Merry fitness
It’s easy to make an exercise enthusiast happy while staying within your budget
You don’t have to spend a lot to give the gift of fitness. Gadgets and gear are plentiful at all price points, making it easy to stay on budget.
To help you find the right gift to put under the tree, following is a list of fitness-themed presents under $100.
ENLITE BRA
Support without the struggle. This game-changing jog bra keeps the bounce factor in check. A zipper in front makes it easy to put on and take off, and instead of the uniboob look, this bra gives each of the girls their own space. Wide straps and chest band keep it in place without digging in. Available in sizes A to E, it’s a welcome mix of fashion and function.
Price: $98
Available at: Lululemon
S’WELL WATER BOTTLE
Sure, the S’well is this year’s trendiest water bottle, but its reputation for keeping water colder longer is for real. The triple-wall stainless steel design keeps beverages cold for up to 24 hours and hot for 12 hours, which beats most of the competition. Then there are all the funky colours and patterns in styles that range from narrow and wide-necked to tall and squat. Choose from a sport or commuter lid in nine-, 17- or 25-ounce sizes.
Price: From $45
Available at: Chapters/Indigo
GAIAM YOGA SOCKS
For yogis who come in from the cold, these socks keep feet warm during the chilly months. They also provide a barrier from dirty floors and sweaty mats. The grippy soles mean no slipping during challenging poses, and the open toes maintain that ever so important physical contact with the ground.
Price: $16.99
Available at: Sports stores
METAL VENT TECH SURGE SHORT SLEEVE FOR MEN
This is the go-to T-shirt for guys who love to sweat. Lightweight and breathable, it’s like a favourite broken-in T-shirt — only better. Made with Lululemon’s customary quality and attention to detail, it features seamless construction that prevents chafing, and the mesh fabric lets hot air out and cool air in. Fashion may not be high on the list of musthaves when it comes to workout wear, but the Metal Vent T helps you look put together, even on days when you’re not.
Price: $88
Available at: Lululemon
WATERPROOF CAMERA FLOAT STRAP
Water and technology don’t mix, but with so many Instagrammable moments happening out on the water, most paddlers stash their phones or cameras in a waterproof case and hope for the best. Still, even the most watertight of cases won’t stop your phone from heading straight to the bottom if it falls overboard. Perfect for phones, cameras, keys and any other valuables, this affordable float strap keeps your favourite things visible and within reach should they land in the drink. For heavier cameras or phones, use two.
Price: $12.99 for a pack of two Available at: Amazon
ENDURE: MIND, BODY, AND THE CURIOUSLY ELASTIC LIMITS OF HUMAN PERFORMANCE
Written with a runner’s passion for going the distance by fitness writer Alex Hutchinson, this book is a scientific look at endurance training. Hutchinson got his undergraduate degree in physics from McGill, where he also ran track, before moving on to get his PhD at the University of Cambridge. With a foreword by Malcolm Gladwell, Endure is the perfect gift for a marathoner or triathlete who wants to know everything there is to know about everything there is to know. Price: $20
Available at: Amazon
SMARTWOOL SOCKS
These high-performing socks are a favourite of outdoor lovers. Choose from those designed for runners, cyclists, skiers, hikers or walkers, all of which come in a variety of densities, styles and lengths. Excellent at keeping cold feet warm and sweaty feet dry, they’re durable and comfortable. Price: From $20
Available at: Sports and outdoors stores everywhere
TACX BIKE BRACKET FOR TABLETS
Make those kilometres pedalled in your basement more enjoyable by binging on your favourite shows. This brilliantly designed tablet holder attaches to your bike’s handlebars, but is positioned far enough that your sweat won’t land on the screen. There’s even a spot for your water bottle. Price: $79.50
Available at: Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC)