I know where your head is—“I must get the jump on holiday shopping for the outdoorsy people on my list.”
And indeed, you’d be wise to start early this year. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are near; why not shop before the perfect gift is out of stock?
So, what can you confidently gift the aspiring explorer or weekend warrior without breaking the bank? And how can you honestly know if the gear is worth giving? Reviews and recommendations are your best bet.
Soo, I curated the following list of functional gear for outdoorsy people to help you shop in less than 30 minutes. And there’s something for everyone on this list, from under $20 to a new full-carbon gravel bike. Skim these 19 items and match one to your lucky recipient this year.
Let me know if you have specific questions about the gear; I can share my experience or offer advice. Enjoy browsing.
Nocs Provisions Honor Native Land Binocular Bundle
Nocs Provisions, maker of adventure-ready binoculars and accessories, has teamed up with Amelia Winger-Bearskin to create a limited edition binocular bundle with a strap design inspired by the traditional patterns and beadwork of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation of Oklahoma, of which Amelia is an Enrolled Member.
This Honor Native Land bundle is available exclusively at REI Co-op, in all stores nationwide, and on REI.com. ($150)
Arcade x Smokey Bear Collection
Arcade sees the forests for the trees. These three vintage-inspired Adventure belts with Smokey Bear symbols represent one essential thing to Arcade – awareness and education about wildfire prevention. With threats of wildfire affecting many parts of the country, Arcade aspires to be part of the solution.
If we could ask Smokey Bear what belt he’d wear, he’d probably say something ready to roll and woodsy. With Smokey in mind, Arcade crafted this durable Adventure Belt. Arcade’s original good time belt, The Adventure, is built to be function-first and durable. When you’re on the move, its low profile, no pinch, metal-free buckle, and durable elastic webbing make the Adventure belt your go-to companion. ($32.99)
Deckers X Lab – X-SCAPE Sport Features
Deckers X Lab is about pushing the limits of footwear, smashing things together, and integrating technology and materials typically reserved for the most high-performance athletic shoes into every day sneakers. They’re the ultimate in cushion and design.
And the X-SCAPE Sport is a perfect example, with its signature Meta-Rocker. This design creates efficiency in the stride by reducing the height differential between the toe and heel and is used in many HOKA running shoes. The X-SCAPE also carries the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. ($160)
Also, see the Deckers X Lab KO-Z Slide for extreme everyday comfort. Think sandals reformulated with the street performance of sneakers and the comfort of slippers. ($130)
The adjustable nose pads and flexible temples with the rubber on the inside ensure exceptional comfort, maximum grip, and superior performance, whatever the sport. The style is also available with the new optimized polar lenses that reduce glare and provide a quick view of all electronic devices. ($99)
Designed to cut everything but you, this safe and effective knife boasts a finger-friendly® edge that never rusts. Its durable metal handle gives you a balanced feel, allowing you to wield it comfortably. The integrated lanyard hole is optimal for keeping your tool handy, while the sleek, high-quality design opens similarly to a switchblade. ($29.99)
Designed with a sturdy, balanced handle and a convenient finger loop for an optimal grip, the Slice Folding Knife effectively cuts through various materials, including cardboard, plastic, tape, vinyl, and more. Use the quick-release lock to unfold the blade, which boasts two locking positions. Additionally, the Slice Folding Knife comes equipped with a belt clip for added convenience.
From industrial and household uses to DIY projects and working in the warehouse, Slice makes people and places safer. Learn more below. ($39.99)
Swiftwick Vision Six Impression National Parks Sox
Rep your favorite national park with the VISION™ Six Impression National Park collection. Created in partnership with their friends at Anderson Design Group, these beautiful socks pay homage to the majestic locations we love to explore. Each sock is made with high-performance fibers that wick moisture to keep your feet dry, cool, and blister-free and features 360° prints of some of North America’s most treasured national parks.
