Field Tested Gifts for Cyclists

For the last couple of years I have put out a list of cycling gift ideas containing quality products that I have tested and use regularly.  This year's list contains eight of those items that will make the cyclist on your shopping list happy without breaking the bank.

Park Tool 
Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair

For the cyclist that would like to learn more about how to work on their bikes, the Park Tool Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair is a perfect gift.  This mechanic's guide covers everything from simple adjustments to a complete overhaul.  It's full of step-by-step, easy to follow instructions with color pictures and charts that demonstrate the repairs.  This is a great pairing with any cyclist wrencher's toolbox.  Available in hard cover from Park Tool, local bike shops and book retailers for $29.95.  Paperback and e-book versions are also available.

Garmin Edge Remote

If you're shopping for a roadie or a mountain biker that has a Garmin Edge compatible cycling computer, they'll love the Garmin Edge Remote.  This Ant+ wireless connectivity 3-button remote comes with a road and mountain bike mount.  No more taking hands off the bars to swipe to the next screen, hit the lap button or a number of other programmable options from a preset list of functions.  I use this remote for both on and off-road and it is much more glove friendly than trying to use the touchscreen of the Edge.  The Garmin Edge Remote retails for $49.99 and is available from local bike shops, Garmin and outdoor retailers.

Pearl Izumi WxB Shoe Covers

The shoulder seasons (spring & fall) can present some challenges to keeping feet warm and dry so Pearl Izumi WxB Shoe Covers are my choice for chilly or wet rides.  These shoe covers feature a fleece lining for warmth, a two stage hook and loop closure for a proper fit and windproof/waterproof PRO Barrier WxB fabric.  Available in Black and Screaming Yellow for $55 from local bike shops, Pearl Izumi and outdoor retailers.

Fo//ow Ho//ow 

Performance Alpaca Socks

When it comes to cycling socks, I have a huge collection of them, but if I had to choose only one pair it would be Follow Hollow Performance Alpaca Socks.  These hypoallergenic, baby Alpaca fiber socks are outstanding at regulating heat, wicking moisture and are extremely soft and comfortable.  This is truly a no-itch, all-day, no-stink sock. I wear them for a morning ride and then the rest of the day at work.  Follow Hollow just recently surpassed their Kickstarter goal and these are now available for pre-order in two sizes. Single pair price is $25 with orders being shipped out before December 20, 2019.  Buy two, four or eight pairs and receive a discounted price.

Bontrager Windshell Balaclava

I'm a big fan of balaclavas during the cold months to keep my face, neck and head warm.  I have several of them but I really like the Bontrager Windshell Balaclava because of its Windshell fabric that has a brushed thermal interior and clamshell design that allows me easily adjust it up or down on my face while riding.  This year's model has added laser-cut holes by the mouth and nose.  Available from Authorized Trek Dealers and Trek for $29.99.

Pro Bike Gear

Discover Bikepacking Bags

If you have a cyclist on your list that is interested in getting into bikepacking or bikecamping there are a couple of quality bags from Pro-Bike Gear that aren't too expensive.  The Discover Seatpost Bag is a 15L waterproof bag with anti-swing construction.  This bag is big enough to hold my bivvy tent with plenty of room to spare.  For the cockpit there is the Discover Handlebar Bag.  This 8L waterproof bag with handlebar wrap also has anti-swing construction and opens at both ends for easy access.  I've used this bag for my sleeping roll on my gravel bike and my bivvy tent on my fatbike and still had room to load other smaller gear.  Available from local bike shops and outdoor retailers for $69.99 each.

VeloInk Decals

VeloInk has the perfect gift for the cyclist that would like to add that personal touch to their rides, helmets or other bike gear.  I've been using these high quality, laminated vinyl decals for years and they stand up to whatever I and the elements have thrown at them.  Choose from a variety of different flag/graphic styles, fonts, colors, sizes and finishes.  Create a design with VeloInk's easy to use templates so you can preview it before you buy.  VeloInk Personalized Decals start at $9.95 and come with a satifaction guarantee.

Prestacycle
Prestaflator Mini Bicycle Tire Inflator

Why use a tire pump if you have an air compressor? The Prestaflator Mini Bicycle Tire Inflator is a shop quality, one-handed tire inflator with models for both presta and schrader valves.  I check and adjust my tire pressure before just about every ride and using one of these with my compressor is much quicker and easier than using a hand pump, especially for my fatbike.   Top off that tire pressure or seat a tubeless tire in seconds with this handy shop tool.  Available at local bike shops, Prestacycle and Amazon for $24.95 to $36.95.