GIFT GUIDE

    MTB Stocking Stuffers

    MTB Accessories | ActionHub

    Sometimes it's the little things that count---check out our list of MTB accessories that are perfect stocking stuffers.

    It’s that time of year again. Like many people, you might be rushing to finish, or start, your holiday shopping. Maybe the big gifts are out of the way, but you’re at a loss of what stocking stuffers to buy for the mountain biking enthusiast in your life. Check out our recommendations below for MTB accessories that will fit well in a stocking (well, mostly).

    Hydration Pack: CamelBak Classic ($57.95)

    Is this too big to be considered a stocking stuffer? I guess that depends on how big your stocking is. As far as small hydration packs go, this is one of the best. This lightweight pack can hold two liters of water, is very minimal, includes an outside pocket, comes with a two-year warranty, and was made for mountain biking. The reservoir can be filled without being removed from the pack, making this an upgrade from previous versions.

    Gloves: Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Softshell Lite ($55)

    Made for cool weather, this is the perfect glove for the beginning of spring weather in colder climates. The newest version of the glove features a leather palm and accents, which provide a perfect grip without skimping on insulation. But no worries, this glove is still very movable.

    Biking Socks: SmartWool PhD Ultra Light Micro ($15.95)

    Available in both men’s and women’s versions, this low-ankle biking sock is great for those who are looking for a performance-enhancing sock. Although they do come at a bit of a cost, the socks include a 4 Degree Elite Fit System that has two elastics to increase stretch and recovery. They also include ReliaWool, which places more wool in the heavily-impacted areas of the feet, so the socks will last much longer than a traditional biking sock.

    Sunglasses: Oakley Flak Jacket Custom ($170)

    The key word here is “custom,” and that was the biggest reason these sunglasses were put on the list. That, and they’re fully-equipped, comfortable, and were reviewed well among mountain bikers. Yes, they come at a cost, but the customization tool has eight areas for you to pick your color, style, shape and etching, so creating a personal pair that will last is worth the price.

    Light: NiteRider Lumina 650 ($145)

    The Lumina 650 can mount directly on your bike or your helmet. This new model is not only lightweight, but it has brighter, longer lasting LED. The new handlebar mount is also a big improvement from the last version, and offers a good option if your helmet is not equipped to handle mounting the light. On medium power, you’ll get three hours of light, and low power will give you five hours. According to multiple reviews, mounting is extremely simple.

    Energy Gels: Honey Stinger ($33.36)

    These organic energy gels come in a box of 24 and are the perfect small gift. The gels are available in Vanilla, Fruit Smoothie, and Acai & Pomegranate, but the classic line of non-organic gels include more flavors and are a bit cheaper. If you’re able to purchase the gels from a retailer in smaller amounts, mix and match the flavors, and throw in some of the energy bars or waffles to provide a variety of options.

    A Good Read: Fifty Bicycles That Changed The World (Amazon)

    The price changes on this one, but all copies seem to be less than $15. Curl up in a warm blanket this winter and dive into a book that explores, you guessed it, the 50 most influential bicycles in the world that worked to change the industry. It traces the evolution of bicycles over the years and covers everything from the most technical mountain bike to fun, colorful road bikes.

    Calendar: Bicycling 2014 ($15.95+shipping)

    Appreciate the sport of mountain biking all year round, even when you’re not on your bike. Each month features a photograph by Jered Gruber, a world-traveling photographer. But the images aren’t the only thing you’ll enjoy about this purchase. Each time you flip to the next month, find new training and nutrition advice that accompanies each photo.

    Visit our Gift Guide

    Image from Jim Semlor on the Wikimedia Commons