Your 2014 Holiday Gift Guide

You’ll find a gift for everyone on your list this season with some helpful suggestions from our Gear and Beer Editor, Hilary DelRoss. You’re sure to please the picky and inspire the intrepid with this line up of unique and accessible ideas, some of which come from right here in Vermont.

 

STOCKING STUFFERS

BioLogic FixKit

The cycling enthusiast on your list will love adding the FixKit multi-tool to their mobile kit. It’s got all the standard allen wrenches and screw drivers but it also boasts a big 15mm crescent wrench for tightening axle nuts and pedals as well as an integrated chain breaker for a grand total of 20 tools in one. You can even open bottles with it! As a bonus, the neoprene case keeps this kit contained while also functioning as a handle cushion to protect your hands. $34.95

 

 

 

 

Olloclip 4-In-One Photo Lens

The Olloclip is a ton of fun to use on adventures. Originally designed for the iPhone, the Olloclip got its start on Kickstarter a few years ago. The lens has undergone several modifications as new generations of iPhone were introduced and now includes an option for Android users. Four lenses are included in a palm-sized package: a 180-degree fisheye, wide-angle and 10x and 15x macro lenses weigh less than an ounce in total. It clips right over the phone, so you’ll have to remove your case before installing it. Installation is a snap and takes only a second or two and since it’s a physical lens, the Olloclip is compatible with any photo and video apps you already have installed on your phone. If you’re looking for a big bang for your social media buck, this lens fits the bill. $69.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Princeton Tec Sync LED Headlamp

The Sync is a compact and versatile headlamp with five modes emitting 90 lumens in the brightest mode. Three separate LED bulbs – spot beam, floodlight, and red – have a maximum range of 250 feet and a burn time of 150 hours. The single arm bracket and power dial are easy to operate to change settings and pivot to aim the light where you need it. This light weighs only 3 ounces including three AAA batteries. Includes a lock mode so the light doesn’t turn on inside your pack or pocket. Made in the USA. $29.99

 

 

 

 

AMK Ultralight/Watertight Medical Kit.5

This first aid kit is a great fit for the whole crew, no matter what sport they’re into. Packing around this 4 ounce kit adds peace of mind without adding much weight. Contents stay dry and contained in the re-sealable waterproof liner and ripstop nylon case. It comes packed with many of the basic first aid items one person might need during a one or two day event. There is some room left over to add your own favorites, such as Glacier Gel blister dressings, which are a blessing for beat up ski feet. This first aid kit has your back in case you run into common trail ailments. $17

 

 

 

 

Ruffwear Turnip

It’s a safe bet there’s a dog lover on your list and the Turnip is as much a gift for the dog as it is for their person. Ruffwear is known for making products that are resilient to even the most destructive canines. The Turnip is tennis ball sized so it fits into most ball throwers. Its oblong shape and natural latex rubber material bounce around upon landing for hours of entertainment – for both your and them. The rubber is a durable chew toy and gum massager and can be filled with treats. $14.95

 

 

 

ENO Twilights

The old camp lantern’s got nothing on this string of 23 tiny camp lights. Set the mood, spruce up your space or start the party with these battery powered LEDs. The 10’ strands of white, red/yellow or blue/green lights fit in your pocket and weighs only 4 ounces so you can light the way no matter where you string them up. They also happen to be the exact length of ENO’s hammocks. Comes with a carrying case and runs on three AAAs with a burn time of up to 72 hours, plus they’re water resistant so you don’t have to worry if a storm passes through. $19.95

 

 

 

 

Skida Neckwarmer

Born from the desire to explore and the need for gear that can keep up in winter weather, Skida neck warmers, headbands and hats battle cold ears and necks head-on. Available in either micro-fleece lined or unlined, each style rocks a fun, printed poly-spandex outer. Fabrics wick moisture so your skin stays warm and dry and the structured fit is snug and stays put during high-impact activities. Plus, the patterns add a bit of pizazz that can transition right into après. All styles come in an array of patterns – new ones are added constantly – and are sized for men, women and kids. Conceived in Middlebury, based in Burlington and sewn in northern Vermont – this company is keeping it local. $16-$36

