Christmas Gifts and Gear for Adventurers
The holiday season brings an opportunity to find the perfect gifts for the adventurer in your life—or even for yourself. Here are my top recommendations for outdoor gear aimed at enhancing your outdoor experiences.
Gifts for the Hiker or Backpacker
Deuter Backpack
The Deuter backpack is an essential for any hiking expedition, especially during my preparations for the Presidential Traverse trek. Its adjustable straps allow for a customized fit, while numerous pockets provide ample storage for poles, water, sleeping bags, and valuables like car keys. A standout feature is the small pocket on the shoulder strap, ideal for a map or Swiss Army knife.
Garmin Foretrex
For meticulous navigation during multi-day treks, the Garmin Foretrex, which conveniently wears on the wrist, is invaluable. It includes features that allow you to mark locations, ensuring you can return easily even after a detour for rest or nature breaks.
Life Straw
Life Straw offers a straightforward solution for water purification during long treks. This filter eliminates viruses, bacteria, parasites, and even microplastics, therefore removing the need for iodine tablets and their unpleasant taste. Furthermore, they are committed to giving back by providing water filtration systems to schools in Africa.
High Trek Endurance Edition Hiking Poles
Utilizing these poles has transformed my hiking experience over the years. They are collapsible for easy transportation and adjustable for various heights, offering superior comfort and support to protect my knees during rugged terrains.
Solomon Trail Runners
For all hiking endeavors, I rely on Solomon trail runners equipped with Gore-Tex. These shoes provide comfort and waterproofing on wet trails, catering especially to those with fallen arches seeking supportive footwear. My past experiences with Merrell’s did not compare to the satisfaction I found with Solomon.
Gifts for the Snow Seeker
Smith I/O Chromopop Goggles
The Smith I/O Chromopop Goggles are a must-have for any snowboarding enthusiast, featuring interchangeable lenses suited for various weather conditions. Additionally, a prescription insert accommodates those requiring eyewear.
Smith Vantage Helmet with MIPS
Safety while snowboarding cannot be overemphasized. After sustaining injuries during my initial snowboarding session, I invested in the Smith Vantage Helmet, which combines excellent padding for warmth and safety. The added MIPS layer enhances head protection significantly.
Smartwool Base Layers
In cold mountain environments, Smartwool provides an exceptional base layer; lightweight yet remarkably warm, ensuring comfort in chilly conditions.
Gifts for the Adventure Traveler
Osprey Backpack
The versatile Osprey Fairpoint doubles as a carry-on for flights and a day pack for hiking. With multiple compartments for organization, it is perfect for both multi-day excursions and daily outings.
Life Straw Water Bottle
Additionally, Life Straw provides a water bottle equipped with an integrated filter. This innovation allows for hassle-free travel in areas with less reliable water sources.
Madera Hammock with Mosquito Net
My experience with the Madera Hammock, complete with straps and a mosquito net, during my trip to Panama was delightful. Its spacious design, along with the protective mosquito net and convenient storage pocket for essentials, made it a travel companion I highly recommend. The material is reminiscent of parachutes and offers substantial comfort.
Panama mountain town
Gifts from a Company that Cares
Tentree
Tentree’s clothing line, made from sustainable and recycled materials, remains a favorite of mine. Their environmentally conscious ethos includes planting ten trees for every item sold, and they use recycled materials in their packaging, making them a brand I wholeheartedly support.
The Gift of Experience
I advocate for the gift of experiences over material possessions. Instead of finding a physical item for a loved one, consider planning an exciting adventure.
Intrepid Adventures
For unforgettable journeys to locations such as Turkey, Jordan, Cambodia, or the Galapagos, look to Intrepid, renowned for thrilling travel experiences around the globe.
UnCruise
If seeking an unconventional cruise that prioritizes sustainability, investigate UnCruise. This option revolves around smaller ships, allowing for more intimate adventures.
CLYMB Adventures
Previously a leading outdoor gear retailer, CLYMB has teamed up with Intrepid to offer Clymb Adventures. They provide a variety of choices ranging from trekking Everest to hiking the Inca Trail, catering to a broad spectrum of adventure enthusiasts.
Consider how you can transform the holiday season into a time of exploration rather than material accumulation. The items and experiences suggested will not only encourage outdoor pursuits but will also foster memorable adventures.
