Tis the Season: TCO 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

Last Updated: November 28, 2023By Tags: , , , , , , ,

The holiday season is upon us, and while it may be the most wonderful time of the year, finding the perfect gift can be a challenge. Fear not, because The Clip Out is here to save the day!  Together with our team of talented TCO writers, we have curated lists of our favorite items to help you complete your holiday shopping (which will give you more time for Peloton, of course!). From fitness gear to perfume, pet accessories, and a few borderline-boujee things, we’ve got you covered. 

We’ve provided links to every item in our 2023 Gift Guide, so all it takes is a few clicks to get your shopping done. Whether you’re looking for gifts to fill stockings, put under trees, something for Fido or Fluffy, or just want to treat yourself (because you deserve it!), we’re confident that you’ll find something you’ll love. 

Hit play on that festive playlist below and let’s get started on checking off those lists!

Fitness & Accessories

Add a little oomph to your strength day with Micro Gainz plates

Since we’re all here because we have one thing in common (Peloton!), let’s kick this Gift Guide off with things for the fitness-minded folks on your list!  These are the things you’ll find in the TCO Team fitness arsenal.

Arena Strength Fabric Booty Bands

If you’re looking for a way to amp up the burn in Barre classes or bodyweight strength classes, then these booty bands are a perfect addition to a fitness room.  They’re lightweight and durable, come in a variety of tension-strengths, and, because they are made out of fabric, they stay where you put them.  No migrating up and down those thighs with each clamshell or squat!  They are one of my favorite things to add to any of my lower body workouts to target those glutes just a liiiiiiiittle bit more. –Nikki Smith (#MySprtsBrasStuk)

Micro Gainz Dumbbell Plates

These are small fractional weights that clip on to your existing dumbbells. I would describe these as fantastic step-up weights. Let’s say you have been using 15lb dumbbells in your favorite Peloton strength class, but you’re not quite ready to reach for those 20 lb weights. You can add two 1.25 plates to each dumbbell, and voila, you have 17.5 lb dumbbells! I bought a set of four 1.25 weights that I have been using for about 6 months. They are durable, metal weights with a spring-loaded clip design. I have several brands of dumbbells that I use, including the 30 lb Peloton dumbbells. The Micro Gainz plates work extremely well with all of them. They fit snugly on your dumbbell handle and leave plenty of room for your hand to fit between them when you grip your dumbbell.  –Chris Perone (#JaxintheSaddle)

Cossac Undated Fitness Journal and Planner

My favorite fitness log!!!  It’s segmented so perfectly, and allows you to keep track of daily workouts, as well as track progressive overload for strength training.  I started using this on January 1 of this year, and now I have an entire year’s worth of data to look back on and see how strong I’ve gotten and how much weight I’ve been able to add to my lifts.  And, don’t forget the pens!  Papermate Inkjoy Gel pens are my go-to for everything, and they’re great to write with, but, having the ability to color-code my workouts makes it much easier to refer back to specific exercises when I’m in a hurry to track past data or get a quick reference for a particular lift.  –Nikki 

Gaiam Yoga Mat

I like the reversible ones. TONS of colors and patterns to choose from and I’ve had mine for a few years, so I can confirm they hold up really well. (I also have one for upstairs, and one I keep in my car.) –Lindsey Kelly (#UnicornLindsey)

Roller Skate Leash

While we’re on yoga mats, I searched far and wide for a fun, patterned yoga mat strap I could also use during a flow, and wound up buying a roller skate leash from Project Pinup. They’re the PERFECT length for a yoga strap, have D-rings on the ends so you can use them as a mat sling, and come in a ton of cute patterns and colors. –Lindsey 

Drip Accessory 

I have used these with my Peloton Bike for nearly two years and I love them. They are made specifically for the Peloton Bike or Bike+. In each set, you get one handlebar towel, which is great for preventing sweat from dripping onto your bike and floor. You also get an extra towel for wiping sweat while you are riding. FYI, the Bike and Bike+ designs are different because the handlebars on the Bikes are different as well, so make sure you order the correct towel for the Bike you have. –Chris

