2024 Holiday Gift Guide (70+ Great Gift Ideas)

Christmas has always been our favorite time of year, and our enthusiasm for the holiday season hasn’t waned a bit as we’ve aged.

We love it all– the lights, the sounds, the smells, the spirit of the season, and the joy of celebrating with friends and family we don’t get to see as often as we’d like.

One of my favorite Christmas decorations we own is a simple set of hand-carved wooden blocks that read “Christmas is a Time for Giving.”

And I truly believe that the joy of giving is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. Not just around the Christmas holidays, but all throughout the year!

To that end, read on for our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide, including 70+ products that are perfect for world travelers, camping/hiking enthusiasts, nature lovers, and more…

2024 Holiday Gift Guide

Gifts for Travelers
Gifts for Hikers/Campers
Gifts for Nature Lovers
Gifts for Women
Gifts for Men
Gifts for Foodies
Beauty, Health & Wellness Gifts

Gifts for Travelers

Yakima Skybox NX 18

Ever since we launched our Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide site back in 2020, road trips have been an increasingly prominent part of our travels.

From our base in North Georgia, we’ve traveled to 50+ mountain towns in the region, often taking our dogs along for the ride. So a product like the Yakima Skybox NX is a valuable addition to our travel gear!

Measuring 84 x 36 x 16.5 inches, this sleek-looking storage box offers 18 cubic feet of cargo space– enough to haul gear for 4 people– and comes with universal mounting hardware and a torque-limiting knob.

Features we love include the full metal opening handle (which locks your gear inside the box, and box to your vehicle), dual-sided opening, integrated interior tie-down points, and SKS Locks for added security.

You’ll also love the fact that it comes with a limited lifetime warranty!

Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″

We’ve used Gregory backpacks for years, and their Alpaca Gear Wagon has become one of our go-items when we visit the lake. But this is our first time testing their hardcase luggage.

The Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ is a sturdy 42-liter carryon bag, measuring 22 x 14 x 9 inches and weighing 7.7 lbs, with a 4-wheel system for multi-directional rolling.

Its scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell protects intriguing features, such as a removable ActiveShield compartment with “Polygiene Stays Fresh” anti-microbial technology to stop odor-causing bacteria.

We also love the integrated USB charging port, TSA-approved combination lock, interior zippered pocket for power bank, and 3 mesh zippered pockets and compression panels.

READ MORE: The 100 Best Inspirational Travel Quotes

Backcountry All Around 60L Duffle

Reputable sources suggest the name of the duffel bag comes from the town of Duffel in Flanders, Belgium, where the thick cloth used to make the bag originated in the 17th century.

Duffel bags were popularized by the US military, but their design has certainly come a long way in the last 250 years.

Backcountry’s All Around 60L Duffel is big enough to accommodate all sorts of travel gear, made with durable weather-resistant material, and a padded base.

It’s got removable backpack straps for hands-free carrying, two mesh lid pockets, plus an endcap dry bag for wet clothes/shoes and compression straps to hold everything in place.

Limitless AutoBoost Portable Car Jump Starter, Power Bank & Flashlight

If you take as many road trips each year as we do, this unique gadget from Limitless (which earned the Innovation & Tech Editor’s Choice Best in Innovation Award in 2023) makes an excellent gift.

Measuring just 5.55 x 3.35 x 0.91 inches and weighing 10.4 oz, it’s an ultra-portable car jump starter, 6000mAh power bank, and 3-mode flashlight all in one!

The AutoBoost can jump-start up to 5.0L, 8-cylinder engines (most cars, trucks, boats, and SUVs), and charge virtually any USB-compatible electronic device (including phones, tablets, and more).

It also boasts a built-in 25 Lumen flashlight with 3 modes– regular, S.O.S., and strobe– making it an excellent gift for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road.

Mystery Ranch Mission Rover 60 Plus & Mission Dopp

Puffer Hug Explorer Travel Blanket & 418 Scarf

Traveling as a couple (or just living as one) comes with certain challenges, and one of the biggest ones we face is that fact that I tend to burn hot, while Mary tends to get cold.

