2022 Holiday Gift Guide
I missed writing this last year, and I’m almost too late this year! BUT! In hopes that I can help you gift the athlete in your life, the perfect item for their athletic prowess, here we go. These are some of my favorite things from 2022.
Snacks & Such
Let’s get this gift guide started off right by talking snacks, because who doesn't love a good treat while they are training? I used a lot of these products this year (pre, during, or post workouts) to get me through those training days.
Pre/Post:
Kodiak Cakes: Pre race yummy. I loved the oatmeal cups. Mix in a generous amount of PB or Almond Butter and a banana. Perfection. Their pancakes are also top-notch for a healthy and satisfying post-workout meal.
Ucan Protein: Post. Not gonna lie. I am not a fan of their gels and drink mixes for workout sessions, but I love their protein powder (um Cookies & Cream ALL day long). They also do granola, bars (so good!), and Almond butter.
During:
Science in Sport: I’m sorry but I just can’t get enough. I’ve jumped on the SIS bandwagon and I’m not sure you can get me off. The gels are easy to swallow. The drink powders are mild. Huge fan of both. I use the Beta Fuel line for longer events & training sessions (both the drink mix and the gels) and the GO drink mix and gels for both longer and shorter sessions.
LMNT: Get your sodium! Packed with 1000 mg of sodium per packet, I mix in (half packet usually) to my SIS drink mix to get the sodium and electrolytes I need to fuel my sessions.
Other Noteworthly products that make great stocking stuffers:
Maurten Gels: On course at most IM events so might as well try it.
Clothing: My favorite section!
It’s no secret that I have an obsession with a particular brand so you’ll see that at the top of this list. But there are a lot of great clothing options out there for the athlete(s) in your life.
Rapha: Yup. Obsessed. The quality is great. The feel is amazing. They have something for every season.
On Bike: The PRO line is the best. It’s a bit more expensive than the Core line but I’ve found the fit and comfort to be worth it. I use both the long and short sleeve jerseys as well as the bib shorts. Bundle it up and save 20%.
Off Bike: Stay warm post ride or lounge around in these awesome products: Hoodie & Beanie.
Hand Up: Buy local(ish) with Hand Up Gloves. Fun gloves and accessories from Chattanooga, TN. They fit great and they have fun sayings. What’s not to love?! Side Note: I also really love their socks. Super comfortable and the right thickness.
Tres Pinas: New to me this year. Great triathlon and cycling products. I bought a swimsuit this year that I absolutely LOVE.
Other Noteworthy Brands:
Swiftwick Socks - so comfy and a TN brand!
Oiselle - for the ladies only!
Hand Up Gloves
you’ll be STOKED to ride when your hands are warm :)
Techie Stuff
Get the latest, or not so latest products to help you train smarter.
Garmin: Still a fan. Of the watches and bike computers. I’m still rocking the Forerunner 945, but the latest and greatest is the Forerunner 955 Solar.
Zwift Subscription: I swear it makes indoor training 100 times more enjoyable. Not only can you get lost in other Worlds, you can load your Training Peaks workouts right into the program and it’ll take you through the workout step by step. Other perks: you can join events, races, group rides. Side Note: They’ve also gotten into the trainer business with the Zwift Hub. You can now get a smart trainer for a lower cost, and it is obviously integrated well with the Zwift apps.
Wahoo Kickr: While I’m not a fan of their wearables (had a test watch from them) I am still a huge fan of the Kickr smart trainer. Pricey but worth it. Easy to set up. Easy to use/get your bike on and off. Makes indoor training better.
“Other” Essentials
A mix of random things that are great!
Normatech (now Hyperice) Boots: For the athlete that needs to recover faster. Plus, it gives us an excuse to sit on the couch and catch up on our favorite t.v. show am I right?!
Triathlon Reads:
A Life Without Limits - by Chrissie Wellington
Iron War - a classic triathlon read about Dave Scott and Mark Allen by Matt Fitzgerald
Aeropress Coffee Maker: for the on the go coffee addict in your life. The aero press fits so easily in travel bags and makes a great cup of coffee (paired with really good coffee beans that is!).
And this concludes my 2022 gift guide. If you have any questions on the products I am happy to answer them. Enjoy - I hope you can check some of these brands out!
-Happy Training