By Christina Shepherd McGuire
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The daily grind means something different to everyone, especially mountain people. Some folks hump their cars over the pass every morning in the locally coined “Spud 500,” while others are lucky enough to pedal to work, snow or shine. Some commuters ride the bus or even don a pair of skis for their morning schuss to work. But whatever the mode of transport, the commuter on your holiday gift list is bound to appreciate a comfier ride, a hotter beverage, or easier access to his or her devices (no texting while driving, please).
Stormy Kromer Caps
Batten down the hatches with Stormy Kromer Caps for both men and women. Rock them high when the sun is shining or pull down the earband for added cold protection. Made in the USA. Sold at High Country Outfitters. Women’s Petal Pusher $44.99; Men’s Benchwarmer $49.99
Osprey Pixel Port Backpack
This urban-style daypack boasts superb organizational skills with unique flap access to your tablet. Stay connected in any kind of weather. Sold at Teton Mountaineering and Yostmark. $120
Darn Tough Crew Light Socks
Who doesn’t need an overbuilt sock that stands the test of time? Darn Tough’s Vermont-made merino socks are guaranteed for life. Your life, that is. No strings attached. Sold at Teton Mountaineering and Yostmark. $20
45NRTH Nicotine Studded Mountain Bike Tires
Can’t spring for the snow bike, but still want some to-and-fro exercise? Then convert your mountain bike into a snow machine with these studded mountain bike tires. Sold at Hoback Sports and Habitat. $130
Give’r Gloves
Perfect for visiting tourists who want a piece of the “mountain uniform” to take home. This glove of one hundred uses, complete with your branded initials, won’t disappoint. Sold at garagegrowngear.com, MADE, and Burgess Custom. $35
Po Campo Six Corners Handlebag
Show off your feminine flair while commuting by bike. Po Campo’s easy-access handlebag converts to a cross-body sling, allowing you to segue from bike to work to play in style. Sold at garagegrowngear.com. $39.99
Liquid Hardware’s Sidewinder Insulated Bottle
Liquid Hardware’s Sidewinder bottle doubles as both a water bottle and a thermos, keeping your hot drinks hot and your cold ones cold. And their magnetic technology prevents a runaway lid that could easily roll under your gas pedal. Created in Victor, Idaho, and sold at Teton Mountaineering, Wilson Backcountry Sports, and Barrels & Bins. $29.95
45NRTH Cobrafist Bar Mitts
Bar mitts take the place of bulky gloves for the die-hard winter bike commuter. With a water-resistant shell, PrimaLoft insulation, and a techie attachment system, Cobrafist mitts give new meaning to “hard-core.” Sold at Hoback Sports and Habitat. $130
Cleverhood Street Capes
A trendsetting commuter accessory! Perfect for swing season, with its waterproof-breathable fabric, magnetic armholes, thumb loops, and bike-ready hood. And fellas, don’t be shy—capes show exceptional character. Just look at Batman. Sold at cleverhood.com. $249
