The 81 Best Gifts for Outdoorsmen, Tested and Reviewed by an Adventure Enthusiast

The Quest 4 is a top-notch hiking boot that marries the lightweight, propulsion-focused build of a trail shoe with the support of a boot. As someone who regularly researches the hiking boot market, this boot, in my opinion, remains the best do-it-all hiking boot you can buy for an outdoorsman right now. 

If you have a specific idea of the style of boot he’s looking for, there may be a better-suited option, but overall, the Quest 4 smashes all comers. It’s an excellent day hiking and backpacking hybrid, suiting all needs.

Price upon publish date of this article: $230

Related:
Best Salomon Shoes

Stanley cups are in vogue right now, but it’s not just brainless hype. They make quality stuff, and this Classic Thermos is just one example. Whether you need to keep your liquids cold or hot, this thermos will get the job done. I took this model up Aconcagua, the tallest mountain in the Americas, earlier this year, and it kept my water from freezing during sub-zero nights at 22,000 feet, even though I was on the mountain for nearly two weeks. 

The built-in mug on the top is a nice add-on in this camping gift for him. The only downside to thermos like these is the weight, but you can’t get around that if you want quality insulation. I can’t recommend this thermos enough.

Price upon publish date of this article: $47.50

If the adventure-seeker in your life loves to trudge through snowy or muddy terrain, the Crocs Echno Boots provide plush comfort, waterproof protection, and a streetwear-inspired statement. They’re designed with a cushioned boot shaft for an insulated, flexible feel, while an exaggerated rubber sole tread grips firmly to wet or icy earth. Equipped with technology that goes beyond Crocs’ iconic clogs, these lightweight men’s hiking boots feature sustainably constructed Croslite molded uppers and footbeds for added stability, along with adjustable toggle lacing for a custom fit.

Price upon publish date of this article: $119.99

The Base Camp duffel from The North Face is one of my favorite duffel bags for international outdoor expeditions and local car camping jaunts alike. It includes four compression straps to help you pack down your gear, detachable and adjustable shoulder straps so you can wear the duffel like a backpack, and a burly, water-resistant build. The standard Base Camp comes in four sizes, from 31 liters up to 150 liters, but if you don’t know where to start, the large (95 liters) is my vote for general use.

Price upon publish date of this article: $124.99

Hestra has been making bomber gloves for nearly 100 years now. Though they offer activity-specific gloves for things like mountaineering, mountain biking, and snowboarding, the Njords are stellar all-around leather gloves that can work for the full gamut of outdoor recreation. 

With a removable knitted wool lining, they provide enough warmth for early and late winter outdoor use, and the goat leather outer is as rugged as any on the market. Whether he’s chopping wood, on belay, mending fences, or sitting around a fire, he’ll love these sturdy, reliable, and protective gloves.

Price upon publish date of this article: $119.95

There are few brands in the hiking sock world I recommend without hesitation, and Darn Tough is one — it’s featured prominently in our recent round-up of the best hiking socks for good reason. 

Knit on fine-gauge machines in Vermont, these Merino wool socks are 100 percent USA-made. They’re comfortable, durable, and extremely breathable. This full cushion boot model is the best do-it-all pair for hiking and all-season use, but Darn Tough has a slew of other socks at various lengths, weights, and cushions, so scope their website if you’re looking for something different, like a thinner, shorter summer sock.

Price upon publish date of this article: $27.95

Another tried-and-true gift for outdoor lovers from Yeti, the Tundra 45 is my go-to cooler for car camping and has served as my primary source of refrigeration when living out of my car. It’s a bulletproof, dependable cooler that will keep food and drinks cool for days.

I find that ice regularly keeps for four to five days (or more) in this cooler, even in the summer heat, and longer if you’re careful about opening and closing it. Its grippy top-coating and stout build means it also works well as a seat or table if need be. I’ve written dozens of articles with my laptop perched atop this cooler.

Price upon publish date of this article: $325

The legendary trail shoe from Hoka One One has entered its fifth iteration, and the Speedgoat 5 remains up there with the best of the best. The Speedgoat has been considered among the best trail shoes in the market for several years, in part due to a plush, responsive midsole that’s similar to what you experience in the brand’s cushioned running shoes. That said, I’ve also written about other top-notch trail running shoes, some of which may perform better depending on your runner’s preferred terrain and style.

Price upon publish date of this article: $155

The Rumpl blanket is constructed with durable, 100 percent post-consumer recycled materials, so it’ll hold up over time and is eco-friendly to boot. Outdoor lovers will appreciate this warm synthetic blanket for cuddling up by a fire, staying warm in a blind, perched by the banks of a river, or waiting for a fish to bite in the frosty early morning hours.

Price upon publish date of this article: $108.38

Matches are a wonderful tool, but they can be somewhat unreliable. Whether due to damp conditions, wind, or manufacturer’s defect, matches sometimes burn out in seconds or fail to strike at all. Zippo’s four-inch Typhoon matches break that mold, offering a burn time of up to 30 seconds. They’re also able to survive being submerged in water or soaked by rain.

This nifty little match kit stores 15 Typhoons, with a built-in strike pad (plus several spare strike pads) and an attachment point to connect the kit to your pocket, pack, or jacket. Also complete with an O-ring seal to keep moisture out, this is a great addition to any adventurer’s backpack, household emergency kit, or glove box.

