The Speedsleev Ranger S is one of the lightest, most compact cycling saddle bags available, and now it comes in lots of colors. It’ll hold a road tube, CO2, mini-tool and two tire levers, and keep it all dry thanks to its waterproof ballistic nylon shell. The compact size, tight interior pockets, and external mounting strap that compresses everything snugly to against your saddle rails keeps any of it from rattling.
A narrow, low profile design means it’s also up and out of the way so it won’t rub your thighs. Retail is $35, and there are two larger sizes if you need to carry a little more or bump up to fatter mountain bike tubes.
Zefal Z Hydro XL Hydration Pack & B2 Bottle Cage
The new Zefal Z Hydro hydration pack brings a ton of pockets to the party, giving you tons of organization on its lightweight, unstructured body. It comes with a BPA-free 3L reservoir using their auto-open/close bite valve, too. In addition to the large main compartment, it has a secondary open pocket with compression straps (to carry a jacket, helmet or pads), three smaller zip pockets, plus two velvet-lined zip pockets for things like smartphones and sunglasses. There’s breathable padded back panels, but no reinforcements in the the frame, so it can mold to your body’s shape, then stay there thanks to wrap-around waist straps and padding. Retail is just €69.95.
They’ve also got a new bottle cage that flexes just slightly, allowing it to snugly fit any type of standard cycling water bottle. The design uses a firm composite core to keep it strong and secure, with a “technopolymer resin” over top that allows just enough flex and grip to make it all work. Weight is just $31g.
Handske Windproof Cycling Gloves
Looking for just a little warmth without the bulk? The new Handske Windproof Cycling Gloves come in lots of colorful designs (many more than are shown here) and offer a windproof top panel to block the chill. They also get cuffs that are just a bit longer, and brushed fabric interiors to add a little insulation. The palms have silicone grip details plus touchscreen-friendly fingertips, and the entire construction is breathable so you won’t get sweaty mitts. Retail is $49.95 per pair.
Henty Enduro 2.0 Pack
If you like the idea of keeping your pack weight low on the back but hate having to cinch a fanny pack tight around your waist, the Henty Enduro is worth a look. It uses backpack straps with a light mesh rear panel to support the weight, but keeps everything stored low on your lumbar region. The new 2.0 version updates the design to fit more and taller riders, and the closures see big improvements. And it comes standard with a Hydrapak 3L bladder. Check out more of the details from our Sea Otter Classic coverage when the redesign was first shown. As of this post, the 2.0 is now shipping for $129 in black, or $149 in camo.
Black Line Sprinting Gear Bags
Black Line Sprinting is a South African company making a wide range of gear bags for road and mountain bikers, and in both technical fabrics and higher end leather. Above, the new BLS VeloRacing Backpack stuffs your entire riding kit into a compact pack that makes it easy to transport to or from the ride…and stuff your non-riding clothes into while you’re on the bike. The top pocket fits your helmet, bottom one your shoes, and your clothes go in the middle. Retail is $99 with free worldwide shipping.
When we started looking through their catalog, the Exclusive VeloRacing Bag stood out for the nice organization and compartmentalization of both tools, clothes and gear. It’s foam padded all around, and has a removable zippered compartment for keeping food (or personal effects) separate from your riding gear. The helmet compartment is large enough for an aero helmet, too. Retail is $325, shipping included.
