Last-minute gift ideas
I guess there’s some truth to the ol’ adage that “the older you get, the faster time flies.” It certainly doesn’t seem like an entire year has already passed, but here we are, and only a few days separate us from Christmas Day. That in mind, I thought this would prove a perfect time to suggest some potential gifts for that special outdoor enthusiast in your life.
OK, why not start with a few stocking stuffers? I don’t suppose one’s preferred outdoor activity matters when it comes to being cold. In fact, even those with no interest in the outdoors are all about keeping warm hands.
That being said, I can say with all confidence that we all value a pair of gloves. Gloves come in a variety of thicknesses and insulating qualities, in turn, they also vary a great deal in price.
Although somewhat costly, those of us who spend time in wet conditions during the winter months value hand-wear lined with a Gore-Tex membrane. But one should be aware that those in search of such gloves should be prepared to spend in the neighborhood of $40 to $50.
Although I value my waterproof gloves, I’m also a fan of those low-cost brown cotton gloves that are available at just about every store throughout the state. Usually costing less than a couple of bucks, a pair of these gloves are perfect for those times when water is not involved. They’re lightweight, yet still capable of keeping one’s hands warm and protected in adverse conditions. In fact, I would much rather ruin a pair of cheap cotton gloves while wading through a briar-infested thicket than my high-dollar Gore-Tex pair.
I have also grown attached to my fleece beanie, especially on those cold mornings when I’m sitting motionless on a stand, standing waist-deep in frigid water or fishing during the coldest months of the year. Beanies come in a variety of colors, including camo and blaze orange.
Speaking of staying warm, I can recall a few outings when I most appreciated a fire. Of course, one can carry a lighter or matches. But we all know that neither are effective when it is wet. That in mind, I usually have a small magnesium fire starter nearby. And although these devices are capable of producing a spark during wet conditions, that’s no indication that one shred of dry kindling will be within miles.
But there is hope. In fact, this is an inexpensive gift that one can actually make at home. Simply gather a couple of small pieces of pine knot from the woods and a handful of lint from the clothes drier. Place these two items in a small waterproof container, and there you go — a very easy start to a much needed fire.
Wait a minute — we can’t fail to mention warm feet. In fact, I can’t think of anything more miserable than cold toes. Socks are the first means of keeping those digits toasty during the winter months. Of course, a sock’s insulating properties are of importance. But it is equally important to choose models with wicking capabilities.
There are worlds of other small items that would suffice for stocking stuffers, some of which we commonly use and sometimes forget about their importance. Although the warmer months are down the road, most of us spending time amongst Mother Nature are users of insect repellent.
And I suspect a lot of folks share my sentiments that one cannot own too many lights. Of course, a small flashlight will do, but one might also consider stuffing a stocking with a headlamp.
How about eyeglasses? As an avid bass angler, I am acutely aware of the importance of polarized glasses, especially during the spring. These items come in an array of quality and prices. And even though not as effective as the higher end models, the lower priced glasses are capable of cutting glare. And I’m most proud that on some models polarized readers are available as well.
I’m usually not one who considers gift cards as a thoughtful alternative. However, there are circumstances when I think they are most appropriate. And it just so happens that your outdoor
enthusiasts needs list are extremely specific, and often costly. That being said, they would likely appreciate the opportunity to go to an outdoor store and pick their items on a friend or loved one’s dime.
Hopefully, you have already chosen and purchased the perfect gift for that outdoor enthusiast in your life. But if you’re like me, maybe some of these ideas will fit their needs to the tee.