Price upon publish date of this article: $13.38

Leatherman needs no introduction. Their multi-tools are world-renowned, and this model, the Wave Plus, is my favorite. This gift for tactical guys incorporates 18 individual tools, including pliers, a wire stripper, replaceable wire cutters, several knives, a saw, spring-action scissors, a rule, can and bottle openers, and several files and screwdrivers. With a 25-year warranty, this is a tool that is guaranteed to last for decades to come. A sheath is also included.

Price upon publish date of this article: $119.95

The Msr PocketRocket was always my go-to backpacking stove, and the PocketRocket 2 is even better. It’s lightweight, compact, and has everything you need but nothing you don’t: The set includes a pot, a lid with strainer capacity, a bowl that doubles as a measuring cup, plus a stove, pot holder and stuff sack. Boom.

He’ll forget this thing is even in his pack, as it weighs just 9.9 ounces. The burner is extremely high-powered, so water boils in minutes, even at altitude. The PocketRocket 2 is a surefire addition to any backpacker’s camp kitchen.

Price upon publish date of this article: $94.96

Outdoor canteen brand Vssl has a unique offering that allows you to customize your own canister full of camping and hiking essentials, from the end caps to the sizing to the color to the gear tins inside. The gear tins include a range of items for every type of outdoorsman, including a fire starting kit, a gear and tackle kit, and a first aid kit.

Vssl canteens feature indestructible, waterproof, military-grade aluminum that can hold up to just about any abuse, and end caps that can include carabiner clips and compasses if so desired. Vssl’s Build Your Own option is one of the standout personalized gifts for outdoorsmen available today.

Price upon publish date of this article: $15

This lightweight, comfortable pack is designed for alpinists but performs well on everything from day hikes to multi-pitch rock climbing routes. Despite its compact, streamlined build, there are a ton of functional features here — from the sunglasses holder built into the shoulder strap to the helmet holder on the front of the pack to the ice axe and ski loops at the rear. 

The shoulder straps are among the most comfortable on the market for a pack of this size, and the pack wears well during long days on the trail (or wall).

Price upon publish date of this article: $143.39

Tumblers always make stellar gifts for outdoorsmen, simply because everyone drinks something — whether it’s water, beer, tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. We already talked about the Stanley thermos above, but this Yeti Rambler offers the added benefit of an open-mouth top so you can sip from it. This rugged tumbler sports a double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps drinks hot or cold, whichever you need.

While it’s quite bulky and heavy, it’s an excellent buy for fishermen, still or stand hunters, car campers, or anyone else who spends lots of time in one place outside. The MagSlider lid is magnetic, adding an extra layer of protection to keep drinks secure and keep the heat or cold in. That said, the magnet is not 100% leakproof and will not prevent spills (something I’ve discovered firsthand.)

Price upon publish date of this article: $35

If you’re out in the woods for more than a few days, a shower is probably the biggest thing you start to miss. This portable camp shower from Nemo provides 2.9 gallons of pressurized water, complete with a 7-foot hose, so you can hose yourself down and get that fresh “shower” feeling mid-trip. 

It’s lightweight, compact, and I’ve used mine for nearly three years now with no issues. It also comes in handy outside of showers — I’ve also employed it to wash my motorcycle and clean gear. This is a gift that vanlifers and backpackers alike will appreciate.

Price upon publish date of this article: $126

Packrafting has boomed in popularity recently, and Kokopelli is one of the brands leading the charge. Kokopelli offers a variety of rafts for different paddling missions, but this five-pound raft is the brand’s lightest offering and the one I personally own. These rafts are a splurge, but when I’m out and about with my Kokopelli, I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t either already own one or wish they did. They’re surefire gifts for outdoorsmen, plain and simple.

The Rogue-Lite is the best choice for newbie paddlers or weight-conscious backpackers looking for a dependable raft to get from Point A to Point B on flatwater. It performs decently well on moderate whitewater, but Kokopelli has other rafts, like the Nirvana, if your outdoorsman is into whitewater paddling.

Price upon publish date of this article: $1,049

The Archaeon is a heavy, investment-worthy backpack with an insanely burly, long-lasting build made completely from sustainable fabrics, including recycled nylon canvas. The Archaeon comes in several sizes. I own the 70-liter version, which has since been discontinued, but the 45-liter is still a great choice for shorter outings. 

Note that the waist belt has minimal padding, so it may not be the best choice for new backpackers. But seasoned adventurers will appreciate the old-school style, streamlined design, and rugged build.

Price upon publish date of this article: $420.56

Smartphones often eliminate the need for a compass these days, but phones can break or run out of battery, so a traditional compass is an essential in any savvy outdoorsman’s kit. This glow-in-the-dark, waterproof Suunto wrist compass lets you take a heading from your wrist, looking through a window on one side. I went back and forth on buying it for the better part of a year. I finally pulled the trigger a month back, and I’m happy. It’s inexpensive, it’s lightweight, and it does the job. 

The main question I have is durability, given the plastic housing. That said, the last wrist compass I had was aircraft-grade aluminum, and it fell out of the housing two weeks after I bought it. So, material isn’t everything. I’ve had plastic compasses like this one that last me for years. I’m hoping the M-9 falls into that category. 

Even if your outdoorsman already has a handheld compass, he’ll likely appreciate these attachable models. Another to check out is the Suunto Clipper, which is cheaper, smaller, and could easily be attached to a watchband in addition to a pack strap or belt.

