The holidays are upon us! If you’re like me, you’re freaking out wondering what to get your loved ones, who, let’s be honest, are the hardest to shop for, amirite? Well, if you’re a member of an outdoorsy household, or know killer people who are, here are a few gift ideas for the 2016 Christmas season.
One of the newer products from Jackson Hole’s own Stio is the Environ Bib. The Environ Pant has long been a popular staple in Stio’s ski gear lineup, and the bib takes the pant a step further. It features Derzimax waterproof/breathable polyester with a 50d face and 20d tricot backing which makes it highly waterproof and breathable. The high waistband and suspenders keep snow out of your crack during epic crashes, and full leg, storm-sealed zippers vent for hiking. If you’re shopping for a skier who rips both the resort or backcountry, they will love the Stio Environ Bib.
Stio Second Light Alpha Jacket
Another go-to item for backcountry skiers from Stio is the Second Light Alpha Jacket. This mid-layer is filled with Polartec Alpha breathable insulation, making it ideal for stop-and-go activity.The jacket is rounded out with a polyester mesh lining to keep heat in, and a breathable nylon shell that lets moisture out. The outer shell also has DWR that sheds light rain. If you’re looking for that gift to give to a backcountry skier, you won’t go wrong with the Second Light Alpha Jacket.
For the hiker in your life, there is a new Utah guide book that just came out – “100 Classic Hikes: Utah.” Written by Julie Trevelyan, this full-color book features some of the best hikes in the state ranging from day hikes to backpacking trips. From the mountains in the north, to the desert landscapes in the south, this hiking guide has classics like Mount Timpanogos, to lesser-known trail in remote places.
Mountain Hardwear 32 Degree Insulated Half-Zip
New from Mountain Hardwear is the 32 Degree Insulated Half-Zip. Another great item for backcountry skiers, this mid-layer uses a stretch fleece in the arms and lower body for flexibility during movement, and 40 grams of Thermal.Q insulation around the core for warmth. It’s a versatile layer that will work well in the skin track, or on warmer days at the resort. Or you can even wear it alone in the city as it looks good too.
The newest skis from Voile are what’s at the top of my wish list. The Supercharger skis are a quiver killer that can shred bumps, carve groomers, make tight turns in the trees, and of course float in powder. Ski them in the resort or the even the backcountry – they wouldn’t be Voile skis if they weren’t light enough for touring. Go ahead, surprise that skier in your life with a new set of planks. It’s a million times better than a new car.
Ski passes are the best stocking stuffer EVER. There, I said it. Over Thanksgiving weekend only, Alta is selling day passes online at a discount – $75 for adults (as opposed to $91) and $35 for kids (as opposed to $45). There is no limit to how many you can buy, so fill that stocking up.
LED Lenzer P7.2 Professional Series Flashlight
The LED Lenser P7.2 Flashlight is bright – super bright! For such a small, handheld light, I am very impressed at how much I can illuminate a dark room, or navigate my lightless garage at night. A good light is essential to have around for convenience and safety. Keep one in your car, your pack, or under the kitchen sink. It won’t take up a bit of room and will save you in a pinch. An essential gift.
Oboz Big Sky Insulated BDry Boots
New from Oboz are insulated winter boots. We’ve got a pair of the Big Sky BDry boots and plan on wearing them out shoveling the driveway and tailgating in the parking lot at Alta. The boots feature a TPU chassis for underfoot armor, molded heel counter for a snug fit, and a BDry membrane to block water and snow while still letting your feet breathe. An ideal gift for anyone who lives in the snowy regions.
Have a friend who just had a baby? Need a gift idea for a toddler but don’t want to give just some other toy? Then spread holiday joy with a Strider Bike and Rocking Base. The Strider Bike is a balance bike for children who are just learning how to ride a bike, while the rocking base gives your kiddo a rocking bike instead of a traditional rocking horse. Start ’em young!
Lever Gear Toolcard
If you need another stocking stuffer, check out the Toolcard from Lever Gear. It’s the size of the wallet and thin as a credit card, but has 40 different tools packed into it. The outdoorsy type in your house, or the handyman will both appreciate this ingenious invention. UtahOutside.com writer, Ryan Malavolta will have a review posted this weekend, so stay tuned!
Backcountry Ski and Snowboard Routes: Utah
Of course I would be remiss not to suggest my own guide book – “Backcountry Ski and Snowboard Routes: Utah.” If you need a gift idea for a skier who is just getting started in the backcountry, or an expert who plans on traveling or moving to Utah, this book gives a wide-ranging baseline of all the moderate, classic ascents and descent routes in Utah’s mountain ranges. Even I reference it sometimes and I wrote the damn thing!