Mountain bikers can be a difficult group to shop for. While certainly not as picky as lycra-clad road bikers, mountain bikers like their kit to be just so. But all mountain bikers can agree on a handful of things, and these things often fall under the umbrella of best-in-class products. Our picks for the best holiday gifts for mountain bikers fall mostly under that umbrella, but we’ve also included a handful of gifts that even the casual outdoorsman will enjoy.
POC Tectal Race Helmet
POC’s Tectal Race mountain bike helmet was one of the brand’s first helmets to feature its new SPiN technology. SPiN consists of a handful of rubbery pads that line the inside of the helmet. In the event of a crash, the pads help to reduce rotational forces that are often associated with concussions. In addition to the safety features, the Tectal Race looks badass and is ultra-comfortable.
Light & Motion Seca Race 2500
Some of the best and most rewarding rides start long before the sun rises. When taking on these types of endeavors, being able to see each and every bump and undulation in the trail is absolutely crucial. We’d only trust one light for the job: Light & Motion’s Seca Race 2500.
Kitsbow 5in V File Socks
In all types of cycling, socks need to be more than just functional. Style plays a big factor as well. Kitsbow’s V File socks bring both style and function thanks to a construction that utilizes 60% Meryl Skinlife (a material that has silver embedded for anti-odor) and a sleek pattern.
7mesh Oro Jacket
Don’t let inclement weather prevent you from heading out on your favorite loop. 7mesh’s Oro jacket is built with Gore-Tex Active with ShakeDry, which is Gore’s most breathable waterproof material to date. Even if your ride requires an hours long climb, the Oro will make sure you don’t overheat and will protect you from the rain.
Kitsbow Kitchel Lightweight Gloves
Kitsbow’s latest glove release, the Kitchel, was designed in collaboration with Mechanix Wear, whose gloves are renowned for their comfort. Kitsbow noticed that mountain bikers were wearing Mechanix gloves to ride, and figured that they, together with Mechanix, could optimize a glove for mountain biking. It’s about as close to a perfect mountain biking glove as you can get.
A Trip to the Northeast’s Best MTB Trails, Kingdom Trails
There’s something magical about Vermont’s Kingdom Trails. Situated in the state’s Northeast Kingdom region, affectionately referred to as the “nek,” the Kingdom Trails are some of the east coast’s finest. People travel from across the country (and the globe) to ride trails like Kitchel, Switchback, Burnham Down and the three T’s (Tap ‘n Die, Tody’s Tour and Troll Stroll).
Mission Workshop Hauser 10L Hydration Pack
Mission Workshop’s Hauser 10L pack is just the right size for a couple hours-long ride. It has enough space for an extra layer, a three-liter hydration bladder, plenty of snacks and a tool roll. And it’s made from incredibly durable materials so it can handle everything you can throw at it, literally.
High Above The Lookout Hip Pack
Unless you’re headed out on an all-day onslaught of mountain biking, a full-on mountain bike backpack is overkill. All you really need is a phone, wallet, tube, tool, pump/CO2, maybe a snack and water. Those essentials can fit easily in a hip pack and allow for better ventilation on your back as well as a better range of motion while on the bike. High Above mountain bike hip packs are some of the best on the market. And they’re serious pieces of outdoor gear. Each High Above hip pack is designed and sewn in Bellingham, Washington.
Buff Lightweight Merino Wool
Wear it as a helmet liner, a neck gaiter, a headband or a scarf. The options are virtually endless and the highly breathable and moisture-wicking merino wool material makes this piece invaluable.
Evoc Bike Travel Bag Pro
If you’ve ever ridden a rental mountain bike, we’d bet that you don’t plan on doing it again. Save yourself the pain and frustration of forever trying to dial in a rental bike and opt instead to travel with your own bike. Evoc’s bike bags are the best available and will ensure that your bike makes it to the trailhead safe and sound.
Ergon GE1 Evo Factory Grip
Handlebar grips can make all of the difference between an enjoyable ride and one full of pain and frustration. Ergon’s GE1 Evo Factory grips feature Gravity Control rubber that is just soft enough where it provides comfort while avoiding the “I’m holding a damp sponge” feeling.
Boneshaker Mag Mega Bundle
Self-described as a “sideways look at cycling,” UK-based Boneshaker Magazine offers unique features and design that stands in contrast to the old guard of mountain bike magazines. While not mountain bike-specific, even the most diehard of mountain bikers will find something to enjoy in these pages.
100% S2 Sunglasses
100%’s S2 is the perfect cross between lifestyle and on-trail performance. The frames are comfortable, the styling is on point and if you opt for the HiPer lens, you’re getting some of the highest quality optics out there.
Voke Tabs
There are few things worse than bonking when you’re still a handful of miles from the trailhead. Keeping a few Voke Tabs in your pack will save you on just such an occasion. Voke Tabs are all natural energy chews designed to give you that extra boost of energy. If you need more convincing, they’re endorsed by world class mountaineer Conrad Anker.
WTB Ranger Tire
WTB, or Wilderness Trail Bikes, is one of the old guard brands from the mountain bike world. Its Ranger tire is one of the best on the market, providing ample grip in a light and durable casing. It comes in a variety of sizes, so there is sure to be one that fits.
Topeak Mini 20 Pro Tool
Every cyclist needs a tool in their pack. Topeak’s bantamweight Mini 20 Pro provides everything you need and nothing you don’t.
Swrve Topo Map Mug
When you’re stuck at the office, Swrve’s Topo Map mug will help you envision loamy forests and berms made of hero dirt that you’ll be ripping come the weekend.
Firestone Lager
No ride is complete without the perfect beer afterward. Firestone Walker’s Lager is not only the most perfect, most satisfying post-ride beer, but it’s also the best representation of the new wave of craft lagers.