Price upon publish date of this article: $37.98

For any outdoor trip abroad, you’ll need to be able to pack your kit while traveling. This 45-liter duffel/backpack is my favorite piece of travel luggage. (I like it so much that now I actually own two, and also gifted one to my father.) Easily converting between a backpack and a duffel, this bag is as burly as they come. I’ve taken mine on several mountaineering trips and it has zero noticeable damage. 

But it’s not just a burly rucksack. It’s super functional and a solid buy for the average traveler, with two zipper mesh pockets and a cinch-up shoe sack inside, an external zippered laptop sleeve, and a bulky external zippered pocket for other quick-access items like keys, phone, wallet, headphones, visas, and passports. I’ve been on trips up to a month long with this bag as my only piece of luggage — it’s one of the best adventure gifts for guys you can find.

Price upon publish date of this article: $159.95

Something of a status symbol among outdoorsy youth in the American South, Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) hammocks are my go-to hammock choice and make excellent gifts for outdoor lovers. They’re comfortable and easy to set up and take down, so they’re great for picnics or weekend hangouts, but they’re still lightweight, packable and technical enough to take on multi-day backpacking trips.

I had my first Eno DoubleNest for ten years without a single issue. Eno also offers a variety of customizable add-ons like rain flys and mosquito nets, so your outdoorsman can upgrade his hammock later on if he enjoys using it.

Price upon publish date of this article: $54.95

Made from full-grain leather by Guatemalan craftsmen, Hide and Drink products are both affordable, socially conscious, and durable. This little playing card case might just be my favorite item on this entire list. I’ve owned it for four years now, and it’s been to at least a dozen countries with me (if not more). Best of all, it still looks as good as the day it arrived in the mail! 

This leather card case is perfectly designed to fit exactly 52 cards. No more, no less. My deck fits snug every time, and I’ve never had a single card fall out, even though it only has a basic flap closure. If your outdoorsman likes to bring a pack of playing cards into the wilderness (and who doesn’t?) then this is a surefire gift.

Price upon publish date of this article: $21.99

What’s a shower without soap? Dr. Squatch’s USA-made soaps are designed using traditional cold processes with 98 to 100 percent natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and kaolin clay. With scents like Pine Tar, Bay Rum, Grapefruit IPA, Cool Fresh Aloe, and Alpine Sage, there’s something for every outdoorsman in this 10-bar combo pack.

Price upon publish date of this article: $62.96

Every outdoorsman should know how to sew. Whether yours does or doesn’t, you should buy him this compact little military sewing kit. If he’s a rookie, he’ll be able to use this kit to learn. And if he’s a certified pro, he’ll be stoked to have this kit. This 1.5-ounce kit is useful for repairing pants, jackets, shirts, tents, tarps, and backpacks, attaching custom patches to gear, and more. 

Price upon publish date of this article: $12.99

Board games are worth their weight in gold on long trips outdoors. Simple, well-known options like chess, checkers, or various card games are always a solid choice, but for something a little different, you could try the two-player Onitama game.

When I’m looking for a good game to take into the wilderness, I’m seeking out something that’s lightweight, has as few pieces as possible, is easy to learn, and doesn’t take too long to play. Onitama checks all these boxes. The gameplay is a unique take on situational strategy that plays like a hybrid between chess and Chinese checkers. 

Price upon publish date of this article: $29.99

If I’m buying a gift for a friend who’s just getting into the outdoors and I’m not quite sure what they’ll need, I almost always choose a headlamp. Every outdoorsman needs a light source, whether for around camp use or as a backup in case things go south. 

Headlamps make such great gifts for adventurous guys because you can never have too many. I almost always carry at least two headlamps when I’m on a multi-day trip. You never know when one might go bad, or if a partner may have forgotten their headlamp at home. Even if I’m only planning on a short single-day hike or climb, I never leave home without a headlamp.

Many brands make good headlamps, but Black Diamond headlamps have been my go-to for almost 15 years now. The Storm 400 is the brand’s most powerful single-strap headlamp, capable of emitting 400 lumens at the highest setting. Powered by four AAA batteries, it’ll last up to 150 hours on the lowest power setting and is capable of casting its beam a whopping 100 meters (330 feet).

Price upon publish date of this article: $49.88

“The Freedom of the Hills,” known by climbers as the “bible” of mountaineering, is the ultimate source of information on all things vertical in the outdoors. More than that, however, it contains a wealth of backpacking- and camping-related tips, from fire starting to building snow shelters to wilderness medicine to mountain weather and geology. It also serves as an excellent resource to learn about all aspects of snow and glacier travel, including avalanche danger, crevasse navigation and rescue, and more.

My climbing mentor recommended the book to me when I was just fourteen years old, and it’s been a critical source of information for me ever since. Simply put, every climber should own a copy of The Freedom of the Hills, but anyone interested in cold weather camping, snow travel, the mountains, and really outdoor recreation in general, will find a lot of wisdom in these pages.

Price upon publish date of this article: $28.33

This is Footwear News… so I’ll have to start off with my current favorite shoe, the Black Diamond Circuit 2.0. This shoe hit shelves earlier this year, and I began testing it a few months back. Marketed as an “approach shoe” (a climbing shoe type designed for both trails and technical rock scrambles), the Circuit shines more as a do-it-all model.

It fits like a cross between Vans and Converse (and is more comfortable than both, by the way), with soft, breathable canvas-like upper, a plush EVA midsole made from algae-infused foam, and a grippy rubber sole with a toe cap. These aren’t great hiking shoes, but they’re more comfortable than any piece of streetwear for around-town use, and perform far better on trails and scrambles than any other street model in my closet.

