A Vermont Sports Mother’s Day Gift Guide
*Story updated May 4, 2017.
We’re going to make this easy for you. First, Mother’s Day is May 14. Before we go further, go and mark your calendar now.
Seriously, we’ll wait.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, here are a few suggestions. If she’s looking to bike, run, climb, paddle or dig in the garden, we’ve pulled a selection of gift ideas here to bring a smile to her face. These are gifts that perform as well as they look and will have her getting out the door to enjoy spring in style and comfort.
If she’s looking to try something new, consider signing her up for a workshop or a guided experience around the state. The Green Mountain Club has a number of skills workshops in the spring that will help her develop skills in orienteering, wildlife and nature photography, thru-hiking and much more, while Vermont Outdoors Woman, a project of the Vermont Outdoor Guide Association, offers recreation opportunities for women around the state.
Flowers and a card are good ideas too.
North Face FuseForm Jacket
Weighing just 10 ounces and completely waterproof, The North Face introduces a lightweight and durable layer for high altitude pursuits. The North Face’s FuseForm jacket is cut from a single piece of shell for increased abrasion resistance and has fully taped seams and is stitched with tough, cordura yarn. If weight and weather are concerns for Mom’s next summit attempt, here’s one piece of gear that will go the distance.
$299
Outdoor Research Delta Hoody
With plenty of chilly days left this spring, the Delta Hoody from Outdoor Research is a versatile piece that can be worn on its own or with other layers for increased warmth. Constructed with merino wool, the sweater offers stretchy lightweight warmth that’s quick drying and breathable. An odor-controlling coating promises zero stink, while blended fibers cut the cold without the weight or itch of wool.
$99
Detours Ballard Market Pannier
If mom’s looking to ride her bike to any of farmer’s markets around the state, she’ll need a bag that’s up to the task. Two side clips attach this bag securely to your bike with ease and release just as smoothly. When not in use, the clips are stowed in a zippered stash pocket and the bag transforms into a regular tote. For a hands free option, padded tote handles transform again into adjustable backpack straps, a helpful option when carrying up to 920 cubic inches of fresh produce.
$80
AKU Ultra Light 30 GTX
As AKU celebrates its 30th anniversary, the European footwear manufacturer has revamped some of its original styles. The GTX is a lightweight day trekking boot with AIR8000 for enhanced breathability, Gore-Tex liner and a flat Vibram Erica Everest outsole for maximum ground contact and traction, and a dual density EVA midsole. If she doesn’t like fuchsia or purple, it also comes in grey.
$199
Badger Balm Anti-bug sunscreen
If she’s spending long afternoons out in the garden, protection from biting insects and the sun’s harmful rays is important. Badger Balm’s certified organic bug and sun repellent is 100 percent DEET free, water and sweat resistant, and is made with moisturizing beeswax, olive oil and castor oil. She’ll be able to harvest tomatoes without looking like one with SPF 34.
$16.99
Cotton Carrier StrapShot EV1
The StrapShot is a handy device for carrying cameras without the bulk or frustration of extra straps or bags. The StrapShot attaches to your shoulder straps or belt and an attachment on your cameras tripod mount clips your camera to the strap. The EV1 has been redesigned to carry compact, mirrorless, four-thirds and full-sized DSLR cameras. It also includes a redesigned tether and wrist strap that acts as a safety leash against accidental drops.
$79
Garmin Forerunner 15 GMS Monitor Bundle
Whether she’s looking to step on the course for the first time or set a new personal record, here is a set of tools for the job. Garmin’s Forerunner Bundle includes a chest strap and watch to help her track her workout including heart rate, distance, pace and more. Plus, she can upload data to the free Garmin Connect online community to join fitness challenges and track progress.
$170
Black Diamond Women’s Onyx 55 Backpack
Designed with a woman’s frame in mind, the Onyx 55 maximizes comfort and stability while hauling a weekend’s worth of gear. At 55 liters, the Onyx is top loading with front zippers for easy access to the interior, plus the shoulder and hip straps move with the wearer, eliminating hot spots and friction on the shoulders and hips while the pack remains balanced.
$250
Road ID
For a cyclist or runner that goes without identification, put the Road ID at the top of your list. Each brushed aluminum plate can be engraved with custom details that a driver or EMT might need in case of an incapacitating accident, including name, address, emergency contacts, blood type, and drug allergies. Tags are available in a variety of styles, including wristbands, shoe mounts, and military dog tags. A $10 per year subscription service lets you add an Emergence Response Profile, which is accessible to emergency personal via phone or Internet. $20
Polaroid Cube
For a small camera, the cube is quite a package. At just a hair longer than an inch wide, it can shoot at 1080p and record 90 minutes of video on Micro SD cards. Various mounts and accessories are already in the works, plus a built-in magnet lets you stick the camera on any metal surface.
$100
