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Oru Lake+ Folding Kayak (Image by Suzanne Downing)
When the winter chill settles in across areas of the United States and Canada, the season brings a unique blend of tranquility and adventure for winter outdoor enthusiasts. Whether your circle of friends and family loves to explore snow-covered landscapes or finds solace in the crisp winter air, finding the perfect gift that complements their winter pursuits can be challenging. With so many outdoor brands to choose from, it can be hard to know what’s worth the investment and what products “actually” perform outdoors.
In this winter gift guide, we’ll explore a curated selection of gifts tailored for the cold-weather outdoor aficionado, spanning various price points to suit every budget. Beyond the material aspect, we delve into the spirit of winter gift-giving — celebrating winter adventures and seasonal joy and connection.
We’ve broken out the list into different pricing categories, based on their list prices (which, of course, can change at different times of the year). You can jump to them directly here:
All the gift recommendations in this guide are field tested by our staff, and they’re products we love. Whether it’s high-performance wool socks for a cold-weather hike that won’t break the bank, or a premium piece of gear like an origami folding kayak, each gift can become a companion for your loved one’s winter adventures.
Gifts Under $30
Backpacker’s Pantry Freeze Dried Meals
For those who like to wander in the winter, having a hot meal in the backcountry is a welcomed luxury. And with about a 10-year shelf life, Backpacker’s Pantry meals actually taste like real food. If you know someone who likes pasta, the Fettucini Alfredo with chicken is a great gift. For the sweets lover (and my personal favorite) the Blueberry Peach Crisp served hot brings the comforts of home to the outdoors. And it’s even better sitting around a campfire so you’re warm inside and out. Another bonus to these freeze-dried meals is that you just add boiling water, stir and let it sit as directed.
Image by Suzanne Downing
Duckworth Midweight Socks
Duckworth created these Midweight Black Butte Crew socks to keep your feet warm outdoors in cold weather climates. And their made in factories right here in the U.S. These midweight socks are made of 67 percent Montana Merino Wool, 24 percent Nylon, 6 percent Elastic and 3 percent Lycra. These socks are also soft to the touch — not itchy like other wool socks can be. You can buy these socks in four different color patterns in small to extra-large sizes. Learn more about Montana Rambouillet sheep where this wool is sourced.
Image by Suzanne Downing
Zenbivy Dry Sack
Although Zenbivy is known for their comfortable outdoor sleep systems, these dry sacks are a hidden gem on their website. Dry sacks (in general) keep your gear dry — especially when it’s raining or your on the water (think kayaking or rafting). But these dry sacks are also nice when it’s snowing outside. For example, if you hike to a remote hot spring and it’s snowing, you can stow your towel in one of these Zenbivy dry sacks to avoid a wet towel. These dry sacks have a welded watertight seam, they come in three sizes — 7L, 10L and 15L — and you can easily compress your gear due to the high-speed mechanical valve. The top rolls up and doubles as a handle. Zenbivy also offers compression caps for these dry sacks if you need to save space in your pack.
Gifts Under $60
Image by Suzanne Downing
BioLite Alpen Glow Mini
This small portable USB re-chargable light by BioLite gives a campsite a nice ambiance. You can also set the brightness and set it to a specific color and a color-changing mode. The small bungee-like strap is perfect for wrapping the light up high on a tree branch to light your campsite, wrap on your tent pole for interior or exterior light or easily strap to a bag to light your path when you’re hiking in dim light. With 150 lumens, this compact light is like carrying a camping lantern without the bulk. (Lumen is like a unit of measurement for the amount of light that a bulb or a flashlight gives off. The more lumens, the brighter the light.)
Image by Suzanne Downing
Tifosi Smirk Sport Sunglasses
For a stylish affordable gift, these Smirk sunglasses are durable and come in a variety of colors. Engineers designed to be shatterproof and give you 100 percent UV defense through polycarbonate lenses. These shades are also comfortable, they don’t slip down when you wear them and they’re lightweight — weighting in less than one ounce. They’re great on snowy hikes and while participating in winter sports. And if you have long hair, they won’t get tangled since these sunglasses have an integrated hinge.
Image by Suzanne Downing
Breeo Firemaster Seasoning Blends
Breeo is known for their high-quality outdoor fire pits made in the US. The brand also has an Instagram page where professional chefs share recipes (like buttery lobster rolls and queso burgers) using Breeo’s fire pit cooking system. For the people in your life who love to cook outdoors, these curated seasoning blends — in partnership with the Bearded Butchers — are made with high-quality ingredients, contain no MSG or gluten and complement a variety of foods. These specialty blends also contain no artificial preservatives. They’re also extremely flavorful so a little goes a long way.
