15 Perfect Gift Ideas for the Weekend Warrior
Must-have Gear for the Part-Time Adventurer in Your Life…Even if it’s You!
Know a person who jets off every weekend to conquer some peak or hunt down a secret swimming hole? With those folks in mind—and based on our own experience—we’ve picked some essential weekend warrior gear that they’re bound to love (or that you’ll love – and that’s ok too).
Osprey Manta AG 36 Hydration Pack
Named one of the “Best Packs of 2016” by Outside, the Manta comes complete with a hydration system, rain cover and endless space. This do-everything pack is big enough to support a family on a long hike (think about all the snacks it can hold!), or as an overnight option for the streamlined backpacker. ($174)
The UPF-rated NRS H2Core Silkweight Hoodie not only feels great when you’re wearing it, but the hoodie is key for protecting you from the brutal sun and keeping you cool when it matters most. We like it so much we gifted this essential piece of gear to all of our returning guides this year. ($49)
These drool-worthy coolers are not only indestructible—they’re made out of some of the same materials as high performance rafts—but will also keep things cold for days. We like the portable Yeti Hopper 30, which is big enough for plenty of rations, but not so big that you couldn’t hoof it to your favorite swim hole. But really, give the gift of anything Yeti and you’ll no doubt be the favorite. ($349)
Patagonia Wavefarer® Board Shorts
Patagonia’s Waverfarer Board Shorts are the quintessential “go-anywhere, do-anything” short. They’re durable, quick-drying, UPF-protected, and every bit as functional on the trail as they are on the river. ($49)
This lightweight, amphibious shoe might be the best and most comfortable hiking shoe out there. It will take you from the trail to the river and back again, with no issue. And if it sounds like the perfect rafting shoe, it is. ($110)
Power Practical Lithium 4400 Portable Battery
If you’re in need of portable power stat, like when your smartphone runs out of juice half-way through a rafting trip and you’re using it to snap photos, Power Practical’s Lithium 4400 portable battery will bail you out. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, yet powerful enough to charge your gadgets for days. Plus, it doubles as a lantern that can last 30+ hours. How cool is that? ($79)
A weekend warrior can never have too many headlamps. We’ve got them stashed in our trunks, sheds, rocket boxes…everywhere. And the brand we keep coming back to time and time again is Petzl. Their Tikka XP is a great all-purpose headlamp with a washable headband and red light LED night vision (a must-have feature if you ask us). ($50)
Being gifted a towel almost seems as lame as getting underwear. Unless, it’s a super portable, quick-drying microfiber Sea to Summit Tek Towel with a handy mesh pouch for storing in your pack or stashing in the car trunk for spur of the moment sweat sessions. Then, getting a towel is cool. (From $12)
SteriPEN Adventurer Opti Water Purifier
Carrying plenty of water with you, especially when it’s hot outside, can be a challenge even on one-day treks. But with the push of a button and nifty UV technology the SteriPEN Adventurer Opti can purify 32 fl. oz. of water in 90 seconds. Ice cold purified water from a stream never tasted so good. ($89)
There’s something about rinsing off the grime after a good adventure that’s so satisfying. And while it might not be the same as the real deal, the RinseKit Portable Shower is awesome for a quick rinse after a long day, especially when there’s still time to hit a local brewpub before heading home. ($89)
Adventure Medical Kits Day Tripper
The Adventure Medical Kits Day Tripper—the perfect first-aid kit complete with all the basics—is something every weekend warrior needs to have, but probably doesn’t. They’ll thank you the next time they’re treating a blister on the trail. ($28)
Good-looking, affordable sunglasses do exist and Bendetti Polarized Optics Elite Series is proof. Plus, with a lifetime replacement program, you know they’re confident their brand can handle a pretty good beating (err, adventure) and still hold up. ($40)
Trucker hats help block harmful rays and they look cool too. We recommend something light colored and lightweight with a mesh back for all-day comfort and breathability. (From $20)
Nobody wants to leave their four-legged friends at home. But to be sure they’re carrying their fair share of the load, including water, treats (and maybe a spare beer or two?), the Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack is a must. ($80)
Super Salve Great Outdoors Kit
Stocking stuffer alert! Toss this handy and compact kit from Super Salve in a backpack and you’ll be prepared or protected from all sorts of inconveniences in the great outdoors. And did we mention all of the products are eco-friendly? We’re talking everything from the company’s signature cream for dry skin (this stuff works wonders!) to all-natural bug repellent, herbal sunscreen, sting relief spray and more. ($20)
