Last Updated on 27/08/2023
In this guide to the best hiking gifts, we share our ultimate list of hiking gift ideas for him, her, and everyone. You will find inspiration for birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries, or just for treating that special someone who is mad about hiking. These unique recommendations are sure to surprise and put a smile on their face.
Do you know someone who is mad about hiking? Struggling to find them a gift?
Buying gifts can be hard, but if you know they enjoy hiking, then you are in luck because there is so much variety in the hiking equipment world. Accessories range from less than $10 to over $300 and so no matter what your budget is, we have something for you here today. We have broken the collection of hiking gift ideas up into the following categories:
In a Hurry? Here Are My Top 3 Best Hiking Gifts:
High-Ticket Gifts for Hikers
If you are flush with cash or simply just want to spoil someone you love with a high-ticket hiking gift, then here are some of our favorite ideas:
1. Hiking Holiday
Who wouldn’t love a hiking holiday somewhere like Switzerland, the United Kingdom, or New Zealand? Can you imagine the look on their face when you tell them what the gift is?
A holiday has to be one of the best hiking gifts anyone could receive. But, unless you know the person very well and are aware of all their vital commitments, then don’t book the tickets in advance. Instead, deliver a card with a message inside to explain your idea.
Maybe they have always wanted to hike Kilimanjaro or complete a long-distance thru-hike. You can use companies like Intrepid Travel or Exodus Travels to plan the trip or create your own itinerary to save money. A trekking holiday has to be the number one best gift that any hiker can receive.
2. Boots
A new pair of hiking boots is an amazing gift to give someone. The problem is that how do you know they will fit? If they have an old pair that they love, you can check the label and replace them with the exact same pair in the same size as a surprise. This is as close to a guarantee (that they will fit without trying them on) that you can get.
If you try buying a different boot that they haven’t tried on before, there is a good chance it won’t fit – a gift voucher might be better. Hiking boots aren’t cheap, and some people prefer shoes, so always do your research before making a purchase like this.
3. Backpack
A backpack is an obvious gift idea for someone who goes hiking a lot, but getting one of the premium brands and top-of-the-line models will for sure make anyone smile. Osprey packs are some of the best in the world and are loved by hikers, but there are other brands like Deuter, Gregory, and Lowe-Alpine that cater to different audiences.
For day hiking backpacks (single-day hikes), you should look between the 18 – 35 liter size capacity. For multi-day hiking backpacks that are much larger, you can look anywhere between 35 – 70 liters.
4. Waterproof Jacket
In many parts of the world, waterproof clothing is essential for many months of the year and so a good hardshell jacket is not only a great gift but a good investment. If you really want to spoil someone, then have a look at Arcteryx or Mountain Equipment Jackets, which are considered to be some of the best in the world and in a category of their own.
If you don’t want to spend several hundred dollars, then there is a wide range of premium waterproof jackets for around the $150-$300 mark. A feature I would suggest looking for if buying a hiking rain jacket as a gift is to go with a quality fabric like Goretex, which guarantees to keep them dry.
5. Garmin Watch
There are fitness watches, and then there are Garmin watches. Garmin makes smartwatches designed for outdoors people who like to do things like hike, trail running, cycling, and any kind of physical training. I have yet to meet a hiker who wouldn’t love a Garmin watch or a Garmin Pro subscription as a gift.
Not only do they go head to head with brands like Apple and Fitbit, but Garmin is seemingly winning the race for the longest battery life and has been for some time. With most Apple watches needing to be charged over 18 – 22 hours, Garmin watches can last for over a month on a single charge. Even the smaller watches last 5-7 days minimum.
6. GPS Tracker
If the person you are buying a gift for is into more extreme forms of hiking, like walking the Pacific Crest Trail or hiking through hundreds of miles of remote wilderness, then a GPS tracker can be a lifesaver. They may already have one, so try and check first, but a reliable GPS system might save your friend’s or loved one’s life.
7. Hiking Poles
Hiking poles are a good gift idea because most people use the cheap $10 poles you get at Target, which is fine, just not amazing. When you give a hiker a new pair of Black Diamond or Leki trekking poles and let them feel how light, strong, and compact they are, their face will light up.#
Hiking poles help people with bad knees, joints, back, or feet to hike further or on more challenging trails. If the person you know loves hiking but struggles with an injury or disability, then hiking poles can be seen as a thoughtful gesture.
