I take gift-giving very seriously. Every year, I spend weeks strategizing the perfect present for friends and family. Each gift has to be unique and something they probably wouldn’t buy themselves but still something they’ll use religiously.
Between skiers, runners, and gym rats, I’ve got a lot of outdoor athletes on my list. Here’s what I’m buying for their stocking stuffers this year.
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For the Gym Rat
Smokin’ Buds True Wireless Earbuds ($25)
As anyone with dogs or toddlers knows, earbuds often disappear, and you can never have too many. With a 20-hour battery lifespan, different audio modes for various types of sound, and built-in microphones, Smokin’ Buds are good for blasting a favorite playlist at the gym—and taking calls, listening to podcasts, and watching movies in day-to-day life. Plus, they’re water-resistant and ready to handle a good sweat from a tough training day at the gym.
For the Runner
Amazon Basics High-Density Foam Roller ($8)
Outside editors test a lot of gear, and after nearly a decade of working for this publication, my home’s closets are littered with fancy foam rollers. But my favorite of the bunch doesn’t have varying foam densities or fancy pressure points; it’s a simple, smooth, black cylinder that gets the job done without unnecessary bells and whistles. The roller I’ve been obsessed with for the past five years has since been discontinued, but I found a comparable and equally affordable option in Amazon’s collection that I’m gifting to a couple of the runners in my life this year.
For the Skier
Patagonia Gear Patch Kit ($19)
Who needs a new hardshell when you can repair the one you’ve already loved for years? Patagonia’s Worn Wear Patch Kit comes with four sticky patches that adhere to all kinds of outdoor fabrics, from nylon and vinyl to rubber and plastic. The kit is perfect for any skier to mend a jacket on the fly but can also be used to patch up tents, sleeping bags, and all kinds of apparel.
For the Yogi
Hugger Mugger Yoga Wipes
Nothing throws off a practice faster than a stinky mat. Give the gift of freshness this holiday season with Hugger Mugger’s yoga mat wipes. Add water to the compact pods and they expand into towelettes. They’re made with bamboo and scented with lavender essential oils. Bonus: They can also be used to clean your face or feet.
For the Hiker
Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks ($25)
I’ve always been a sucker for Darn Tough’s bold color schemes and Goldilocks thickness: bulky enough to feel substantial but thin enough to fit into any pair of shoes or boots. I’ve even been known to throw them on beneath road running shoes for chilly winter jogs. A blend of 61-percent merino wool, 36-percent nylon, and 3-percent Lycra spandex make the Hiker Micro. Like every Darn Tough sock, if these don’t turn out to be the longest-lasting pair of socks your giftee has ever worn, they can ship them to the company and receive a replacement pair in return.
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