Our Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide is a go-to list for the best outdoor gear and craft food and beverage gifts for friends, family, or even yourself (because self-care is a priority over the holidays)! Below our staff has shared what their excited to give this year and what that special something is that they’re hoping to get.
Cory, Director of Operations, Dad, and New Englander
Give — Nothing ruins the holiday spirit like an unwanted visitor in the form of an amoeba or bacteria…if I had a nickel for every time I’ve typed that sentence. Portable water purification is worth its weight in gold. So, for all the intrepid travelers and adventurers on my list, I’m giving the gift of potable water via the trusty LifeSaver Liberty Bottle.
Get — I love me some Old Town apparel. Whether it be a t-shirt featuring a canoe paddling bear or a moisture-wicking performance fishing shirt, I’m always ready to represent the wonderful Maine-based brand. And it’s all 30% off through January 3rd!
Additionally, if we’re talking about apparel…it’s hard to pass up the fun, ultralight, and insanely comfortable digs from Town Shirt Co. These tasty little numbers have become my new favorite shirts to hike in and also make great gifts.
Angie, President of Darby Communications, Debate Mom, and Christmas Enthusiast
Give — There’s nothing cuter and more important than the stylish Knog’s Blinder Mini Rear Lights. The 30-lumen heart design is my all-time favorite — I like to think that drivers see that little red blinking heart, get the warm fuzzies…and then give me plenty of space when I’m pedaling on the road! I mean, who doesn’t love, Love?
Get — A lifetime supply of Devil’s Foot sodas? Their Hop’d Lemonade, a collab they did with craft beer collective, The Whale, was a real lifesaver for me when I had Covid. In addition to that, I can never resist their Ginger Berry, made with fresh ginger root and local blackberries for a twist on the traditional bourbon and ginger at the holidays.
Lysianne, Account Manager, Rescue Squad Member, and Rescue Dog Mama
Give — When I took my sister on her first rafting trip, I was consumed with happiness to see what a blast she was having (or maybe it was a look of sheer terror, who knows?). She had never been rafting before and didn’t think she could do it. But she did, and her confidence blossomed. For my friends and family who are looking to get a thrill and try out a new adventure this summer, I’m giving the gift of adventure with a Wildwater digital gift card.
Get — The ultimate style piece, Appalachian Gear Company’s All-Paca Poncho has been on my list for months. This cozy piece is perfect for wearing to work, hiking in the woods with my rescue pup Rascal, or just lounging on the couch doing nothing. Now if only my family would read this so they know what to get me this year.
Lizzy, Digital Media Specialist, Climbing Enthusiast, Crazy Cat Mom
Give — Friends don’t let friends wear polyester underwear. BRANWYN’s Merino Wool Bralette and underwear are game changers when it comes to hiking, camping, climbing, and skiing. Plus BRANWYN is sustainable and gives back to organizations that empower women! I’m in the process of replacing my entire underwear drawer with BRANWYN and I’m definitely going to pressure my friends to do the same.
Get — Since we live in the land of waterfalls, I’m putting Astral’s Loyak AC on the top of my Christmas list! This stylish shoe takes you from town to trail and is perfect for a day full of adventures, from exploring secret waterfalls to hiking the blue ridge to grabbing a beer with friends.
Ashleigh, Senior Account Executive, Thru-Hiker, Grad Student
Give — As my Midwestern family’s Self-Appointed North Carolina Ambassador, I consider it my sworn duty to stuff my suitcase with as much Poppy Popcorn as humanly possible every time I head home for the holidays. Frankly, I’m not sure what would happen if I dared to show up without at least one bag of Pimento Cheese (what is the secret ingredient Poppy hides in there to make it so impossible to put down), but I don’t intend to find out. Not only does Poppy make a great holiday gift, but it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering!
Get — At this point, I may need a dresser dedicated solely to Appalachian Gear Company apparel (it’s normal to have an App Gear Co hoodie for every color of the rainbow, right?), but that’s not stopping me from adding to my collection. App Gear Co recently released their 8020 Long Sleeve Tees made of 80% alpaca and 20% Tencel™. These all-natural alternatives to my old synthetic tech tees would be perfect for wearing to the trail when I need a break from the grad school grind.
Mindy, Account Executive, Ultrarunner, Senior Dog Mama
Give — As we begin to make 2023 plans (er, resolutions), and as ultramarathons continue to gain popularity, a lot of people are thinking of the gear they need to complete ultras, FKTs, and other adventure runs. For those seeking allllll the miles in the world, I’m giving the gift of storage and the ability to carry ALL the snacks your heart desires (and stomach needs) with Ultimate Direction’s Ultra Vest 6.0 (also available in women’s specific fit).