Rigstrip Magnetic SnoStrip
This magnetic SnowStrip by Rigstrips is a nice addition to any skier or snowboarders gear pack. It’s magnetic, so you can easily secure it to your vehicle when you arrive at your destination. Instead of awkwardly trying to rest your board, skiis and poles on your tailgate or lean them on the side of your car where they’re bound to slide down, you can rest your gear inside the SnoStrip slots. The slots have a rubbery grip to keep your gear from falling. You can also use it all year round for paddles, hiking poles, etc. or give the gift of a SunStrip that’s made to hold bikes with round handles, rods and more.
Notice the Reckless Stay Stoked Rider Hood
This is one of the softest rider hoods I’ve tried (and I’ve bought two of these now). For windy conditions in the winter, or your avid skier — Nordic or downhill — these hoods keep your face toasty warm and can fit over a helmet or under a helmet, you choose your style. They also fit over larger beanie hats and have an adjustable tie to cover up your face to just under your eyes. Youc an also easily pull it down again and it’s not tight or uncomfortable. The fluffy fleece is a nice feeling on a cold day. There are a lot of other styles and colors, too, like the Stormchaser Rider hood. You can also find a kids version of this fleece — the Polar Bear Rider Hood to gift to the littles in your life.
Gifts Under $120
Ibex Woolies Pro Tech Base Layer Shirt
This next-to-skin lightweight base layer is ideal for the people on your list who are heading out into cold conditions this winter — especially for skiers and snowboarders. Ibex is Climate Neutral Certified, meaning Ibex’s leadership has taken steps to measure, reduce and offset their greenhouse gas emissions to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint. Ibex also promotes sort of a “less is more” philosophy that encourages people to buy higher quality pieces of clothing that will last a long time over buying a large quantity or lower quality apparel that need to be replaced (known as fast fashion.) This base layer is made of 85 percent Merino wool and 15 percent nylon and it’s incredibly cozy and easy to layer with as the thumbhole sleeves keep the shirt from slipping up your arm. Ibex uses a Nuyarn technology (a twist free spinning method) to amplify the warmth of this base layer. It comes in both women’s and men’s sizes and multiple colors. This is my go-to base layer for winter trail running.
Tifosi Optics Rail Interchangeable Sunglasses
These sunglasses have full coverage and are perfect for the mountain bikers and snowmobilers alike on your gift list. They’re also lightweight and give you and added layer of protection for your eyes when you’re outdoors — especially in terrain where gravel can fly up. These sunglasses are lightweight, give you protection from the sun and comes with three interchangeable lenses and a durable hard case that zips.
Image by Suzanne Downing
Outdoor Research Tundra Booties
These Outdoor Research boots are a fun blend of slippers and snow boots and are ideal for the winter campers and skiers on your list. They’re great to throw on after a day hiking to where indoors or for unpacking the car in and out during the cold weather. These booties are unisex and fit snug and warm. They have a PrimaLoft Gold insulation with Cross Core technology — meaning these booties retain heat exceptionally well. These boots also stay dry through rain and snow and have good rubber traction soles. I love the drawstring on these to keep wind (and the elements) from reaching your ankles and legs. These boots also have a firm yet comfortable memory foam insole.
KUIU Base Camp Hooded Sweatshirt
This casual outdoor zip up jacket is warm, comfortable and functional as a thicker (300 gram) fleece layer ideal for a mid-to outer-layer fit. This is a great gift for the avid camper on your list. Kuiu also offers this Base Camp Hooded Sweatshirt in men’s and women’s styles and a pullover version and zip up version without a hood. The pockets are oversized with zippers and soft inside to warm your hands in cold weather. The sweatshirt is fitted so size up for the people on your list who like a bit of extra room.
Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie
This long sleeve bamboo thin hoodie is so buttery soft to the touch. It’s made from viscose of bamboo and has a UPF 20+. This is an ideal gift for the people on your list who live in warmer climates all year long and spend a lot of time on the water. The thumbhole design is nice to keep your shirt in place and when it’s windy you’ll notice a nice flow to the fabric — especially while out on a boat. It fits true to size and also has full neck coverage (like a scuba hood) to keep the sun and wind at bay. Free Fly offers this hoodie in about 9 different colors, too.
Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Mitts
With these down mittens, you can give the gift of warm hands. Made with a recycled polyester 20D ripstop shell, the exterior is tough and won’t easily rip or tear. And they’re fluffy. Filled with 650 down, I love how they hug my hands and keep them warm and toasty when I’m trail running. These mittens will also pack down small in your pack. These are great for Nordic skiing when temperatures drop into single digits (with or without liners).
Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor Gloves
These mid-weight gloves keep wind and cold at bay with WINDSTOPPER by GORE-TEX LABS and have a leather palm making them durable with a good grip outdoors. If you have avid alpine climbers, skiers or ice climbers on your list, these gloves would be the perfect gift. They also have touchscreen compatibility so you can check your phone or take photos without removing your gloves. You can find these Stormtracker Sensor Gloves in men’s and women’s sizes.
Gifts Under $220
Image by Suzanne Downing
Uncharted Supply Waterproof Vault Duffle Bag
This bag is big, durable, waterproof and can withstand being strapped to the tunnel of a snowmobile. Water doesn’t get in, the zipper is airtight and you can easily pack more than a week’s worth of supplies with the large 65L interior with a ton of pockets. There’s also an air valve that compresses bulky items (like puffy coats). Uncharted Supply’s engineers designed this bag to hold up like survival gear does. And the quality is evident. It’s built to last many years of heavy use. To carry the bag, you can use the shoulder strap — with a sternum strap so the bag doesn’t slide off your shoulders — or you can carry it as a duffel. The vault is also ideal for keeping your gear dry on a boat, ATV, SXS, snowmobile. The brand focuses on “gear in elements out.”
Image courtesy of Vimazi
Vimazi Trail Z2 Trail Running Shoes
These trail running shoes by Vimazi are unique with a biomechanically tuned Z-Foam midsole, meaning the shoe supports and enhances the natural movements of your feet while running. They’re also comfortable and the impact-absorbing heel is a welcome feel on rocky mountain trail terrain. And there’s a lot of precision engineering that went into creating this Z2 model — like the attention to detail in the 5mm drop that reduces the chance of a negative heel angle on impact. If you have an avid trail runner on your gift list — like someone who enters races or is always out on the trails rain or shine — these shoes would make a great gift. They come in both men’s and women’s sizing. They’ll help trail runners with speed, keep their footing secure and will maximize comfort on rugged terrain.
Image by Suzanne Downing
Zenbivy Core Bed Sleep System
Zenbivy is by far my sleep system for camping as it’s the most comfortable I’ve used as a side sleeper. The core bed it Zenbivy’s most affordable sleep system that is non-restrictive and very comfortable. It’s great for the weekend backpackers and tent campers in your life. It’s rated for 25 degrees and comes with a soft synthetic quilt and an insulated core sheet. I love the large insulated oversized hood on this sleep system that keeps cold air from seeping into your sleeping bag while you sleep. This system also has a unique footbed that’s adjustable so you can get the perfect amount of movement. Zenbivy also has an interesting story behind how they designed their sleep systems.
Ibex Nomad Wool Joggers
These joggers are so comfortable with a flattering fit. They’re also made of high-quality 95 percent Merino wool with 5 percent elastane so they keep you warm and they move with you. Even at around 15 degrees these joggers can be worn on their own without a base layer or outer layer, although they make the perfect mid-layer when heading out in cold climates. These pants are also lightweight (half the weight of a cotton jogger) and a great gift for the trail runners, skiers and snowboarders on your winter gift list. These joggers are also good for year-round wear and for lounging around a lodge or cabin when taking a break from the ski slopes.
Luxury Gifts $220+
Image courtesy of Tom Beckbe
Tom Beckebe Canvas Backpack
This weatherproof waxed cotton/nylon canvas shell backpack is a luxury gift for those on your list. This bag is high quality and built to last for years to come. There are three outside pockets and plenty of inside storage — ideal for any outdoor lifestyle. The aesthetic of the Tom Beckebe brand is timeless, rugged and functional. There’s also a padded laptop compartment inside so you can use this as an everyday carry pack and when you’re heading outdoors. This backpack is also very comfortable to wear with a padded back and adjustable padded straps. For me, this backpack easily fits a laptop, camera equipment, snacks and outer layers. It’s my go-to bag when heading outdoors to photograph and day hike in the forest.
Outdoor Research Women’s Coldfront Down Jacket
This jacket is a cloud of warmth in cold weather. It’s ideal for the people on your list who enjoy exploring in the snow. From Nordic skiing to snowshoeing, this jacket will keep the cold away. It has thumbhole sleeves and a wrist gaiter to keep cold air and water from getting inside to your wrists and arms. There’s also a stash pocket inside that fits a cell phone. The fabric of this jacket is high-quality and engineered with responsibly sourced 700+ down insulation. It also has a wind blocking shell, and the hand pockets are lined with brushed tricot for extra warmth. I love that this jacket has a full zipper and is a full snap up. It’s durable and comes in four solid colors, and you can choose a fun pattern called “Cinnamon Print.” This coat is roomy so you can size down if you like a smaller fit. OR is also size inclusive, offering women’s sizes XS to 4X.
