Whether you're shopping for a die-hard endurance junkie or someone with get-fit ambitions, we've got something in our gift guide for you, including some of the year's budget-friendly favorites as well as a few we're eagerly waiting to try. And with choices less than $40, you can pick up a couple for yourself.
Go ahead, we won't tell.
UNDER $40
Point6 'Coolrado' cycling socks. These lightly cushioned merino socks don't hit stores until January - but they'll be worth the wait. Our tester loved that these socks fit and performed so well over a range of temperatures that they were practically unnoticeable. His only complaint? Their ¾-height makes them look dorky with shorts. $16.45; point6.com. Get the longer review here.
Hydro Flask bottle. One of our favorite items from this year, the Hydro Flask kept ice frozen in Death Valley, Calif., and kept coffee scalding hot when our fingers were nearly frostbitten. The double-walled stainless steel bottles don't transfer heat (or cold) and don't sweat. Sizes from 12 ounces to 64 ounces, starting at $20; get the 21-ounce bottles from the new tactical line for $25.99. Check out our past review here.
The Buff. Buff's "multi¬tasking bandana" has quickly found a home (and multiplied) in our essential kit. Wear the lightweight, Original Buff a dozen ways; the quick-drying microfiber polyester makes it great for wear under helmets or alone as a beanie. Includes Polygiene odor control, and some styles offer bug and UV protection. Starting at $20; buffusa.com. Check out our full review here.
* Nathan TransWarmer convertible mittens with Lightwave LEDs. Keep loved ones warm and safe with these gloves from Nathan's new cold weather line. Three of the fingertips have fabric that works with touch-screen devices. The LEDs operate on two CR2016 lithium batteries and have constant and blink settings. Batteries (included) last up to 30 hours. $35 at major outdoors stores.
STOCKING STUFFERS:
Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews. These gluten-free and dairy-free chews are so tasty we eat them when we're not exercising. Each pouch has 1 gram of protein, 39 grams of carbs and 160 calories. $2.19 per pouch or $26.28 for a box of 12; honeystinger.com. Also check out the organic waffles.
Little Hotties hand warmers. Anyone who spends long hours outside - be it on a trail or pulling watch - will appreciate Little Hotties. These odorless, air-activated warmers will stay toasty (in a pocket) for up to eight hours, making any chilly task a little more bearable. $10 for 10; littlehottieswarmers.com.
WORTH THE PRICE TAG
Primalx7 total body trainer. Fit fanatics looking for an alternative to TRX can find it with this system. Like TRX, the equipment is designed to work in tight spaces, and almost anywhere, but it incorporates regressive assistance to help you build strength. Work through the three levels of resistance bands while doing the seven main exercises, and back off assistance as you get stronger. $299; prx7.com. Military shoppers can use "primaltac15" for 15 percent off.
Monogamous with TRX? Check out the company's Suspension Trainer FitDeck: 26 TRX exercises in a compact playing card deck. $14.95; trxtraining.com.
* Icebreaker Kodiak Long Sleeve Zip. We're having a love affair with this jacket (the women's version is the Arctic). The 100 percent merino shell is made from Icebreaker's "Realfleece 320 brushed merino fabric with bluesign-accredited nanotechnology." Whew. What does that mean? It means water, mud and moisture have nightmares about this jacket; water actually runs off the surface. The water-resistant coating should last the lifetime of the jacket, reps say, which means about 50 washes. $250; $270 with hood; icebreaker.com.
(Sidebar! High five, Icebreaker, for adding the model measurements to the product pages. The sizing guessing game just got a little easier, thanks guys.)
*These two items are on their way for testing, but we haven't had a chance to get them dirty yet. Check back in a few weeks for complete reviews.
Also consider: Stuffitts drying inserts, Knucks Lights and the Mophie Juice Pack Pro.
Got other great fitness gift ideas? Leave us a note in the comments.
And remember, every mile you run/bike/swim equals an entire piece of pie. Happy pie holiday season, friends.
Sara Davidson is an ultrarunner and our resident women's gear destroyer.