Cooling Towels

I cannot live without these on the Bike or the Tread!  Run the towel under cold water, wring it out, and enjoy a refreshing cool towel on your face or neck for an hour, give or take.  Absolutely wonderful during a workout … and if you’re in hot flash territory, well, you’re welcome! –Kelli Baker (#KayBeeSparkles)

Huma Chia Energy Gels

Selena Samuela recently called these out as one of her favorites, but I think I discovered them before she did!  I’m a very early workout person (you’ll find me on Peloton between 5:30 and 6:30 am, long before breakfast). I’m always looking for something that’s light but still fuels me up and gives me a boost, especially before a heavy cardio workout.  Huma gels are made with real fruit puree and powdered chia seeds, so they’re real food – not to mention that they are absolutely delicious. –Kelli

Peloton Guide

I really have to give a shout-out to the Peloton Guide.  If you’re lucky enough to have a TV in your workout space, adding this little piece of hardware to your setup creates such a great interface to any kind of strength, yoga, stretching or any other floorwork. And if you don’t already have a Bike, Tread or Row, the Guide has some hidden gem membership upsides .. see the deep dive that Crystal did back in August! –Kelli 

(What would a Clip Out Gift Guide be without at least one piece of Peloton merch on it? I mean, come on.  You knew it was coming.)

Ghost Nutter Butter Protein Powder

This protein powder is easy on the stomach and really does taste like a Nutter Butter cookie! –Tina Frylina (#Tinaspinnereena)

Portable Battery Operated Fan

This fan flows plenty of air to cool me during my runs on my tread, but it wraps anywhere, so it’s great for any piece of equipment. –Tina

Wearable Tech

Biometric feedback in a tidy little package? Sounds like a perfect holiday gift to us!

And, what would fitness be  without some wearable technology to track it?  Biometric feedback is all the rage these days, and for good reason!  Knowing how your body is responding to stress helps you tailor your workouts to fit your specific needs.  Here’s what the TCO team is loving this year.

Garmin Fenix series smartwatch

Although I’m not much for actually working out lately, I much prefer the Garmin Fenix to track almost all of my activities. Specifically my Garmin Fenix 5S Plus. It’s much more accurate in regard to heart rate and all other available metrics. –Najah Masudi (#YuniqueNaj)

Oura Ring

I recently purchased the silver Horizon ring and am less than a week in. So far though, I like the metrics I’m seeing. … Purchased mainly for the sleep metrics so that I no longer have to wear BOTH my Apple Watch and Garmin to bed. … Crazy, I know, but I’m a recovering metrics hog.  –Najah 

Scosche Rhythm 2.0 or Rhythm 24 Heart Rate Monitor Armband

These work great on both the Peloton Bike as well as the Peloton Guide. They are dual band monitors, meaning they are compatible with both Bluetooth and ANT+ compatible devices. I love having an armband monitor especially when doing dumbbell curls because I feel that my wrist motion is restricted when wearing a watch. -Chris

Books

Curl up under a warm blanket and read Black Cake before you watch the streaming version on Hulu

Book-lovers unite!  If you’re buying for a bookworm this year, check out our Writer Reading List!

Forever Strong by Dr. Gabrielle Lyons

Nothing screams Holiday Fun more than a self-help book!  But, seriously, sarcopenia ain’t sexy y’all and, if someone is willing to share science-backed information to help me age not just healthfully, but strongly, put that info in my hands right now.  Forever Strong is an easy-read roadmap for staying strong in the second half of life. And, as more and more research points to the importance of retaining muscle mass as we age, this is the information I wish someone had given me as soon as I turned 30.  The info in this book is valuable for everyone in every phase of their life. –Nikki 

Next Level by Dr. Stacy Sims

If Forever Strong is the roadmap, then Next Level is the user’s manual for living well inside your own body for the second half of your life.  In a world where there is now an entire industry emerging specifically to financially capitalize on perimenopause and menopause, Dr. Sims has been tackling this subject long before it became a buzzy topic.  Geared towards women, Next Level gives you science- and research-backed tools and information you need to age healthfully and to be your own best advocate in your doctor’s office.  This is a must-own for any woman over the age of 40.  –Nikki 

Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

This character-driven story that spans generations was such a hit that it’s scored a streaming deal on Hulu!  