Any outdoorsman will appreciate a pair of these, from the bar to the gym to the trails.

Price upon publish date of this article: $129.95

Every chess player who enjoys the outdoors will appreciate a miniature chess set to take on camping trips, backpacking trips abroad, overnight canoe outings, hunting expeditions and any other outdoor adventure.

Chess is chess; most sets you can find online will at least get the job done. But this set is compact, lightweight, and foldable for easy storage, making it perfect for use outdoors. The magnetic pieces will also come in handy while playing in the wind, on an uneven surface or under otherwise unstable conditions.

Price upon publish date of this article: $54

Ka-Bar knives earned their fame as the standard combat knife of the U.S. Marine Corps in the Second World War and later found extensive use among the ranks of the Army and Navy. I’ve used this burly, fixed blade carbon steel knife for years merely as a do-it-all camp knife. It works well for chopping meat and vegetables, splitting kindling, cutting twine for tent guylines, and hammering in stakes (using the tool’s hilt). Every outdoorsman should have a knife on hand, and it doesn’t get more classic than a Ka-Bar.

Price upon publish date of this article: $99.97

Nothing makes a morning in the backcountry better than a hot cup of joe, and instant coffee allows you to pour yourself one immediately — without all the hassle of grinds and filters. Founded by climber Matt Segal, Alpine Start was designed for outdoor enthusiasts and is one of the best-tasting instant coffee brands on the market. It’s also entirely dairy-free and compatible with vegan, paleo and non-GMO lifestyles.

This variety pack of single-servings (offering 18 total servings) contains three flavors: Original Blend, Dairy-Free Coffee + Creamer, and Dirty Chai Latte. The chai one is the best of the bunch, hands down, but they’re all tasty. Any man who has spent a cold morning in the backcountry wishing he had a hot cup of coffee in his hands will appreciate this variety pack.

Price upon publish date of this article: $24.27

More and more people are taking their outdoor adventurers overseas, and a compact outlet adapter is a must-have if you want to keep your devices charged abroad. I have several of my own, but you can’t go wrong as long as you purchase a model that offers an all-in-one adaptor with plenty of USB slots. Don’t waste time on country-specific adapters — you’ll regret it on your next trip. Just buy one solid adapter like this model from Unidapt and use it for life.

Price upon publish date of this article: $22.99

A wireless projector makes an excellent gift for an outdoorsman, particularly any vanlife enthusiast. They’ll be able to connect to their laptop or phone and project their favorite movies and TV shows from anywhere. The Anker Nebula can cast a screen up to 100 inches wide and offers 360-degree surround sound capabilities, projecting for up to four hours on its internal battery. Meanwhile, the projector houses a handful of built-in apps like Netflix and YouTube. So, if they want, they can stream without using a phone, tablet, or laptop, instead logging in directly on the projector.

Price upon publish date of this article: $289.99

As a professional outdoor writer and journalist, I’ve read hundreds of works of outdoor literature. “No Picnic on Mount Kenya” is perhaps the most awe-inspiring. 

This true account tells the story of three Italian prisoners of war in World War II who escape from an African POW camp to climb Mount Kenya (17,057 feet), the tallest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa — entirely with ramshackle equipment and gear they secretly constructed in their prison camp. Oh yeah, then they decide to break back into the camp afterward.

Written by one of the prisoners, Felice Benuzzi, who was the leader of the trio, “No Picnic on Mount Kenya” is a gripping, moving tale. The back flap puts it best, calling it “a testament to the human spirit of rebellion and adventure.”

Price upon publish date of this article: $15.99

When out winter camping, even dogs can get cold, and this fleece-lined jacket from Carhartt can help the outdoorsman in your life keep his furry friend warm when they’re adventuring together. The micro-fleece lining is extremely warm, and the jacket includes a pocket to carry treats, a leash or other small items. This is an excellent Christmas gift for hunters or anyone else who may be keeping a dog with them out in the wild during cold weather.

Price upon publish date of this article: $54.99

Fire is man’s best friend (after dogs, of course). No camping trip is complete without a crackling flame, and the ability to start a fire in the backcountry is crucial, if not lifesaving, in emergency wilderness situations.

The Zippo Mag Strike offers you the ability to create a spark anywhere, without variables like fuel or matches. For a small gift for outdoorsmen, pair it with the gift of Zippo Easy Spark Tinders to allow him to keep the gift of fire in his pocket wherever he goes.

Price upon publish date of this article: $13.51

Not all wilderness gifts have to actually be used in the wilderness. Unlike Onitama, Parks is pretty involved and has lots of different cards and pieces, so it may not be the best thing to pack for a camping trip. But it’s by far my favorite “outdoor-themed” board game. 

My girlfriend bought this for me a few years ago, and we both love it. We’ve spent hundreds of hours playing Parks together, and the game simply doesn’t get old. Parks hits the sweet spot between an overly complex game with too many rules that take too long to learn and an overly simplistic game that grows boring too fast. 

The cards feature dozens of exquisite drawings of National Parks from Alaska to Hawaii, each from a different artist, and the gameplay is versatile enough that you’re in for something new every time.

Price upon publish date of this article: $49.99

In the digital age, every outdoorsman needs a way to ensure his tech stays powered up. The Goal Zero Flip 24 holds a 6,700 mAh battery, enough to charge most phones twice, and a streamlined, button-free layout. Flip out the USB stick and plug it into an outlet to charge it up, then plug it into the USB slot to charge your phone, headlamp, or any other device.

