Buying presents for the cyclists on your holiday gift list can seem daunting, and it can feel like they have everything but here are a few gift ideas that are guaranteed to generate a smile and happy miles on the bike.
Gloves
Gloves are a great gift. Yes they probably already have a pair or two or seven, but when it comes to gloves the more and different the better. Every cyclist wants their hands to be warm but doesn’t want to wear gloves that are warmer than they need to be. Bulky gloves don’t feel as good on the shifters and generally the warmer the bulkier. Having more different glove options allows a rider to match the glove to the weather conditions and even bring extras to change out if their initial estimate was incorrect. Plus gloves wear out pretty quick so having multiples of favorites is great. My personal coldish weather favorite is the Giro Blaze. Here is less than half my current glove selection.
Base layers
Like gloves, the more the better and similarly matching the correct baselayer warmth to the weather conditions is an art. The more options you have the easier it is. My favorite is the Craft ProZero Extreme. It is pretty warm but is hard to overheat in, as well as cycling this piece is great for skiing, running and general cold weather outdoor activities. Currently you can get a pretty good deal on the ProZero Extreme here.
Sweater
If you want a little more festive gift a Christmas sweater themed thermal cycling jersey is an original and fun present. Plus it is made in the USA. Available on the VOmax website.
Garmin
For the really good cyclist on your list the you can’t go wrong with a new Garmin Edge 510. Even if they have an older model Gamin they will be pumped on this upgrade.
Clothes
Non-cycling gifts are great as well. Most cyclists have a closet full of spandex and a pretty limited quiver of nice clothes. A flannel long sleeve is a great present for a skinny cyclist so they can look good next time they leave the house without a bike.
About the Author:
Craig Richey is a multiple time Canadian National team member, wearing the maple leaf at mountain bike World Cups and cyclocross World Championships. Craig is currently doing an MBA in Boston and recently launched SponsorConnected.com