8. Resole Favorite Boots
Comfy old hiking boots are the best, but they have a lifespan, especially on the soles. One nice thing you can do for someone who loves their hiking boots is to pay for them to be professionally resoled. This involves removing most or all of the original sole and replacing it with a brand new tread that allows them to carry on walking in their favorite boots for many more miles.
Best Hiking Gifts for Him
Gift shopping for him is easy if you know he loves to hike. Whether you are shopping for your boyfriend, husband, father, son, brother, or friend, these are some gifts that men don’t often buy for themselves:
9. Men’s Hiking Underwear
Does your man have old underwear with holes in it? Or maybe they complain about chafing when they hike? Underwear for hiking is the best and prevents chafing as well as feels amazing to hike in – no more wedgies!
One brand, in particular, stands out for us, and that is Saxx underwear for men, which has a ball pouch to help keep everything in the right place with less need to adjust. New hiking underwear is a great gift because it is something you can buy every year so that you always have a fresh supply.
10. Hip Flask
A hip flask is a fairly niche gift idea to be featured here because most hikers don’t actively drink on the trail – it dehydrates, and you are better off waiting for a pub at the end of the day. But, if your man enjoys a nice whiskey after concerning a mountain peak or at the end of the day, then a hip flask can be a lovely sentiment. You can even get them engraved for a more personal touch.
11. Multitool
Men who hike love multi-tools. Don’t believe me? Buy them a new Leatherman as their next gift, and prove me wrong. Multitools can come in very handy while on the trail, and you never know when you might need a pair of pliers. I have had an experience with this more than once, removing barbed wire from sheep and fishing hooks from birds.
12. Neck Buff
Neck buffs can be worn by anyone, but it is something that any man would rarely buy for himself. However, if they receive one as a gift, they will no doubt love it and wear it every winter. A brand you can buy with confidence is Buff neck gaiters which uses the comfiest materials and have the coolest designs.
13. Hobo Fishing Kit
Does the man you are shopping for love fishing as much as he enjoys camping? If so, a hobo fishing kit is a pocket-sized fishing reel that he can take on hikes just in case he finds a good spot. Even if they aren’t keen anglers, a hobo fishing kit is something that should be in everyone’s survival kit or bug-out bag in case the SHTF.
Best Hiking Gifts for Her
Gift shopping for women who enjoy hiking isn’t hard when you know what to look for. Here are some simple ideas your partner, wife, mother, sister, or friend will no doubt get a lot of use out of:
14. Women’s Hiking Underwear
Women’s underwear can be a bit of a minefield if you go into a department store, and it can be hard to find good women’s underwear for hiking. If you want to play it safe, stick to these three; Patagonia Women’s Active Hipsters, ExOfficio Give-N-Go Sports Underwear, or the Icebreaker Siren Hipkini underwear for female hikers.
15. Pen Knife
While women aren’t so fascinated by tools and knives, you can get some really cool little penknives that will become indispensable to an outdoorsy woman or girl. Some features my partner really liked were a wine bottle opener, a nail file, scissors, tweezers, and a toothpick. Check out the Victorinox range for some different options.
16. Water Bottle
Everyone has a water bottle, but unless the water bottle is made from metal, it will need replacing every year or two. The women I know like the Nalgene-type bottles that are see-through and have a secure fastener so they can be put inside a bag or taken to the gym as well as on a hike. Hydration is key on a hike which is why you can’t go wrong with a new water bottle.
17. Scarf
When the cooler weather comes around, going for a hike requires warm clothing. Nothing tells a woman “I care” more than helping to keep them warm when they get cold, which is why a scarf for hiking is such a good gift idea. Wool scarves are timeless, but for hiking, I think a fleecy Polartec scarf works best. Regardless of these facts, get her something luxurious and made from cashmere.
18. Sports Massage
Who doesn’t like massages? A surprise sports massage would be the most amazing gift to receive after a birthday hike. You could even treat yourself to one too… Win-win. Spa days are even better, but treating any woman to a deep massage will always go down well, in my experience. You can find local places that offer this service or hire a freelancer to your house – both would make amazing gifts for female hikers.