Price upon publish date of this article: $29.95

These string lights are rechargeable via a 2,000 mAh battery and sport 100 lumens of brightness with 20 LEDs across an 18-foot cord, lasting up to 20 hours on a single charge. They can also be charged via solar power, with a built-in solar panel. A friend of mine got me these as a Christmas gift a few years back, and although at first glance I wasn’t sure I’d have much use for them, I’ve come to appreciate their reliability, long-lasting charge, and brightness. Hang them above your hammock, tent fly, or between trees and they’re powerful enough to provide lighting splayed onto the ground.

Price upon publish date of this article: $44.95

This stout, lightweight camp tripod is an absolute steal. Steel legs hold up well over time, the 600D polyester fabric can take a beating, and the load capacity of up to 250 pounds can fit just about anyone. With an included carry bag and strap, this two-pound stool is an excellent option for minimalist but mellow backpacking outings, hunting trips, and fishing trips alike.

Price upon publish date of this article: $27.88

If your outdoorsman is more of an “across-the-foot” type of fellow when it comes to straps, the Xero shoes offer a great alternative to Bedrock’s between-the-toe design. These barefoot shoes incorporate a technical build, with particularly high-quality midsoles that provide impressive absorption and protection for a sandal of this size and weight.

Price upon publish date of this article: $84.99

It might not be the most pleasant image, but every outdoorsman needs a handy pocket trowel to create a toilet in the great outdoors. This trowel features an ultralight aluminum alloy build, with a hollow handle that comes in handy for storing a small roll of toilet paper. The handle slides up into the blade for easy storage, too.

Price upon publish date of this article: $29.95

Climbing is fast becoming one of the most popular outdoor sports. The Momentum package from Black Diamond is actually the exact harness kit I bought when I started climbing almost fifteen years ago, and the brand has updated and upgraded it many times in the years since.

With a harness, ATC, locking carabiner, chalk bag, and chalk, your outdoorsman will have everything he needs to get started on the wall. This is a superb gift for aspiring climbers who are just getting hooked on the climbing buzz.

Price upon publish date of this article: $99.95

I’ve had a pair of Astral Rambler Approach Shoes for several years now, and they continue to hold up extremely well. They’re comfortable men’s shoes, but stiff enough to offer support when hiking. They feature a recycled canvas and hemp upper for the eco-minded to feel good about, all encompassed by a high friction outer that can perform on skate decks and slabby rock approaches alike.

Price upon publish date of this article: $77

Every outdoorsman will have use for a water bottle (or two, or three). I’ve never not appreciated the gift of a Nalgene, simply because I take them to work, on climbing, kayaking and camping trips; abroad, and even to the movies (if they let me).

By nature of that fact, I lose my Nalgene bottles all the time — although I’ve never actually broken one of the dozens of Nalgenes I’ve owned. I’ve dropped two Nalgenes from the top of 100-foot cliffs and neither came away with anything but scrapes. Nalgenes come in a variety of sizes, but the 32-ounce is the tried-and-true bottle and the one I’ve been using for years.

Price upon publish date of this article: $16.76

The Katadyn Hiker has been the industry-standard backpacking water filter for decades. I first bought one nearly fifteen years ago as a Boy Scout. This lightweight, packable, high-output filter is as good as it gets.

While the Hiker has been updated many times in recent years, the Hiker Pro represents an additional improvement over the standard Hiker model, with longer filter life, transparent housing, and quick-connect hookups for the input and output hoses. Any man who spends time in the wilderness will appreciate a dependable water filter, and the Hiker Pro is one of the best.

Price upon publish date of this article: $89.95

In the traction world, Kahtoola’s MicroSpikes have become a household name. The brand also offers the NanoSpikes, an ultralight variation, but its ExoSpikes are the real treat, a perfect marriage of the bulkier MicroSpikes and minimalist NanoSpikes — providing all the performance benefits without any of the drawbacks in weight.

The TPU Matrix is lighter and more abrasion-resistant than steel, and these puppies fit well on trail running shoes and men’s and women’s hiking boots alike, working well in everything from snowy trails to icy roads. If your outdoorsman lives in a snowy environment, he’s guaranteed to love ExoSpikes.

Price upon publish date of this article: $61.95

If he likes camping with a furry friend, he’s sure to love this backpack for dogs. The Ruffwear Approach pack features a lightweight nylon build, with a five-point adjustment system, two attachment points for a leash, two saddlebags, and a padded handle. The pack comes in sizes from six liters up to 24 liters.

Price upon publish date of this article: $109.95

You can’t go wrong with the original Crazy Creek camp chair. It’s been around for years, and in the world of lightweight, portable, backpacker-friendly seating, Crazy Creeks’ options reign supreme. The chair features a modicum of foam padding, covered with reinforced fabric (mine’s held up for over a decade). This chair is ultra-compact, featherweight, and pretty comfy, too. It’s one of the best all-around gifts for outdoorsmen available.

Price upon publish date of this article: $52.05

If the outdoorsman you have in mind is more of the meditative type, he’ll appreciate this travel yoga mat for when he’s camping or on the road. The grippy mat is free of latex, heavy metals, and phthalates and includes a lightweight, slim build that makes it extremely packable. (Yoga mats can double as ground cloths for technical gear or foodstuff when camping, so I often have one around even though I’m not the most active yogi.)

