Then when I got older, I just wanted gear.
And I wanted rugged gear. North Face climbing crag packs tough enough to withstand my abuse. Lightweight sleep sacks, small sized for people 5'4, warm down to 5 degrees. Vasque boots, Metolius camming devices. Big thick woolly socks and sets of silky liners for wicking away moisture. Socks for Christmas? Hardly glamorous. But at $8-$12 a pair, sorely appreciated.
I kept receipts and returned the girly stuff each year. REI gift certificates started appearing under the tree. Less to unwrap, for sure.
If you find yourself in a quandary for your outdoorsy loved one, fear not. Grab your checklist and your checkbook, and start shopping for gifts sure to please. I even did some of the work for you by recommending cool presents below, including high tech and low tech gear, stuff for kids, 'luxury' car camping items - even some great books for evenings cozied up beside the fireplace.
Need advice? Got a friend who paddles (or climbs, cycles, backpacks or whatever)and you don't know where to begin shopping? I'm here for you. Post a message or send me an email and I promise to respond. Your friends can't hardly be harder to shop for than me!
SOME FUN ONLINE CATALOGUES TO KICK BACK WITH
Recreational Equipment Inc (REI)
A great online holiday sale for the gear-heads you love can be found at Rei - simply click on the graphic link above!
Here are my picks for some unique gifts sure to delight the most demanding outdoor geek:
Travel Chair Deluxe Highback Armchair with Footrest $ 24.99 - $ 35.00
Variety Tea-for-Two Chair/Table Combo $ 49.99 Comp. at $ 70.00 Save 29% Buck MiniBuck Tool $ 19.99 Comp. at $ 25.00 Save 20%
Coleman Black Cat Heater $ 49.99 Comp. at $ 64.95 Save 23%
The above item is so unusual (and often sorely needed, or only dreamt of longingly from inside a chilly tent), I thought I'd include the description:
Stay warm long after the sun goes down--this portable, catalytic heater is easy to use and can be used inside a tent. Flameless, 8" burner head radiates heat; pressure regulated to provide consistent output regardless of air temperatures or elevation.
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