Image courtesy of Breeo
Breeo Y Series Portable Smokeless Fire Pit & Outpost Heat Deflector
This portable Y Series smokeless firepit by Breeo is manufactured in the USA. It’s easy to take on the road with you to go camping, and it doubles as a backyard outdoor fire pit. And Breeo’s founder focuses on using high-quality material, which is evident by looking at the welds and overall functionality. It has a handle, and you get an efficient clean burn even with softer wood like ponderosa pine. You can also pair the fire pit with cooking accessories like the Outpost grill and an Outpost heat deflector to enhance the warmth of the fire pit directionally. The heat deflector is well worth the investment and is crafted with stainless steel. This gives you instant heat for people sitting around the fire pit. It fits on the Outpost Rod and is easy to lock on. Breeo (as a brand) has an interesting story, too.
TSL Symbioz Hyperflex Adjust Snowshoes
These snowshoes are the easiest snowshoes to get on and off. And they’re super flexible so you can climb up snow hills with ease. This is a perfect gift for the people on your list who love to go snowshoeing frequently. To adjust these snowshoes, you just put your foot in the opening (binding) with your toe all the way forward and turn the built in dial. It makes a sort of clicking sound as it adjusts the binding. With each turn of the dial, the back of the binding slowly meets your heel, and the snowshoe adjusts to your foot. I love that there are no straps to strap or buckles to worry about. I’ve used these for two winters now, and they are still like new. I recommend pairing these with TSL’s Move Carbon 3 poles that are adjustable and come with tips ideal for using with snowshoes.
Image by Suzanne Downing
Oru Lake+ Folding Kayak
This folding kayak is easy to transport, lightweight (around 18 pounds), compact and glides well on calm waters. It’s the perfect gift for the water sport folks and hobby weekend kayakers alike. This kayak easily fits into a small car (the backseat or trunk) and the origami-style design makes this kayak easy to set up in just minutes once you get to your destination. You also don’t need any tools to assemble. Oru’s engineers built this Lake+ kayak to handle up to 250 pounds and to fold/unfold around 20,000 times — allowing you to kayak 1,000 times a year for 20 years. One of my favorite features of the kayak on top of how nice this kayak feels in the water is the backrest and footrest. These features add bit of luxury to this kayak. It’s comfortable and enjoyable on the water.
Tom Beckbe Women’s Quilted Camden Jacket
This luxury outdoor jacket is warm and comfortable. If you have someone on your gift list with an urban chic vibe who loves to explore nature, this jacket is a great choice. It keeps wind at bay, and the synthetic shell is water-resistant. One of my favorite features about this jacket is the tailored fit. It’s incredibly flattering with rear princess seams — a special stitching that helps make the back of the coat fit nicely. This Quilted Camden Jacket also has a standing collar, an inner zipper, outer snaps and comes in five colors like rustic orange, bluestone and black. You can also pair this with Tom Beckbe’s men’s Braddock Quilted Jacket for a “his and her” couples gift.
Image by Suzanne Downing
Solo Stove Pi Prime Pizza Oven
For the outdoor culinary enthusiasts on your gift list, this Solo Stove Pi Prime Pizza Oven makes a great gift. It’s a nice addition to a home, lodge or cabin and portable enough (20 inches in diameter) to take camping — think RV campers. This pizza oven is also easy to use and is great to give as a gift to first-time pizza oven owners. To make a pizza, you simply connect your propane, let the oven heat up to right temperature and cook your pizza in 90 seconds or less. Solo Stove’s pizza ovens also have sort of a cult following and you can join a Facebook Group with hundreds of tips and recipes. Making pizzas outdoors for our family is a fun event. It’s also nice that you can make small (individual) pizzas and larger pizzas right on the pizza stone that comes with the oven. Overall, this pizza oven brings a lot of fun to any backyard space or camping environment.
Ibex Wool Aire Hoodie
This is one of my personal favorite mid-layers for winter and is a perfect long-term investment gift. Ibex offers this Wool Aire Hoodie (Jacket) in both men’s and women’s styles. It’s slimmer fitting so you’ll want to size up one size for gift giving. Here in my home state of Montana, where it’s cold from November to March, I’ve been a huge fan of the down-filled puffy jacket. But wool has proven equally as insulating for warmth — especially with a wool base layer underneath. The scuba hood is nice to keep wind at bay and the overall fit is flattering in the women’s model. This jacket is also packable and comfortable to wear. It’s less bulky than most down-filled jackets and weighs in at just 10 ounces for a women’s size medium.
Suzanne Downing is an outdoor writer and photographer in Montana with an environmental science journalism background. Her work can be found in Outdoors Unlimited, Bugle Magazine, Missoulian, Byline Magazine, Communique, MTPR online, UM Native News, National Wildlife Federation campaigns and more.
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