We’ve assembled the 12 best gifts for the athletes in your life trying to achieve some form of cycling fitness.
Sure , who doesn’t want a second bike or a new frame. This list, however, is about manageable items ranging from $15 – $2,000 and can stuff stockings or bring your loved ones to their knees. Keep in mind that many of these items are subject to personal preference so it’s a good idea to keep your receipts, check return/exchange policies.
12. ButtShield – Great stocking stuffer! This is a life saver (or a bum saver) on rides over 50 miles. I’m a huge fan of ButtShield roll on, Assos Chamois Creme and DZ Nuts Bliss. My wife and other female friends like Hoo Ha Ride Glide. Your athlete will be ever grateful.
11. Cycling socks – Another great stocking stuffer. You can never have too many socks since the heals and ankles wear out so fast. Sock length is subjective but the fad now a days is calf length socks, instead of the stove tops that end just above the ankle. I prefer Castelli or Pearl Izumi.
10. New gloves – Yet another wonderful stocking stuffer. There’s a limited life of gloves before they start to lose their love. Maybe it’s all the runny nose rides that break them down. Regardless, a fresh pair are always needed. Since it’s winter time, consider a nice pair of wind and water proof gloves. I tend to trust Castelli, Pearl Izumi, Endura, and Specialized.
9. Bike Tune-up – Heck yes! No one really takes time off the bike to get a tune up so Christmas time is a perfect time to get the bike back in proper shape. Talk to a local and reputable bike shop. You may want to seek out recommendations from team mates or groups in your area. All bike mechanics are not made equal!
8. Bike fit – It’s a great time to hone in your aero profile or maximize power or comfort. A gift certificate for a bike fit would be an amazing gift that would keep on giving! Everyone would benefit from a proper professional fit. It’s not just for racers! Talk to local groups or high end bike shops for advice and direction. Just as mechanics, bike fit professionals are definitely not all equal.
7. Cycling bib – They’re not cheap but a good new bib feels amazing and will provide structural support and padding. You’re seeing a pattern here but the name brands got their high prices for a reason – they feel good. Stick with Sugoi, Pearl Izumi, Castelli, Capo, Assos, and Louis Garneau. If you check their current size, you should be safe.
6. Cycling Jersey – Just like cycling bibs, jerseys loose their luster after 5 months or so and start to have that not so fresh smell – especially around the armpit area. Just like the bibs, check current sizing on your loved one’s jersey and stick to it. Brands remain the same: Sugoi, Pearl Izumi, Castelli, Capo, Assos, and Louis Garneau.
5. New sunglasses – These could be considered a stocking stuffer but for the brands that we really like (Oakley, Spy, Rudy Project, Uvex, Smith) they’re not cheap. I suppose there’s a good bit of marketing hype behind the pricing but be sure they stay on your face when you sweat. Honestly, the lenses, for me, are just a way to keep the bugs out of my eyes. I don’t need the latest and greatest technology; just a sturdy pair of light weight glasses that cover all of my eye area. Fashion does have a price.
4. Base layer – Always needed! This is the layer that accepts the majority of the body sweat and odor. A good base layer can keep you warm, cool, and dry when needed. Stick with Craft, Pearl Izumi, and Castelli.
3. New helmet – This is a bit lower on the list only due to the fact that they wear so long. If you talk to a rep, they’ll tell you that the material is only rated for a limited lifespan. However, I’ve had my Specialized Cobra helmet for almost 11 years now and it works just fine. That being said new helmets that match your kit or bike may provide the inspiration to train more. That in itself is worth the cost. Helmets could be an entire blog post so consider whether your loved one rides Time Trial/Triathlon events or just regular road riding. There’s a great helmet to meet every need.
2. New wheels – The second best gift you could buy a Cyclist or Triathlete. Be prepared to spend some big bucks here, anywhere from $800 to several thousand. I’d suggest setting a budget and typing up a personal coupon to go shopping with your athlete. They’ll want input here, trust me. I will, however, plug Boyd Cycling. Boyd Johnson is an ex professional cyclist turned wheel designer/builder. They do things right. Check them out!
1. Power meter – As you may have guessed, this is the single best gift you can give to your loved one. Whether they plan to race road or triathlon or want to lose weight or just get in general shape, a power meter will be the best gift you can buy for them. The iBike Newton power meter is priced extremely low for the caliber and quality. It does it all! If you’re looking for the best long term impact gift, a power meter is it.
Do you have questions about training, nutrition, or weight loss? I’d love to help. Please reach me at iBikeBlog. Thank you and happy shopping!
