Michael BublĂ© is crooning White Christmas, sugar cookies are in the oven, and the hot toddy’s are being sipped-I’m full-blown in the holiday spirit. Seeing as Christmas is just around the weekend (wink), and I still have a couple of last-minute gifts to get, I figured I must not be the only one. Here are some suggestions for your the outdoorsy or travel minded friend/sister/father/bestie, all under $100.
ExOfficio Nomad Pants ($70)
These pants received quite a bit of wear during my springtime trip to Vietnam and Burma. In the hot, sticky weather I rolled the pants up to buttoned capris to keep cool and enjoyed the loose, relaxed fit. The nylon fabric weighed nothing (and packed to that as well), and dried in no time flat.
The pockets (enough but not too many) were plenty large enough, a small zippered pocket near the knee came in handy often. And they never wrinkled, not even once. Doubling at times as a hiking pant, the Nomad Pants should be in any traveler’s suitcase.
Redington Marquesas Hoody ($59.95) Yet another surprise here with Redington, starting to gain notice by many female outdoor enthusiasts for their quality, stylish and comfortable clothes. The Marquesas Hoody, one of their best-sellers, has a relaxed fit and two large, open, front pockets, that I loved to shove my hands in whenever they were cold.
I wore it sea kayaking and raved about using the thumb hooks to further protect my hands from the cold water and bright UV rays. Excellent sun coverage, and a piece that can be used in a variety of outdoor activities, including fly-fishing, running, hiking or canoeing.
All Clear Camelbak Water Purifier ($99) The All Clear is a simple, useful gift for any globe trotter. A regular Camelbak BPA free bottle is paired with a heavy lid that uses UV light to purify drinking water. The light takes just 60 seconds to work, and presto you have potable water.
Included in the package is a separate lid for the bottle and USB cable to charge the purifier, along with a handy travel case for the UV purifying top as well. Weighing just over 1 pound, it’s an no brainer for any traveler.
BEARPAW Tatum Boots ($84.99) Wintertime screams warm, comfy boots to every single woman out there, and the BEARPAW Tatum Boots are that and more. 11″ tall with a stylish strap wrap around, these boots feel like heaven after a full day on the mountain in tight snowboard boots. Trust me, the drive home has never been more comfortable.
Paired with tights and a skirt, they can also be dressed up and worn out for a night on the town. A strong, sturdy grip on the bottom and roomy interior, these boots are a fine last minute present for the holiday season.