We all have a love-hate relationship with the off-season. For many, the idea of a season filled with gaining weight, being less strict about eating/drinking habits, and a reduction in training volume sounds like a whole lot of fun, but for many it can be a lot to handle. Many of us Type-A triathletes go crazy when we can’t obsess over our training. In the off season though, we need to give our brains a rest, and there’s no better way to keep our minds off of training than geeking out over some cool new products. So without further ado, here are some off-season gear essentials that will help you make it to spring; recovered and ready to race.

1. New Bike (road or mountain): 

The Specialized Allez and the Cannondale Caad-10 are two great examples of great riding, quality road bikes that are easy on your wallet

Many triathletes spend thousands of miles each year on their time trial bikes, grinding out their workouts. While during the season this is acceptable (and often encouraged), riding a different style of bike in the off season can do wonders. Going from a time trial bike to road bike can do a few things for you, but one of the most enjoyable things it will bring to your off season is the ability to go on group rides. Group rides are a ton of fun and a great way to give the mind a rest from all the solo training that many of us do throughout the year. Group rides also have constant changes in effort (or surges), which are not only a blast, but will get you fast, too. No need to get something super expensive either; unless you plan on racing your road bike (or just want the coolest bike out there) get the bike that fits you the best and doesn’t cost you your entire holiday bonus.

A hardtail like the Scott Scale 960 or the Trek Superfly 5 are great, entry-level hardtails that will get you the dirt experience you long for without having to take out a second mortgage.

For those that already have a road bike, or are feeling especially adventurous, a trip over to the dark side of dirt can be an amazing experience. Mountain biking is an even better way to escape from your year-long routines and change things up a bit. Not only will you have a blast, but your bike handling skills will greatly improve, and climbing on the road will be a piece of cake. Just as with buying a road bike, there’s no need to break the bank with your mountain bike purchase. While higher prices do bring nicer, cooler bikes, an entry-level hardtail can do the trick for most athletes just wanting to check out what it’s like in the dirt.

2. New Swim Gadgets

Coaches advise their athletes to focus on weaknesses during the off season, and for many, this is swimming. One thing about off season swimming though is there’s usually not much motivation for it; cold temperatures and early mornings don’t exactly sound like the most fun way to spend your time, but with a few gadgets you can either make your experience better, or avoid the frigid water all together.

The Finis Neptune allows you to listen to music during your swims

Yes, you read that right; those cold lonesome swims just got ten times better! Pick yourself up a set of the Finis Neptune underwater MP3 player and you’re workouts will be much more enjoyable. With 4 gigabytes of storage, you can load up over 60 hours of playback. This can include songs, audiobooks, or even study sessions. The Neptune also uses bone-conduction technology so you don’t have to worry about not being able to listen to your coach with your music playing.

The Vasa Trainer will keep you in swim shape without ever touching the water

While a hefty price (From $949) might deter some, the Vasa Trainer is perfect for those living in areas where the #1 goal of your swim workout is to not get hypothermia, or those who don’t have time to make it to the pool. With the use of body weight, the Vasa Trainer allows you to train sport-specific muscles to help develop swim strength and form. Becoming a faster swimmer without getting in the pool may sound too good to be true, but you know when triathlon legend Dave Scott says that “the Vasa Trainer is absolutely essential for all triathletes and swimmers who want to swim faster,” this training device is the real deal.

3. Trail Shoes

Just like mountain biking, trail running is a great way to give the mind a break from your usual run-routine.  Not only is running in the dirt good for the mind, but the combination of soft surfaces for injury prevention and quick recovery, and plenty of hills to make you strong allows for an awesome workout. Me sure you pick up the right pair of shoes though. For those who enjoy somewhat minimalist road shoes, check out the Saucony Peregrine 4’s which are a lot like a dirt version of Saucony’s famous Kinvara. Those on the other end of the spectrum with a maximalist preference should check out the Hoka One One Mafate Speed, which provide ample cushioning along with a trail-designed read pattern. And those somewhere in the middle should check out a shoe like the Salomon XA Pro 3D which are a good all-around trail shoe.

Whether you end up getting some new gadgets for your off season or not, make sure to get out there and have some fun. Allowing time for a mental and physical re-charge will make your 2015 season the best yet.

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Dillon Hollinger is an age group athlete racing for Team Wattie Ink. His racing highlights this year include an 1st place AG & 11th overall finish at IRONMAN 70.3 Honu and 4th place AG at Wildflower. Dillon is also a bike mechanic at Art’s Cyclery in San Luis Obispo, CA.