Shopping for an outdoorsman, you can pretty much walk into any outdoor retailer blindfolded and not have a problem filling stockings and finding presents. But you might not make the best decisions.
After attending the Outdoor Retailer convention this year in Salt Lake City, we have an especially good perspective on what’s new and exciting from unique camp lights to portable power and winter jackets.
We’ve got the cutting-edge and the trusted favorites among outdoor gear in this 2015 Recreation Gift Guide.
Photo credit: GetCairn.com
Recreation Gift Guide
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Carhartt Crowley Jacket
The Carhartt Crowley Jacket is wind resistant and breathable, serving as an extremely durable soft-shell jacket stretches. Featuring water resistant, wind resistant, and flexible technology, this jacket will keep you comfortable in any conditions. MSRP $119.99.
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Columbia Turbodown Jacket
Every serious outdoors enthusiast who ventures into cold weather needs a down jacket. The award winning Platinum 860 Turbodown by Columbia Sportswear is filled with a combination of synthetic insulation and goose down for the ultimate in lightweight warmth and heat retention even when it’s wet. Because of its stylish design, this jacket can be worn from the mountain to the city streets. MSRP $180
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Ollo Clip
Be an Instagram sensation by unlocking the full potential of your iphone with the Ollo Clip. The 4-in-1 lens clips onto your smartphone delivering four different types of angles. With modes for fisheye, wide-angle, 10x macro and 15x macro, you will always get the perfect shot. The Ollo Clip works on iphones, ipads and Samsung Galaxy. MSRP $80
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Evernew Appalachia Set
There are lots of camp stoves on the market but one that we especially like builds off an old-fashion design and light-weight construction. The Evernew Appalachia Set combines a traditional Swiss Army alcohol stove with a titanium design that’s completely self-contained within a coffee mug. This super light weight camp stove and a small amount of fuel is all you need for a hot meal on the trail. MSRP $150
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Casio Digital Watch
One of the oldest names in digital watches continues to deliver state-of-the-art designs with its Casio’s PRG300-1A2. Incorporating enhanced solar powered technology and power reduction sensors, this watch delivers better accuracy while using less energy than previous models. Included is an altitude sensor up to a single meter along with a compass, thermometer and barometer among other features. MSRP $250
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Secur Waterproof Bluetooth Flashlight
Whether fishing at a nearby lake, sailing the sunset, or relaxing on the family yacht, keeping gadgets handy in the storage box is a must. The SP-5005 Waterproof Bluetooth Flashlight & Powerbank from Secur Products takes care of several of those items with one single device. The SP-5005 functions as flashlight, Bluetooth speaker, and a power bank. Charge a phone in the middle of the ocean, relax while listening to your favorite tunes, and illuminate dark areas with this single gadget. The best part? The SP-5005 is waterproof, so you never have to worry about it getting damaged around water. MSRP $100
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Hillsound Crampon
The Hillsound Trail Crampon is a necessity for added traction when out hiking on the local trails or deep in the backcountry. Tested on the trails of the Himalayas, the Hillsound Trail Crampon is guaranteed to handle diverse winter terrain and weather conditions. Utilizing an ergonomic plate system, this crampon provides excellent traction and reduces muscular fatigue for your winter wilderness pursuits. MSRP $60
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Presto Food Dehydrator
To make your dehydrated meals and snacks at home, the Preso Dehydro is a great option. This four-tray system has a bottom-mounted fan and heating element for consistent air flow and optimal drying. You get commercial grade results for a fraction of the price. MSRP $34
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Light My Fire Firestarter
The Swedish company Light My Fire centers all their products around the campfire. One of their most unique is the Swedish Fire Steel. This easy-to-use fire-starter produces a spark that can light a tinder bundle. Great for survival kits or as a general backup, and embedded in the steel is a whistle, so it saves space in your survival kit. MSRP $25
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Princeton Tec Helix Backcountry
The Princeton Tec Helix Backcountry is a great camp light for several reasons. Its design allows the lamp to compress. There were no buttons to accidently turn on and drain the battery. It can hang easily or be raised off the ground. And the honey comb feature easily disperses the light throughout your tent. Overall, this light is a winner. MRSP $109
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Mountainsmith Mayhem 35
For an all-around backpack ideal for long-distance camping trips and other adventures, the Mountainsmith Mayhem 35 is a perfect choice. Enjoy backcountry ski days, alpine climbs and overnight adventures with this super sturdy and reliable pack. MSRP: $130
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Oakley Ski Goggles
The iconic Oakley ski goggles have been at the top of the sporting game for some time. So why mess with a good thing? That’s exactly the attitude over at Oakley when it comes to the A Frame 2.0. Having modernized the iconic frame by enhancing the fit and performance, the style is much the same as it has been for decades. MSRP $140
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LED LENSER SEO 7R
There are lots of headlamps on the market to choose from, and they always make good presents. One that stands out for its sheer power and versatility is the LED LENSER SEO 7R. We found it to be more than sufficient for most needs. MSRP $100
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Goal Zero Sherpa 50
Goal Zero offers a range of portable solar panels and battery packs, but the one we found most useful for someone who uses camera or video equipment in the field is the Sherpa 50 with Nomad 13 solar panel. Equipped with a built-in converter to accept AC power adapters, this is the prefect device to recharge cameras and laptops in the for from available power. MSRP $439
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Under Armour Coldgear Evo Crew
This Under Armour pair of long underwear is not your normal undergarment. Equipped with soft, thermo-conductive inner coating, this undershirt and pants absorbs and retains your body temperature. MSRP $110
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Cairn Mystery Box
If you're still stumped on what to get the outdoors enthusiast in your life, consider a monthly subscription to the Cairn, a mystery box that arrives in your mailbox. From maps and information to gadgets and gear, each collection is targeted to particular seasons and you can cancel anytime. $22-25 per month