Stocking Filler Hiking Gifts
If you need some inspiration for stocking fillers or small gifts to accompany a larger gift, then here are some ideas
19. Boot Wax
Boot wax to treat leather hiking boots is a nice little gift to receive. I go through a block every year or two so it is something that will get used by any avid hiker. You can get multiple types of wax but I personally like Nikwax or Meindl Sports Wax. If you can combine it with a boot brush or shammy leather, then you can make up a gift set.
20. Carabiner Keyring
Even if the hiker you are buying a gift for isn’t interested in climbing or climbing equipment, a carabiner can always come in handy for securing keys and things when hiking. You can clip them to your belt for easy access or attach things to your backpack on the trail. One place I always use a carabiner on a hike is as a backup to secure my hiking poles to my backpack just in case they somehow come loose.
21. Knife Sharpener
There are dozens of different knife sharpeners that would make a good stocking filler at Christmas, or as something small you can send in the post. They get used all the time both on hikes, when camping, and at home before a hike. Knives should be sharpened regularly, which is what makes this such a clever idea for a gift.
22. Lanyard
A lanyard might not seem like a good gift for a hiker if you are only used to using them at work. But just like the climbing carabiner, a lanyard is a safe way to store your keys or a neck knife around your neck. If the person you are buying for parks in remote locations to access hard-to-reach hiking trails, then a lanyard is a great idea for them to keep their car keys safe.
23. Maps
Younger hikers may not appreciate a good map, but anyone over the age of 30 probably still will. For multi-day hikes especially, a paper map is much more reliable than a map on your phone that might run out of battery. Paper maps also allow you to draw and plot out routes much more easily, so they make great gifts for people about to go traveling or who are planning a big hike.
24. Hand Warmer
For the hiker who always gets cold hands. Hand warmers are a nice easy gift that doesn’t cost much and are a pleasure to use in winter. Even the toughest man in America can enjoy warm hands on a cold day. Also, you don’t have to gift those cheap disposable ones people used to use. Now you can get electric hand warmers that even double as a power bank and torch.
25. Mosquito Headnet
If the person you are gift shopping lives or hikes somewhere with a lot of biting insects, like swampy areas or areas with livestock, then a head net can be a very appropriate gift to give someone. They are super compact and don’t even weigh an ounce, so it isn’t a problem to keep them in a day pack. If you do encounter an area where you can’t keep the bugs out of your face, then at least with a head net, you can breathe without swelling bugs and see where you are going.
26. Repair Tape
You can get repair tape for all sorts of things like for waterproof jackets, inflatable rafts, hiking boots, down jackets, and you normally get some repair tape in a tent repair kit. I personally like Gear Aid Tenacious Tape, but there are lots of others that are specialized to specific fabrics like Silnylon or rubber.
27. Tweezers
Tweezers? As a gift? Yes, you heard me. The reason tweezers are a good stocking filler for hikers is that there is nothing better for removing thorns and splinter splinters or even ticks from your skin. They are super tiny and lightweight, and the difference between a very good pair of tweezers and a cheap pair is only $10-$20, so you can splash out without breaking the bank.
28. Wuru Wool Blister Prevention
Wuru Wool is a natural, lightweight solution to prevent blisters on your feet during long hikes. In case you’re wondering, yes, it is basically just sheep’s wool, but it is a special type of sheep wool from New Zealand. This soft, moisture-wicking material is applied directly to hotspots on your feet and toes to reduce friction between your foot and footwear. This is one of those wonderful gifts that most hikers have never heard of (unless they have been to New Zealand)
29. Waterproof Pouch
A waterproof pouch is a must-have for protecting valuables like phones, wallets, and cameras from the elements during hikes. Choose one with a secure, watertight seal and a durable construction, and make sure it is big enough for the person phone whom you are buying it for. This thoughtful gift ensures their essentials stay safe and dry on any adventure.
30. Socks
High-quality hiking socks made from moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials like merino wool or synthetic blends are crucial for comfortable treks. Hiking socks get used hard and need replacing every year or two, so you can safely buy the same gift every year, knowing that they will appreciate it and use them.
