Banjo Brothers
Pocket Cycling Wallet

Not every problem requires an expensive solution. For years a plastic baggie has worked quite well to keep my phone protected from sweat and rain on long rides, but a grocery store zip-lock is far from perfect. The Banjo Brothers pocket cycling wallet is an affordable solution at a mere $6, providing a water resistant pouch for your phone on one side with two small pockets on the reverse all accessed through the same full length zipper. The clear window is touch screen compatible, and the wallet itself is constructed of waterproof materials though it isn’t seam sealed for total immersion, nor is the zipper a fancy waterproof one. Perfect for putting into a jersey pocket or bag and not worrying about it in anything but a full on downpour, I’ve been using the wallet for a couple of months without much to note other than finding it incredibly handy. I run my phone without a case, and this provides just enough protection to drop my phone in my bag, use it with wet hands or fumble it into the dirt trailside. The wallet fits everything but the largest smartphones on the market, and has a loop to attach a key ring or carabiner. www.banjobrothers.com

Knog Blinder 1 Standard

At just 15 g and 25 x 25 x 33 mm, the Blinder 1 represents the minimalist spectrum of Knog’s rechargeable light offerings. Gone are the days of watch batteries and 100% silicone construction, the completely waterproof Blinder 1 features a slick anodized aluminum face, polycarbonate lens and housing and a silicone bar attachment that fits 22 - 32 mm bars.

The surface mount LED puts out a reported 20 lumens on the front headlight model and 11 for the rear version. In my opinion, the beam is especially well tuned for a small light.. It’s wide and soft, illuminating the immediate area area without casting distracting patterns on the road. The main reason to have a light like this is for being seen, and Knog claims this one can be seen from over 500 m.

The USB rechargeable lithium polymer battery is rated at more than two hours on high, and 11 hours in flashing mode. Unlike many rechargeable lights, which have a female connecter requiring a cable, the Blinder has a built in male connecter to plug directly into a USB port.

The Blinder 1 retails for $30. There are a total of six faceplate styles available, including a heart, cog, and flower. A twin-pack of front and rear Blinder 1 lights is available for $55. www.knog.com.au