Black Cake is not just a tasty dessert, it’s a story chock full of a mothers’ love for her family and the secrets she keeps close until after her demise. If you enjoy a story with twists and unforeseeable turns, then this easy read is for you! -Najah

Live, Learn, Love Well: Lessons From a Life of Progress Not Perfection by Emma Lovewell

If the excitement of Emma Lovewell’s Disney adventures leaves you wanting more, her book “Live Learn Love Well: Lessons from a Life of Progress Not Perfection” is a treasure trove of inspiration. This isn’t just another celebrity memoir; it’s a heartfelt exploration of Lovewell’s unique approach to life. Known for her captivating Peloton classes and vibrant lifestyle, Emma distills her philosophy of embracing progress over perfection into these pages. “Live Learn Love Well” takes readers on a journey through Emma’s life, from the exhilaration of theme park rides to the dedication required to build a balanced and fulfilling life. The book is an intimate look at how she tackles challenges, celebrates successes, and maintains a positive and resilient spirit. Ideal for those inspired by her energetic approach to wellness, this book is a thoughtful and uplifting gift for the holiday season. –Jenn Dane (#State48AZ)

8 Rules of Love: How to Find it, Keep It and Let It Go by Jay Shetty

Let me tell you about a book that has profoundly impacted my life: “8 Rules of Love: How to Find It, Keep It, and Let It Go” by Jay Shetty. This isn’t just a book; it’s a journey into understanding love and relationships like never before. Shetty, with his rich background as a Vedic monk, unfolds love in a way that’s both ancient and refreshingly modern. Every page of this book resonates with personal experiences, making it feel like you’re having a heart-to-heart with a wise friend. This book helped me see love as a skill—a beautiful, evolving practice that we can all get better at with a little guidance. This is more than a book; it’s a life-changer. It’s the perfect holiday gift for anyone on your list, including yourself. Trust me, it’s a journey worth embarking on. –Jenn

Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty by Anderson Cooper

If you know someone who loves history and reality TV, then this is the book.  Long before we had the Kardashians, we had the Vanderbilts–the OGs of obscene wealth and family drama!  And this book has it all: ruthless ambition, a cruel patriarch, a costume party dress with taxidermy cats attached!  Anderson even touches on his own mother’s entanglement in the Vanderbilt dynasty and drama.  I personally love the audiobook version because it’s infused with Anderson’s dry wit and sometimes bemused observations about his almost-hard-to-believe family legacy, but the book is a terrific read, too.  And, if you happen to be a fan of HBO’s The Gilded Age, then you may be interested to know that the Russell family is based on William and Alva Vanderbilt, both of whom are discussed in the book. –Nikki

Eleanor by David Michaels

Eleanor Roosevelt was a force of nature.  Not just a First Lady of the United States, she was an athlete, a dancer, a gifted writer, and one of the greatest influences on American politics as the wife of Franklin D. Roosevelt.  She was a fierce advocate for women in the workplace, civil rights, as well as the rights of World War II refugees.  And, she was so politically savvy, Harry S Truman even considered asking her to be his running mate at one point, before she assured him she had no interest in running for political office.  She was a dreamer and a fighter and she worked tirelessly to better the world around her.  This book will leave you in awe of who she was, and what she accomplished.  I dare say it will leave you inspired, as well. –Nikki 

Beauty, Body and Fashion

Upgrade the man in your life’s shaving experience with this kit

An all-in-one category with a little something for everyone here!  We’ve got beauty, recovery, and fashion all wrapped up!  Well, not really–you’re in charge of that, but we do have some ideas for you.

Yoga Toes

If you ride, run, row, lift, walk or just stand, then these will be your new bffs.  Feet, and especially toes, often get overlooked in the recovery space, but when you think about it, they do so much for us!  These toe spreaders show them a little love and your feet will thank you for it, too!  –Nikki

Bloomingdale’s Scent Edit

A set that includes six lux fragrances from top brands, exclusively sold at Bloomingdale’s. Enjoy the bold and feminine Valentino Donna Born in Roma Eau de Parfum, the alluring Mugler ALIEN Goddess Eau de Parfum, and the enchanting Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb Ruby Orchid Eau de Parfum, among others.

Macy’s 12 Days of Scent Advent Calendar

A 12-piece gift box that is sure to have you (or someone on your gift list!) feeling festive each day. This set includes twelve captivating fragrances and a bonus Lovery Rose candle.

