Editor’s Choice: Best Christmas Presents for Bikers Part 2
The last-minute Christmas gift panic is a tradition as hallowed as the holiday itself. Despite our best intentions, each year, plenty of us find ourselves frantically scouring stores for presents with only days to go before December 25th. Does that sound like you? If so, help is at hand, our global team of editors have put together a list of the ultimate Christmas gifts for the discerning biker. So if you are looking for something amazing for your bike mad partner, or just looking to treat yourself, check out these great gift ideas! Missed part one? Find it here.
Also check out the first article: Editor’s Choice | Best Christmas Presents for Bikers Part 1
Jim Buchanan, UK Editor, Shropshire (UK)
Topeak PocketShock DXG Pump
Lots of riders choose to carry a shock pump in their pack, this can be down to ‘on the trail’ bike set-up, shock air loss from dodgy seals or weather change or even different pressure setting for different terrains for the fussiest of riders. We hate the way lots of shock pumps lose air on removal after filling the shock or forks. It seems so ridiculous that so many other pumps have such accurate gauges on them and suspension manufacturers give out such specific amounts of air per kg of rider, yet other pumps can lose up to 1 bar (10 psi) after undoing! This DXG pump comes with its own solution, in that it has an anti -air-loss valve, which stops the air loss problem. The pump is nice and short to carry in most packs and will pump up to 20.7 bar (300 psi). It also features a handy rotating hose and air removal button, so users can get it in the perfect position and remove air till correct pressure is reached.
Price: € 49.99 | More infos: Topeak website
661 Recon Stryker Helmet
In an MTB world dominated by adult clothing and merchandise it can sometimes be hard to find products that can fit our mini-rippers. When it comes to helmets 661 have the answer to that problem with this Recon Stryker all mountain helmet, available in a fantastic small size suitable for the kids. The venting is fantastic, with 18 intakes to keep their head cool in the summer months. Also, it comes with a great low weight of 303 g. 661 have some funky designs, with some even newer colours about to come out.
Price: € 119.90 | More infos: SixSixOne website
Aaron Steinke, Web Director, Stuttgart (GER)
Bontrager Flare R rear light
Ok, so the Bontrager Flare R rear light is perhaps no the cheapest option around, but this is a question of safety so excuse us for not cutting corners! Alongside the super bright LED and distinctive reflector, Bontrager has developed their own pulsating blinking rhythm for maximum visibility even in daylight. The Flare R is rechargeable by USB and fits all current seat posts.
Price: € 59.99 | More infos: Bontrager website
Robin Schmitt, Director, Leonberg (GER)
DJI Phantom 3 Professional Drone
As digital pioneers we are naturally prone to new technologies. Drones for aerial imaging are not entirely new, but every time our film crew lifts off into the sky, we feel a bit like in Star Wars. The DJI Phantom 3 Professional is easy to fly, can be controlled by a single person, and delivers impressive 4K-video footage. Not really a bargain, but definitely a banger under the Christmas tree.
Price: € 1,399 More infos: DJI website
Trev Worsey, Chief Editor UK, Innerleithen (UK)
Sealskinz Socks
There is nothing better that that ‘new sock’ feeling, it’s just the best. If you or your partner like getting filthy in the rain, then why not make that feeling a waterproof one too. The latest Sealskinz socks are extremely soft and comfortable, but also keep your feet warm and dry through the worst of the winter weather. The new socks feature a Hydrostop silicone free top band to keep any dribbles out and keep the water on the outside. Sealskinz are a winter essential and will be rewarding long after the Christmas chocolates have been scoffed.
Price: € 43.49 | More infos: Sealskinz website
McNair Mountain Shirt
Some people will not understand this shirt, they will look at the price and instantly dismiss it. But for those who work, live and dream of the mountain environment, the British made McNair shirt is an iconic and desirable garment that delivers rugged durability and style in the most demanding of playgrounds. Aimed at snowsports and mountain enthusiasts the heavy merino wool shirt is just as happy carving a huge powder turn as it is as an apres bike riding coat for heading to the pub. Conceived, created and hand stitched in Yorkshire, the attention to detail is second to none, and the breathability and warmth are unrivalled. The natural wool styling blends in beautifully with the mountain environment rather than standing out like a neon plastic bag. It’s expensive for sure, but the McNair shirt has a passionate fan base, and will be a gift that will reward for many years?