Swiftwick is proud to support the work of the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks. ($16.99)
Patagonia Capilene® Cool Daily Graphic Shirt
Patagonia’s most versatile technical top is built on the trail or the water: It’s quick-drying, has stretch for mobility and comfort, plus HeiQ® Pure odor control. Made with 50-100% recycled polyester, Capilene® Cool Daily styles keep you comfortable working hard in conditions ranging from cool to hot. Fair Trade Certified™ sewn. ($49)
Conserving resources is one way to help, so this cap has a brim made with Bureo’s fully traceable NetPlus® 100% recycled fishing nets. This six-panel, organic cotton hat has an adjustable strap in the back and is ready for anything. Fair Trade Certified™ sewn. ($39)
Full-spectrum protection and superior accessibility make the Camera Base Layer the perfect solution for outdoor photographers. The secure magnetic closure system is optimized for instant camera access, and a seam-sealed liner converts to full waterproof mode. A strategically placed accessory pocket stores lens caps, cleaning cloths, extra batteries, or hand warmers to sustain camera function in extremely frigid temps. ($74.99)
Maximize your safety by pairing your purchase with a SABRE® Practice Spray. Familiarize yourself with pepper spray with this safe-for-practice item—no pepper irritant. Become comfortable with self-defense before you are put in a stressful situation. ($11.99)
Fitting comfortably in cupholders and daily routines alike, the Tumbler flexes to any beverage while impressively maintaining its temperature. Seriously, MiiR has the thermoregulation dialed with this cup. The pure fired-glass enamel features a polished drinking surface, making your morning sip smoother. The best part? No more funky smells or residue, regardless of how much creamer you pour. ($29.95)
The Marin Headlands brings the spirit to an irresistible full-carbon fiber frameset with modern geometry, generous tire clearance, and sublime ride quality; all combine to make a competent, lightweight bike that’ll exceed your expectations. The Headlands is a proper gravel bike with off-road prowess. However, the premium kit and respectable weight help it perform on all-road terrain. Think sturdy yet whip-able; punchy yet forgiving. If I could own only one gravel or all-terrain road bike—you’re looking at it. ($3,099)
The Rail takes the need for ventilation in cycling glasses and combines it with an oversized rimless design that offers increased coverage. Its frame is lightweight for all-day comfort, and the shatterproof lenses ensure long-term use. Rail’s rimless shield frame keeps eyes protected from debris while still offering maximum airflow, whether you’re pedaling the blacktop or trailing under the pines. ($79.95)
CAMP Eyewear Collection by Shwood
Built with adventure in mind, the mixed materials of the CAMP Eyewear collection merge to achieve the perfect blend of rugged durability and sustainable style. The simple silhouettes are designed for comfort and clarity, offering everything you need and nothing you don’t. The Trail’s classic understated design looks excellent on various face shapes.
These PERFORMANCE shield sunglasses help you stay focused and cool riding or running on any terrain. The super-lightweight and flexible TR-90 wrap frame offer maximum protection, while the new HDC lenses highlight colors and contrast to improve performance and safety in various light conditions.
Floyd’s of Leadville Gems is yet another way to relax and recover when on the go. The gummy-style Gems in Full Spectrum and Isolate options are highly portable for on-the-go CBD-infused goodness in various flavors and dosages. They offer all the same benefits as Floyd’s existing line of CBD products in a chewable form. (Price Varies)
Meet the world’s first 100% recyclable protein powder canister. Time to ditch the plastic and get with something you feel good about: both for your body and the environment. No Cow Vegan Protein is plant-based with a big taste. Enjoy 22g of plant protein per scoop: Certified Gluten-Free and Kosher, Non-GMO Project Verified, Soy Free, Vegan Clean fuel. It is naturally sweetened with stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol. It’s a treat! ($39.99)
*Affiliate Disclosure
Hi, Dan here. Transparency is crucial to building trust with you. I’ve included certain products and links to those products on this page that I will earn an affiliate commission on if you purchase. I aim to educate you on the impressive gear and gifts available today, sparing you from less-than-stellar alternatives. I only promote gear I’ve investigated and believe will provide real value to you and your community.