Oofos Recovery Shoe

Such a lifesaver for those of us with tired, worn out feet; especially after a run / walk. They are like magic AND much better at recovery than the Hoka sandals / slides. –Najah

Women’s If Only Wedge Sneaker

Best dang bootie I’ve ever owned.  –Najah

Women’s Shearling Zip Lapel Fleece

It’s stylish and oh-so-warm!!  I love throwing this fleece on with a pair of leggings and warm boots.  It’s such a comfortable piece of clothing that keeps me warm and elevates my bus stop/school pickup/errand running style just a little bit, even on the coldest of days. –Nikki

Sun Readers

The older I get the more I need these – fashionable sunglasses with readers built in! –Tina

Laneige Lip Mask

Chapped lips?  Never met them.  Well, at least not since I’ve been using this product.  The thick, emollient balm goes on just before bed and protects lips all night long and a little goes a long way, too!!  This gift is the gift that keeps on giving all winter long.  –Nikki 

Shaving Kit

My husband used to be a die-hard disposable razor guy and if there was a new blade added to the razor, he was happy to purchase it!   However, he didn’t necessarily feel like extra blades were really upgrading his shave experience.  We gifted him this single-blade kit with a badger brush and he hasn’t looked back since!  –Nikki

Sweat Proof Makeup

For the makeup lover in your life, every single item on our Sweat Proof Makeup article is a must-have (no lies detected here…I tested them all out!).  However, if you can’t swing an entire haul of new makeup, we’ve linked all of the products and they would make perfect stocking stuffers! –Nikki

Fitness-Minded Subscription Box

A subscription box for the fitness-minded person on your list

A gift, delivered to your door, in a box that you don’t have to wrap?  Yes, please.

The Lift Box

Every month you get a package with a shirt (choose your size and style- I like the tank tops!), usually an accessory, and a variety of healthy-living snacks. I love trying new things and having something “extra” to look forward to for my big workouts. -Lindsey

Borderline Bougie/Luxury

How does a warm towel on a cold day sound? Heaven. It sounds like heaven. And, if you gift this to someone this year, they’ll thank you forever.

What are the holidays good for without a little lux, and something that’s totally unnecessary but ohhhhhhhhhhh, so nice?

Live Fine Towel Warmer

I don’t know about you, but I am not a fan of stepping out of a hot shower and into a cool bathroom on a winter day, but this towel warmer helps!  The large barrel holds a full size towel, which it warms to a delightful temperature while you shower.  That ‘ahhhhhhh’ feeling of wrapping up in it is so next-level amazing.  Everyone needs a towel warmer!!  –Nikki

Kate Spade Surprise

Ok, technically not a single gift, this website is my go-to any time I need a gift that’s high on the wow factor and low on the spend factor.  The Kate Spade Surprise website (aka, the outlet site) is filled with fancy things that fit a more modest budget.  It’s a terrific resource for gifts and stocking stuffers!  –Nikki

Meta Quest 2

We’ve owned the Quest 1 and now have two (2) of the Meta Quest 2’s. Surprisingly, you can get a great workout in, if you have just enough space to make it work. Granted, I play mostly Beat Saber, but am happily winded after a session of play. LOL –Najah

Louis Vuitton Graceful MM

It’s all about the strap. If you’re looking for the perfect tote, I’d suggest this one. … The straps on the Neverfull GM (or any size of the Neverfull, really) are awful in comparison to the slightly wider strap of the Graceful MM. -Najah

(Coming in at $1,890, this might qualify as full-on bougie, but you’re treating yourself, remember?!)

Practical Gifts

Keep those fingers out of the flames with these workhorse BBQ gloves

Borderline Bougie not your style?  We got you. Practical things deserve a place under the tree, too.

