Christmas Bike Gift Guide 2012 for HIM

When I first met my husband, he was racing mountain bikes as a semi-pro. We were like night and day – he’d want to “stay off of his feet” to make sure his legs were recovered, and I wanted to dance the night away. Eventually, I fell in love with the sport of cycling, and along the way, became a talented gift giver. Here are a few ideas for the men in our lives:

Skratch Labs
I know, I included this on the women’s gift guide too, but it really is the bomb of electrolyte drinks. $19.50 for a one pound bag.

The Feed Zone Cookbook
Eat like the pros – the Feed Zone cookbook contains meals that are perfectly balanced; written by Dr. Allen Lim and Chef Biju Thomas. $24.95.

Personalized Coaching or Classes: The folks at Vision Quest know how to cultivate training plans for peak performance. Check out their power-based classes too for a great workout, and their Taste of VQ Program. (Varying prices).

Long gone are the days of expensive power meters – Stages Cycling has revolutionized the industry by creating the first economical power meter, starting at $699.

b1 Chain Keeper
Let’s admit it – we all should wash our bikes more than we do. For those that ARE ah-hem, vigilant about doing so (you know who you are), this product is for you, and locks into the drive-side dropout after you’ve removed the rear wheel, and holds the chain in tension. Finally, you can re-lube your chain without dripping lube all over your rim (and yourself). $40.

Peloton Magazine
A gorgeous magazine filled with inspiring articles. $27.95.

Lake Bluff Brewing Company 
Hard Tail Imperial IPA: I love a good beer after a long ride, and you can’t go wrong with any of the options at Lake Bluff Brewing, although a Growler Gift Set sure would be lovely. $38.

Enzo’s Chamois Creme
My husband swears by this product, and it’s based in Lake Zurich, Illinois. $19.95

Mad Alchemy Medium Heat Warming Embrocation
Designed to provide a steady, long feeling of warmth to your legs, Mad Alchemy is known for their small batch embrocation products. The special male in your life will thank you for this present to keep their legs warm during those chilly riding days.

Rockettoonz has stylish vintage tees for $22.95, that’ll put a smile on his face, and, they are sustainable to boot. Or, check out Etsy and filter by city/state to see cool tees designed in your very own backyard.

Rapha Cross Winter Hat
Rapha’s classic Belgian-Style Hat is not only gorgeous, but also a breathable. Give ’em a little love for $60.

Last, but certainly not least, Crossfit. As crazy as the concept of lifting barbells up in the air and doing handstand push-ups are, I have to say it’s a darn good workout, especially in the winter months. Prices and locations vary, but if you want to spring for a nice gift, go with a Foundations Level Course at your local Crossfit gym. You’ll be glad you did when you get to admire those biceps, too.

Heritage Bicycle General Store Gift Card: coffee + cool bikes and gear = a whole lot of fun. Spoil him with a gift card at Heritage Bicycle General Store at 2959 N. Lincoln Avenue in Chicago. From espresso to bike bags to tools, they’ve got you covered.