Price upon publish date of this article: $24.95

I started wearing Pali sandals back in college (all of my roommates were Hawaiian surfers). I was pretty quickly sold on them, and still own at least one pair at all times today. They’re the ultimate “slip-on” camp sandals. The waterproof shoes are durable, comfortable, lightweight, flexible, and most importantly, affordable. These hardy little sandals have everything you need, nothing you don’t. They run narrow, so consider ordering up a half-size if your outdoorsman has wider feet. 

The only downside is that they’re slip-ons, so they aren’t useful for hiking or walking on uneven or steep terrain. Look for sandals like the Bedrock (below) to hit the more “technical” mark. 

Price upon publish date of this article: $19.99

As an outdoor journalist, notebooks are my bread and butter. My girlfriend recently bought me this pack of mini notebooks for me to take into the field, and I’m a huge fan. The three-pack of 3.5-inch by 5.5-inch books features stunning cover artwork from the U.S. National Parks, and each notebook contains 48 pages of lined paper to jot down notes, sketch surroundings, make packing checklists and more.

Price upon publish date of this article: $14.95

GoPro has been constantly revolutionizing the action camera genre for years. The Hero 12 is GoPro’s latest offering, with a slew of upgraded features. I won’t waste time covering all that tech here, but it’s safe to say that no matter his adventure of choice, a GoPro will capture it well. This is one of those gifts for outdoorsmen that you simply can’t go wrong with.

Price upon publish date of this article: $399

Surfers around the globe have long looked to ponchos to change into and out of wetsuits on the beach. This plush cotton hooded towel from Pendleton has all the functionality of a towel with the build of a poncho. This is easily one of my favorite gifts for outdoorsmen, simply because of its versatility.

You can use this hooded towel to change at camp, dry off after a swim or paddle, stay warm around the fire at night or lay it out to organize gear and food.

Price upon publish date of this article: $69.50

Rated our best beginner shoe for outdoor climbing this year, the La Sportiva Tarantulace is an excellent all-around shoe for beginner climbers of all stripes. 

It offers the comfort and neutrality one needs in a beginner rock shoe, coupled with a thicker rubber outer, allowing it to hold up well when climbing outside on real rock. The stiff, neutral build means these shoes provide all-day comfort and work especially well on long multi-pitch routes. The lace-up closure system, meanwhile, allows the wearer to fine-tune his fit.

If your outdoorsman is just getting into rock climbing or looking for a decent all-around rock shoe to tackle mellow longer routes outside, the Tarantulace is an excellent choice.

Price upon publish date of this article: $89

Unlike most compact backpacking stoves, the smokeless CampStove 2+ from BioLite uses natural fuel (sticks, twigs, grass, etc.) to cook food, so it’s completely eco-friendly. (No more wasting gas and propane every time your outdoorsman goes camping.) Weighing just 2.06 pounds and around the size of a standard Nalgene, it’s bulkier than offerings from MSR and Jetboil but remains a lightweight, packable stove.

It also offers far more than a traditional backpacking stove, since it doubles as a power source, allowing you to charge phones, headlamps and other gadgets via USB with a 3,200 mAh internal battery. Simply put, this is one of the most innovative cooking gifts for outdoorsmen on the market right now.

Price upon publish date of this article: $149.95

I’ve covered the Cyklon extensively and have spoken to the developers and product testers on several occasions, so this is a shoe I know quite well. While the Speedgoat 4 from Hoka One One is a great all-around trail shoe for moderate terrain, the hardy Cyklon is a solid choice for trail runners in rougher, rockier environments.

La Sportiva’s legendary grip technology was honed in the mountaineering sphere, making this a top-notch shoe for scrambling. Meanwhile, the specialized BOA lacing system, which uses a dial to micro-adjust the Cyklon’s laces in a split second, offers a snug, fine-tuned fit.

Price upon publish date of this article: $185

These free-hanging pull-up rings are primarily designed for rock climbers to train finger strength. But even if your outdoorsman isn’t a climber, he’ll appreciate the stellar workout he can get using these affordable, lightweight, and durable fitness tools. They’re the ultimate addition to a vanlifer’s “home gym” because you can hang them anywhere, and they’re almost small enough to fit into your pocket, unlike bulky pull up bars. I’ve hung my Rock Rings under staircases, from tree branches, and garage roof beams.

Be warned, the wooden grips will crack and split if you let them get wet or otherwise exposed to the elements, so don’t leave these hanging outside.

Price upon publish date of this article: $42.50

The TwisterCane is my latest ultralight foam sleeping pad. The cost is miraculously low, and the pad is entirely eco-friendly, made with renewable sugarcane resin and crafted with carbon-negative practices. It weighs next to nothing, rolls up quickly and easily packs down tight.

Comfort isn’t at the forefront of the offering here — but if your outdoorsman is into shedding weight, the reliability of foam pads, and helping the environment, he’ll love this pad.

Price upon publish date of this article: $49.95

The Windburner has been out for a couple of years now (I think I received my first iteration to test in 2018), but it still holds strong as a standout kitchen system for small groups. If your outdoorsman often goes camping with a couple of friends or family members, he’ll love the Windburner.

The stove system completely blocks out any wind interference, and the pot securely nests on the stove eye, preventing spillage. At 1.3 pounds, it’s fairly lightweight for a system of this size (a 2.5-liter pot), and an eight-ounce propane canister nests perfectly into the pot with the burner to save space.

Price upon publish date of this article: $249.95

If your outdoorsman is a paddler, a PFD (personal flotation device) is an essential piece of gear. I’ve paddled in the Ringo quite a bit lately, and I’m a huge fan.