Wall Charger/Surge Protector

This wall charger and surge protector handles all of my electronic needs in one spot. –Tina

Lululemon Belt Bag

Yes, these have been everywhere for a while now.  And, yes, they’re glorified fanny packs.  But, being able to be hands-free, and have your important things close to your body truly is so convenient, especially if you are heading into the city to take a class at PSNY.  It’s so nice not to have to haul a purse around on the trains and subways!  And, if you’re cabbing it, it’s one less thing to have to remember to grab once your car drops you off at your location.  Gap also makes a more budget-friendly and gender neutral one!  –Nikki

BBQ Gloves

These grilling gloves are amazing for the grill or oven – you can grab anything hot with them without worrying about it slipping out of your hand or burning your hand or fingers. –Tina

EuroSpa Yoga Mat Cleaner

This yoga mat spray keeps my mat from getting funky, and it comes in a big bottle so I don’t have to keep replacing it.  It’s easy to spray and perfect for freshening up my exercise room. –Tina

Pets

Upgrade Fido’s walking accessories with this waste-bag holder

Forget about Fluffy and Fido?  We would never.  Here’s what the TCO pet pawrents recommend for your fur babies!

JollyPets Teaser Ball, JollyPets Jolly Bones and GoDog Furballz

While no longer a puppy-puppy, my Golden Retriever, Bess, is still young and SUPER playful.  The Teaser Ball is a ball-within-a-ball that keeps her happy and occupied for hours.  She loves carrying it and chasing it around!  She’s also a power-chewer and these bones really stand up to those powerful jaws.  The GoDog Furballz are fun plushy squeaky toys with the squeaker buried DEEP inside.  These are a little more destructible than the JollyPets items, but I can give them to her with peace of mind, knowing that she can squeak her little heart out without the squeaker becoming a choking hazard. –Nikki

Dog Raincoat

This might qualify as borderline bougie, but it’s also really practical (and cute!!).  We go for lots (and LOTS) of walks, even when it’s wet outside, and this keeps my girl’s coat nice and dry.  Do size up for large breeds, though, because it can run a bit snug.  –Nikki

Pet Bed

My older dog, Darla, is very discerning when it comes to her sleeping spots (aka, she only wants to lay on sofas and under blankets) so I wasn’t sure if she would even use this bed.  But, to my surprise, she adores it.  As she ages, she needs something soft and warm to cushion her body, and this does the trick!  It’s her favorite place to catch some afternoon zzzzz’s.  –Nikki 

Cat Scratching Couch

The original which is all the rage in some FB cat lovers’ groups is now sold out from 5 Below, but this is an exact dupe.  –Najah

Barkbox Toys

Barkbox toys get an A+ for keeping my pups entertained and making me giggle, and there’s a subscription box to keep the toys coming year-round. –Courtney Beck (#DogAndPonyShow)

Dog Travel Bowl

This is literally the best travel dog bowl on the planet. Squishes up to fit in a coat pocket or backpack, quickly regains its shape when you need it. Even better, it’s dishwasher safe! –Courtney

Foggy Dog Dispensers

Poop bags, but make it fashion! If you have to bring bags with you on the walk, bring them in style with Foggy Dog dispensers. These tiny containers are the perfect size for one roll of bags. They clip onto your leash (or wherever, really) and come in a bunch of fun colors and prints. And while you’re there, pick up a bowtie or bandanna because your dog NEEDS one. –Courtney

Dog Socks

With customizable dog socks, you never have to leave your dog at home! –Courtney

Inaba Churu

Squeezable sticks of pureed tuna and chicken cat treats! Known as “kitty crack” in the Baker household, Duffy can detect even the sound of one of these tubes ripping open, and he’s not picky about who feeds it to him! (And there’s a canine version for the doggie lovers among us!).  –Kelli

That’s a wrap on this year’s TCO Holiday Gift Guide!  We hope you’ve found a few things to help you check off that list, and maybe even found a few things for yourself, too!  Special thanks to all of our TCO Helper Bee Writers who contributed to this year’s list!  And, from all of us on the TCO Writer’s Staff, we wish you a very happy holiday season.

Tune in to The Clip Out every Friday to hear Tom and Crystal’s take on this and other hot Pelotopics. We’re available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, iHeart, TuneIn. Be sure and follow us so you never miss an episode. You can also find the show online on Facebook.com/TheClipOut. While you’re there, like the page and join the group. Lastly, find us on our YouTube channel, YouTube.com/TheClipOut, where you can watch all of our shows.

See something in the Peloton Universe that you think we should know? Visit theclipout.com and click on Submit a Tip!

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