I don’t know about you, but the holidays sort of snuck up on me this year. November flew by in a hurry and the first week of December is pretty much already in the books. Where does the time go? Well, for outdoorsmen, the time goes to the trail, the water, or the summit, and it’s once again that time of year to help add to the gear of the outdoorsman in your family. We can be so picky, though, which doesn’t make such an endeavor and easy one at all. Not to worry, though; today I’ve provided you with a few ideas that any outdoorsman would be happy to find under the tree!
If your outdoorsman’s backpack has seen its share of miles, it may time to replace it. Deuter’s ACT Lite 65 +10 pack is only $199 right now, features a super light aluminum frame, and offers nearly 4,000-cubic inches of gear space. Other great backpack gift ideas include the REI Flash 18, which is a light daypack ($35), North Face’s Recon ($99), and the Osprey Talon 22 ($99).
Tents are always a great gift, due to how frequently they’ll be used. REI’s Half Dome 4 is on sale for $199 right now (normally $290), as is their Arete 3 ASL tent (now $280, normally $379). If you’re looking for a lighter shelter, the company’s Passage 2 tent is a great option, and only costs $160. Marmot’s Limetstone 4P ($340) or Mountainsmith’s Conifer 5+ ($360) are also great ideas, especially if the whole family enjoys camping together.
Sleeping bags are perhaps one of the most important pieces of gear, as they have the crucial job of preserving your body heat each night. Protect your camper with the REI Radiant bag (now $210, was $280), Big Agnes Bellyache Mountain SL ($300-$320), North Face Snow Leopard ($220-$230), or the Marmot Trestles +15 ($110-$130).
As far as stocking stuffers go, there are plenty of options. GPS units are great, and Garmin’s Oregon series of GPS devices continue to be popular, especially for backcountry travelers. Otherwise, Fenix’s LD22 flashlight ($60) is a smart choice, as are Leatherman’s New Wave multitool ($85), eGear PICO LED Zipper Lite ($10), and any brand of reusable hand warmers.
If you’re still undecided, keep in mind that there’s nothing wrong with gift cards. In fact, some outdoorsmen are so picky that they’d love a gift card that allows them to buy whatever they want. Also, if they’re not yet members of their favorite retailer (Gasp!), then signing them up for a membership, on you, is also a great gift idea. Lastly, I’ve found that magazine subscriptions to publications like Outside, Backpacker, or Trail Runner are a great idea, as well.
I wish you all luck with your holiday shopping this year! Whatever you buy and wherever you go, be safe on the roads and safe fighting crowds at the stores this season.