It’s breathable, comfortable, and offers a lot of storage space via an easy access front pocket. The hardy nylon fabric is abrasion-resistant as well, so it holds up over time. It works great for moderate kayaking, packrafting, paddle boarding, fishing trips, and the like.

Price upon publish date of this article: $170

A bivy sack is essentially a one-man tent. They’re commonly used on climbing trips, where space is at a premium, but they’re equally great for solo backpacking. Barely more than a pound and smaller than a Nalgene water bottle when rolled up, this bivy absolutely vanishes into a backpack, but is a full-fledged shelter for one person. 

Outdoor Research makes several bivy models, and this is on the pricier side, so you may want to consider a cheaper model if your outdoorsman isn’t likely to be at high elevations or extreme conditions. The Alpine Ascent, however, is my personal favorite bivy. I’ve owned this model for seven years, slept in it at elevations up to 12,000 feet, in snow, and rain, and temperatures well below freezing, and it’s always done the job.

Price upon publish date of this article: $299

There’s nothing like a stiff shot of whiskey after summiting a peak or at the end of a long day on the trail. This set of shot glasses and flask from Stanley is a present any hardy outdoorsman will appreciate.

While I can’t vouch for the shot glasses, I’ve owned the flask for a few months now, and it’s held up well. It took the brunt of a minor motorcycle accident I had over the summer while moto camping, and even the weight of my 450-pound Triumph Bonneville didn’t dent it (pretty insane!). With four shot glasses and a secure shot glass-carrying tumbler, your outdoorsman can share his liquor with his companions, too.

Price upon publish date of this article: $41

The Arc’teryx Acrux TR Gore-Tex boots are the boots I’m currently wearing on a motorcycle assignment in the Peruvian Andes, and they’re the boots that have taken me up the last 25 mountains I’ve climbed this year. I’ve hiked in these boots up to above 18,000 feet on Mexico’s Pico de Orizaba, the third-tallest mountain in North America, and took them on a 2,000-kilometer motorcycle trip across Guatemala. They’ve been all over and hold up well.

While the Salomon Quest 4s on our list are a more versatile, all-around boot, the Acrux is a warmer, hardier boot that performs better in snow and rain and on technical rock, while still working decently well as an everyday hiking boot. If your outdoorsman is a rock climber or interested in hiking in alpine environments, these boots may be a good choice for him — although be warned that they can feel quite hot if hiking in summer.

Price upon publish date of this article: $250

If your outdoorsman is a vanlifer (or aspiring vanlifer) and an avid puzzler, then he’ll appreciate this personalized cardboard puzzle depicting a sticker-covered van. You can customize the puzzle with up to six names (up to 16 characters each), each one hidden somewhere in the stickers plastering the van.

Price upon publish date of this article: $35

If your outdoorsman spends a lot of time on the water, he’s sure to appreciate these artisan serving trays, personalized to depict his favorite body of water or coastal region. Measuring 18.75 inches by 14.75 inches by three inches tall, this serving tray includes laser-cut water contours that are stained turquoise blue and layered beneath the Maplewood land. The sides are made of sturdy cherry wood.

Price upon publish date of this article: $179

The Distance Carbon Z poles from Black Diamond are my favorite trekking poles, although the model I have is a few years older than the current iteration. Lightweight and compact with an easy-to-use folding design and comfortable hand grips, these 100 percent carbon fiber poles have taken me across thousands of miles over the last few years.

They’re great for backpacking and low-grade alpine hiking (Class I to II) alike. A few years ago, I finished a personal goal to solo climb all 58 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado, and the Z poles were with me on at least half of those mountains.

Price upon publish date of this article: $189.95

The standard-issue Nocs are probably the best-performing lightweight binoculars on the market, making them surefire gifts for outdoorsmen of all stripes — but particularly bird watchers, hunters, fishermen, alpinists, or anyone else who, well, needs to keep an eye on stuff that’s far away.

I bought a pair of these four years ago, and they’ve held up quite well. Take the waterproof and fog-proof design and add that to Nocs’ “No-Matter-What” lifetime warranty, and you have a top-tier gift you can feel sure about.

Price upon publish date of this article: $95

I bought a pair of Ombraz a few months ago, and I really appreciate these nifty sunglasses. They wrap around your head via a nylon cord instead of traditional sunglass arms. This nylon cord provides an extremely secure fit, making these shades perfect for high-output sports like surfing, cycling, or any other activity where you’re likely to lose your sunglasses. Most sunglasses bust at the hinges. Because they’re “armless,” these shades eliminate that issue, and they’re also super compact and lightweight. 

The nylon cord system has its downsides — particularly if you have long hair like me — because it can get tangled in your hair or get in the way of your ponytail or bun. It’s also impossible to slip these on while already wearing a helmet. But in general, any outdoorsmen will love these.

Price upon publish date of this article: $160

If your outdoorsman is a hunter, photographer, or otherwise carries expensive, fragile gear with him, he’ll appreciate this rugged hard case from Rtic.

Though I’m not a hunter or much of a photographer, I can vouch for its build. I took the case on a packrafting trip down Colorado’s Roaring Fork River with expensive camera gear inside. Not a drop of water made it through, nor did any of the bumps, scrapes or full-on submerges under the river damage the gear in any way.

