2025 has certainly been a memorable year; amidst the challenges, a noteworthy trend has emerged—an increased connection with nature. Many individuals are embracing the outdoors, whether within their own gardens, on public or state lands, or in our nation’s national parks. As more people unleash their inner adventurer, you may be contemplating the perfect gift for the adventurer in your life this holiday season. To assist you, I have compiled a selection of my favorite gear from this year, organized by category to match the specific interests of various types of adventure travelers.

Top Gifts for the Backcountry Camper

For adventurers who relish multi-day hiking excursions in the backcountry, here are my premier gear recommendations.

Tents

REI Half Dome 2 Plus This tent is ideal for two individuals and a dog, while remaining lightweight and compact. Be sure to include a footprint to prolong the life of your tent.

Water Filtration

Numerous options are available for water purification. While some prefer iodine tablets, a filtration system is most suitable for thru-hikers and multi-day trekkers. Below are key recommendations tailored to the needs of your adventurous traveler. Sagan Water Systems and Filtration Bottles – Free Shipping on All Orders Over $50 CrazyCap Water Purifier

Meals

Nutritional, lightweight food is essential for those expending significant energy in the backcountry. I recommend Mountain House Freeze-Dried Backpacking & Camping Food. Their meals are straightforward, lightweight, and the breakfast skillet is particularly delightful! For female adventurers, I suggest the Deuter Women’s 70-Liter Backpack. Having used a 45-L Deuter pack, I can attest to its comfort; however, the 70L is perfect for extended trips with extra capacity, adjustable straps, abundant pockets, and eye-catching floral designs. Additionally, I recently acquired the Big Agnes Women’s Torchlight Ultralight Sleeping Bag, which has proven to be an excellent investment. It provides comfort and warmth for chilly nights, and opting for the expandable version is ideal for side sleepers like myself.

Headlamp

Hiking at night can be essential, either for early starts or unexpectedly lengthy treks. A quality headlamp is indispensable under such circumstances. Black Diamond Storm Headlamp is widely recognized as a leading brand in headlamp technology.

Top Gifts for the Day Hiker

Day Pack

I recently purchased a Gregory Mountain Products Maya 22-Liter Women’s Daypack, which has been a great choice. It features pockets on both hip straps and is perfectly sized for day hikes. Its comfort on my shoulders and back is a notable advantage that is not always found in daypacks.

Water Bladder

A reliable Hydration Backpack capable of holding 2-3L of water ensures you remain hydrated throughout your hike without the need for filtering.

Hiking Poles

Hiking poles are invaluable, not only for day hikes but also for ascents and multi-day excursions. I find that they help prevent swelling in my hands and significantly benefit my knees, enabling me to continue hiking for years to come.

Windbreaker Jacket

With a variety of options available, look for a quality windbreaker that is either water-resistant or Gore-Tex. The Arc’teryx shell jacket is highly recommended, albeit at a higher price point. Personally, I own a North Face jacket that has performed exceptionally well during my hikes, even in torrential downpours, remaining breathable and relatively affordable.

Hiking Shoes

The choice of hiking shoes is critical. It is advisable to avoid sandals altogether. Preferences vary among hikers—some, like myself, favor trail runners, which are lightweight and styled like sneakers, whereas others prefer traditional hiking boots with ankle support, particularly for robust challenges.

Top Gifts for the Peak Baggers

Crampons

If your adventurer aims to tackle significant mountains, crampons are essential for ascents of peaks like Mount Elbrus and Denali. Show your support with a quality pair of Black Diamond Contact Strap Crampons.

Parka

High-altitude expeditions demand a proper down jacket, making it one of the most critical gear pieces. Aim for jackets with a down rating of 700 or higher, ensuring there is an adequate amount of fill for warmth. The jacket displayed below boasts a down rating of 800 and is generously filled.

Insulated Water Bottles

Mountain hiking poses unique challenges, including the potential for your water to freeze. Therefore, an insulated water bottle is necessary to keep your beverage liquid and accessible while your adventurer aims for the summit. Stanley insulated mugs are an excellent choice for both winter campers and mountaineers.

Top Gifts for the Snow Shredder

As a snowboarder, my focus here will be on gear for fellow snowboard enthusiasts. While skiers may not favor us, we also need proper equipment to master the slopes.

Helmet

The perception of helmets has shifted; they are now a vital piece of equipment. If your snowboarder enjoys high-adrenaline activities in halfpipes or on challenging trails, investing in a quality helmet is one of the best gifts you can provide. My personal favorite is the Smith Vantage helmet with MIPS—its comfort and safety features are exceptional.

Goggles

Goggles are imperative not only for snowboarders but also for climbers navigating snowy terrains to avoid snow blindness. Smith goggles offer a range of choices, including options for prescription inserts, making them a versatile selection.

Bindings

I believe Burton produces the finest snowboard bindings. Their technological advancements and commitment to environmental sustainability are commendable. Consequently, I highly recommend their products.

Snowboards

Snowboards should be selected based on the individual’s specific needs. Some boards are designed for greater stiffness to cater to advanced riders, while others offer more flexibility for beginners. Burton remains my go-to brand, although many alternatives exist.

Boots

A good pair of snowboard boots can transform an ordinary day on the mountain into an extraordinary one. The latest Burton models equipped with the new boa lacing system simplify the adjustment process, enhancing convenience compared to traditional laces.

Accessories

GoPro Hero 8

The GoPro HERO8 is an ideal companion for outdoor adventurers. It offers various accessories, allowing you to attach it to your Smith snowboard helmet, use a selfie stick, or wear it headlamp style. It excels in video quality, and the photos are impressive as well. It has become my preferred gadget for documenting all outdoor experiences.

GPS

In backcountry settings, a functioning GPS is essential for safety. I recommend the Garmin Foretrex 401 Waterproof Hiking GPS. This device has served me well and consistently provides reliable navigation. For additional gift inspiration or past recommendations, consider previous compilations that detail gifts for adventure travelers. Embrace the great outdoors this season!