Gifts for Cyclists: What Riders Actually Want (by Budget)
What cyclists actually want, sorted by budget (under $50, $50 to $150, and $150 and up), plus the gifts to avoid.
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Buying for a cyclist is hard. They're picky about kit, they already own a lot of it, and half the gear they want costs more than a bike. Here's what riders actually appreciate, sorted by budget, plus a few things to avoid.
Under $50: small things they'll use every ride
- A neck gaiter: keeps the chill off on cold mornings and pulls up over the face in wind. Useful from fall to spring.
- Shoe covers: cold, wet feet end more winter rides than anything else. Covers are cheap and riders rarely buy them for themselves.
- A cycling cap: keeps sun and rain out of their eyes, and fits under a helmet.
$50 to $150: the upgrade they keep putting off
- A wind vest: the most versatile piece of kit there is. It packs into a pocket and makes a jersey work on cool days.
- A great jersey: pick something with personality. A design they wouldn't buy for themselves often becomes their favorite: the Tuxedo jersey, the Scotsman tartan jersey or the Patriot American flag jersey. More ideas in our funny cycling jerseys roundup. Bigger rider? Our big and tall jerseys go up to 4XL.
- Arm sleeves: they turn a summer jersey into a spring and fall jersey.
$150 and up: kit that changes their riding
- Good bib shorts: the piece that matters most for comfort on long rides. Most riders keep wearing a worn-out pair far too long.
- A full kit: a matching jersey and bibs. We take 10% off the bibs when you buy them with a jersey.
- Matching kits for two: riding with a partner? Pick the same design in men's and women's cuts from our matching kits for couples, and add both names free. Tips in how to pick his and hers kit.
Not sure of their size? Give a gift card
Cycling kit fits close, and sizing is personal. If you don't know their size, a gift card is the safest choice. It's delivered by email instantly, so it's also the right answer if you're shopping late.
What to avoid
- Guessing on fit-critical gear: saddles, shoes and pedals are very personal. Ask first, or skip them.
- Cheap kit: thin fabric and poor chamois pads end up in a drawer. Fewer, better pieces win.
- Leaving it late: our kit is made to order and takes 5–6 weeks. For US delivery by Christmas, order by Friday, November 13. See all the Christmas order dates.
Want it all in one place? Our cycling gift guide sorts every Corbah piece by budget, for men and women.
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