After almost two months of sheltering in place, I’ve become very familiar with the interior walls of my house. Often, a long solo run or bike ride is my exercise, fresh air, and respite from my loving and yet increasingly annoying family—and what’s more, I see more and more of you joining me. To all you brand-new runners and cyclists and backyard loungers, I say: Welcome. One of our favorite retailers, REI, is holding its yearly anniversary sale, which is a great time to pick up running gear at up to 30 percent off. Members can also save up to 20 percent on full-priced items with code ANNV20.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for at REI, Moosejaw is also holding its summer sale. For more ideas to get outside, don’t forget to check out our buying guides to the Best Fitness Trackers, Best Portable Grills, and the Best Umbrellas.
Updated May 21: We fixed pricing, replaced sold out links, and added new picks like the REI Co-op Cycles CTY bike.
Biking, Running, and Paddling Deals
REI Co-Op Cycles CTY 2.2
Photograph: REI-
REI Co-op Cycles CTY 2.2 Bike for $934 ($165 off): We’re calling it now: Later on this summer, it will be almost impossible to find a bike with these specs for under $1,000. This hybrid is good for both city commuting and a little bumping on the trails on weekend fun rides, with front suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and fender/rack compatibility.
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Smith Signal MIPS Helmet for $60 ($15 off): All helmets look nerdy. You will never find a cool-looking one, so you might as well get one with a rotary dial-in fit system, adequate ventilation, and a low-friction layer to reduce rotational movement on impact to prevent brain injury.
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Garmin Fenix 6S Pro for $550 ($150 off): Garmin’s slim, robust outdoor multisport watch is my favorite fitness tracker for getting completely lost in the backcountry.
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Black Diamond Locking Carabiner for $11 ($4 off): All of Black Diamond’s gear is 25 percent off. Most climbers can always use an extra carabiner, but I also noted that a carabiner is useful for clipping dog leashes and kid’s shoes in our cheap gear guide.
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Kryptonite New York Standard U-Lock for $86 ($29 off): If you’ve invested in an electric bike or a normal bike to get around while roads in your city are closed, protect it with a U-lock around the frame that resists bolt cutters and picks.
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BIC Sport Performer Air Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard for $467 ($80 off): Social distancing is a great time to pick up a solitary water sport like paddleboarding. If you’re not going far or fast, an inflatable bundle like this is the most affordable entry point.
Camping and Kitchen Deals
Jetboil Flash Cooking System
Photograph: Jetboil