As usual, I’ve left my Christmas shopping until late, just making a start on it now with less than a fortnight to go.
To help you purchase for the triathlete in your life, I’ve put together a list of gift ideas. Most of these are items which I already own, love and find useful. Others are items I’ve requested for myself this Christmas.
A. Fast Fuel: Food for Triathlon Success Book
Renee McGregor is one of the UK’s top sports nutritionists, advising athletes from amateur to Olympic levels. Tailored towards triathletes her latest book gives practical advice and meal plans to fuel training.
B. Coeur Little Black Arm Warmers
Arm warmers are perfect for those days when the weather hasn’t decided what it is doing. Carry these in your jersey pocket and slip them on when the temperature turns chilly. These have a fleecy lining and thumb-hole in the cuff.
C. HUUB Cycle Toe Covers
Toe covers are not quite as heavy duty as full overshoes, but still do the job of keeping wind out and prevent feet getting cold and numb. At just £14.99 these are a more affordable HUUB product and make a great stocking-filler.
D. Crewroom Air Head Visor
Crewroom visors are lightweight, comfortable and come in a range of colours. I wear mine constantly when running in the summer, keeping the sun out of my eyes and sweat off my face.
E. Activbod Wet Sweats Bag
I received one of these waterproof bags at the Poole Swim and can honestly say it’s the most useful thing I’ve had in post-race goody bag. I use it daily to keep wet swimwear or sweaty kit separate from everything else in my bag. Simply roll down the top and clip the buckle closed.
F. Brodie Skin Care Recovery Phase Rehydration Cream
Recovery Phase Rehydration Cream is designed to help skin repair and recover after exercising. It calms and soothes the effects of sun, wind, rain, pollution, sweat, acids and dehydration when used after your post-exercise shower.
G. Dyson Supersonic Hairdryer
It might seem like a strange thing to include on a triathlete’s wish list, but for someone who is constantly washing and drying their hair this Dyson Supersonic could be a game-changer. It’s lightweight and drys hair quicker than any other device, whilst reducing damage and avoiding split ends. At £299.99 this isn’t a cheap, but it would make a lovely main gift.
H. Triathlon Personalised Route Map
This is an etched route map of any chosen triathlon course personalised with a finishing time and date, which comes mounted and framed. I bought one this year for a friend who had completed the Outlaw, and it made a lovely gift to celebrate and remember their big race.
I. Zoggs Asteroid Strikeback Swimsuit
You can never have too much swimwear on rotation and I find that Zoggs make the best quality suits on the market. I love the print and back detail on this one, and it’s currently half-price at £16!
J. Selkie Sink or Swim Hoodie
Selkie Swim Co make some great open-water themed T-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies. I bought one of the ‘Sink or Swim’ hoodies earlier this year and wear it constantly, especially to keep warm before or after training.
Have you finished your Christmas shopping yet? What’s on your list?
I love the sound of that cream as I get really sore skin after a long run in the cold. And I keep being tempted by arm warmers, especially at the moment as it’s too mild for long sleeved tops, but my hands and forearms get cold from the wind and gloves don’t go that far up.
I have pretty much finished my shopping now, I had a bit of a panic last week and sorted a lot of it out as it is creeping up very quickly.
I hope you get yours finished! 🙂