If someone you know mentions things like ‘the call of adventure’ or says things along the lines of ‘do you fancy hiking up that gigantic mountain’ they are probably an outdoorsman. The most intrepid of explorers and most rugged of individuals, who require a Christmas present to match. Take a look at our guide to the best Christmas gifts for the outdoorsman.
Patagonia Isthmus Three-in-One Jacket, £320
You never know what the weather’s going to throw at you. With the Isthmus jacket, that’s completely fine. The three-in-one piece offers a waterproof outer shell, a warm fleece underlayer and with their powers combined, make for a serious winter jacket. As well as protection against the elements, its reassuring to note that the Isthmus is Fair Trade sewn and made using 68% recycled fabrics. Looks good, feels good, does good.
Available at Patagonia.
MYRQVIST Duved Dark Brown Suede Boots, £239
The hiking shoe for non-hikers – or the everyday boot for adventurers, whichever way you care to look at it – the Duved from Scandinavian brand MYRQVIST are the best of both worlds. While its profile might look more like your classic everyday boot, there are performance touches aplenty, from the water-repellent suede and membrane to the commando rubber sole. They embody the ultimate adage of the British weather: hope for the best, prepare for the worst. And they do it in style.
Available at MYRQVIST.
Leatherman Surge Multi-tool, £154.95
Knowing how to use every attachment on this heavyduty mass of sharpened metal tools is a rite of passage in and of itself. Containing 21 separate implements – knives, openers and wire cutters aplenty – the incredibly compact multi-tool is a powerhouse of self-sufficiency. Even if everything else lets you down, the Surge won’t. Want to make a survivalist statement on your next camping strip? This is it.
Available at Leatherman.
Steripen Adventurer Handheld UV Water Purifier, £85.95
The great outdoors beckons now more than ever, but like any great adventure, it’s all about preparation – like ensuring you have clean water. This portable little pen uses UV light to purify any water you come across, meaning no chemicals needed. Just stir your water with the pen and off you go – clean, drinkable water whenever you need it. It’s even USB rechargeable – though if you can manage that out and about you probably don’t need the SteriPen.
Available at Alpinetrek.
Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival, £13.99
Forget Bear Grylls; if there’s one guy that knows how to survive in the wilderness, it’s Dave Canterbury. He literally wrote the book on the subject – a book that just so happens to be one of the most useful bits of reading for any would-be outdoorsman. From building your kit to finding food, Bushcraft 101 will have you living off the land in no time, whether for a weekend jaunt or a isolationist escape.
Available at Amazon.
