Sunday, December 2, 2012

Gear 2.0, Xmas edition!

It is the season, and if you have an endurance athlete on your list here's are a few of my favourites and maybe this will give you some ideas. I will bring this down is different category and will give you a range of ideas, I hope. (Disclaimer this is not Chuck xmas list!)

Swimming:

There are a lot of things for swimming and some of them are actually not that expensive.  One of my favourite is the tri swim body wash and shampoo. This product is great and it really helps if you spend some time in the pool with all that chlorine.  Pull boy, fins and paddle are another great gift.  Swimming googles are always a must and if its like me, I go through many pairs in a season.  Finally if you're in to spend some money look at wetsuit or if the person you are buying for does a lot of open warm water,  speed suits are great.  I am a big fan of Blue Seventy and TYR.

Running:

There are many options when it comes down to running.  If you're looking for road runner or trail runners, take a peak at the shoes the person you are buying for, chances are that will give you an idea.  I'm a big fan of ASICS road shoes, where it is the Kayano or Nanoosa those are pretty cool shoes.  Same applies for trail runners, my two favourite brands are Salomon and ASICS.  If you are looking for something cheaper, get nice running socks, gloves or a hat.  Running top and tights are also great.   SUGOI is one of my favourite brand when it comes down to get running clothes.

Biking:

I'm in the opinion that one never has enough bikes that said there are a lot of things you can get for the rider in your world.  Riding gloves are a cheap option and there are multitude to choose from.  A riding jersey is always a nice option as well.  Co2 inflators and canister are always useful and will be appreciated.  When in doubt you can always go to their favourite bike shop, chances are they are known and staff can point you towards the right present depending on your budget.


Nutrition:

I spend a fair amount of money on nutrition, especially in season.  Some of my favourite company Hammer Nutrition, Honey Stinger, GU.  Look at what people use and it will be a good idea what to get, and if they are just starting, get different brand so they can try and see what works.

Miscellaneous:

If you are thinking watch, get the Garmin 910XT, best watch I have ever used, with swimming, running and biking setting, this is the best option.  IPOD or ear buds for long training session are also a great idea.  DVD for indoor ridding.  Race entry fees, if you know a race that the person is doing or always talked about it, they will thank yo for it.

At the end of the day, the sky is the limit and only set by your budget. Hope this gave you a few ideas, hope.  Happy trails!

Carpe Diem