The Puffer Hug Travel Blanket offers a convenient and comfortable solution: It’s lightweight, measures 66 x 40 inches, and packs down into a compact pillow you can use in the car or on the plane.

Mary loves the warm, cozy built-in foot pouch, the jumbo zipper pocket with a fleece-lined pouch for stashing your valuables, and the fact that it easily stuffs down into a backpack when you’re done.

She also likes the matching 418 Scarf, which includes 2 fleece-lined deep pockets, 1 hidden zipper pocket, and 3 snaps you can use to transform it into a cozy vest!

Peak Design Travel Duffle 65L

Available in 4 different sizes, Peak Design’s Travel Duffle was named one of GQ‘s Best Gym Bags of 2024.

But the 65L version (which measures 29.9 x 13.4 x 12.6 inches) is big and burly enough to use for longer trips. It can be worn as a backpack or shoulder-carry bag, and offers tons of interior organization options.

We love that it’s Bluesign approved, made with their VersaShell 600D recycled fabric and a waterproof bottom liner, and using Co DWR (a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional DWR treatments).

Other cool features include a Cord Hook strap quick connection system (for easy strap configuration) and built-in theft-deterrent zipper pulls.

Rani Backpack by the Aruna Project

The Aruna Project is not like any other brand we’ve ever covered. It’s more of a mission to create lifelong freedom for victims of human trafficking by providing empowerment through employment.

So when you buy one of their products, 100% of the profits are used to provide housing, holistic care, artisan training, and a living wage (around 4x more than the average wage for an unskilled laborer) to survivors of trafficking.

That being said, their sleek, sophisticated (and handcrafted) Rani Backpack would be noteworthy even if it were made by a more traditional for-profit manufacturer.

Measuring 12 x 7 x 18 inches, it’s sustainably made from a water-repellent, abrasion-resistant blend of recycled polyester and nylon, with a laptop divider, wide interior zipper pocket, water bottle pocket, and lots of other storage options.

The water-repellent liner printed with the names of freed Aruna Artisans, reminding you that this is one holiday gift you can feel truly great about giving!

Uncharted Supply Co. The Vault 65L Duffle

Whether you’re a boater, kayaker, or avid fisherman, waterproof bags are absolutely essential to keeping your gear dry during a day on the water.

Ever since we bought a classic 1966 Lazy Days houseboat earlier this year, we’ve been spending more and more time living and working on Lake Allatoona (which is just 20 minutes from our house).

That means transporting thousands of dollars of camera and computer gear back and forth. And the waterproof Vault 65L from Uncharted Supply is a critically acclaimed backpack/duffel bag hybrid that’s perfect for doing so.

Noteworthy features include 3 pockets for internal organization, and multiple attachment points that make it easy to hang on the boat, and an air valve for compression.

Camping/Hiking Gifts

MSR FreeLite 3 Ultralight Backpacking Tent

Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

Rumple Original & Backcountry Puffy Blanket with Camp Pillow

I’ve never loved sleeping bags. Primarily because most of the camping I’ve done was in the North Georgia mountains, where it’s usually hot and humid half the year.

Made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials, the Original Puffy Blanket from Rumpl offers a more lightweight and comfortable alternative, with 30D ripstop polyester and DWR treatment to protect you from the elements.

Their Backcountry Puffy Blanket is even lighter (1.76 lbs for 1-person blanket, 2.4 lbs for 2-person) and more packable, with upgraded NanoLoft proprietary synthetic down insulation and a roll-top stuff sack included.

Pair either blanket with Rumpl’s Adjustable Camp Pillow (which has dual-sided materialization for warming or cooling) and you’re guaranteed to stay cozy and comfy during your camping adventures!

READ MORE: The Best Backcountry Camping Gear

Haven Safari Tent & True Level Safari Pad

As a big guy (6’3″, built like a football player), I’m a big fan of Haven Tents. Launched on Kickstarter in 2019 as “the world’s first completely lay-flat hammock,” they boast an innovative design that feels more like a hanging bed.

