5 Favorite Biking Products After 5 Years of Cargo Biking

I've been cargo biking for 5 years and these are the products I actually use every day. Not sponsored lists — just the stuff that's survived real life with three kids.

Best Adult Helmet: Lazer Urbanize MIPS

The visor is what makes this helmet. It's essential for rain, snow, wind, and cold. It fits over glasses and magnetizes to the top when you don't need it. The helmet also has a winterize kit for keeping your ears warm (I'd give the winter kit a 3/5 — it detaches easily but gets the job done).

Price: $169.99 + $25 for the winter kit — use promo code Maddy15 for 15% off.

Best Kids Helmets

Kids have different shaped heads, so I have two favorites:

For little ones: Lazer Pnut Kineticore. Fits snugly without falling over their eyes. Lightweight, fun designs, and the size adjusts automatically via stretching cords — no knob turning or straps to fiddle with.

Price: $49.99 — use promo code Maddy15 for 15% off.

For bigger kids: Bern Nino Youth. Great head coverage, easy to put on, and adjusts in the back with velcro. My middle child loves the shark design and brim.

Price: $60 — use promo code cargobikemomma20 for 20% off.

Best Biking Sneaker: Converse

The rubber toe is the secret — you can catch the pedals without scratching leather or ripping fabric. I have metal studs on my pedals so this matters. The rubber sole is grippy with very little slipping. Plus they're comfortable and stylish.

Price: ~$55 on Amazon. I'm obsessed with the Comme des Garçons version ($150).

Best Tool Kit: Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite

I do very little of my own maintenance, but occasionally I need to tighten a bolt or adjust a handlebar. This kit is small, easy to carry, and has a wide range of bits. I actually use it for furniture assembly too. Makes a great gift.

Price: $62 on Amazon

Best Bike Speaker: JBL Clip 4

Tiny speaker, great sound, pairs quickly with my phone. The clip hooks onto my bike or my kid's bike (using a zip tie or Hiplok Zlok). My daughter loves carrying it around — if I ever have trouble getting her in the bike, I turn on the music and ask her to hold it. Works every time.

Price: $80 on Amazon

Best Bike Lock: Hiplok D1000

Heavy duty and not easily broken — holds up against many angle-grinder attacks. I usually pair it with a chain or use it as a standalone U-lock. It's pricey but worth it.

Price: $300 for the lock + $64 for the chain. Use promo code 3MADDY15 for 15% off everything on Hiplok's website (except the D1000).