Gifts for the commuter

For commuting in style and comfort

Shimano Transit hardshell jacket ($230) and soft- shell pants ($200) look good both on and off the bike. During a rainy commute, the jacket’s Dryshield waterproof fabric will keep the rain out. The material also lets sweat pass through. The pants, which are windproof and prevent water from seeping in, are warm and feel soft against your skin. The legs are tapered so fabric stays away from moving parts on the bike. The Pearl Izumi Versa short sleeve button-up shirt ($120) offers some stretch in the shoulders so it’s comfortable when you are reaching for the bars. The shirt’s Transfer fabric is breathable.

Snug and warm Mavic Aksium Thermo gloves ($60) have windproof membranes, durable waterrepellent coating and strategically placed foam pad – all of which keeps your hand and fingers toasty on cold rides.

Bags to carry your stuff

The Specialized Burra Burra 3 frame pack ($130), with its six attachment points, secures nicely to your frame. Coated nylon panels held together with welded seams do a good job of keeping the elements out. The 40 cm x 5.5 cm x 10 cm bag has a large zipper compartment, as well as two smaller ones.

The BBB Front Fellow handlebar bag ($88) features a large stuff sack attached to the bag’s main panel via a hook-and-loop strip. Once you park your bikepacking rig for the day, you can easily remove the stuff sack while the panel stays attached to the frame. The Front Fellow comes with an ample number of foam pads so you can configure the right fit on your bike.