The holidays are fast approaching, and if you haven’t already, it’s time to start shopping for the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Waiting until the last minute to get a start on your Christmas list will only end in you settling for generic gifts like fuzzy socks and scented candles. Whether your friends and family like these kinds of gifts or not, no one can argue that they have a personal touch.
Americans already spend a whopping $13 billion every year on unwanted and unused gifts. Don’t fall to the temptation of adding to that amount.
If you have outdoor-enthusiasts on your shopping list, you’re in luck. We’ve compiled a list of the best holiday gifts for hikers, campers, and other adventure-lovers.
Hiking Socks
Buying hiking boots for someone else is a challenge. Even if you know their size, you have no way of knowing whether they’ll find a certain pair of boots comfortable. Plus, with so many styles to choose from, it can be tough to figure out which type is right for them. Would they prefer lightweight trail runners, or are supportive boots for lengthier treks more their style?
This holiday season, skip the boots and buy them something that’s certain to be just as appreciated; a great pair of hiking socks. Any dedicated outdoorsman or woman knows that the right socks can make or break a hike. Cotton socks hold moisture against your feet, leaving them chilled in the winter and sweating through the summer. But hiking socks wick moisture, pad the feet, and keep hikers comfortable on the trails.
Look for wicking socks designed for hiking. You can choose from synthetic fabrics or wool blends. If you want your friend to be able to use them right away, stick to a warmer pair, although summer-weight socks are always appreciated as well.
Lightweight Down Jackets
Another hiking essential that everyone on your list will love is a lightweight down jacket. These jackets are great because they are so versatile. They add just enough warmth during the late Fall or early Spring. When it’s cold, they can be worn under a heavier outer layer for extra warmth. They warm the wearer without adding bulk. And when things heat up on the trail, they can easily be stuffed into a daypack so you won’t have to tote them around for the rest of the day.
You’ll have an endless number of brands and styles to choose from, as well as a variety of price points. For your fun-loving friends, a bright pop of color or bold pattern might be just the ticket. But you can always stick to classic or neutral colors so that their jacket will look just as good on their morning commute as it does on the trail.
A Wooden Hiking Stick
If you already know that your outdoor-loving friend or your family member has all of the clothing and gear they need, or you’re worried that they may be particular about their clothes, there are plenty of other hiking accessories that make for excellent gifts.
One option that is sure to be unique is a wooden hiking stick. While not as common on trails today as they once were, this classic staple is as fun as it is useful. Whether your friend chooses to use it on the trails or not, it’s perfect for displaying their favorite trails and parks, as you can buy metal medallions from just about any national park or state park visitor center.
Novelty Tees
Not every gift that you give to the hiking enthusiasts in your life has to be something that they can use on the trail. They’re also certain to appreciate gifts that let them share their passions with others in between their adventures.
If you’re close enough to your friend’s favorite hiking spot, why not buy them a souvenir for Christmas? A novelty tee displaying their favorite national park is a great way to help them showcase their passions wherever they go.
A Print of Their Favorite Hiking Spot
Another fun way to help your friends and family showcase their favorite outdoor icons is with a beautiful print. Look for local photographs who have captured an iconic spot or a special angle of their favorite trail or overlook. You can buy it framed or add a custom frame for a personal touch. This is also a wonderful way to shop local while finishing off your holiday shopping list.
Shopping for Every Outdoor Lover on Your List
Now that you know a few of the best outdoor-themed gifts for this holiday season, it’s time to get shopping. And if you’re headed to Springdale soon, you’re in luck.
Starting on Thanksgiving Day and lasting until December 1, Springdale Visitors Center will be having their Black Friday Sale; everything in the store will be 40% off. This is the perfect opportunity to stock up on hiking and outdoor essentials for everyone on your list–and maybe for yourself as well!
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