Christmas Gifts for Female Cyclists

By Lorraine Smith, posted 30 November 2017

Stuck for what to buy for the female cyclist in your life (even if that's you)? Look no further.

Well, this certainly isn’t an article I thought I’d be writing a year ago. Relatively new to this whole world of two-wheeled adventure-dom, and being the epitome of the phrase ‘all the gear and no idea’, I am excited by the sheer array of slick (and downright useful) stuff that is available with which to adorn your bike. And yourself.

Now, I am told, that there is a bit of a wrangle about whether we, the women of the roads and trails, need specific ‘female cyclist’ gear. But, as it is Christmas, I shall leave that debate for another day and crack on with 5 cycling-related gifts which would bring me comfort and joy on Christmas morning. Santa, I have been (mostly) good.

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

1

Cycology cycling trip to Mallorca

Sod it, I’m starting off punchy, and this present definitely ‘packs a punch’ by its own admission. Whilst I’m not entirely sure how riding in Mallorca will help me to ‘celebrate my femininity’, I am sure this would be a great trip. Apparently ‘exceptional people deserve extraordinary rewards’, and I am not one to disagree. The word ‘luxury’ is liberally spread throughout (and there is a complimentary mini-bar). The hotel is the 4* Esplendido, situated in Puerto de Soller in the North East of the island, near the Tramuntana mountains. I am told that JRtB are often out in Mallorca, and can testify that it is fabulous at pretty much any time of year. This trip, in the middle of peak bike-season, looks brill. And you can take your ‘significant other’, which is probably a wise choice if they bought you this for Christmas!

2

Castelli bibshorts

Che belli! The Italians always do it better, and the Castelli women’s gear is literally a cut above the rest. Combining comfort and performance, at a reasonable price, you can’t really go wrong. ‘Speedy endurance’ is the tagline for these fab bib shorts – Velocissima by name and surely by nature. Yes, you could go native and still get a decent pair of bib shorts. But these are just, well, so darn stylish.

3

4

La Passione winter jersey checked

I have learnt that it is all the rage to wear arm warmers. I have also learnt from the above bib shorts that the Italians make some pretty decent cycling gear. So, for when you need something stylish as well as practical, I present to you this top from La Passione. It is just different enough from the standard cycling jersey garb to make me feel super smart in that saddle. And it means no slightly weird gaps between arm warmer and sleeve. I particularly love the reverse pattern on the cuffs. And the matching socks!

5

Workplay Cycling and running hydration pack

I love this. An alternative to the traditional Camelbak, the Workplay Cycling & Running hydration pack is just the ticket for mountain bikers and leisure riders alike. It might not do an all-day backcountry epic if that’s your bag (ha), but it will see you through most trips with its 5 litre capacity.

Seasons Greetings,

Lorraine

Sweaty Betty Stamina work out bra

A great example of a cross-over piece of kit. Supportive and comfortable, with a range of colours to choose from, perfect for long stints in the saddle.