Get — I’m a sucker for plush, comfy warmth in the winter and after long runs year-round, and the Sierra Designs Whitney Down Hoodie fits the bill. It is not only sexy and sustainable, but it offers insulation to keep me warm post-run in the winter and gets me through the warm-up before stowing it in my hydration vest in the spring and fall. Living in a temperate rainforest means we truly get all four seasons, so might as well have one apparel item that can handle them all!
Katie, Assistant Media Relations, Yogi, Musician, Cyclist
Give — Cold feet, warm heart, right? Well, now your special someone who has perpetually cold feet can have warm feet and a warm heart! Imagine the smile on their face when they receive Down Booties from Sierra Designs! Like little sleeping bags for your feet, these award-winning Down Booties are made with 800-fill DriDown and have a sturdy foam midsole for support. Perfect for both lounging around the house and for winter camping!
Get — Having a bike stolen SUCKS. I know from first-hand experience. That’s why I’m hoping Santa brings me a Knog Scout Bike Alarm + Finder. Both a loud alarm and a highly accurate finder, this clever device works with Bluetooth and Apple’s ‘Find My’ app. Once armed, any movement of a Scout-fitted Bike will trigger a motion-sensitive alarm, and if that doesn’t deter the thief, the whereabouts of the bike can be quickly located using Apple’s ‘Find My’ app. Having peace of mind that my beloved bike, (her name is Paprika Fuega), is safe will be a game changer!
Coral, Founder, Chief Encourager, Recovering Volleyball Mom
Give — This season I’m giving the gift of flavor. Our favorite Caribbean-infused restaurant, Nine Mile, offers gift certificates that can be redeemed for award-winning meals or for the purchase of their signature hot sauces and/or mind-blowing salad dressings.
Get — I’m seeking fun, easy adventuring in 2023. To facilitate more quality outdoor time, I would absolutely LOVE a SylvanSport Loft rooftop tent to sit atop my VW Tiguan. Instant camping wherever I park my vehicle, yes, please!
Suzanne, Media Relations Director, Kid Wrangler, Recreational Volleyball Player
Give — I love giving unique accessories from UCO Gear as stocking stuffers! From the Arc lighter/flashlight combo to the Sprout Mini Lantern to the ECO Switch Spork, these affordable and fun items are all incredibly handy for camping or everyday use.
Get — A gal can never have too much BRANWYN! Their performance merino bralettes and undies are my go-to for hiking, volleyball, and travel. I’m hoping Santa brings me the new Luna Gray colorway this year!
Stacy, Account Manager, Ultrarunner, Climber, Beer Aficionado
Give — One of my favorite parts of the holidays is spending time with family and friends while drinking fun holiday cocktails. This year I’m bringing a couple of different 6 packs of some of my favorite Devil’s Foot Craft Soda. I especially love their Ghost Ginger Beer for the classic Mule with either Bourbon or Vodka, and I love their Hopped Lemonade for when I’m ready to stop drinking alcohol for the night, but still want a delicious beverage. I’m excited to bring a taste of Asheville to share with others.
Get — This year I’m asking for the Utility Belt Plus from Ultimate Direction. Winter running is all about the layers, and most of the time, those layers get shed. The Utility Belt Plus is perfect for stashing your gloves, shell, food, phone, keys, you name it. I’ve been in the market for a better running belt and UD’s Utility Belt Plus looks like the comfortable and minimal belt of my dreams.
Kade, Account Coordinator, Fisherman, Master Griller, Feral Cat Feeder
Give — Many of my friends are embarking on another ice fishing season, so adequately preparing them for long days on the ice is very important to me! I would love to gift the Backside Heated Seat Pad from Ignik to keep them warm out on the ice.
Get — With flavor being the number one priority every time I step foot into my kitchen, I would love to receive His Majesty’s salad dressing from Nine Mile for a perfect homemade salad every time.
Hannah, Senior Account Executive, Foodie, Musician, Crazy Cat Mom #2
Give — Pretty sure my whole family needs hoodies from App Gear Co. We’re big hikers, and cold wet weather isn’t going to stop us! This is the perfect layer to help regulate temperature underneath your rain jacket. It somehow keeps you both cool and warm!
Get — An adventure-and-cabin-stay package from Wildwater! Definitely looking for some time offline in the new year. Getting on the river and into the woods sounds absolutely lovely.
These are just a few of our favorite things from our clients but there are so many other amazing products they make! We’d love to hear what you’re looking forward to giving and getting this year! Drop a note in the comments or send us a note HERE.