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Gift ideasDrinking backpack and sunglasses for Christmas

Marc Strucken

 · 06.12.2024

The Race 2.0 from USWE is perfect for gravel bikes.
Photo: Marc Strucken

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Christmas is often around the corner sooner than you think. That's why we in the editorial team have remembered our favourites of the year and recommend them as gift ideas. Editor Marc Strucken was often out and about on his gravel bike and recommends a racing rucksack and a pair of sunglasses.

USWE Race 2.0 hydration pack

Although USWE has been designing hydration packs for mountain biking for some time, most of them are large and primarily designed for downhill and freeride. With the Race 2.0, the Swedes are taking it to the next level. Like all USWE backpacks, it offers the patented 4-point "No Dancing Monkey" (NDM) retention system: No matter what happens on the trail, the rucksack no longer bounces like a wild monkey. The USWE Race 2.0 hydration backpack is the perfect little companion for those who don't want or need to carry a lot and are going fast/racy, as it holds a large 2-litre hydration bladder. The mesh material in the straps and the back section keeps you cool.

No dancing monkey: the backpack sits absolutely securely on the back thanks to the strap systemPhoto: Marc StruckenNo dancing monkey: the backpack sits absolutely securely on the back thanks to the strap system
  • Price: 119 Euro (RRP) >> available here
  • Chest circumference: 84 - 110 cm
  • Dimension: 32 cm x 16 cm x 9 cm
  • Volume: 2 litres
  • Weight: 420 g (incl. hydration bladder, tube and insulated bag, self-weighed)
  • Drinking system: Elite Hydration bladder with Plug-n-Play coupling; 2 litre capacity

>> Read the full test of the USWE Race 2.0 hydration pack here.

Naked Optics The Blade Sunglasses

With "The Blade", Naked Optic has developed sunglasses with a half-frame and interchangeable lenses especially for cyclists. The sports glasses offer impressive value for money: 75 euros.

When you put them on for the first time, you immediately notice the stable fit, which is achieved by the rubber coating on the temples and a rubberised nose bridge. The nose bridge can be individually adjusted. The Blade also scores points for its good ventilation, which minimises fogging of the lenses while offering protection against wind and dirt.

The tint of the lenses on the version we tested (red, protection category 2) seems ideal for road trips in particular, as it offers high contrast on grey-black surfaces. Naked Optics generally offers different lenses for The Blade 7.

Stylish, stable and with a good tint. And the price is also totally ok.Photo: Marc StruckenStylish, stable and with a good tint. And the price is also totally ok.
  • Price: 79.99 euros (RRP) >> available here
  • Dimensions: 145 x 59 mm
  • Weight: 33.8 g
  • Many replacement lenses available: 19.99 euros (clear / orange lenses) // 24.99 euros (other 5 colours)

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Marc Strucken

Marc Struken is a passionate bike journalist and editor at Delius Klasing Verlag. After working in radio, radio, TV and online marketing, he has been contributing his experience to digital content for BIKE, EMTB, FREERIDE and MYBIKE since 2022 - whether mountain bike, gravel or road bike.

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