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Gift Ideas for Outdoorsy People 2021

The 2021 gift buying guide: 12 gift ideas that outdoorsy people actually want to receive, ranging from stocking fillers to big budget ideas.

1. Merino wool socks

Merino wool socks are the only socks that outdoorsy types really want. These Women’s Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Solid Crew Socks by Smart Wool are great for hikers. There are other options designed for cyclists, runners and snow sports enthusiasts, so you can browse according to your loved one’s favourite pastime. (Men’s and kids range also available).

Perfect for: hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, skiers and snowboarders.

Women's Hike Classic Edition Full Cushion Solid Crew Socks by Smart Wool

2. Paddling North by Audrey Sutherland

In Paddling North, Audrey Sutherland recounts how, at the age of 60, she decides to quit her job and paddle her inflatable canoe around Alaska’s inside passage – entirely on her own. Featuring illustrations and some of Sutherland’s recipes, this book is a real treasure.

Perfect for: bookworms.

Paddling North by Audrey Sutherland

Side note: If you like this idea, you might want to check out these 10 Must-Read Outdoor Adventure Books.

3. Reusable storage bags

Join the zero-waste movement by gifting these (re-zip) reusable storage bags by Blue Avocado. Lightweight and durable, they’re great for stashing snacks, sandwiches and homemade dehydrated meals while out on adventures.They’re food-safe, lead-free and BPA-free. And of course, they can be used time and time again.

Perfect for: the eco conscious.

(re-zip) reusable storage bags by Blue Avocado

4. Personalised enamel camping mug

Treat your favourite person to a personalised enamel camping mug from That’s Nice That. When ordering, take your time choosing the personalised message. Whether it’s a classic John Muir quote (the mountains are calling!) or one of your own, it’s sure to make for one very happy camper.

Perfect for: campers and fishing enthusiasts.

personalised enamel camping mug from That’s Nice That

5. Patagonia R2 TechFace® jacket

For mid-layers, you can’t get better than the R2 TechFace® jacket by Patagonia. The price tag is on the high side, but your loved one will thank you as it really does deliver on warmth and breathability. 87% of Patagonia’s line uses recycled materials, so you get bonus points for buying from an eco-friendly brand.

Perfect for: anyone who plays in the mountains.

R2 TechFace® jacket by Patagonia

6. Camp soap

A lovely little stocking filler, this small bottle of Sierra Dawn Campsuds goes a long way. Designed for campers, backpackers and travellers, this biodegradable soap can be used in the wilds with little environmental impact. The Nalgene bottle is leak-proof and reusable. The go-to camp soap for washing dishes, clothes and humans!

Perfect for: backcountry campers.

7. Survival kit in a can

The Coghlan’s Survival-Kit-In-A-Can contains 38 essential items to aid survival, all neatly encased in an easy-to-carry tin. It seems like a novelty gift, but it has real practical benefits – and might even save a life one day. Can be easily stowed in backpacks, glove compartments and pockets for emergency situations.

Perfect for: all outdoorsy folk.

Coghlan’s Survival-Kit-In-A-Can

8. Cast iron skillet and dutch oven set

Know an expedition chef in the making? Add a vital piece of equipment to their camp kitchen with this cast iron and Dutch oven set. The heavy-duty cast-iron pan can be placed over the campfire or stove, while the skillet doubles as a secure-fitting lid. Ideal for whipping up delicious camping meals.

Perfect for: the basecamp chef.

Cast Iron and Dutch Oven Set

9. Sunglasses

Combining complete eye protection with old school mountaineering chic, these Julbo Vermont Classic sunglasses are all the rage. They come in a wide range of colours and coatings. Whoever wears them will instantly be the coolest kid on the mountain.

Perfect for: style gurus.

Julbo Vermont Classic sunglasses

10. The Field Guide to Knots by Bob Holtzman

Make sure your loved one doesn’t get caught in a bind with the Field Guide to Knots by Bob Holtzman. This practical guide outlines over 80 essential knots that all outdoorsy folk should know. Whether it’s building a shelter or rappelling down a cliff, this is an indispensable resource for those who spend time in the wilderness.

Perfect for: any self-respecting outdoors person.

The Field Guide to Knot by Bob Holtzman

11. Soy Wax Candle

Inspired by rainy hikes in Bergen’s seven mountains, these Nordic Woods Soy Candles smell of fir needles, citrus and green foliage. One whiff will transport the lucky recipient back to times spent frolicking in the forest – even if they’re stuck at home.

