10 Christmas Stocking Fillers For Adventurers
We’ve all been there. You’ve scoured the shops and trawled the internet, but there’s still one last person to cross off your Christmas gift list. You’re fresh out of ideas, frustrated and feeling decidedly Grinchy…
Fear not! We’ve put in the leg work and compiled a list of 10 of our top-rated review items that make the perfect gift for the outdoor person in your life! From cyclists and climbers to wild swimmers and weekend walkers, there’s something for every activity and for every kind of adventurer, from eco-warriors to techy gear geeks. Read on for Christmas gift-spiration and items that have been tried, tested and loved by the BASE review team.
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BEST FOR:
MULTI-SPORT ADVENTURERS
GARMIN INSTINCT 2 GPS WATCH
With tracking for over 40 different sports (including winter favourites such as skiing), the ability to switch modes mid-route (for the SkiMo enthusiasts or perhaps those training for a Frog Graham!) and detailed metrics including sleep and stress levels, Garmin’s Instinct 2 has a lot to offer in styles and editions to suit every kind of adventurer – perfect for Christmas gifting. Available in the smaller 2S version for those who prefer a lower-profile watch, a robust standard size, a 2X version which also has a built-in torch and a crossover version with an analogue face – there are tactical, camo and surf editions, all packed with Garmin’s expert tech and GPS smartwatch know-how!
A no-nonsense, easy to use interface and sporty aesthetic make this impressive little package very much designed with adventurers in mind, and the solar version of the Instinct 2 offers exceptional battery life – you can boost up your charge by just being outside! Despite its no-frills display, the metrics on offer in the Instinct 2 are extensive. Track multi-activity days out in a one-er and easily upload your routes and stats to your tracking platform of choice with streamlined connectivity through Garmin’s Connect app and IQ store.
A truly useful, good value and highly functional stocking filler for the multi-sport adventurer in your life.
Check out the full review of the 2S Solar version here.
BEST FOR:
RAINY DAY RAMBLERS
H&M STORMMOVE 3-LAYER WOMEN’S SHELL JACKET
H&M’s outdoor line is proving to be a big hit with adventurous folk on a budget. Fabric tech that works, a fashionable look and prices aimed at making adventure accessible to more people combine in the MOVE range, and the StormMove 3-layer shell jacket is no exception.
Perfect for rainy day dog walks, low-level hiking and stomping the streets on damp days, this one’s a winner for urban adventurers whose weekends revolve around trails and toasty country pubs.
Check out the full review here.
ARC’TERYX BETA AR MEN’S WATERPROOF PANT
A versatile and robust all-rounder, the Arc’teryx Beta AR pants might be a bit on the pricey side, but for the quality and durability, they make a cracking gift for an all-weather adventurer that’s set to last for years to come.
These quality hardshell pants are perfect for hiking in the UK and beyond, ideal for the discerning adventurer who values quality construction and clothes that stand up to even the toughest conditions.
Check out the full review here.
BEST FOR:
COLD WEATHER CAMPERS
RAB IONOSPHERE 5.5 SLEEPING MAT
For mountain lovers who are as passionate about their tech as they are about a good night’s sleep, you can’t get a much better gift than this.
Rab’s new range of sleeping mats are their most advanced yet, and the Ionosphere 5.5 is the warmest of the lot. Exceptionally warm, comfortable and quiet, you’re literally giving the gift of a sound sleep under the stars. This 4-season sleeping mat comes with its own inflation bag and easily packs down into a cylindrical stuff sack (so it’ll slip under the tree no problem).
Check out the full review here.
BEST FOR:
WINTER HIKERS
ADIDAS TERREX WMN MID RAIN.RDY HIKING SHOES
For the woman who always has wet feet… no more! The RAIND.RDY Hiking shoes battle all the elements whilst staying soft underfoot, supportive round the ankle and versatile to ground conditions. Fully waterproof for even the wettest days on the hills, that dreich Boxing Day walk will feel like a breeze in a pair of these!
Check out the full review here.
that dreich Boxing Day walk will feel like a breeze in a pair of these!
SALOMON X ULTRA 4 GTX
Nothing says ‘Christmas’ quite like rugged lugs and an enhanced chassis… but seriously, these tough and VERY waterproof hiking shoes are a game-changing stocking filler that will keep the mountaineering man in your life very happy indeed.
With Salomon’s signature quick-lacing system, they’re simple to pull on but offer exceptional protection from the elements too.
Check out the full review here.
BEST FOR:
INDOOR WALL WARRIORS
You know what? Some people just prefer the safety and warmth of the indoor world once the cold, dark nights start to creep in – and that’s ok. We all know winter is the perfect time to head for the climbing wall, so why not treat the rock botherer in your life to a pair of shoes that’ll keep them crushing until the rock dries out?
Thoroughly tested both indoors and out, the recently updated Adidas 5:10 Niad shoe is the perfect present for climbers who need something to look forward to when spring rolls back around!
Check out the full review here.
BEST FOR
BEGINNER WINTER SWIMMERS
FINISTERRE WETSUIT RENTALS
For that friend who made it through the summer in their cozzie, but needs a bit more warmth for winter. This one’s also a good one for the eco-conscious, or those who just aren’t sure if cold water is their thing yet… why not gift a wetsuit rental through Finisterre’s newly-launched scheme?
Essentially a great way to try before you buy (because let’s face it, wetsuits are expensive), and Finisterre’s entire range is now made from the environmentally gentler alternative to Neoprene – Yulex.
Check out the full review here.
BEST FOR:
TWO WHEELED ADVENTURERS
PICTURE ORGANIC OFF TRAX WAISTPACK
A versatile and durable waistpack designed for off-road adventures. Big enough for stashing an extra layer on cold rides with thoughtful organisation and a comfortable design.
The OFF TRAX waistpack comes in three different (yet equally cool) colourways and has a really nice ‘gifty’ vibe to it. More useful and infinitely cooler than a pair of socks!
More useful and infinitely cooler than a pair of socks!
BEST FOR:
FROSTY PHOTOSHOOTS
NYA EVO FJORD 60 CAMERA BACKPACK
For the hardy adventurer who never heads out without their camera in hand, you can’t go far wrong with one of these bad boys. While the price tag might be a wee bit shocking, this high quality and full-featured pack is perfect for the pro in your life.
Thoughtfully designed with tough conditions and challenging terrain in mind, the NYA EVO FJORD 60 will keep all that kit snug, safe and easily accessible when it’s time to capture that insane winter sunset or ice climbing action shot.
Check out the full review here.
For the hardy adventurer who never heads out without their camera in hand, you can’t go far wrong with one of these bad boys
For more expert insight, technical know-how, shake-downs and round-ups, check out our Gear page to gen up on the best kit for adventure. All the latest and greatest gear for all kinds of activities, and not just for Christmas…
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