A couple of months ago, my dad asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I thought this was super sweet y’all, considering I’m a full-fledged adult, but the answer came to me quickly — hiking socks. I can’t get enough of hiking socks. They’re comfy, supportive, durable, and so much better than those packs of socks you buy at the store. I wear hiking socks even when I’m not out on the trail. They’re a perfect gift! And then, it hit me. . .
Have I really become the person that actually wants socks for Christmas?
And the answer is yes. I’m not even a little ashamed. But, I also considered that there are many other gifts that I might like as an avid hiker. If you’ve got a hiker that you’re shopping for, you might want to take a gander at this list, too. So, without further ado, I’m giving you my personal list for the best Christmas gifts for the hiker in your family. These are things I actually use and love, so take it from me — these things are the real deal!
If you want to skip the yapping, check out my day-hiking essentials list here. This is an affiliate link that earns commissions.
Hiking Apparel Gifts
Hiking Socks
Yes y’all, this is the gift that started it all. If you hike regularly, a comfy pair of hiking socks is worth its weight in gold. It’s the ideal hiking gift. Of course, you can hike in any old socks, but something about these just make the experience so much better. I have a particular affinity for the brands Darn Tough and Farm to Feet. Both hold up very well (I’ve had some of these pairs for years), they’re soft, and you can find them in some cute designs too, if you’re into that kind of thing.
Leggings With Pockets
These leggings are my favorite ones that I’ve ever had. I love them so much that I’ve bought probably eight pairs, and I really wish that was an exaggeration. These leggings are great for everyday use, and I’ve found that I also love them when hitting the trail. My favorite feature is the POCKETS. The pockets are SO handy! They also have a nice high, thick waistband, so they don’t ride up or down in any kind of weird way. And, the material is stretchy without being see through. They’re a staple in my wardrobe and I highly, highly recommend them.
Need hiking ideas? Check out my favorite Waterfalls of North Carolina.
Maps and Guidebooks for Hikers
Maps from Pisgah Map Co
When out in the woods, it’s just a good idea to have a map on hand. If you or your hiker regularly head to the woods in Western North Carolina, Northeast Georgia, or Upstate South Carolina, get them a map from Pisgah Map Co. It’s a perfect hiker gift. This is hands-down my absolute favorite map brand! They’re incredibly easy to read, durable, and they also just look cool.
North Carolina Waterfalls Book
Y’all. This is the bible of North Carolina Waterfalls. It’s an amazing guidebook with so, so much detailed information. Kevin Adams is the author, and he includes detailed descriptions about hundreds of waterfalls in North Carolina, including what they look like, how to reach them, and in some cases he also includes tidbits of history. I use this book all the time when planning waterfall hikes, and I’ve told many of my friends about it as well.
Hiking Gear Every Hiker Needs
Osprey Daylite Pack
I’ve had my Osprey Daylite backpack for so long that I don’t really remember when I got it, but I believe it’s been going strong for about 7 years now. It holds everything that I need when out on a day hike, and it’s a durable, reliable backpack. It also has a compartment for a water bladder, convenient side pockets, and adjustable straps that hug the pack to your body. The Daylite really is a top-notch pack, and although it’s a bit of a splurge, I think it’s worth every penny!
Camera and Phone Tripod
I take a lot, and I really do mean a LOT of photos and videos out on the trail. I just can’t help myself, y’all. So, having a portable, bendy tripod in my pack often comes in handy. What I like about this one is that it has attachments for a phone and camera, and the legs are bendy so you can level the tripod on just about any surface.
Nalgene Water Bottle
Are you even outdoorsy if you don’t have a Nalgene bottle covered in stickers? I kid, I kid. But, I do have a Nalgene covered in stickers, and I love that thing. Most hikers appreciate getting a nice water bottle as a gift. It’s not too heavy, and mine has been in great condition for years, even after being dropped several times (oops). Plus, it’s BPA-free, so you don’t have to worry about ingesting a ton of pesky microplastics.
For more photos and explorations, be sure to follow The Wandering Appalachian on Instagram and Pinterest! Be sure when you're discovering new places to practice Leave No Trace principles. Take only pictures, and leave only footprints. Happy wandering, y'all
SHOP MOUNTAIN INSPIRED GOODS HERE:
Comments