Christmas Gift Ideas for the Avid Outdoorsperson in Your Life

As some of you know, every December I follow up my St. Nick Stocking Stuffer ideas of inexpensive gifts for the outdoor lover with a post about Christmas gift ideas. The time has come, so here are my suggestions for your outdoors-lovers:

1)      The High Gear Altimeter/Barometer/Compass. As someone who routinely hikes at elevation, I find an altimeter invaluable when engaging in outdoor recreation, whether it is driving the camper to a new location (it is very helpful to be aware of elevation when moving the camper) or heading out on a hike. This model from L.L.Bean.com provides not only your elevation but also a barometer for weather changes, which are also important to know and a compass. A handy little tool, it sells for a mere $50. The L.L.Bean website indicates this item is currently sold out so you may want to put it on your list for next year, but it would be very helpful to have. The website suggests an alternative, the Touchkey Weather Station for only $39.95, which does not contain the altimeter and is a desk model. Personally, I would hold out for the Highgear Model.

2)     Hiking Boots. A new pair of hiking boots or shoes is always in order. I have just replaced my five year old model which has seen considerable wear as we hike at least once a week in excess of two hours, so it was time. This pair is for our daughter for Christmas, as the past few years she has hiked in running shoes, which cannot begin to provide the support and protection needed for hiking in the Rocky Mountains. Expect to pay for a good product. These ran $160 but will provide terrific support for Meghan and her feet for many years to come.

3)     Hiking or Trekking Poles—We use our poles on every hike we take.  I have already worn out one pair, but I cannot tell you how many times they have saved me from a fall, a slip or a sprain. As the car insurance commercial says, “Don’t leave home without [them]!”

4)     Comfortable Bedroom Slippers. We located these delicious models in a wonderful family owned hiking store, Mudd ‘N Flood in Taos, NM. They looked so comfortable, they quickly jumped to the top of my list. While not specifically camping or outdoor related, what could feel better than a pair of these slippers after a day in the outdoors?

Well, those are my best finds for this year. I, personally, am hoping to find the altimeter/compass under my tree. Wishing all of our readers a wonderful holiday season and a happy and prosperous New Year!

Read Woodall’s camping products and accessories Buyers Guide for tent camping and enjoying the outdoors.