Opt for a pair with cushioning and arch support to keep their feet happy on the trail, or take a look at our guide to socks for more info. This practical gift never gets old for hikers.
Hiking Gift Ideas
For some general hiking gift ideas that reach across all age and skill levels, check these out:
31. App Membership
An app membership for something like AllTrails, Garmin, Strava, or Gaia GPS offers access to trail maps, expert advice, and reviews from fellow hikers. Physical maps and compasses are great for certain situations, but these apps are a new and invaluable way to plan hikes and discover new trails. Your hiking enthusiast will appreciate this thoughtful and practical gift as long as they have a smartphone (maybe not one your grandad would use much).
32. Gift Voucher
Gift vouchers aren’t my favorite choice to give someone as they feel, not thoughtless, but less thoughtful than a wrapped-up present. That being said, an Amazon gift card is probably my favorite thing to receive in a birthday card. Because I have SO MUCH outdoor gear, people who know me well don’t know what to buy me – I have more than enough of everything.
Gift vouchers from stores like REI or other outdoor retailers give your hiker the freedom to choose what they need. They can stock up on gear and clothing or even book a class or workshop. It’s the perfect way to ensure they’ll love their gift.
A gift card also takes away any stress of purchasing the wrong model or a cheap brand of product your hiking buddy, relative, or partner may not want. So, while I tend to use vouchers as a last resort – I love receiving them, and so does everyone else I know.
33. Selection of Trail Food
One idea I thought of while writing this hiking gift guide is to put together a hamper of hiking fuel. You could create a personalized selection of trail food, including energy bars, trail mixes, and dehydrated meals. This gives your hiker a variety of snacks to sample on their next adventure which makes it a delicious and practical present.
34. Titanium Water Bottle
A titanium water bottle is lightweight, durable, and perfect for staying hydrated on the trail. These bottles are built to last and can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, but they cost way more than your average water bottle. Your hiker will appreciate this upgrade to their hydration game, and it is often not something people are willing to treat themselves with.
35. Headtorch
A reliable headtorch is essential for night hikes, early morning starts, or setting up camp after dark. I would avoid the headlamps, whose main feature is having as many LEDS as possible. These drain batteries and are generally quite cheaply made.
Instead, choose a headtorch with 1 or 2 good LEDs that adjustable brightness and a comfortable strap; we have multiple guides here. This indispensable tool will light up their way and keep them safe on the trail.
36. Hammock
A lightweight hammock provides a comfortable spot to relax in nature. Look for compact options that pack down small and are easy to set up so that they can fit in a daypack and can be used even on short pit stops. They’ll enjoy kicking back after a long day on the trail, and you’ll be the hero of their rest stops.
37. Binoculars
Compact, quality binoculars are perfect for spotting wildlife or enjoying scenic views on a hike, and they also come in useful for plotting out a trail ahead. At the risk of sounding ageist, I would say that most of the older generation will have a pair of binoculars already, so this gift might be better suited to younger hikers. Opt for a durable, weather-resistant pair that’s easy to carry.
38. Something for Their Dog
For dog-loving hikers, consider a gift like a doggy backpack, collapsible water bowl, new toy, treats, or sturdy leash. These accessories will make their four-legged friend’s adventures safer and more enjoyable. It’s a gift that shows you care about their furry companion too.
Hiking Gift For Mom & Dad
Hiking gifts for your Mom and Dad can be inspired by things they have said, things that they have lost or broken over the past year, or by things you think they could use but don’t have. Here are some ideas to get you started:
39. Flask
If your parents enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon, and hot chocolate on a hike, then a quality flask makes for a practical and enjoyable gift. Look for an insulated, leak-proof option that fits their style. It’s a simple way to keep them refreshed on their adventures and can be used to keep water cool on summer hikes too.
40. Chair
A lightweight, portable chair provides comfort during breaks and can be almost a necessity if your parents aren’t in the best of health. Opt for a sturdy, easy-to-assemble model that won’t weigh them down. They’ll appreciate the chance to sit back and relax during their outdoor excursions or when back in the car.
