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Yes, I know. I’m violating a rule even more strict than riding your bike in transition by using the words “inexpensive” and “triathlon” in the same sentence. So, if you wake up in the morning to the headline “Triathlete Stripped of 115th Place Finish in Local Race for Rule Violation” blasted all over your news feed, please know that I am doing this for you.

We are sometimes asked what gift we would like for Christmas or other occasion. As triathletes, there is really only one appropriate response: a new bike. However, unless this is your spouse asking and you have set aside a large budget, you will most certainly end up with either a necktie or a cheap necklace instead. So, what should you tell people when they ask this question? Well, this guide is for you.

Swim Goggles

If you swim with any regularity, you need some new goggles. Goggles can be thought of as the bikes of the pool—though coming in at 1/100th of the price. Make sure to share your preference on brand and model if you have a favorite. Or, if you’re like me and haven’t yet found a tried and true favorite, just let yourself be surprised. If you’re a Swedes fan, this is the ultimate inexpensive gift.

Gels or Other Nutrition

It takes a lot to fuel an endurance athlete. Who wouldn’t like a box of their favorite gel or other type of nutrition?

Ear Buds

For those long runs, there’s nothing like an audiobook or podcast to keep you going. You’ll need a good pair of ear buds. Warning: don’t wear them during a race, on your bike, or (ahem) while swimming.

USA Triathlon Membership

It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Most of us forget that we need to renew our USA Triathlon membership annually until we sign up for our first race of the new year. This is a great gift to get you motivated for the upcoming triathlon season.

Gift Cards

You can always ask for a gift card to your favorite bike, run, or swimming store. As a bonus, you could support MidPackTri.com by asking for a gift card from SwimOutlet.com/midpacktri!

Flip Flops

Need a new pair of flip flops? If you haven’t lost yours at a race, your current ones are probably developing a nice layer of soap scum. This is a great gift on the cheap.

Triathlon Book or Documentary

 

There are many inspiring options for documentaries or books on triathlon. Here are a few on my wish list:

• The Original Ironmen documentary
• Iron Cowboy: “Redefine Impossible” book
• Iron Cowboy: The Story of the 50.50.50 Triathlon documentary
• We Are Triathletes documentary

Lock Laces

Want to speed up your transition? Nothing beats Lock Laces. That is, unless you are trying to get some free rest time.

Water Bottle

You can always use another water bottle. Okay, so maybe your kitchen is already full of them, but you can always add to your collection.

Bike Repair Tools

Nobody can have enough tools in their garage. If you are a cyclist or triathlete, you need a complete set of specialty tools…even if you don’t know how to use them all.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a great gift for runners and an essential for cyclists, unless, of course, you enjoy the feeling of bugs hitting your eyeballs at 20 mph.

If there’s anything I missed, please add it to the comments below! Maybe I’ll change the title to “Eleven Inexpensive Triathlon Gifts”—don’t worry, I won’t rat on you to the triathlon officials for your contribution.