 

 

 

 

Light & Motion Urban 2.0

Give your bikers a sense of security with this redesigned, waterproof commuter light. Side light emitters provide peripheral lighting for added visibility at intersections and on busy roads. The USB rechargeable L-ion battery runs for up to 1.5 hours on the brightest setting or 6 hours on low and includes a battery level indicator. Five lumen levels and color ways are available to suit specific needs. The Urban mounts on handlebars or helmets and easily detaches to carry as a hand held light between rides. Waterproof to 1 meter. Made in the USA. $69.99-$179.99

 

 

 

LIFESTYLE

Ibex Shak Spire Hoody

The Shak Spire is a go-to mid-layer for men and women. This hoody has a full zip, thumbholes, front zippered hand warmer pockets and a scuba style hood that fits under helmets. Constructed with flat lock seams, this hoody was made to fit comfortably between layers while still looking good enough to wear on its own. Local bonus- Ibex is based in White River Junction. $175

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AVEX Highland Travel Mug

A necessary accessory for the commuters and adventurers on your list. The Highland Travel Mug is double-walled and vacuum insulated, so it will keep your hot drinks hot for up to 5 hours and your cold drinks cold for up to 14 hours. It also features an automatically sealing lid that prevents spills between sips and locks securely so you can stash this mug in your pack without it leaking. Available in 16 or 20 ounces in a variety of colors and finishes. Lifetime guarantee included. $22.99-$24.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chandler 4 Corners Chalet Collection Knit Pillows

Bring the nostalgia of the ski lodge home with you. These cozy and stylish accent pillows will be at home in your home, no matter the location or décor. Find styles and colors that complement a cabin in the woods, slope side chalet or city apartment. The alpine inspired designs are knit with 100% wool, paired with a zippered velvet backing and filled with a down pillow insert. The classic designs in this collection were created by Poppy Gall, the founder of Isis women’s apparel. Chandler 4 Corners is a Manchester, Vermont based company. $125

 

 

 

Big Agnes Down Comforter

Keep your loved ones warm this season with the gift of 600 fill down. The Comforter creates a versatile winter sleep system when added on top or inside another sleeping bag for extra insulation. It’s also great to take along on holiday travel visiting relatives and friends. Take it car camping or camp out on the couch. This is a full/queen sized cover that weighs under 3 pounds. Complete with rip-stop nylon and a water repellant finish for durability and quick clean up in case you spill some tea or wine while snuggled up. $299.95

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chaco Natilli Boot

Not only are these boots super comfy thanks to the Luvseat foot bed from Chaco’s famous sandals, they also add a versatility to your winter shoe collection. These full grain leather and suede boots can be worn laced-up or folded-down, revealing the printed jersey knit lining for additional style points. The aggressive EcoTread outsole, perfect for slogging through slippery commutes, is constructed with 25% recycled material. $135

 

 

 

 

 

The Snurfer

The iconic Snurfer is back! The folks at Manchester, Vermont-based Vew-Do Balance Boards have replicated the original 1960’s design by Sherman Poppen. The Classic features the same V-tail concavity and 60/40 rocker design of the original Snurfers, which make these boards easy to ride for the whole family. The Nomad is also available in this new line, for a modern take on the old favorite. The original design gets a tapered facelift with increased nose width for improved agility and a channeled base and big, cushioned EVA foam pads for added control. Hang onto the rope and explore your backyard slopes on these edge-free boards. Made in the USA. $199.95-$139.95

 

 

 

 

Klean Kanteen Classic 27oz. Bottle

If you bring a water bottle with you everywhere you go, you’ll need one that can stand up to being dropped or bumped. The Klean Kanteen Classic is up to the challenge. Available in 27, 40 and now 64 ounce sizes with interchangeable cap options, this bottle can withstand the worst abuse for years of reuse, helping to minimize the unnecessary disposal of single use bottles. Snazzy new matte color finishes are available as well as the stainless finish. $19.95

 

 

 

 