Weighing in at 12 lbs 6 oz, with sleeping dimensions of 80 x 30 inches and a packed size of 20 x 10 x 5 inches, the Safari is much larger than the original Haven Tent. But it also holds up to 350 lbs, vs. the Original’s 285.

Construction-wise, it’s also tougher, with a thicker 300D polyester canvas rainfly, a built-in insulated pad, heavy duty no-see-um mesh bug net, and an integrated lounge strap that quickly converts the hammock into a chair.

With tree straps, guy lines, stakes, a welcome mat, a bunting banner, and multiple interior pockets for storage, it’s got everything you need for off-the-ground camping in supreme comfort.

Now is a great time to buy, as they’ll be increasing prices by around 10% across the board in January 2025!

Therm-a-Rest Questar 32F Long Sleeping Bag

Serious backpackers tend to focus on minimizing gear weight and size as backpackers, but long-distance treks shouldn’t mean sacrificing a taste of luxurious comfort in the backcountry.

With an average weight of 1 lb 14 oz, this is the lightest bag in Therm-a-Rest’s award-winning Questar line. But it still offers a lot of the comfort features the brand is known for.

We love the 650 Fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down (which dries 3 times faster), zoned insulation and a Toe-ases Foot Warmer Pocket to maximize warmth, and the box baffled construction to minimize cold spots.

The Synergy Link Connectors (which create a secure bag-to-sleeping pad connection), heat-trapping draft collar, cinchable hood, and external zip pocket are also cool features.

5.11 RUSH 12 2.0 Woodland Backpack 24L

5.11 Tactical specializes in “making purpose-built gear for those who demand more of themselves, for the greater good.”

The RUSH 12 2.0 Backpack is an upgraded version of the original model, with a large padded laptop compartment, a concealed from compartment for stashing valuable items, an expanded eyewear pocket, and rear hydration tube ports.

Built from high-strength, water-repellent 1050D nylon, this pack measures 18 x 11 x 6.5 inches and offers tons of storage options, including internal slip and zippered pockets, dual mesh pockets in the main compartment, and a front top zippered pocket.

This extremely versatile 24-liter bag is also compatible with the 5.11 Tier System, which allows you myriad ways to customize your bag with purpose-built pouches.

Naturehike Cloud Up 3-Person Tent & P.L.A.Y. Outdoor Dog Tent

We’ve always been more into drive-up camping than backcountry camping. But serious backpackers will love the versatile, ultralight Naturehike Cloud Up 3-Person Tent, which weighs in at just 5.29 lbs.

It’s surprisingly spacious, with a 85×70×43-inch interior and a 34-inch vestibule. The freestanding design allows for quick/easy set-up, and breathable 20 D nylon offers good ventilation and weather protection.

If you enjoy camping with your pets, the Scout & About Outdoor Dog Tent from P.L.A.Y. offers a cozy and collapsible “pop-up” design, with mesh sides that offer great ventilation and visibility.

Made of durable, waterproof 600-Denier PE fabrics, the tent weighs 4.63 lbs and measures 53.1 x 53.1 x 37 inches, and packs down into the enclosed carry case easy portability.

Nathan TrailMix 2.0 12L Hydration

I learned the importance of proper hydration the hard way, after suffering heat exhaustion and mild heat strokes in the Okefenokee Swamp, the Peruvian Amazon, and Costa Rica’s Corcovado National Park.

The TrailMix 2.0 from Nathan Sports is a great little lightweight hydration pack, with an internal pocket for the included 1.5-liter bladder, plus 4 pockets that can each hold a 20 oz flask.

There are adjustable side and sternum straps that allow you to customize the fit to your form, avoiding the chafing that often comes from bouncing. And the internal compression system keeps it tight to your back for enhanced stability.

Other cool features include a roll-top opening for extra storage, a back mesh pocket that’s great for storing wet gear, and a bungee cord for lashing on hiking poles, and other gear.

