Gear Picks
The Best Budget Bike Locks That Actually Work
If you want serious protection, you have to spend serious money. But some locks offer quality defense in low-consequence situations. Here are our favorites.
Featured
$40.00
from Competitive Cyclist
At 14 ounces, the Carlito is among the lightest U-locks on the market. Is lighter safer? Absolutely not. But this Rocky Mounts model is small enough to stow in a pocket, fits around most frames and racks, and has an alloy frame that provides protection against casual would-be used-bike owners.
$47.00
$43.00
9% off
Slide the 13-millimeter-thick KryptoLok around your back tire and chainstays, then loop the included cable through the frame and front wheel before hooking it to the U-bar and clamping the whole thing shut. The entire system looks damn near unbreakable and can ward off all but the most determined thief.
$65.00
from Amazon
Designed to fit in a back pocket, this is one of the best-selling and highest-rated small U-locks on Amazon. Made of 14-millimeter hardened steel, it’s only 5.5-inches wide and weighs just over two pounds.
$50.00
from Amazon
Ever seen a lock and thought, This would make a nice belt? Us neither. But for quick and easy deployment when you’re hopping on and off the bike, the Spin wraps comfortably around your waist. The chain inside the nylon sheath is six millimeters thick, so bolt cutters could make quick work of it, but it’s a solid deterrent.
$25.00
from REI
It doesn’t get much lighter than the Z Lok, which is essentially a burly zip tie with a steel core. It’s not going to keep your bike safe all night long in, say, Manhattan, but it’s great to have in your pack for times when you want to lock your bike while you indulge in a quick postride pint.
$55.00
Kryptonite is the most trusted name in bike locks, and its Keeper 712 offers a balance between cost and protection. This chain sits inside a weather-resistant nylon sleeve and requires a four-digit combo to unlock. Its manganese steel isn’t light, but rest easy knowing your bike probably isn’t going anywhere unless you want it to.
All Gear
$89
$67
25% off
Our editor-approved trail pants, now in short form. The nylon blend fabric has a water repellent finish, allowing you to hike in the rain or cross a creek without concern (the hint of stretch especially helps with that last one). They are also available in a women's version. Get 25 percent off sitewide during Stio's summer sale!
$70
$45
36% off
The Trail Runner editor-in-chief claims "this is the best sun-hoody for high-output activity I’ve ever tested." Thoughtful details like the zippered key/card pocket, thumb holes, and scuba hood are the cherry on top of the soft, wicking fabric that allows her to enjoy long alpine runs.
$160
$120
25% off
It is the lug pattern on these shoes that distinguish them from the rest. Our testers note that it feels like wearing crampons or spikes thanks to the shape, spacing, and sharpness of the lugs themselves. Grab a black pair now and your winter self will thank you in a few months.
$7499
$5999
20% off
Intended for marathon mountain bike racing, the new Mach 4 shaved off about 300-400 grams from the frame, making it light and responsive. Check out the first look review on Pinkbike.
Sponsor Content
Revo Descend N
$199
Revo's best-selling Descend N glasses features NASA-based polarized lens technology with a rimless design with panoramic views for when you need to see it all.
$119
$83
30% off
We have been fans of the Give'r 4 Season Leather Gloves since the brand launched them on Kickstarter years ago. The waterproof leather outer paired with the Thinsulate lining makes them warm and durable, great for backcountry ski days or chilly nights around the campfire.
$1599
$1199
25% off
We named the Jackson Gnarvana kayak the best kayak of 2023 in this year's Summer Gear Guide due to its combination of "speed, maneuverability, and boofing chops for everything from creeks to Class V rapids." It is fast, easy to paddle, and delivers clean lines in any water.
$30
$24
20% off
Get your caffeine fix on the go with this double-walled, stainless steel insulated mug. If you don't have a have a Yeti by now,, take your chance while they're on sale. It will soon be your go-to morning companion.
$130
$85
35% off
Named the best all-terrain trail running shoe in last year's Summer Gear Guide, these shoes are light, slim, and flexible, great for responding to all types of terrain. The lug soles provide plenty of traction on a variety of trails.
$600
$500
17% off
Take your BBQ game to the next level. The wood pellets produce a subtly smoky flavor, and it is easy enough for you to set it and forget it with perfect results every time, whether you are smoking, grilling, roasting, or braising veggies or meat.
$750
$600
20% off
The upgraded version of this best-selling ski performs incredibly reliably in any snow condition, earning it a spot in this year's Winter Gear Guide. Testers enjoyed how intuitive and responsive the skis are right out the gate, great for intermediate to advance skiers alike.
Gear Picks is a curated selection of products we’ve tested and heartily recommend. We stand by this gear—and the brands that sell it—and many of our editors and writers use this stuff weekly. Whenever possible, we provide a link to a past review so you can make sure it’s something that suits your lifestyle—ideally at a steeply discounted price. Happy shopping—and gear-picking.