Going away gift for triathlete

Hey guys,

I’m graduating very soon from my PhD and, lucky me, my co-workers want to offer me a tri-related going away present. Here are their propositions - that’s where I need your help :slight_smile:

  1. Waterproof Ipod Shuffle - Any of you guys using this product? Is it actually working well? I already have a shuffle for my run, but this might be great for swim workouts.

  2. Gift certificate for a sport/tri store - Do you know any good US based online store with gift certificates?

Thanks!!

EDIT: They are open to suggestions in the 150-200$ price range. What would you as for??

go with probikekit.com for the GC
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I always need something from RunningWarehouse.
Realcyclist, artscyclery, trivillage are also great with good prices and bunch of coupons.

I always need something from RunningWarehouse.
Realcyclist, artscyclery, trivillage are also great with good prices and bunch of coupons.
This. You can always use gear and the waterproof shuffle cost more than it is worth.

Thanks guys - yeah the shuffle is tempting but really expensive. Thanks for the website suggestions.

I have a waterproofed shuffle (had it over 6yrs. now), and they are great. I use it for long swim sets, and can take it in the steam room after without worries. Running in a rainstorm? (or a heavy sweater)…no worries. Cases destroy the form factor, as you know, the great thing about a shuffle is that you can clip it to a cap/visor (or goggle strap).

It’s my perfect definition of a gift…something you’ll use, but you’d probably never buy for yourself, and appreciate for years to come.

PS: Getting the right earbuds is key for use in the water. Any water in the ear canal and the sound stops. My recommendation is some H2O Audio earbuds, and get these earplugs (http://www.amazon.com/TYR-Silicone-Molded-Ear-Plugs/dp/B0030APVWO) to swap in for the stock rubber tips. I’ve had great luck with this setup.

I always need something from RunningWarehouse.
Realcyclist, artscyclery, trivillage are also great with good prices and bunch of coupons.
This. You can always use gear and** the waterproof shuffle cost more than it is worth**.

All the more reason to have someone else buy it for you.

I always need something from RunningWarehouse.
Realcyclist, artscyclery, trivillage are also great with good prices and bunch of coupons.
This. You can always use gear and** the waterproof shuffle cost more than it is worth**.

All the more reason to have someone else buy it for you.
True, but if gift certificates are given, the dollar can be stretched using coupons. I have a case for my ipod that is used only at the gym to keep folks at bay while in the pool. Other than being there, my swims are fine without music.

+1 Waterproof ipod or similar. I really like having music while I swim. There are plenty of free fixed bpm mixes available, so you can pick your tempo and swim to the beat.

That is nice they want to give you a tri-related gift.

Something else to consider is a frame for your degree … A nice one.

If you are taking an academic position, another idea is to contribute to academic regalia.

A case of beer and out. Thus said I have given the gift of a frame for the sheepskin (some places still use them) I have done several times for MD friends graduating from med school. They all appreciated it.

I have a finis swim mp3 and I love it.

go with probikekit.com for the GC

-I believe the man said US based stores…

Anyway, Gift Cert for sure! Heck have them get you an Amazon card and the options are limitless!

PS: Getting the right earbuds is key for use in the water. Any water in the ear canal and the sound stops. My recommendation is some H2O Audio earbuds, and get these earplugs (http://www.amazon.com/…-Plugs/dp/B0030APVWO) to swap in for the stock rubber tips. I’ve had great luck with this setup.

I have the shuffle, but the earbuds don’t have the best fit. Do these earplugs form to your ear. or is it one shape fits all?

I know its not on the option list, so just a thought: race entry fee - if there is a local triathlon that you plan to do, perhaps they could participate / cheer you on / visit.

I thought they were US based
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PS: Getting the right earbuds is key for use in the water. Any water in the ear canal and the sound stops. My recommendation is some H2O Audio earbuds, and get these earplugs (http://www.amazon.com/…-Plugs/dp/B0030APVWO) to swap in for the stock rubber tips. I’ve had great luck with this setup.

I have the shuffle, but the earbuds don’t have the best fit. Do these earplugs form to your ear. or is it one shape fits all?

The stock earbuds suck, get some good ones that fit in the ear canal. You can swap the earplugs above onto most earbuds that have the little rubber “bulbs” at the end that go into your ear canal.
Those plugs are one-size-fits-all, but are designed to be swimming earplugs, so seal well for most people.

anything from www.goneforarun.com is great
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