Gifts for Nature Lovers

KETER- Solana 70 Gallon Outdoor Storage Bench

Ever since we bought our houseboat earlier this year, we’ve been spending more and more time outside, just sitting and soaking spectacular views of the lake.

Not only from the boat itself, but also from what we call our “dock lounge,” a 17 x 10-foot area that functions as a covered outdoor living space. It proved the perfect place for the Solana Storage Bench from Keter.

Measuring 55.1 x 33 x 23.6 inches and made of sturdy, weather-resistant polypropylene, the bench can support 2 to 3 people (up to 551 pounds).

But our favorite feature is the 70 gallons of hidden (and lockable) dry storage, which is great for stowing our extra cushions, buoys, ropes, and other boat gear!

FeatherSnap Scout Smart Birdfeeder

My late grandmother was a hardcore bird-lover, so perhaps it’s no surprise that Mary and I have multiple bird feeders set up in our backyard that we can watch from our living room/office.

But none of ours are as high-tech as the FeatherSnap Scout, a Wi-Fi-enabled, solar-powered smart bird feeder, which comes with a high-resolution camera built in!

The 4MP camera offers a 180º field of view, allowing you to capture photos and 1080-pixel videos of the fine-feathered friends who perch in front of the dual compartment tray.

The universal mount makes it easy to assemble, and your purchase includes access to an AI-powered bird ID app with a live feed. Premium features are also available for an additional charge.

Luma 2.5L Electric Food Waste Composter

In addition to our bird feeders, we also attract pollinators with flowers in our permaculture garden, which we’ve been doing for nearly 10 years now.

So we compost pretty much all the fruit and veggie scraps and coffee grounds we have, using them to fertilize the raised beds and attract more worms to aerate the soil.

The Luma Electric Kitchen Composter is a compact appliance (14.5 x 13.8 x 10 inches) that helps reduce waste by transforming your kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost in 3 to 6 hours.

Its 2.5-liter bucket can store months’ worth of scraps, the nonstick-coated bucket is dishwasher safe, and the activated carbon filter keeps it odor-free. It’s never been easier to be eco-friendly!

BioLite SolarHome 620+

Currently in use in millions of homes all across sub-Saharan African, the BioLite SolarHome 620+ delivers reliable daily energy for anyone living or traveling off-grid.

This compact set includes a 7.9 x 6.1 x 2.9 inch Control Box (which includes a sconce-like light), two Hanging Lights, one Security Light, an 11.4 x 7.5 x 0.6-inch Solar Panel, a USB Adapter, and wall screws.

The system is designed to be charged via solar power during the day, then turned on once the sun goes down. It delivers a total of 450 lumens of light, and has 2 USB charging ports to power small devices.

We love that it uses 18- to 21-foot cables, allowing you to light up multiple rooms in a tiny home, cabin, or shed at the same time. You can also buy a backup wall charger for the system for less than $12!

Avkara Earth Lounger

As diehard nature lovers, picnics are a big part of our lives. When we travel, we often picnic next to lakes and waterfalls, but sitting on the ground isn’t the most comfortable thing at our age.

The Avkara Earth Lounger provides a comfortable place to relax, no matter where you choose to explore.

Its water-resistant bottom keeps you clean and dry, and the inflatable backrest offers ergonomic support.

Cool features include 2 large side pockets on the backrest, 4 large corner pockets, loops with ground stakes that are great for windy days, and a convenient travel bag that makes it easy to carry.

Gifts for Women

Panache Apparel Keatyn Duffel

A women-owned business launched back in 2012, Panache Apparel is known for its self-confident attitude, offering clothing with “Some Wild, Some Sass & a Lot of Badass.”

They consider fashion “a playground without rules,” offering bold statement pieces and encouraging women to break with tradition and find their own unique sense of style.

We love their colorful accessories, especially the new Keatyn Duffel, which measures 19 x 11 x 9 inches and boasts an eye-catching blue, rust and tan Aztec-inspired pattern.

