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There’s no quicker way to cyclists’ hearts than the gift of gear. Whether it’s a totally trendy lumbar pack or a simple pair of socks, they’re sure to love anything that helps them spend more time in the saddle.
Below, some of our favorite bespoke (get it?) buys.
Shimano SH-GF800 Bike Shoes
Once considered a “what-the-heck?”–inducing knob on helmets and shoes, the dial system from Denver-based BOA Technology has now infiltrated nearly every outdoor industry, as well as the medical field—and for good reason: The dial facilitates micro-adjustments that ensure the perfect fit. That’s especially beneficial in cycling shoes, where nailing your individual ideal tension across the top of the foot results in an impressive 11 percent improvement in power transfer, effectively allowing them to ride faster. So consider yourself warned: If you bequeath a pair of BOA-equipped Shimano SH-GF800s (available for men and women, $200) unto your riding buddy, you might find yourself struggling to hold their wheel. The obvious solution: Nab a pair for yourself while you’re at it. Available online and at various retailers
Artilect Darkhorse Skully Beanie
Just five years old, Artilect might be a new name to cyclists. The art plus intellect behind the brand (and its name), however, is the summation of fourth-generation Boulderite Trent Bush’s lifetime in the outdoor industry. Your giftee can experience it in the highly durable, fast-drying, and uber-soft Darkhorse Skully Beanie ($35), all features that come courtesy of Superfine Nuyarn merino wool. Technically, this head warmer works for any sweat-inducing pursuit, not just those in the saddle; however, the helmet-friendly design (and subtle nod to your giftee’s favorite post-ride dive bar), earns this skullcap a spot in their riding kit. Available online and at various retailers
Osprey Savu 5 and Sylva 12 Packs
Fanny packs are most definitely the in way to carry just-enough-stuff loads, but as anyone happy to regale you with stories about “back in my day” will report, they’re just as functional as they’ve always been. So really, it’s no surprise these bum bags—which lower a riders’ center of gravity and reduce back sweat—are the accessory of choice on singletrack. The Savu 5 ($65), Cortez-based Osprey’s technical take on this cool-again hauler, features two rigid water bottle pockets and a sunglasses/phone pocket all within easy reach while riding. On the other hand, if you’re shopping for a cyclist who prefers a traditional backpack, consider the Sylva 12 ($160), which includes an updated Hydraulics LT 2.5-liter reservoir and a bike-specific winged shoulder harness. Both bags are made with Bluesign-approved, recycled fabrics. Available online and at various retailers
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL Bikepacking Tents
A tent on a cycling gift guide? You bet. Bikepacking is one of cycling’s hottest trends, but finding a compact tent that can easily strap to your steed is no small thing. That’s why Big Agnes designed the Copper Spur UL Bikepack Series (starting at $550) to have shorter-than-standard, 12-inch pole segments that fit into a waterproof stuff sack and easily mount to your handlebars, frame, or panniers. The shelter itself features the Steamboat Springs–based brand’s uber strong, super durable, and lightweight (the one-person tent’s trail weight is just 2 pounds, 5 ounces) proprietary fabric. In the tent’s canopy, a supported roof vent ensures ample circulation and makes it more likely that sweaty chamois will be dry for tomorrow. If your cycling pal travels in a peloton, choose the two-person ($650) or three-person ($700) option. Available online and at various retailers
Hestra Bike Guard Long 5-Finger
For the rider who appreciates bad jokes and functional gifts, may we suggest something that’s sure to come in, ahem, handy? How about a pair of Bike Guard Long 5-Finger ($50) from Hestra, a Swedish glovemaker that houses its U.S. headquarters in Arvada? These breathable hand covers feature an extra-grippy silicone print along with pockets of shock-absorbent gel, both in the palm, to prevent loss of dexterity on technical sections. Available online and at various retailers
Nite Ize Wraptor Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount
If your pal, or your partner, is the de facto route finder, make their job a whole lot easier with the Wraptor Rotating Smartphone Bar Mount ($26) from Boulder-based Nite Ize. Delightfully versatile, the Wraptor features patented, four-corner silicone grips that hold a smartphone of any flavor (it’s compatible with all brands) steady even in rugged conditions. Plus, switching from texting in portrait mode to checking the next turn in landscape mode is a breeze thanks to the 360-degree rotation capability. Know your giftee is more Magellan than Bob Vila? No worries. The Wraptor mounts easily without tools (or talent, for that matter). Available online and at various retailers
Norrøna Skibotn Flex1 Pants (Women’s, Men’s)
A one-horse open sleigh isn’t necessary for snow-covered trails, but your favorite year-round rider will need the appropriate attire, including a pair of bottoms that are both breathable and wind-resistant. A pair of Skibotn Flex1 Pants ($1999, available for him and her) from Norrøna, which is based in Norway with U.S. headquarters in Boulder, are just what the spin doctor ordered. Made with a stretchy, proprietary softshell fabric, the Skibotn Flex1 Pants have a high-back waist, articulated knees, and a durable gusseted crotch that—when paired with a cozy base layer and chamois—make them perfect for logging winter hours in the saddle. Available online and at various retailers
Topo Designs Bike Bag
Handlebar-bound stash packs are great for minimalist commuters because they add easy-access storage space for a phone, energy bar, and essentials while adding minimal bulk. We dig the Bike Bag ($49) from Denver-based Topo Designs, which is made with durable, recycled nylon and comes in a rainbow of earthy tones (or a sleek, simple black). Plus, its waterproof liner offers bonus rain resistance and simplifies cleaning in cases of the dreaded goo leak. Pair the bag with the Rover backpack—available in sizes ranging from 0.5 liters to 24.3 liters ($29-$149)—if you’re feeling generous. Available online and in various retailers
Smartwool Cycling Socks
Smartwool, owned by Denver-based gear juggernaut VF Corporation, makes a variety of technical biking apparel, including jerseys, gloves, and wind-resistant vests. But we picked these sweet, zero-cushion crew socks ($23) out of the pack for their ability to wick sweat and keep feet dry without being too thick. Also: The Aloha Forest print leaves us inspired to ride on. Available online and in various retailers
Osmia Lavender Body Mousse
Help them recover well after a grueling day in the saddle with a sweet-smelling, four-ounce jar of Lavender Body Mousse ($55) from Carbondale’s own Osmia Skincare. Made from a blend of organic shea butter and hydrating babassu oil that’s whipped until cloud-like, the mousse provides welcome relief for sun-beaten skin and ravaged muscles. Gift the 0.63-ounce trial size ($10) as a smaller token of affection or when pairing with a decadent bar of body soap like the rejuvenating Citrus Pearl ($20). Available online and in various retailers
