletes have more time to focus on their studies and pursue other interests. It comes down to a question of which league fits your interests and skills better.

How do sports benefit universities? ›

College athletics promotes school spirit and unity, which allows students to take pride in and feel connected to the higher educational endeavor. They also provide one route for historically underrepresented individuals to receive an education at an affordable cost.

Does participation in athletics provide any true benefits to student-athletes? ›

Academic and Career Benefits

Youth sports helps young athletes learn important life skills like goal setting and time management, as well as the following: High school students, especially female students, who play sports are less likely to drop out.

How does being an athlete help academically? ›

Studies have shown that exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps the body build more connections between nerves, leading to increased concentration, enhanced memory, stimulated creativity, and better-developed problem solving skills. In short, playing sports helps your brain grow and makes it work better.

Do competitive sports contribute to education? ›

Adolescents participating in team sports presented self-reported higher academic performance than those who did not participate [24]. In the same line, a longitudinal study reported that sports participation predicted better academic performance one year later [25].

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