The 10 Best Colorado Gifts for Cyclists

There’s no quicker way to cyclists’ hearts than the gift of gear. Whether it’s a tricked-out tent for bikepacking 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.

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 ass-essory 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

Sea To Summit Telos Freestanding Ultralight Tent

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 Sea to Summit—an Australian brand with its U.S. headquarters in Boulder—designed the Telos freestanding ultralight tent ($599) to have shorter pole segments, meaning it can be packed into a shorter bundle than most traditional backpacking tents. Those squat proportions ensure it can be strapped pretty much anywhere on your rig, including the front fork, so it’s a good thing the Telos also comes with two waterproof stuff sacks to prevent tire spray from soaking your shelter. Available online

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 on the palm along with pockets of shock-absorbent gel in the palm to prevent loss of dexterity on technical sections. Available online and at various retailers

Nite Ize SpokeLit Rechargeable Wheel Light Disc-O Select

The Mile High City is home to a slew of social bike rides that set off after dark. Help your buddy get in on the party—and stay safe when cycling at night—by dressing their rig with these rechargeable wheel lights ($20) from Boulder-based Nite Ize. They click onto your spokes (tools not required) and feature six hours of charge, plus they can be set to one of four color options or a color-changing disco mode to make your ride feel more like a rave. Available online

Norrøna Fjørå Flex1 Pants (Women’s, Men’s)

A one-horse open sleigh isn’t necessary for snow-covered trails. Neither is a fat bike, but your favorite year-round rider will need the appropriate attire, including a pair of bottoms that are both breathable and water-resistant, if they try. A pair of Fjørå Flex1 Pants ($219, 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 Fjørå Flex1 has a high-back waist, articulated knees, and hook-and-loop adjustments at the ankle that—when paired with a cozy base layer and chamois (sold separately)—make them perfect for logging winter hours in the saddle. Available online and at various retailers 

Point6 Arrow Extra Light 3/4 Crew Socks

Point6 churns out high-performance wool socks and apparel for all sorts of activities, but its Extra Light 3/4 Crew socks ($23) are ideal for cycling. The 62-percent-wool construction keeps your tootsies toasty (and stink-free-ish), ventilation panels help keep them dry, and nylon reinforcement prevents your toes from wearing through the fabric. What happens if they do break free? The Steamboat Springs company offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee. Available online and at various retailers

RockyMounts GuideRail Car Rack

Carbon bikes are expensive, so it’s best not to strap your rig to your car by its frame where it can be damaged. RockyMounts, a 30-year-old rack manufacturer based out of Grand Junction, uses two load arms on its trailer hitch-mounted GuideRail ($850) to secure your bicycle by its wheels instead. It’s not a particularly novel idea, but the GuideRail sweetens the deal with its two-bike capacity (which can be bumped up to three by purchasing an extra tray, $300); asymmetrical loading so handlebars don’t get tangled; and anti-wobble system that prevents your bikes from rattling to death on the way to the trailhead. Available online and at various retailers

Topo Designs Frame Bag

Frame-bound stash packs are great for minimalist commuters because they add easy-access storage space for a phone, energy bar, and essentials like a bike tube and multitool—and they do so without adding non-aero bulk. We dig the waterproof Bike Frame Bag ($49) from Fort Collins–born Topo Designs, which is made with durable, recycled nylon and comes in a rainbow of earthy tones (or a sleek, simple black). Pair it with the Rover backpack—available in sizes ranging from 0.5 liters to 20 liters ($29-$99)—if you’re feeling generous. Available online and in various retailers

Skratch Labs Hydration Everyday Drink Mix

The best thing about gifting a 30-serving pouch of the new-this-year hydration mix ($28) from Boulder’s Skratch Labs is how easy it is. You don’t have to know anything about the giftee’s riding style, measurements, or what they already have squirreled away in their gear shed. (Although you will need to know if they prefer orange or lemon-lime.) Every cyclist needs to stay hydrated, and they can never have enough electrolyte mixes—especially when they’re not only tasty but have zero grams of sugar. Available online and in various retailers

Smartwool Go Far, Feel Good Spokes 5 Panel Hat

Smartwool, owned by Denver-based gear juggernaut VF Corporation, makes a variety of technical biking apparel, including jerseys, gloves, and socks. But we picked this five-panel cap emblazoned with a bike wheel ($35) out of the pack for one simple reason: Cycling isn’t a hobby. It’s a lifestyle. Available online and in various retailers