With a 100% cotton exterior, a polyester-lined interior, an interior zipper pocket, and 2 small open pockets, it’s super stylish and large enough to work as an overnight bag for weekend getaways.

Gnara Go There Pants

Mary and I grew up in the city (me in Atlanta, her in Staten Island NY). But I spent a lot of time camping and hiking in the mountains of North Georgia, so I’m very comfortable in the wild.

When we started spending long days at the lake, with no restrooms around for miles, it took her some time to get used to “going” in the woods.

Gnara’s Go There Pants offer an innovative solution for women who enjoy exploring the wild. They feature a patented “pee zipper” design that allows ladies to answer nature’s call without taking their pants down.

Made from a pill- and snag-resistant 93% nylon/7% spandex blend, with a Durable Water Repellant coating, their long hiking pants are available in 9 colors and sizes ranging from 0 to 22.

Icebreaker Women’s Merino Blend 260 ZoneKnit LS Crew & Thermal Leggings

Shady Rays Allure Pink Tortoise Polarized & Vontélle Kente Orange

Mary and I both have to wear prescription glasses, but I’ve never been super impressed by the limited selections found at most of our local optometrists.

For years I’ve gotten compliments for my designer frames from John Varvatos, whose original lenses I had replaced with prescription lenses. Mary hopes to do the same with one of these stylish frames.

The Allure Pink Tortoise frames from Shady Rays are cute as the dickens, with optional shatter-resistant COLORUSH polarized lenses that offer color enhancement while maintaining optical clarity.

We also love the big, bold, African-influenced style of Vontélle’s Kente Orange glasses, which showcase the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of traditional Kente Cloth. Single vision, progressives, and reader lenses are available!

Iksplor Grown Up Long Sleeve Top & Leggings

A new-to-us clothing brand, Iksplor is a women-owned, family-run company based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

They offer lightweight, breathable base layers made from ethically-sourced, 100% merino wool, with an array of sizes and styles to fit everyone from newborns to adults!

Their Grown Up Iksplorer Baselayer Long Sleeve Tops and Leggings come in 8 different colors, with sizes ranging from XS to XXL. Thanks to the sustainable merino wool, they’re remarkably soft and comfortable.

We love their smooth flat lock stitching, thumbholes to help keep wrists warm, and long sizing to keep your lower back covered during outdoor activities.

Royal Robbins Rockcraft Wool Crew & Hoodie

Named after its founder (a pioneer of the 1960s “clean climbing“ movement), Royal Robbins is one of a few iconic outdoor clothing brands that both Mary and I wear regularly.

Not only do we love them for their timeless style and long-lasting quality, but also for their focus on sustainability as a member of the Fair Labor Association and the Sustainable Apparel Coalition.

Mary adores their new Rockcraft Wool Crew, a 100% merino wool performance sweater that offers a classic style and features such as breathability, durability, moisture-wicking, and thermoregulation.

I also like their Unisex Rockcraft Wool Hoodie, which comes in 5 neutral colors, is incredibly soft and cozy, and works great for added warmth over a base layer and/or under a jacket.

Tiger and the Monkey- The Kim Dress/Kaftan

Heading down from the mountains and over to the beach, Tiger and the Monkey is a California-based brand that offers globally-inspired luxury kaftans and dresses that make for eye-catching resort wear.

Each of their unique pieces is handcrafted from exceptional fabrics by local artisans, giving their stylish collection of women’s clothing a distinctly worldly look.

Made with environmentally-friendly (and breathable) Ecovero viscose from Italy, their Kim shirt dress offers effortless elegance and comfort that can be dressed down as a bikini cover-up or dressed up for a night on the town.

You’ll love the lightweight fabric, the slits on the sides (for ease of movement), and the hidden pockets.

Skida The Viska Pant & Pursuit Headband

Skida is a family-owned, Vermont-based company that we initially discovered after they were featured in Outside’s 2017 Buyer’s Guide.