Price upon publish date of this article: $19.98

If your outdoorsman is a mountain man, he’s sure to appreciate this set of whiskey glasses, each featuring a raised topographic impression of four classic international summits. The handblown, unleaded glasses depict the topography of the Matterhorn, Kilimanjaro, Mount Fuji and Everest. Not all gifts for outdoorsmen have to be used outdoors, and this whiskey glass set is a prime example.

Price upon publish date of this article: $60

Every outdoorsman needs a sturdy belt to keep his pants in place on long treks. Nextbelt’s ratchet-style belts span all categories, from rugged hunting belts to classy dress belts to USA-themed patriotic belts. The belts allow the wearer to fine-tune their fit in seconds with a micro-adjusting ratchet, and hold up extremely well over time. The brand has dozens of belts and is always coming out with something new, so there’s a belt for outdoorsmen of all stripes here.

Price upon publish date of this article: $69.99

From skiers to climbers to SAR personnel, Rocky Talkies are held in high regard. These compact, rugged walkie-talkies can work up to 25 miles apart, and offer 3 days of battery life, even in -20°F temperatures. They’re built into a climbing-style carabiner, making them easy to attach to a waistbelt, pack strap, or harness. (Note: That “25-mile” range is the maximum possible range in ideal conditions, but their actual range is something more like 3 to 5 miles in backcountry terrain. Don’t worry though, this is still more than enough for most situations.)

Price upon publish date of this article: $110

Bedrocks are incredibly comfortable, lightweight, and compact sandals, and the brand’s latest offerings are top-of-the-line by any standard. I’ve taken my old Bedrock Classics all over the world, but the newer models feature improved support, traction and padding, upping the value considerably.

I have friends who have completed 400-plus mile backpacking trips in these, and I watched a buddy climb North Maroon Peak, one of Colorado’s most rugged 14,000-foot peaks, wearing Bedrocks (though I wouldn’t recommend it). They’re the ultimate lightweight sandal and a worthy piece of footwear for any outdoorsman.

Price upon publish date of this article: $115

Baïst is a relatively new glove brand that I’ve tested in the past. The Baïst Classic is the label’s trademark snow glove, and it holds up well in all cold-weather environments, with rugged goat leather and Cordura shell that can take an absolute beating. Pair the Classic with the brand’s new Skin Liner 2.0 for an extremely versatile system that can handle temps from minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit up to 45 degrees Fahrenheit and higher.

Whether a hunter, backpacker, mountaineer or snow sports enthusiast, any outdoorsman who spends time in the cold will appreciate these hardy, ultra-warm gloves. The brand originated with snow sport gloves, but now offers motorcycle gloves, mountain biking gloves and cycling gloves — so there’s something here for everyone.

Price upon publish date of this article: $169.50

What’s a great gift for any true outdoorsman? Showing support for the wilderness and planet he loves. Whether your outdoorsman is a hunter or a hippy vanlifer, there are nonprofits out there protecting the natural spaces he loves and fighting for the causes he believes in.

In terms of fighting climate change, Protect Our Winters (POW) is one of the most effective and respected nonprofits in the U.S. sector. Rainforest Trust is another highly-rated nonprofit that preserves habitats around the world. For animal lovers, International Animal Rescue is a personal favorite; the organization rescues and rehabilitates injured or endangered wild animals, while protecting their environments.

We talked about donations above, so let’s cover another great “non-material” gift option. You could buy your outdoorsman a guided hunting trip, mountaineering expedition, or whitewater rafting adventure. Not to be corny, but good memories do last a lifetime.

There are plenty of platforms to purchase. The Outdoor Voyage connects adventurers with dozens of trip operators leading expeditions on all seven continents. Other popular platforms include 57Hours and REI Co-Op trips.

If you’re not sure about settling on just one item, the Man Crates personalized Hunting Crate is an excellent idea. This gift box includes a personalized Stanley insulated vacuum bottle, a TrueBlade folding knife, stormproof matches, Duke Cannon’s Hunting Soap and camouflage face paint.

Some of the items (the camo face paint and hunting soap) are really only useful if your outdoorsman is a hunter, but TrueBlade knives hold up well, stormproof matches are a must-have, and the Stanley thermos is practically bulletproof, in my own experience. The personalization option for the Stanley thermos also serves to make your gift one of a kind.

Price upon publish date of this article: $139.99

Every outdoorsman needs a bandana. Whether used to wipe away sweat, clean gear, wash dishes, protect your neck from the sun or as a face mask to stave off dust, sand, or grit, bandanas are one of those classic pieces of outdoor gear that I never leave home without.

This 100 percent cotton Huckberry bandana has edges finished with flatlock stitching for added durability and sports a cool desert graphic in the center. If you’re looking for a practical but affordable gift for outdoorsmen, you can’t go wrong here.

Price upon publish date of this article: $16

100 percent made in the USA, Whiteknuckler makes my favorite fixed-blade knives. Small, ergonomic, and razor-sharp, with a finger-hole to lock your grip, the Classic Osen is the model I use, but they have dozens. This knife is quite easy to conceal, and so lightweight that you’ll forget it’s on your hip. 

There are a few cool features here, including a lanyard hole in the hilt, but the real boon is the 3-way convertible leather sheath, allowing one to wear the knife vertically or horizontally (traditional or cross-pull, on either side). This mitigates the main issue with wearing fixed-blade knives — having them hang down your thigh, which is quite uncomfortable when sitting or driving. 

These knives don’t come cheap, but they’re almost universally loved. I haven’t had an issue yet, and I’ve worn one for two years now. They also offer a lifetime warranty.

Price upon publish date of this article: $169.95