People are searching for the perfect Christmas gift for their family and friends. If you’re searching for gifts for a cyclist or someone into outdoor activities, here are 7 things I have and love or would like to receive as a gift.
Update: 12 More Gift Ideas for Cyclists
This multi-tool has everything you need for on the road or trail bike repairs. Not only does it have the standard hex wrenches and screwdrivers, it also has spoke wrenches and a chain tool. The chain tool doesn’t work as good as my stand alone ones but it’s saved me from walking many miles.
The SPOT is one piece of gear I don’t have but have hiked with someone that has one. It is really nice for loved ones that are at home wondering if everything is alright while you’re in the backcountry. It’s a GPS unit that can send your location so others can view where you are on a map online. If you aren’t where you plan to be, you can send a signal that all is Ok. If something does go wrong you can send an emergency signal and rescuers will know your exact location.
I like the soft feel of fleece for a hat. I’ve had a regular fleece hat but in the strong winds it doesn’t even feel like I have it on. Not so with my Mountain Hardware Windstopper one. It’s nice and toasty even in the cold wind.
The Camelbak Rogue is the hydration pack I use the most. Actually I have two of them I like it so much so I can do a quick swap during long mountain bike races. It has enough storage space to carry a jacket, tubes, and my Crank Brothers multi-tool but doesn’t seem bulky. The 70 ounce bladder is big enough on most rides to get me to where I can refill. When I need to carry more gear and water, I use the Camelbak Blowfish.
The Garmin Edge 705 is the ultimate cycling computer. It is a newer version of the Garmin Edge 305. They both have GPS and heart rate monitor and can be bought with an optional cadence sensor. The 705 adds a color screen and maps. With the right maps you can get turn by turn directions.
YakTrax provide amazing traction for hiking or running on snow and ice. They are easy to slip on and off and small enough that you can carry them in your pocket until you need them. The Pro version has a strap that goes over the top of the shoe to help keep them from slipping off. An alternative is the Kahtoola MICROspikes. I have tried them but they’re all metal on the bottom so they are probably more durable than the rubber of the YakTrax. They also weigh 12.5 ounces versus 4.4 ounces for the YakTrax. The MICROspikes also look like they could stab your shins if you aren’t careful.
I’ve been using the Olympus Stylus cameras before they were even digital. They’re compact and are designed to be used in all weather. I ride and hike with one in my pocket. The 1050 SW is a hardened 10 mega
pixel model that is waterproof, shockproof and works in cold temperatures. It has a tap control feature to make it easier to use with gloves on. If you want an even more rugged camera, the Olympus 1030 SW is waterproof to 33 feet, can handle being dropped 6.6 feet and can withstand 220 pounds of pressure.
If none of the gear above is a good fit for your gift buying, check out another dozen cycling gift ideas and the Cycling and Outdoor Gift Card Guide. Also, below are links to some more gift guides for even more gift ideas.
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