Perfect for: the house-bound.

Nordic Woods Soy Candles

12. Poncho towel

Make the knicker twist a thing of the past with the Original Poncho Towel Changing Robe by Vivida Lifestyle. The water babies in your life will love being able to change in and out of wetsuits and swimsuits in privacy and comfort. Available in a variety of colours.

Original Poncho Towel Changing Robe by Vivida Lifestyle

Perfect for: surfers and wild swimmers.

Still in need of inspiration? Check out the gift guides from Christmas’ past:

Gift Ideas for Outdoorsy People 2020

Gift Ideas for Outdoorsy People 2020

It’s that time of year when we’re all discussing secret Santa’s and stocking fillers. If you’re trying to buy for the outdoorsy person in your life, here are 10 gift suggestions they’re sure to love.

1. Waterproof socks

Reckon socks are a boring present? Think again. These Seal Skinz socks are 100% waterproof and breathable. Their use of pioneering technology protect feet against water, wind, mud, cold and blisters. Because there’s nothing worse than cold, wet trotters.

Perfect for: trail runners, mountain bikers, hikers, cyclists and anyone who spends time outside in inclement weather.

Seal Skinz socks

2. Multi-tool

Every self-respecting outdoors person needs a multi-tool! Give your friend or family member the ability to chop, cut, saw…and open that must-have tin of baked beans with the Leatherman Wave+. Voted Best Buy in Gear Lab’s 2020 review of multi-tools.

Perfect for: all outdoorsy folk.

Leatherman Wave+ multi-tool

3. Merino wool base layers

Treat your loved one to a 100% merino wool base layer, like the 175 Everyday Long Sleeve Crewe Thermal Top from Icebreaker. It’s designed to regulate body temperature, wick away sweat and resist odour. A winning combination. Also available in the men’s range.

Perfect for: hikers, skiers and snowboarders.

Icebreaker merino wool base layer

4. Rechargeable power bank

Help your nearest and dearest keep electronics charged on the go with the Sherpa Power Bank 40 from Goal Zero. It’s slimline to save on space, and gives life to phones, tablets, POV cameras and other devices. Can be recharged time and time again – no disposable batteries needed.

Perfect for: hikers, backpackers and happy campers.

Goal Zero power bank

5. Hut booties

A present that’s sure to make others green with envy. The Thermoball Traction Booties from The North Face make a welcome addition to any backcountry adventure. They can be readily stuffed into a backpack but are robust enough for hut-based errands (like snowy walks to the outhouse). Even better, they double as comfy slippers at home. Also available in the men’s range.

Perfect for: hikers, climbers, ski tourers and hut hoppers.

The North Face hut booties

6. Hammock

Sometimes you just want to kick back and relax at camp. Make that dream a reality for the special someone in your life with the Therm-a-Rest Slacker Hammock. It packs down into an integrated pocket, making it easy to transport. Available in a single and a double. Suspender straps are sold separately.

Perfect for: creating a comfy camp.

Therma-a-Rest slacker hammock

7. Beeswax wraps

Promote zero-waste adventures this holiday season by gifting these beeswax wraps from Nature Bee, perfect for packaging sandwiches and snacks. They can be washed and re-used, making them an excellent alternative to single-use plastic wrap. Practical, pretty and plastic-free.

Perfect for: the eco-conscious.

Beeswax wraps

8. Windbreaker jacket

Prevent wind chill with the Houdini Jacket from Patagonia. Lightweight and versatile, this might just be my most-used item of clothing. The zippered chest pocket converts into a stuff sack, so it can be rolled up and taken anywhere. Also available in the men’s range.

Perfect for: trail runners, climbers, mountain bikers and cyclists.

Houdini jacket by Patagonia

9. Satellite communication device

Not a cheap buy, but you can’t put a price on peace of mind. The Garmin inReach Mini allows the user to trigger an interactive SOS to search and rescue, just in case the worst should happen. The cost of the device is accompanied by a subscription which can be paid monthly or yearly.

Perfect for: anyone heading into the backcountry

Garmin inReach mini

10. Enter a race

For something a bit different, why not give the gift of motivation by entering your loved one into a race? You’ll need to do some research based on their chosen discipline, be it running, mountain biking, road cycling, swimming or something else. Find a Race has some great challenges to inspire you. Choose the gifting option at checkout.

Perfect for: helping your loved one achieve their New Year’s resolutions.

Race time