For runners focused on their training—whether for a 10k, a half marathon, or simply staying consistent—alcohol may not always fit into the routine. However, that doesn't mean giving up social gatherings, especially as Christmas and end-of-year celebrations come around. With non-alcoholic beers improving in quality and variety, it's now easier than ever to enjoy a drink without risking your goals.
In recent years, pubs and bars have expanded their non-alcoholic options, giving runners more choices for a night out. Below, we've put together five excellent non-alcoholic beers that work well with a runner's lifestyle, whether you're at a social gathering or just want a satisfying drink at home.
Guinness 0.0
Type: Stout
Tasting Notes: Guinness 0.0 preserves the deep, creamy texture and roasted malt flavours of classic Guinness, delivering hints of coffee and chocolate. With its nitrogen pour, it maintains the smooth, foamy head Guinness is known for, without the alcohol.
Calories per 440ml Can: 75 kcal
Why It’s a Great Choice for Runners: This alcohol-free stout offers runners the iconic taste of Guinness without affecting training. It’s an ideal option for social situations, giving you the richness of a traditional stout while keeping you on track with your goals.
Lucky Saint
Type: Unfiltered Lager
Tasting Notes: Lucky Saint’s unfiltered lager, at 0.5% ABV, has a distinctive biscuity malt base and a clean, refreshing finish. Its unfiltered nature provides a fuller body and a hazy look, making it satisfying for lager lovers.
Calories per 330ml Bottle: 53 kcal
Why It’s a Great Choice for Runners: With its low alcohol content and flavourful profile, Lucky Saint is an ideal choice for runners who want a great beer experience without veering off their training path. It’s becoming widely available in many pubs and bars, making it an easy pick for social events.
Heineken 0.0
Type: Lager
Tasting Notes: Heineken 0.0 offers a refreshing, balanced flavour with light fruity notes and a soft, malty base. Its taste closely resembles the original Heineken, so lager fans can enjoy a familiar experience without alcohol.
Calories per 330ml Bottle: 69 kcal
Why It’s a Great Choice for Runners: Heineken 0.0 is widely available and a solid option for runners who want the taste of a classic lager while staying alcohol-free. It’s perfect for those moments when you’re out with friends or at a work gathering but still prioritising fitness.
BrewDog Hazy AF
Type: Non-Alcoholic Hazy IPA
Tasting Notes: BrewDog’s Hazy AF brings tropical fruit aromas with a hint of grassiness. Made with oats and wheat, it has a smooth, juicy body that replicates a true New England IPA, minus the alcohol.
Calories per 330ml Can: 20 kcal
Why It’s a Great Choice for Runners: For IPA lovers, Hazy AF offers bold, fruity flavours without the alcohol, making it a great pick for runners who enjoy craft beer but don’t want it impacting their training routine.
Beavertown Lazer Crush
Type: Alcohol-Free IPA
Tasting Notes: Beavertown’s Lazer Crush, at 0.3% ABV, features a lively hop character with bright citrus and tropical fruit notes. It has a crisp bitterness and a lighter body, giving it a refreshing taste for IPA enthusiasts.
Calories per 330ml Can: 89 kcal
Why It’s a Great Choice for Runners: Lazer Crush captures the hoppy taste of an IPA without the alcohol, making it ideal for runners who want a craft beer experience that fits seamlessly with their active lifestyle.
A New Era of Non-Alcoholic Beers for Social Runners
The rise of non-alcoholic beers means runners can enjoy social occasions without compromising on training or recovery. While not every bar will have all of these options, the days of limited alcohol-free choices are long gone, with many pubs now offering at least a couple of high-quality alcohol-free options.
With these five selections, runners can stay focused on their goals while still enjoying a pint. So, raise your glass—it’s a toast to training, social life, and finding the best of both worlds.