They started out making nothing but Scandinavian-style headwear, but they have since expanded their line to include gloves, mittens, vests, and other outdoor apparel.

Named after the Swedish word for “whisper,” their Viska Pant is made from a breathable, lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric. Their 7/8 crop, straight-leg silhouette and high-rise waistband make them great for yoga or beachwear.

Available in 7 colorful patterns, they can also be paired with a matching Pursuit Headband, which is lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, and eco-certified.

Rainraps All Weather Rap & Raincaps

Whether you’re visiting Costa Rica, Scotland, or Scandinavia, there are some travel destinations where rain is just part of everyday life. Our guide in Guatemala called it “donkey belly,” because clouds always seemed to hang low over the area.

Rainraps is an apparel brand whose sole purpose seems to be protecting people from the elements in style. Their namesake product is a cross between a poncho and a pashmina, offering a stylish option for those who hate bulky rain jackets.

Their reversible, hooded All-Weather Rap offers an innovative twist, with one side made of cozy fabric to protect you from the cold, while the other side is water-resistant to protect you from rain, sleet, and snow.

Pair it with one of their matching bucket-style Raincaps (which are also reversible), and you have a fashionable, flexible outfit that will keep you warm and dry in style!

Gifts for Men

Bluffworks Telex Tech Blazer

Men are notoriously difficult to buy clothes for, but Bluffworks’ travel clothing makes it easy to pick must-have items for your favorite guy.

From their lightweight, breathable Threshold T-Shirt to the stretchiness of their Travel Departure Jeans, they offer an array of wardrobe basics designed to help men travel in classic style.

Their new Telex Tech Blazer is a cool, relatively new addition to the line. It’s their most lightweight and breathable blazer to date, weighing just 14 oz and designed to pack down small without wrinkling.

Made from a durable, 4-way stretch ripstop fabric treated with C0 DWR water repellency, it’s a simple, stylish jacket that effortlessly elevates any outfit.

CAT Footwear Invader Max Boots & Wolverine DuraShocks SR Icon Boots

Ever since hip-hop exploded in popularity in the last ’80s and early ’90s, companies like Timberland and Carhartt, which were previously best known for work boots and apparel, have become fashionable.

While these durable brands may have been built for blue collar workers and average Joes, their toughness and aesthetic appeal ultimately crossed class and cultural boundaries.

I could imagine the Invader Max Boots from CAT Footwear having a similar appeal. These Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boots feature an outsole inspired by the tires on a CAT 793F Truck, with a breathable membrane and reinforced materials in high-wear areas for protection.

The DuraShocks SR Icon 6″ CarbonMax Work Boot from Wolverine is similarly rugged, with waterproof full grain leather, a wide footbed for comfort and stability, and a slip-resistant, energy-returning Dual Density outsole.

Gordini Gloves MTN Crew Artist Mitts

Living in North Georgia, heavy duty gloves are not something we often need for Winter. But when we visit the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, the intensely cold winds hit VERY differently!

Gordini Gloves’ new MTN Crew Artist Series features some super-cool heat-embossed designs by environmental artists like Jordan Kendall Parks and Zoe Malee.

Drawing inspiration from the natural world, their MTN Crew Artist Mitts– Parks’ Mountain Stream for men and Malee’s Snowflake Crystals for women– are as stylish as they are functional.

The mitts are made with waterproof/windproof CLUTCH synthetic leather, 600-fill Downtek insulation with a high-pile fleece lining, a neoprene short cuff, and a securing wrist leash.

tasc Performance Men’s Carrolton LS Fitness Shirt & Trek Pant

One of my personal favorite clothing brands, Tasc is a family-owned, New Orleans-based company that offers an awesome alternative to active wear made from polyester, which is often chemically treated, irritates skin, and retains odors.

Instead, their unique fabric uses the Moso bamboo plant, which grows quickly and sustainably, and is Forest Stewardship Council Certified. The result is not only more eco-friendly, but feels better on your body!

Their Trek Pant is one of the most comfortable pants I’ve ever worn, stretchy and water-resistant, with an elastic waistband and an adjustable taper via a bungee cord in the bottom hem.

