These are the best Christmas gifts for adventurers
From hardy outerwear to boots tailored to the great outdoors, this is what to buy the explorer in your life
Words: Gentleman's Journal
Whether it’s scaling the Pyrenees or slinging across Patagonia’s otherworldly terrain, big, bold, adventurous behaviour makes us feel rather good. And, if you know someone with a strong penchant for the wilderness, we’ve rounded up some of the finest Christmas gifts that’ll make their next journey as smooth (and as stylish) as possible. From technical big-ticket pieces to boots and shoes tailored to the great outdoors, here are the items to put on the shortlist for the adventurer in your life...
Give the gift of comfort with a capable coat or jacket
When Christmas comes around, even the most seasoned adventurer will likely feel the chill. So, whether you present them with an expedition-ready jacket, or just something to shrug on when they pop to the shops, ensure that you wrap up the best zip-ups that’ll battle the breeze.
Start with a no-fail British icon: Barbour’s Classic Bedale Waxed Jacket is a stylish, practical design constructed in the brand’s coveted 6oz sylkoil waxed cotton. For a similar heritage feel, consider the Trialmaster Jacket, by Belstaff, which we like for its belt that keeps everything in check. Alternatively, for something a bit more technical in looks, you can always rely on J.Lindeberg –its Cliff Light Down Hood, fortified with duck down, is a trusty hero item.
Present them with something to layer up with
So, the tough outer-layer is sorted – yet, what about the item to wear underneath? Of course, we could direct you towards some fine cashmere knitwear, but we just can’t resist pieces that give a little kudos to outdoor pursuits.
A neutral option comes in the form of Vuori’s Coronado Shirt Jacket, which is beloved for its four-way stretch knit – the ideal piece for camping getaways. Something that leans more towards the countryside aesthetic is Schöffel’s Oakham Fleece Gilet. Then, if a technical base is high up the list, reach for the Flyweight Tee 2.0, courtesy of Real and weighing little more than 100g.
Keep their feet protected with superior shoes and boots
Whether your well-travelled friends are wildlife enthusiasts, polar explorers or, simply, enjoy mountainside runs, they’ll know how valuable good support can be. And that goes double for their footwear. Perhaps an adventurer’s most worthy investment, buy a solid, sturdy, durable pair, and the receiver will thank you every step of their daring, exploratory way.
We’re kicking off our picks with Canada Goose and its heritage-looking, waterproof Journey Boot, which blends a clean silhouette with a cleated tread. From Allbirds, the Trail Runners SWT are great for both the city and hikes; the tear-resistant ripstop mudguard is a particular draw. Ideal for the British terrain, Tretorn’s offering is classic in appearance, due to a pared-down design, and moulds perfectly to your feet.
Upgrade their journey with big-ticket touches
Of course, accessories and small pieces – the flourishes, the final touches – can help take an experience to another level, the way in which a pocket square can instantly upgrade a suit, but Christmas is about going all-out.
For motor enthusiasts, you could consider the Bentley Blower Jnr, an 85-per-cent-scale reinterpretation of the famed 1929 road legend. The high-design lines of Cervélo’s Caledonia-5 are engineered for long-distance, high-speed racing. Then, Flite’s Ultra L board will provide one with plenty of kudos on the water.
Offer some organisation with the best bits of luggage
But, what good is all this incredible kit if there’s nowhere to store it? Packing may not be the most glamorous part of adventuring – however, if you gift any friend or family member one of these practical, beautiful bits of luggage, you’ll be sorting them out with a fuss-free transit.
A GJ favourite, Bennett Winch’s Suede Weekender is loaded with functional pockets and compartments – and we particularly like the shoe storage area, which separates dirty treads from clean clothes. My Style Bags’s duffel has a throwback spirit thanks to its petrol-and-cream varsity-like colour scheme. For less weight on your shoulders, try Émigré’s signature carry-on, a sleek, practical piece made with a polycarbonate shell.
Want more guidance? These are the 15 best men’s watches to gift this Christmas…
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