Get out there and shop! It’s the perfect time to take advantage of all the holiday sales and find those perfect gifts for the triathlete in your life!
Here are some ideas that we love:
- $35 might seem insane to spend on a swim cap, but the Hammerhead Swim Cap actually has little honeycomb-shaped “pockets” built into the top and front of their thick, seamless silicone cap. Similar to the idea behind MIPS helmets, the little pockets are meant to absorb some of the forces that occur when you take a blow to the head to prevent head injuries.
- Oakley’s have always made great distortion free lenses, and it makes a big difference with a pair of wraparound sunglasses this size. The polarized Oakley EVZero Stride ($200) are super light, and they are almost like wearing a full-face visor without the being hot. They are durable and the hydrophobic coating literally lets the sweat and rain slide ride off.
- Grabbing a protein bar can have its drawbacks. Do you even know what’s in them? Let us introduce you to the RX Bar (box of 12 for $28). The (simple) ingredients are right on the package. “3 egg whites. 6 almonds. 4 cashews. 2 dates. No B.S.” That’s it. The texture will take some getting used to (they are very chewy), but they come in over 12 different flavors and some taste just like a brownie!
- Most triathletes want shoes that can be used in multiple places under multiple conditions. Check out the Saucony Xodus ISO 2 ($130). These shoes can withstand trails, mud, and long distance races. You could even get away with wearing them in casual, non-sport situations! Talk about versatile.
- We all sweat. When you sweat, you lose precious salts that help you get through a long race. Kramp Krusher Salty Limon Chews (12 pack for $38) are a favorite among triathletes. The sweet and salty flavor – with a kick of lime – are a great fuel – loaded with salts and dextrose and only have 70 calories. Taken at the first sign of a cramp – they will help tremendously during long rides. Only downside, they are sticky and the package is hard to open when you’re distracted with a race.
- To celebrate 20 years since its last running shoe launch, Asics released Asics Gel-Cumulus 20 this year. For $120, you’ll receive some design and technology upgrades like awesome breathability and great cushion – especially around the ankles. (We love this shoe!)
- It’s hard to find cycling kits that look great for long rides and does it all. Eliel Rincon Jersey with Laguna Seca Bibs are made from a newer Southern California brand that prides itself on materials and craftsmanship and it shows in their price ($129.95-Jersey; $199.95-Bibs), but it’s worth every penny. The bibs are light, comfortable and have openings that don’t roll up; the compression is moderate; and the straps are stretchy and don’t dig into your shoulders. The jersey hugs your body nicely, the arm length is long, and they have great deep pockets in the rear.
- If you’re not into the Oakley wraparound sunglasses, then the Spy Optic Helm 2 Polarized Sunglasses ($150) are another option. The new Helm’s have new rubber feet that grip around your ears and won’t slip, making them great for grabbing a quick run or ride. They also include a hard case with your purchase. The glasses are comfortable, and feature a soft matte finish, and feature Spy’s “Happy Lens”, which keeps colors rich and vibrant.
- Every runner needs a fun pair of running shoes. The Brooks Revel 2 ($100) is the one! The flat knit upper fabric on this shoe gives them a unique look and makes them extremely breathable. These shoes feature an interesting fabric and light color that can be worn in every day wear. They are a fun pair to add to your shoe collection – especially if you’re one who likes to rotate through shoes during the training week.
We think with these ideas the triathletes in your life (or you) will be ready to start the New Year with some great new training programs! If you’d like to give the gift of triathlon training, please contact me today!
Train Right, Tri Right!
Coach MJ
