It’s the season for gifts - giving and receiving. My extended family insists on giving everyone $30-$40 holiday gifts. What have you bought/received in this rough price range (let’s say less than $50) that has been particularly valuable for training or racing? For example, a couple of years ago I asked for a couple of pairs of Yanks, never having used speed laces previously. Well within the price range and helpful. I’ve also asked for and received a handful of cycling videos for indoor training - another great option. But I don’t need anymore videos or Yanks…so…what items in this range make a difference for you?
Motivating books. Following the flame, Ironwar(it’s actually a GREAT read), Gold in the Water.
My wife made me a little “passport” with a number of “visas” to go out and train to my heart’s content, freed from all house and family-related tasks. The cost of the gift was just the time/materials to make it, which was hardly anything, but very valuable when the in-laws come to stay for a weekend.
Compression socks
FuelBelt (for long runs)
Uncoded HRM belt for the gym
Aquasphere Kamain goggles
DarkSpeedWorks aero bento
Waterproof (and therefore sweatproof) earbuds
Box of GU
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I put goggles, back bike blinky light, running shorts, socks on my family list. My brother was happy to put together something from his kids and him that covered a lot of basic bike needs. Be as specific as you need to be.
A Road ID would be super thoughtful.
Compression socks
FuelBelt (for long runs)
Uncoded HRM belt for the gym
Aquasphere Kamain goggles
**DarkSpeedWorks aero bento **
Waterproof (and therefore sweatproof) earbuds
Box of GU
Thanks for the endorsement. Yes, it’s an easy stocking stuffer, but it will last for many years and many miles. But get those orders in soon, we suggest before Dec. 17th if you want to get them in time for Christmas.
Running hats and gloves. I feel like I can’t have enough of either of these. I think I buy two or three hats a year and I am still always scrambling for them. Yes, I’ve chucked a few in races 
Massage gift certificate
Training tire
Bike tools
Yoga or swim class(es)
My wife made me a little “passport” with a number of “visas” to go out and train to my heart’s content, freed from all house and family-related tasks. The cost of the gift was just the time/materials to make it, which was hardly anything, but very valuable when the in-laws come to stay for a weekend.
CLASSIC.