Looking for last-minute gifts for that speed-obsessed athlete? Here are a few quick hits.
Patagonia Forerunner Shoes
A lot of shoes claim to be minimalist, but Patagonia is true to its word. Weighing in at a scant 9 ounces, and only a 4 millimeter heel drop, the Forerunner keeps your foot close to the ground while still providing enough response cushioning and flexibility. There’s absolutely nothing wasteful or extraneous on this shoe, yet it outperforms the hig-end technical trail shoes on singletrack.
$105. Patagonia.com
Osprey Stratos 24 Backpack
Commuter bikers and runners have consistently chosen the Osprey Stratos as their pack of choice. The AirSpeed suspension system suspends the pack away from the back, leaving a space several inches thick where air can move freely across your back. The mesh panel and integrated rain cover are also popular with on-the-go runners, hikers, and bikers. Best of all, it’s the perfect size at 1500 cu—not too big, not too small—to carry a day’s worth of essentials and the lightest weight possible (a scant 2 ½ pounds).
$98. Ospreypacks.com
Halsa Acupressure Recovery Mat
Can’t afford a massage? Give yourself a free post-workout treatment on the Halsa Mat. The mat contains 8,820 calibrated acupressure points, which feel surprisingly stimulating and soothing simultaneously. Whether you’re recovering from a long day on the trail or a stressful day at work, a 15-minute catnap on the acupressure mat boosts recovery time and relaxes overworked bodies.
$30. Halsamat.com
Carhartt Cotton Ripstop Pant
For that fastpacker or speed hiker, Carhartt’s Cotton Ripstop is the toughest, most durable, and most comfortable outdoor pants we’ve tested. The 9.25 ounce, 100% cotton ripstop fabric is specially designed to resist rips and tears. Ruggedly built and supremely durable, the pants are decked with pockets galore, including two large cargo pockets with flaps and snap closures, as well as multiple utility pockets. We also appreciated the pant’s gusseted crotch that enhances comfort.
$45. Carhartt.com
