Every year we see hundreds of new products come through Sporty’s, and a handful rise to the top because pilots actually use them, talk about them, and come back for them. These are the 2025 Gear of the Year winners, voted on by you (the customers) plus our staff of expert pilots. If you’re looking for upgrades that make flying smoother, simpler, and more reliable, this is a great place to start.
Most Popular ADS-B Receiver: Sentry
TheSentry ADS-B Receiver by ForeFlight hits the sweet spot of price, capability, and size for most pilots. You get WAAS GPS, dual-band ADS-B weather and traffic, built-in AHRS, a CO detector, and excellent battery life in one compact box. Shop now>>
Best Portable Radio: PJ2+
The PJ2+ is the only handheld radio with built-in PJ headset jacks on top, so you can unplug your headset from the panel and plug straight into the radio. It’s easy to use with a big screen and oversized keypad, plus USB-C charging so it shares the same cable as your iPad. Shop now>>
Best Watch: Garmin D2 Air X15
The Garmin D2 Air X15 is a full-featured smartwatch with the notifications and fitness tools you expect, plus Garmin’s aviation features built in. The color touchscreen is simple to use and the built-in flashlight is more useful than you’d think once you’re in and around the airplane. Shop now>>
Best Backup Battery: Flight Gear Smart Battery Pack MAX (27,600 mAh)
This is a serious cockpit power solution, with over 27,000 mAh to keep your iPad, ADS-B receiver, and other gear running. Two USB-C ports, a USB-A port, and a color screen that shows real-time input/output make it easy to manage power on the go. Shop now>>
Best New Online Course Feature: ChatCFI
ChatCFI is like having a flight instructor on call inside the course, 24/7. Ask a question while watching a video or taking a practice test and get an instant answer without leaving your spot. Shop now>>
Best Hidden Gem: Flight Gear Magneting Charging Cable
These cables use built-in magnets to keep themselves coiled and organized, so they don’t turn into a tangled mess in your flight bag. It’s a small upgrade that makes cockpit and travel setup noticeably cleaner.his watch blends pilot precision with everyday style. Direct-to navigation, mapping, weather, calls, and flight-ready durability in one smartwatch. Shop now>>
Best Flashlight: Flight Gear Rechargeable Smart Flashlight
A built-in display shows battery status, and the red/white light slider makes it quick to preserve night vision when you need to. Add the bottom floodlight and the double-sided clip for a belt or hat, and it’s a perfect “always in the bag” tool. Shop now>>
Best Flight Bag: Flight Gear Stealth Bag
The Stealth Bag is built for pilots who want a tough, all-black bag that’s easy to carry and easy to stow. Hideaway shoulder straps, a beefy handle, and plenty of room for headsets, iPads, and a laptop make it a go-to for busy flying days. Shop now>>
Top Sporty's Aviation Gifts Product: Solar Powered Runway Lights (Blue) Set of 6
These solar-powered runway and taxiway lights are an easy win for any pilot’s desk, shelf, or hangar space. They’re available in white, blue, green, and red, and they look awesome day or night. Shop now>>
Best Headset: Lightspeed Zulu 4
Zulu 4 is built for comfort and modern cockpit connectivity, with FrameFit™ ear seals that play nicely with glasses on long flights. Dual Bluetooth lets you connect an iPad and iPhone at the same time, and the AI-enhanced mic helps make calls clearer. Shop now>>
