Winter’s coming, and if you’re anything like us, your holiday shopping list is long.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift for the trail runner, the weekend paddler, or the friend who thinks “roughing it” means a hotel without room service, we’ve got you covered.
This year’s gift guide doubles as our roundup of favorite outdoor gear: waterproof shoes, packable chairs, a camp-ready speaker, and one very good cooler.
Everything here is ready to wrap for the adventurers in your life. And if some of it ends up under your own tree? We won’t tell.
Outdoor Research Odyssey Multi Short
Can you give shorts as a winter gift? Yes — as long as they’re a little wild. These check that box. Made from water-resistant nylon, these lightweight shorts are built for an array of outdoor activities, from hiking to paddling to disc-golfing. $48. (Available for men and women)
Helinox Chair Zero LT
South Korean brand Helinox practically created the packable camp chair. Their latest offering weighs just over a pound, supports up to 265 pounds, and includes an X-strap that connects all four legs for added stability. Ideal for backpacking, bikepacking, and general dirtbagging. $160.
Gordini Ramble Sock
Some hiking socks are too thick. Others are too thin. These are just right. Throw in moisture-wicking merino wool, reinforced arch support, and a near-seamless toe closure to prevent blisters, and you’ve got socks that keep your feet dry and comfortable, mile after mile. $27. (Available for men and women)
Gregory Arrio 24
Midwest hikes can get hot. This new daypack from Gregory will help you stay un-steamy on the trail, even when summer rolls around. An off-the-back mesh panel creates space for airflow, and an internal hydration sleeve and stretchy side pockets make it easy to access water. $150.
Adidas Terrex Freehiker 3 Low GTX
Most of us split our time between the trail and the city, so we appreciate a shoe that excels in both places. Enter this latest Freehiker iteration. Among the features: proprietary Hyperboost cushioning for energy return on long walks and runs, Gore-Tex waterproof protection to keep your feet dry in wet conditions, and a Continental rubber outsole for traction across varied terrain. The result: a handsome hybrid shoe that’s proficient on a rural switchback and an urban sidewalk. $180. (Available for men and women)
The Landmark Project Smokey Logo Enamel Mug
Smokey Bear’s signature message — that only you can prevent wildfires — remains as relevant today as it was in the 1940s. This enamel mug displays the message on one side and Smokey’s face on the other, making it a fine addition to the campsite or kitchen. $24.
Fender x Teufel Rockster Go 2
What do you get when you combine Fender’s rock-and-roll aesthetic with German audio engineering? A rugged, waterproof Bluetooth speaker that thrives in any outdoor setting. At 1.6 pounds, it’s surprisingly portable, and an included strap lets you attach it to bikes and backpacks. $100.
Dometic Recon Softside ZL Large
You can find less expensive coolers. But we dare you to find a better — or more beautiful — one. Leak-resistant and zipper-free, this soft-sided cooler is tall enough for wine bottles and can keep up to 35 cans cold. Use it for day trips or weekend exploits. $325.
JBL Endurance Zone
Everybody wants to enjoy powerful music while training outdoors, but nobody wants to get blasted by a car because they couldn’t hear it coming. The solution: these waterproof, buds-free headphones, which deliver punchy audio while keeping you aware of your surroundings. $100.
Vuarnet Racing 05
Give these shades to the person in your life who appreciates clarity, durability, and fancy things from France. Equipped with Vuarnet’s mineral glass lenses, the nylon frames also boast rubber grips on the temples and a wraparound design for full sun protection. Voila. $250.