When it comes to gift ideas for our favorite cyclists, we’re big fans of those every ride carry trail side essentials that are often overlooked, as well as those pre-and post ride accessories that enhance the riding experience. Plus stuff great on road trips, and general bike life. If you’re looking for some gift ideas, here are a few of our favorites.
Tiibo Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle — $39.95
Drinking from a stainless steel water bottle just tastes so much better than a plastic bottle – there’s no comparison. Insulated bottles generally can’t carry as much water as you’d like but the Tiibo 23oz bottle gets pretty close. Though it doesn’t quite fit all my bikes, (the Tiibo is the largest stainless bottle in my collection) it’s been a companion on my gravel and XC hardtail mountain bike and keeps my drink cold all day. (read our review here) Find it at Tiibo.com.
Worried if it’ll fit? The Speedfil Speedflask Stainless Steel bottle is a great option too. Read our review here.
SDG Components Bel-Air V3 Max Saddle
The SDG V3 Max is an iteration of the Bel-Air platform that has been optimized to increase the level of comfort without detracting from the performance aspects of the proven saddle shape. It’s one of our favorite saddles and think you’d like it too. (read our review here)
PNW Components Loam Dropper Post Lever
The PNW Loam Dropper Post Lever plays well with all cable actuated dropper posts and comes in a range of colors to match. PNW’s alloy and carbon bars are great options for upgrading one’s cockpit and would make a great gift for a rider looking to refresh their ride — read our review here.
Multi-tools
A rider can’t have too many multi-tools. This is always a safe bet for a sweet gift idea, because if you have more than one backpack or waist pack having a tool dedicated to each is amazing. My favorites for this year are tied, but depending on your needs, Crankbrothers and Topeak make some of my favorite tools.
Crankbrothers M19 Multitool
As I mentioned, when it comes to multi-tools, I have a few favorites, based on those times on the side of the trail where it enabled me to address mechanical issues and get us out of jams. With basic Allen wrenches, Torx bits, and a chain breaker, most trail side problems can be addressed. The Crankbrothers M19 multi-tool (link to review) gets the job done every time, and I trust it enough that I own three of these tools – one for each waist pack and pack.
It has all the functions you need and it includes a small case that keeps it secure in your bag/pack. And it’s relatively inexpensive – I found them online for $28-$37.00.
Find it on Amazon or shop Multi-Tools at REI.com
Fernhill Co Frame Bag
I’d never hit the trail without a flat tire repair kit on or with me. And since I usually don’t ride with a pack, having the essentials on the bike means less weight on the body. Enter the Fernhill Co Enduro Frame bag. We’re biased when it comes this frame bag, (more on that soon) but it’s pretty rad.
If you have a spot on your frame where you can fit one, its nice to know you’ll always have a spare tube, tire lever, and mini-tool on your bike in the event your tire plug isn’t able to save the day. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s made in the USA and well constructed, and with mounting points encircling the bag you can strap it on the bike anywhere there’s a space for it.
Check it out at FernhillCo.com.
Dynaplug Tubeless Tire Repair Kit — $29+
My every ride carry doesn’t just include a tube, multi-tool, and lever; tire plugs are an essential piece of the carry as well. Dynaplug makes the best one we’ve used, in a small, compact package that can fit anywhere. Dynaplug offers a few different kits but the Carbon Racer ($47) is the smallest and lightest. (and the one I’d want to see under the tree)
I have one of these already, but ideally I’d have one paired with every trail bike I own, so this one makes the gift guide every year.
Shop for Dynaplug Tubeless repair kits on Amazon.com.
Soft Flask Water Bottle — $17+
When we see riders running a plastic water bottles in a holster in their waist pack, my spine gets a twinge. The idea of crashing on that and the potential years of chiropractic care are not appealing. A soft flask water bottle on the other hand is like crashing on water filled padding. Seems like a no-brainer, right? I’ve been running the HydraPak SkyFlask Speed 350ml when I want refill, and it’s great for other activities as well. I got mine on Amazon.com.
Shokz OpenRun Bone Conduction Sport Headphones — $130
Riding with music can be great, especially on those solo missions. Regular ear buds can be sketchy though; Shokz headphones and their open-ear design allow you to stay aware of your surroundings. They’re also more comfortable than having a piece of rubber jammed in your ear.
I’ve been running a set of the OpenRun models and I used them on everything from bike commutes to solo trail rides, to running… and even stand up paddle boarding. I was worried they’d get in the way of my helmet, but they play very well with my open face helmets. I got mine on Amazon here.
Pedro’s Tire Levers – $8.00
This is an easy one, since these levers last forever, and they’re inexpensive, making them a great add-on bit. I have a tire lever stashed on every bike I own (often in a Fernhill Co Frame Bag – see above) and you can’t have too many of these things lying about. I’ve broken a lot of tire levers in my day, but not any of these. Order some on Amazon.com.
Survival Shovel — $21+
A survival shovel is just a good idea to have in the car, because, well – shit happens, and these things are just dang handy. While there’s a big range in pricing, the one I have in each of my vehicles now lists for only $21.00. It’s totally durable and functional, with 17 tools in one. Admittedly, I use it most when camping paired with a roll of toilet paper to dig hole for #2, but the thing is small and easy to store.. and useful. If you have a better budget, there are nicer kits available that also include camping axes, which would be a good addition to your go-bag.
Knee Pads — $50+
A good set of knee pads is comfortable on trail rides, and adds confidence. We’ve worn quite a few, and the knee pads from Leatt and IXS top the list as some of our favorites. Retail partner JensonUSA has some of the best selection around.
Showers Pass Waterproof Crosspoint Gloves — $45
We often recommended the waterproof socks from Showers Pass, (and they still remain one of the best and most appreciated gift you can offer a cyclist or anyone that ventures outdoors when the weather turns sour) but their waterproof gloves are pretty amazing as well. Like the waterproof socks, they feature a breathable Artex membrane to keep your hands dry. If you get cold hands commuting, these things are amazing.
Check them out at ShowersPass.com.
Stio Pinion Down Jacket
A nice down jacket is the ultimate pre-and post ride layering piece. My current go-to is the Stio Pinion Down Jacket. ($259+, link to our review) Though it might look bulky, it is anything but, and wearing it is like slipping into a shirt-shaped sleeping bag. While there are lots of great options on the market, the Stio Pinion is a solid choice. I’m also a big fan of their insulated snap shirts, ($185) which can be accessorized into a going out ensemble.
Shop now at Stio.com.