Yaktrax Run

When the snow and ice make outdoor training treacherous, Yaktrax steps in to get you back on your feet – and keep you there. Ice traction from Yaktrax has been around for a while, providing stability to walkers, professionals and backcountry adventurers. Their newest line of over-the-shoe traction is designed for runners. A combination of removable spikes and steel coils provides traction so you can continue training throughout winter. Reflective heel tabs and performance straps provide additional safety and support. The Yaktrax Run can be worn in temperatures as low as ‑41°F. $39.99

 

 

 

Ruffwear Kibble Kaddie

If your four-legged friend is your travel companion or adventure sidekick, you know transporting dog food can be cumbersome. Keep mealtime conveniently organized with this portable dog food carrier. It holds up to 42 cups of dry food and neatly dispenses it through a side chute with magnetic flap and a little help from the jug handle. The top rolls down and clips like a dry bag, which allows you to adjust its size as the volume of food inside fluctuates. The fabric is durable and the inside of the bag is lined for resistance to grease. Store collapsible water and food dishes in the side mesh pocket for easy access and clean up. It’s nice to have everything handy when you’re both hungry after a big day. $39.95

 

 

 

 

TECHNICAL

 

 

Patagonia Merino 2 Lightweight Crew

Patagonia’s mid-weight base layers are a super soft blend of 80% Merino and 20% Capilene. The Lightweight Crew has a slim fit with elastic thumb loops for smooth sliding underneath mid and top layers plus another loop so it can be hung up to dry after aerobic activities. The merino wool wicks sweat, resists stink and comes from a sustainable source in Patagonia. The Capilene is 100% recycled polyester. This is a great base for your cold weather wardrobe and works well with layering systems. Available in a men’s and women’s fit in several colors. $90

 

 

 

 

Ibex Woolies 150 Bottom

Woolies are woven from 100% merino wool fiber from New Zealand. Their ribbed weave construction allows for warmth and breathability to enhance moisture wicking. Full length and high-waisted, these tights are warm and comfortable as a base layer under snow pants and stylish enough to show them off as leggings or under a skirt. $85

 

 

 

 

 

 

Duckworth Comet Balaclava

Wear this dual-layered balaclava as a neck gaiter or pull the articulated hood up under your helmet or hat for extra warmth. The outer fabric is Rambouillet Merino and the inner fabric is thin, micro-fiber polyester. This combination, titled Hydro-Poly by the folks at Duckworth, wicks moisture away from your face and into the wool to start evaporating. All the wool in Duckworth garments comes from a single origin – a third generation Montana sheep ranch – and is the largest grower of fine merino wool in the USA. The rest of the supply chain also remains domestic with processing, spinning, knitting and sewing done in the Carolinas. $45

 

 

 

 

BioLogic Bike Mount WeatherCase for iPhone6 and Galaxy S5

Your tech and stats-obsessed cyclists will love having the WeatherCase on deck. The case is water, snow and dirt-proof and a great choice for commuters who use apps to track their trips. The case itself mounts to handlebars via the included bracket and hardware and is easily unclipped from the bike so you can use your phone separately without removing it from the case. The clear cover provides full access to the touchscreen, front and rear cameras and sealed zippers allow access to the headphone jack and charging port. Don’t forget to look up! $34.95

 

 

 

Optimus Elektra FE Cook System

For the eco- and econ-conscious, this efficient cook system saves time and fuel with an average boil time of 3 minutes per liter and also has the capacity to simmer. This setup weighs only 16.5 ounces, not including fuel, and offers versatility as a modular system. It includes a Crux Lite gas stove, heat exchange pot and lid that also serves as a fry pan, a Piezo flameless igniter and a clip-on windshield. It’s the windshield that really amps up the gas conservation while allowing the stove to be burn efficiently in a wide range of conditions. Pack just what you need for a light weight trip or stow it all with a fuel canister in the compact storage bag. $94.95

 

 

 

 

 

Metolius Ultralight Chalk Bag

Metolius developed the next evolution in ultralight climbing gear – the Ultralight Chalk Bag. While this was once an overlooked source for weight savings, Metolius found a way to cut an average of 80 grams from your kit while keeping the features you need without breaking the bank. $22.50