41. Haversack
Haversacks might be a better hiking gift for your mother or father as they are smaller than a backpack and don’t give you a sweaty back. A haversack is just big enough to keep valuables safe as well as a waterproof or extra layer of warmth. Choose a durable, water-resistant model with ample storage for essentials. This versatile bag will become their go-to for spontaneous outings.
42. Toiletry Bag
A compact, well-organized toiletry bag is essential for overnight hikes or camping trips but will also come in handy on family holidays or for keeping in the car. Look for one with multiple compartments and a hanging hook for easy access. They’ll appreciate the convenience and tidiness it brings to their toiletries and hiking gear.
43. Joint Support
The older you get, the more issues you have with your joints. If your parents love hiking but feel held back by niggling injuries and pains, anything that helps them will be welcomed with open arms. Compression sleeves, braces, or insoles provide joint support for hikers with aching knees or ankles. These items can make hiking more comfortable and reduce recovery time. You could also look into joint supplements, physiotherapies, and medical care if they are reluctant to do so themselves.
44. Sun Hat
A sun hat with a wide brim and UPF protection shields older hikers from harmful rays. It’s a stylish way to keep them cool and safe on sunny treks. I really like Tilley hats for hiking because they are so well-made and effective, but there are lots of options to choose from.
45. Guided Hike
A guided hike with a local expert or historian can be a wonderful gift for a retiree who is interested in local knowledge. Book a guided hike for an unforgettable experience they’ll cherish. Choose a trail that suits their abilities and interests, and let the experts lead the way. Go with them, and this shared adventure will create lasting memories.
Hiking Gifts Under $20
If you are on a strict budget of $20, then don’t worry; we saved some amazing hiking accessories to give as gifts.
46. Lunchbox
Not a power ranger or G I Joe lunchbox, a lunchbox to take hiking. You can get some pretty cool-looking adult lunchboxes that are either very lightweight or have deligated compartments for keeping your snacks separated and fresh while hiking. A reusable, insulated lunchbox is perfect for keeping trail meals fresh and cool.
47. Dry Bag
If you are a regular reader of Gear Assistant, you will know how much I use drybags and how many I own (a lot). A dry bag protects essentials like phones, cameras, sleeping bags, and clothes from getting wet on a hike. Whether that is from the rain, river crossing, or a water bottle that opens inside your bag, a dry bag is essential for keeping many items dry.
48. Books
Inspire their wanderlust with a book on hiking trails, adventure stories, or outdoor skills. Opt for titles that align with their interests and hiking goals. Hiking books are a surefire way to get someone something they don’t have. Unless your friend reads books as soon as they come out, you can pick up a new release from the hiking and outdoors book category and feel confident they haven’t read it.
49. Compass
Compasses on phones are fantastic, but phones break, run out of battery, and don’t always function properly when you are out of signal. A classic compass is an essential navigational tool for hikers and has been for a long time – nothing changes. I personally like Silva compasses, but others prefer Suunto.
50. Pack Towel
A pack towel is a compact, quick-drying alternative to a regular towel and if your frreind or loved one enjoys wild swimming on a hike then this will be a great gift. Choose a lightweight, absorbent option that won’t take up much space in their pack.
51. Silicone Water Bottle
A collapsible silicone water bottle saves space and weight in a backpack. They are the preferred water vessel for hip belt pouches and easy access pockets. This versatile bottle will become a staple in their hydration arsenal and works great with a water filter.
52. Sitting Pad
A portable sitting pad provides comfort and insulation during breaks or at the campsite. Choose a lightweight, foldable option that’s easy to carry. They’ll appreciate this small luxury during their outdoor excursions, and it can come in handy in more ways than you might imagine.
53. Massage Balls
Massage balls help relieve sore muscles after a long hike and are a super gift for any single hiker. Opt for a set of varying sizes and densities for targeted relief. This soothing gift shows you care about their post-hike recovery. If you really want to splash out, you could get them a massage gun.
54. Water Filter
Water filters are worth their weight in gold on a long hike in summer. I have experienced running out of water first hand, and let me tell you it’s no joke. A portable water filter ensures they have access to clean drinking water on the trail. Look for a lightweight, easy-to-use option that removes common contaminants.
