Instead of dumping one giant, unwieldy gift guide slideshow on you this year, we're spreading out our annual gift ideas over 12 Days of Crossmas, and going a bit more in-depth in each product. Need something fast? A digital subscription to Cyclocross Magazine or a subscription combined with our latest issue are two quick, easy options to get something in the lucky recipient's hands.
(As always, we're never paid to feature such items, so you can trust someone on the CXM Pit Crew likes these products).
Silca Pumps and Tools
Founded in 1917 outside Milan, Italy, Silca is a brand known to many masters racers, and some young guns too thanks to the longevity of the company’s original, signature floor pump. The quality of materials, construction and the fact the pumps were re-buildable has left many still in service years down the road.
In 2014 Silca reinvented itself to some degree. The company was sold to industry veteran Joshua Poertner, previously with Zipp, and moved from Italy to Indianapolis, IN. With the move, Silca started producing their SuperPista Ultimate floor pump here in the States. Since then, they've added other products to their catalog, all with the same level of refinement.
Slica's latest offerings—the SuperPista Ultimate LP, HX-ONE Home and Travel Essential Kit and the Pocket Impero pump—all fit the bill as best-in-class offerings. While intended for anyone, these products are ideal for those who keep equipment forever as well as those who simply enjoy the finer things in life.
Scroll through to see more on the SuperPista Ultimate LP floor pump, the HX-One Home and Travel Essential Kit and the Pocket Impero from Silca.
The Silca Pocket Impero
Silca says the Pocket Impero is not a mini pump.
Mini pumps are notorious for being difficult to use, but a pocket-sized pump from Silca is anything but.
Using the same head and valve as their Impero frame pump, the Pocket Impero’s otherwise full-metal construction features a unique silicone sleeve to improve grip and keep riders’ from getting hot as the pump warms with use. It also locks the pump closed when it’s time to put it in a pocket—or stocking.
The new silca Pocket Impero is made of machined aluminum with a rubber grip near the head that acts as a lock for the handle in the closed position. © Cyclocross Magazine
Silca claims the internals on the Pocket Impero allow for the highest pumping efficiency—200 strokes to 89 psi—when measured against other mini pumps.
If your favorite rider has to be away from their SuperPista Ultimate floor pump, this is a fine substitute.
$120, USD.
More info: silca.cc
