As the delighted child of the president of the St Austell Wheelers cycling club in Cornwall, I understand the importance of carefully choosing gifts for a cyclist. Therefore, we’ve consulted a wide range of individuals, from coaches to competitors, club cyclists to junior riders, about their ideal presents.
On the subject of Dad, he has transitioned this year from road cycling to gravel biking (take a look at Fairlight Cycles) and is absolutely enjoying it. He gifted himself a waterproof jacket for Cornish downpours and a pannier set for a cycling adventure in France – and he gives them high praise (check below for details). He is less impressed with the bike bell someone claimed is ubiquitous in France, only to arrive and discover that not a single cyclist he spotted had one.
Putting aside my own family matters, here’s a curated list of what a selected group of cycling fans would adore this Christmas.
Top Christmas gifts for cyclists
Adorable collectibles
Cycling figurines
Carys Lloyd, a talented female road cyclist and multiple junior European and world champion, endorses Lego: apparently, it has become a favorite among traveling cyclists seeking a mindful activity while on the road. While there isn’t any cycling-specific Lego (an oversight, right?), these beautifully hand-painted figures make a wonderful present for cycling fans.
Cyclist’s stocking stuffer
Premium chamois cream
Felix Barrow, a men’s T2 para-cyclist and multiple medalist on the road, swears by chamois cream. “It may not seem festive, but every cyclist recognizes it as the true MVP [most valuable player] of comfort during long rides,” he states.
Functional bags
Apidura Aero System luggage
Want to conquer the mountain climbs with Strava as bulky luggage weighs you down? Tidy up your bike storage system, suggests Sam Challis, tech editor at Cyclist. “This bag system is designed to fit snugly behind the stem and head tube, effectively increasing the frame’s surface area, which leads to reduced drag. Not too shabby for a piece of gear that also holds snacks!”
Hand Warmers
Sealskinz heated gloves
For those whose hands easily get cold while riding, whether on the road or in the mountains, heated gloves might be the ultimate treat. This set features breathable insulation, a waterproof outer layer, and a rechargeable battery offering up to six hours of warmth.
For additional gear to keep you safe and warm, check out our guide to winter cycling necessities
Smart multitool
Daysaver Essential8 multitool
Planning for lengthy routes? Whenever feasible, you ought to be equipped to repair your bicycle while out and about. According to Challis, this multitool: “May look like a single hex key, but clever design allows it to house seven hex sizes along with one Torx. It weighs in at just 33g and is crafted in Switzerland from plasma-coated stainless steel, ensuring its durability.”
Versatile shoes
Fizik Tempo Beat shoes
No matter what kind of cycling you indulge in, Challis considers these shoes to be excellent all-rounders: “The sole accommodates two-bolt cleats for use with pedals ideal for both on-road and off-road riding, and also features a good tread, making them easy to walk in. The upper is durable, and the lace closure is classically styled and comfortable.”
Energy station
Truefuels energy gel starter kit
When embarking on long winter journeys, Challis recommends the energy starter kit from Truefuels, the nutrition brand of former Olympic triathlete Alistair Brownlee. “These gels are not sickly sweet and provide 40g of carbohydrates, with a 1:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio. You can choose between 1g or 0.25g of salt, based on the electrolyte needs for your ride,” he explains.
Portable pump
Cycplus Cube mini pump
David Watts of Penge Cycle Club stands by the Cycplus Cube mini pump. “I’ve been using one of these during rides along the US Highway 101. One charge can inflate three or four tires. They are relatively new on the market, making them a thoughtful gift – a great alternative to the CO2 gas canisters your cyclist might typically use,” he shares.
Ride a classic
Brompton x Tour de France C Line
Neck Protection
Buff snood
Laura Laker, a cycling journalist and author of Potholes and Pavements, states that protective neckwear is an excellent present “because the weather can be inconsistent, and snoods are less likely to flap than scarves.”
At-Home Recovery
Decathlon massage kit
“Cyclists often neglect stretching, and even short rides can lead to muscle tightness over time,” explains Laker. “Foam rollers have been shown to alleviate muscle soreness following rigorous exertion (such as dashing home through a rainstorm), while massage sticks and balls make excellent stocking stuffers.”
For additional post-exercise pain relief, check out our guide to the top massage guns
