Outdoor-adventure themed gifts not only provide utility, but also promote physical health, Vitamin-D processing, emotional wellness, and endorphin-filled memories that can last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for something for a romantic partner, a child, a friend, or yourself (highly recommended!) the following is a list of last-minute gift ideas for the mountain-biking enthusiast in your life. As a bonus, you can support your community by buying at local shops!
Bike tools can not only save the day when things go awry in the woods, they can also save money by providing the means to do small repairs and tune-ups at home. Some basics: allen key set, flat-tire-repair kit, floor pump (for the garage), mini pump (for the trail), or a multi-use tool.
Skills Clinics from Women in the Mountains are perfect for women of all riding abilities. Even strong, experienced riders tell us all the time how much their mountain biking confidence improves after our clinics. Book a session before the end of the year for a free jersey, and before prices increase in 2021.
Energy-dense, pre-packaged snacks provide easy fuel for outings and aid in post-workout recovery. Some tasty stocking-stuffers are waffles, nut mixes, and protein bars.
Water bottles or hydration systems are indispensable for short loops or all-day adventures.
Mountain-biking specific clothes not only make riding more comfortable, but they are also important for temperature regulation, protection from elements, and overall safety. The rider in your life will almost certainly love a new jersey, baggy shorts, full-fingered biking gloves, biking-specific socks, cold-weather pants, a biking jacket, and/or an under-helmet cap for cool days.
Mountain bike helmets should be replaced every five years. Women in the Mountains coaches wear and love the POC Tectal.
Activity-tracking watches are a fun way to help motivate riders to go more often, faster, and farther.
Sunglasses make sunny days more comfortable and keep retinas healthy. (A really nice pair of POC lenses may or may not help your loved one keep track of their spectacles.)
The research is in, and so are flat pedals. They are safer than clip-in pedals and help riders develop better techniques.
Mountain biking shoes have ultra-grippy soles that help improve efficiency as well as safety.
Bike lights provide illumination for riders trying to reach a peak before sunrise or who find themselves inadvertently caught in the dark.
If in doubt, stop by a local shop and ask for ideas. Whatever your holiday traditions, we hope the coming days are filled with joy, friendship, love, sun, and adventure!