Price: € 450 | More infos: McNair Shirts website
Gränsfors Bruk Large Splitting Axe
Some gifts are for Christmas and some are for life. Each Granförs Bruks axe is handmade and ground in the Swedish village of Gränsfors in northern Hälsingland, and they have been doing so since 1902. I have not been chopping wood for that long with mine, but it has soldiered on for five years now without complaint. The large splitting axe is the destroyer of rounds, one swing and even the hardiest of logs simply explodes in two. With perfect weight and balance in the large size, the woodcutter in your life will cherish it forever. With a concave grind and protective steel collar below the axe head, it’s expensive, but it’s a gift for you, your kids and their grandkids too.
Price: € 124 | More infos: Gränsfors Bruk website
Moritz Dittmar, Chief Editor Website, Leonberg (GER)
Feedback Sports Pro-Elite Work Stand
A great work stand is the essential piece in any bike workshop puzzle. The Feedback Sports Pro-Elite is not only used by numerous pro teams around the globe, it’s also the perfect choice for your workshop at home. The high-quality workmanship, the functional quick release clamp and the secure stand make the Pro-Elite the best in its class. Where the Feedback really shines though, is when you want to take it on the road or have limited space at home. It quickly folds up into a compact unit that can easily be stowed in the trunk of your car or the corner of your garage.
Price: € 279.95 | More infos: Feedback Sports website
Christoph Bayer, Chief Editor Germany, Aschau im Chiemgau (GER)
ION Insulation Jacket AERIAL
Now during winter, you really need that extra motivation to get on the bike and ride. It’s cold, moist and the sun sets earlier than you could possibly leave the office. The ION insulation jacket Aerial can’t brighten up the trails, but it will certainly keep your presentee warm and cosy. The wind- and water-repellent outer material will fend off light rain or snow while the Primaloft lining takes care of keeping the temperature up. On top of that, a technology dubbed Thermo_Mapping increases the wearing comfort through well thought-out material choice. Unwrapping this jacket will guarantee shining eyes – not only because of its vibrant color.
Price: € 199.99 | More infos: ION website
Andreas Maschke, Media Designer, Stuttgart (GER)
Icebreaker Anatomica Boxers
Undies for Christmas are nothing new, but the Icebreaker Anatomica Boxers might see a rare expression of genuine excitement as you open the package. Super thin and lightweight (150 g/m²), the Anatomica Boxers have such flat seams and lightweight lycra that you can almost forget you’re wearing them. With a great fit, the 96% merino wool design means that they’re breathable, quick-drying and aren’t likely to sweat up on multi-day rides in the wilderness. And they look pretty stylish too.
Price: € 39.95 | More infos: Icebreaker website
Catherine Smith, Marketing Manager, Innerleithen (UK)
EVOC MacAskill Rover Trolley 80L
Some people love winter, talking of crisp cold days and the sound of brittle frost crunching gently under their wheels. Well, it’s not like that here in Scotland! It’s a crazy season, a wild weather filled barrage, full of rain and hailstones that could strip your skin clean off and punctuated with wind that makes trees fall onto your head. I would much prefer to head overseas! To do that I need good luggage – and nothing comes cooler than the new EVOC Danny MaCaskill Signature range. The signature EVOC Rover Trolley packs 80 L of space inside its Tardis-like interior, and has neat movable partitioning to keep your gear safe and sound. With its big skate wheels and telescopic handle for agile handling, it’s easy to dodge sun drunk tourists bound for ‘Shagaluf’ weighed down with their bags of duty-free cigarettes, getting you to the check in queue first.
Price: € 230 | More infos: EVOC website
Steffen Gronegger, US Editor, Washington D.C (U.S.A)
Loam Coffee
Coffee made by riders for riders – named after some of the Pacific’s Northwest most iconic loamy freeride trails. The roasting company is aiming to fuel the biker’s soul from inside and give back to the biking community. Some of the sales revenues of their delicious coffee selections are used to support their enduro and downhill race teams and to promote the sick riding in their home region. Great present not only for Christmas and very yummy brews!
Price: $ 15 | More infos: Loam Coffee website
Five Ten Freerider Contact Women’s Shoes
It’s a known cliche that ladies do like shoes. Putting some stylish Five Ten Freerider Contact W’s under the Christmas tree for your brave girl is always a rad idea. The super-light flat pedal kicks offer Five Ten’s infamous M16 Stealth rubber sole with tons of grip and superior comfort for all those teeth shattering trails. You can’t go wrong!
Price: $ 130 | More infos: Five Ten website
Also check out the first article: Editor’s Choice | Best Christmas Presents for Bikers Part 1
Merry Christmas from everyone at ENDURO!