Holiday Wish List
‘Tis the season to give and receive—here’s what’s on the top of our list.
By The Editors
It’s been a long, weird year(s), and we all deserve to treat ourselves to things (big and small) that will bring us some joy in 2022. From epic experiences on the bike to clever gear that amps the enjoyment factor, this is the stuff we’re pining for.
Stay at The Gravel House
This incredibly affordable Airbnb created by the founders of The Spirit World 100 gravel ride(s) in Patagonia, AZ (near Tucson), is designed with cyclists in mind. It is the perfect launchpad for rides exploring the seemingly endless gravel options in the area. The owners are also the proprietors of Patagonia Lumber Co, a quaint cafe/bar in the center of town that is the perfect après ride spot. thegravelhouse.com
Rapha Explore Down Jacket
Designed to be worn on and off the bike, this jacket is lightweight yet toasty. We appreciate the cycling-friendly features like the two-way zipper, detachable hood, and reflective details on the front and back. It comes in a pale purple or this pretty midnight blue. It’s a bit pricey, but with its versatility you’ll get a ton of wear out of it for many winters to come. $295; rapha.cc
Handlebar Coffee Roasters Subscription
Founded by two former pro cyclists with a love of European cafe culture, Handlebar is the spot in Santa Barbara, California, for serious coffee aficionados. Try the Gibraltar (named after the infamous local climb), a well-balanced seasonal blend. Then get yourself a subscription (every week, every 2 weeks or every month) and never buy store-bought beans again. $20-$109; handlebarcoffee.com
Ostroy Sweatshirt
IYKYK. An off-the-bike cozy crewneck sweatshirt that speaks to our way of life. Be sure to also check out Ostroy’s punchy kits and cheeky socks. $50; ostroy.com
Betty Designs x OPEN Limited Edition Road Frame
We are big fans of both OPEN bikes and Betty Designs apparel, so this frame collaboration is something we’ve been eagerly awaiting. The OPEN MIN.D. hits that sweet spot of comfort and performance, and is a smart dual-purpose option for road and mellow gravel. And that paint scheme! You’ll want to move quick on this one, as there are less than 20 (at last check) available. $3,999; bettydesigns.com
Lisa Congdon 2022 Calendar
Who else is ready to turn the page on 2021? We love the colorful, whimsical prints and feel-good messages in this wall calendar from artist/illustrator/writer/gravel cyclist Lisa Congdon. $23.50; lisacongdon.com
Moosepacks Handlebar Bag
This sturdy, water-resistant bag stashes your ride essentials for quick, easy access. Get it in one of their stock colors, or pay a little more for a limited-edition version or to make it matchy matchy with your frame. $95; moosepacks.com
Gravel Epic Switzerland
We think the best gifts are experiential, and why not wish big? This, yes, epic 3-stage gravel ride tours some of the most stunning alpine gravel you will ever ride. Choose between two different routes, varying in distance (255K or 166K) and elevation gain. This year’s race is September 23-25. See you there? gravelepic.com
Hypervolt GO
This percussion massage tool hurts so good on tired quads and hammys after a long ride. This smaller version is travel friendly and comes with two interchangeable heads to dial in the pressure/focus you need. $159; hyperice.com
Darling Wines
We discovered this small, family-run Sonoma wine label during a visit to Mill District Velo. After sourcing their grapes from local vineyards, the winemakers practice a “minimal-intervention” approach, which produces a more natural wine that is lower in alcohol and sulfites (the things that make you feel crappy on the next morning’s ride). Sample a bottle, and you too will jump on their wine club (3 shipments/year). Prices vary; darlingwines.com