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nemo Helio Pressure Shower

Clean up your crew and your gear after a great day outdoors. The stand-alone Helio Pressure Shower holds 11 liters of water pressurized via a hands-free foot pump. Pressure can maintain around 5 minutes of steady stream through the 7-foot hose and sprayer for outdoor showers, cleaning up at camp, hosing off muddy bikes or giving the pup a bath and, since it’s hands-free, you can re-pressurize while spraying. The Helio packs down to the size of a soccer ball and weighs only 22 ounces so you can keep clean on the go. $99.95

 

 

 

 

GoMotion Fusion Backpack Light

The Fusion Backpack Light is a nice alternative to a headlamp when you want to get outside but you’re short on daylight hours. Evening runners, walkers, hikers, Nordic skiers and snowshoers will appreciate better depth perception from a beam emitted closer to the ground, away from the face. The light attaches to the front of each backpack strap and lays across the sternum, exactly like the sternum strap on your backpack. Three AAA batteries are included and are stored in a battery pack that can live inside your pack or worn attached to the back of it. Two red flashing safety LEDs are located on the battery pack itself and are meant to be displayed from behind. The main light in front offers 100 lumens and three settings with an adjustable beam width and angle. You’ll notice the difference when you look around without blinding your friends or becoming disoriented yourself. $59.95

 

 

Big Agnes Helinox Chair One

Pull up a chair and check out this portable, and comfortable, camp seat. The Chair One packs down small inside its own carrying case and weighs just 2 pounds. The light and sturdy aluminum DAC hub pole construction sets up quickly and can support over 300 pounds. It’s small and light enough to be the go-to seat for all your seated events like camping, concerts, sports games, festivals and maybe even after a day of backpacking if you’re feeling fancy. Break out the Chair One when you want to get up off the ground. $99.95

 

 

 

 

 

 

Osprey Tempest 20

Influenced by the popular Talon Series for men, the Tempest has recently been added to Osprey’s line of women’s specific packs. Innovations in both series this season reduced weight and increased comfort. The mesh and foam harness and hip belt provide comfortable, load-bearing stability and extra easily accessible pockets. The back panel has been reconfigured to include a foam air chimney to increase ventilation away from the body and the hydration sleeve is accessed from the back of the pack. A helmet attachment can also be found on the exterior for hands-free storage between rides. Now adventurers of all shapes can experience this fantastic pack tailored to a variety of size and volume needs. $100

 

 

 

 

Darn Tough Vertical Over-the-Calf Ski/Ride Sock

Darn Tough’s newest line of seamless ski and snowboard socks are a combination of 68% Merino Wool, 28% Nylon and 4% Spandex for warmth without bulk, bacteria or odor. The Vertical line includes twelve new styles for men and women in ultralight or padded construction. The padded version adds a bit of cushioning along the foot bed for a little extra comfort and support. Darn Tough socks are made in Vermont and include an unconditional lifetime guarantee. $23-$25

 

 

 

 

Scarpa F1 Evo Touring Boot

Scarpa built the F1 Evo in response to the growing interest in uphill travel. This alpine-touring boot automatically switches from ski to walk mode based on whether the heel is locked into the binding or not. Designed to shine during both up- and downhill travel, the F1 Evo combines lightweight features like a tapered shape and BOA and strap closures to keep the weight down around 2.5 pounds with stiffness and power on the downhill from the carbon frame underfoot. Men’s and women’s specific versions are available so we can all head for the hills. $699

 

 

 

 

 

DPS Wailer 99

The Wailer 99 is DPS’ response to East Coast hard pack. This versatile all mountain ski utilizes PaddleTech Geometry, DPS’ proprietary blend of rocker and variable side cut, allowing the skier to engage the slightly cambered 18m underfoot turn radius to initiate smooth turns on hard surfaces. On softer and mixed surfaces, the gradually rockered paddle provides on- and off-edge performance – aka, a joy ride. Also available in the women’s specific version, the Nina 99. $799