55. Travel Mug
A durable, insulated travel mug keeps their favorite beverage hot or cold while on the go. In summer, they can use it to keep their water cold for a refreshing drink at the top of a mountain. Or they can keep a mug of hot chocolate warm on a winter hike. Choose one with a leak-proof lid and an easy-to-grip handle.
Hiking Gifts Under $50
If you have a slightly bigger budget than $20, here are seven items that cost less than $50 which any hiker worth their salt would appreciate:
56. Camera Tripod
For hikers who are interested in photography and video cameras, a lightweight, portable tripod helps capture stunning landscapes and group shots on the trail. The Joby Gorrilapod as one of the best out there and can be adapted for smartphones if that is what they use. I can promise that they will love this and thank you for years to come.
57. Ear Pods
Wireless ear pods offer hands-free listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks during solo hikes. Opt for a water-resistant, comfortable pair with good battery life like the Soundcore P3, which ticks every box a hiker might have. If the hiker you are trying to think of gifts for hikes on their own and likes music or podcasts, then ear pods make complete sense.
58. Coffee Press
A portable coffee press lets them enjoy fresh coffee at the campsite or on the trail. Choose a compact, lightweight design that’s easy to clean and isn’t made from glass. The Aeropress is perfect, and I wouldn’t recommend anything else. They’ll love waking up to a piping hot cup of their favorite brew.
59. Camp Stove
A lightweight, portable stove allows them to boil water from streams to make it safe, make cups of tea on the trail, or cook hot meals while camping. Opt for a lightweight and compact model that’s compatible with standard fuel canisters. Admittedly this is more of a gift for long-distance hikers or campers, but I often enjoy a hit drink when I get back to the car after a hike.
60. Water Bladder
A hydration bladder offers hands-free drinking and easy access to water on the trail and is something every hiker should own. The problem is they can get pretty dirty and worn out after a few years, so they often need – enter the perfect trekking gift. Choose one with a leak-proof bite valve and a durable, easy-to-clean reservoir.
61. Umbrella
A compact, lightweight hiking umbrella provides portable shade and rain protection during hikes. Look for a sturdy, wind-resistant model that’s easy to carry. They’ll appreciate the added comfort and versatility that this gift offers vs. a poncho or other rainwear.
62. Power Bank
A portable power bank ensures their phone and other devices stay charged during multi-day hikes or camping trips. Opt for a lightweight, high-capacity model with multiple charging ports like anything made by Anker. They’ll be grateful for the extra power when they need it most.
Best Hiking Clothes to Give as Gifts
Buying clothes as gifts is hard if you are shopping for style and fashion. When you are shopping for hiking clothes, though, as long as you get the right size, you can get items that the person you are buying the gift for will cherish and wear for years to come. Here are some hiking gift ideas to get you started:
63. Trail Shoes
If you are buying a gift for someone who loves hiking in sneakers or shoes, then a pair of trail runners would be very well received. Trail running shoes are basically sneakers with extra deep grip, more durability, and often a waterproof membrane. They are designed for jogging off-road and are extremely comfortable out of the box and so they are easier to buy as a gift than hiking boots.
Some of the top brands in the industry include adidas, Salomon, Hoka, Altra, La Sportiva, Brookes, and many more. For the newest models, you should expect to pay between $100-$150+, but you can get a very solid pair of adidas Terrex for under $80.
64. Balaclava
If the person you are shopping for lives somewhere cold and enjoys hiking in winter, then a sports balaclava would make a suitable present. Hiking balaclavas are often lightweight and breathable, as opposed to regular balaclavas that are thick and warm so that you don’t overheat when you are hiking. The main job of a hiking balaclava is to protect the face from icy cold wind and ensure there aren’t any gaps for the cold to get inside a jacket.
65. Barefoot Shoes
Does the person you are gifting for always walk around barefoot and or wear sandals instead of shoes whenever possible? If so, then a pair of barefoot shoes would go down like a treat. They let you feel the earth beneath your feet and wiggle your toes freely, all while providing the protection you need to protect your feet from damage. Vibram Five Finger shoes are a top-of-the-line brand and what I would recommend, but there are also many other options with a similar design.
66. Base Layers
Moisture-wicking, breathable base layers are essential for comfort during hikes in freezing weather. Opt for high-quality materials like merino wool or synthetic blends. These versatile garments will keep them warm, dry, and comfortable in cold conditions.
67. Cap
A lightweight, breathable cap offers sun protection and helps manage sweat during hikes. You can never own too many hats, and ones that get used for camping often get very faded and worn out, so they make the ideal gift. Look for a -drying, adjustable model that fits their style.
68. Beanie
A warm, lightweight beanie is perfect for chilly mornings or cold-weather hikes, or you can even get waterproof beanies that’ll keep them dry too. Opt for a moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabric that’s comfortable to wear. This cozy gift will keep them toasty and stylish on the trail.
69. Belt
A sturdy, adjustable belt ensures a secure fit for their hiking pants or shorts. Leather isn’t great for hiking as it changes too much when it gets wet. Instead, choose one made from durable, lightweight materials like nylon or polyester webbing. Patagonia makes a good one called the Friction Belt, and Arcteryx makes one called the Conveyer, which is equally good.
60. Gaiters
Hiking gaiters protect their legs from mud, debris, and water during hikes. They make walking in muddy, wet, or snowy conditions far more enjoyable and might be something they don’t own yet. Opt for a durable, water-resistant pair that’s easy to put on and take off. They’ll appreciate the added protection this gift offers.
71. Hoodie
A breathable, moisture-wicking hoodie provides versatile warmth and comfort on the trail. Hiking hoodies are less cotton rich than the average hoodie from an apparel store. Choose one made from quick-drying, stretchy materials. This wardrobe staple will keep them cozy during cool hikes all year around.
72. Gloves
You can get hiking gloves for all situations, including sun protection gloves, fingerless gloves to prevent blisters from using hiking poles, wind-resistant gloves, waterproof gloves, and insulating winter hiking gloves. They all have their merits and would suit different types of hikers. But any one of them would make a long-lasting gift in the right context.
73. Sandals
Hiking sandals like Teva’s or Chaco’s offer a comfortable, breathable alternative to closed-toe footwear for warm-weather hikes. Choose a pair with good traction, arch support, and adjustable straps. They’ll enjoy the freedom and comfort these versatile shoes offer in summer or as a second pair of shoes to wear for river crossings on tougher hikes.
74. Bandana
Bandanas will make a comeback – that is my prediction, and I stand by it. I always take a bandana hiking and traveling because they ALWAYS come in handy. Whether it is to wipe the sweat off my forehead, protect my neck from the sun, dunk in a river and use it to cool down, blow my nose, or clean a wound – it gets used. Bandanas are great gifts because you can look for a theme that suits their character.
75. Sun Hoodie
A sun hoodie offers lightweight, breathable protection from the sun’s rays and is becoming a staple for hiking enthusiasts. Choose one with UPF-rated fabric and a moisture-wicking design. This versatile garment will become their go-to for sun-filled hikes and can be used as part of a layering system when the sun isn’t out, almost like a base layer or mid-layer.
76. Sunglasses
High-quality sunglasses protect their eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce glare during hikes. Opt for a pair with polarized lenses and a comfortable, secure fit. They may already have a pair of extreme sports sunglasses that will work just fine for hiking, but if you know what style they like, sunglasses are a fine gift for ramblers.
77. T-Shirt
A moisture-wicking, quick-drying hiking T-shirt is a must-have for comfortable treks. Sports t-shorts work absolutely fine, but what I like about hiking t-shirts is that they are incredibly lightweight as well as breathable, so you can pack a couple of them on thru-hikes. Alternatively, you can get a heavier t-shirt that won’t wear through so easily if they hike with a backpack.
78. Poncho
It’s hard not to smile when you put on a poncho; they’re great. When giving a poncho as a gift to a hiker, you should probably get them a rainproof poncho for hiking in. They can replace any waterproof jacket and offer unparalleled breathability vs. a jacket.
The other option would only really suit a hiker who also enjoys wild swimming or surfing (when they aren’t hiking), and that is a surf poncho or hooded towel poncho that keeps them warm or dries them off instead of protecting them from the rain.
I hope you found something your friend or loved one would be thrilled to receive in this guide to the best hiking gifts.