I’ve got several of their incredibly soft Carrolton Long-Sleeve Fitness Shirts, whose bamboo/organic cotton fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking, with an anti-odor feature that makes it great for exercise.

Coolway Goal Mens Sneakers

Coolway Sneakers were created for authentic individuals who blaze their own trail, as part of what the brand calls “a continuous fight for identity and personal style lost among the masses.”

Their cutting-edge aesthetic seems to resonate strongly with skaters, surfers, skydivers and the like, offering cool style and casual comfort inequality measure.

They’re known for split leather sneakers with contrasting colors, with reinforced stitching and a flexible rubber soul designed for rugged durability and grip.

Other cool features include a leather tongue with figured padding, flat cotton shoelaces (which come in two interchangeable tones), and a lightly padded collar for cushioning comfort.

BraceLayer Men’s KS1 Alpine Thermal Pants & FlipBelt Mens Active Jog Pant

Between 10 years of playing soccer as a boy and 3 years in a competition-level dance company in my teens, my knees took a lot of impact. As an adult, that ultimately led to osteoarthritis, with joints that essentially had no cartilage left.

The Men’s KS1 Alpine Thermal Pants from BraceLayer are made for active, recovering knees like mine.

They’re constructed with a Stabiluxe thermal compression base, with a Tri-Tech Support Layer of medical-grade, perforated neoprene around the knees and hips to relieve pain and provide extra support and stability.

For men who don’t suffer from knee issues, FlipBelt’s Active Jog Pant is an affordable alternative made from a moisture-wicking polyester/spandex blend, with a tapered cut and movement-friendly pockets for stashing your valuables.

XtraTuf Ankle Deck Boot Sport

If I’m being completely honest (which I ALWAYS am), I am not a sports guy. Though I played a lot of sports in my youth, the only sports I ever watch these days are the Olympics and the World Cup.

So I’m not remotely the target audience for XTRATUF’s Tailgate Collection of Ankle Deck Boots (Regular, Sport, or Fleece), which feature the iconic colors for 26 of the most beloved pro and college sports teams.

But they’re growing immensely popular with diehard fans, thanks to their bold design, slip-resistant and non-marking BioLite outsoles, and a special printed insole.

Major team colors available include the Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, UGA, FSU, LSU, Alabama, Oregon, and many more!

Gifts for Foodies

West Bend 10 Qt Double UP Air Fryer

Air fryers have become all the rage in recent years because they allow you to cook faster, using significantly less oil. The result is a healthier, more convenient option that still has that crispy “fried” texture.

This 10 Qt Air Fryer from West Bend is a step up from typical air fryers because it has dual baskets, allowing you to cook two different dishes at different temperatures at the same time!

It offers 1500 watts of cooking power, digital controls, non-stick baskets, and a whopping 15 one-touch cooking presets, ranging from Bake and Broil to Dehydrate, Roast, Reheat, and more.

Best of all, the baskets have a PFOA/PFOS-free, multi-layer, diamond-infused nonstick coating that prevents food from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.

High Camp Flasks- Parkside Flask & Firelight Flask

Whether you’re camping, picnicking, tailgating, or simply hanging out around a backyard bonfire, flasks are a great way to transport your favorite spirits.

Launched in 2017 out of a shared passion for craft cocktails and the great outdoors, High Camp Flasks is all about reimagining the classic coat-pocket flask for those who love craft cocktails and Mother Nature in equal measure.

The 750ml Firelight Flask is their flagship 3-piece cocktail set, with two tumblers magnetically attached to the flask via their patented PhantomLock feature. Its diamond-grip cap creates a leak-proof seal, while the wide mouth makes for an easier pour and the stainless steel interior won’t impact flavor.

Their 759ml Parkside Flask is very similar, but it’s designed to hold a full bottle of wine, with vacuum insulation that will maintain the liquid’s temperature for 24 hours. As with the Fireflight, the Parkside can be personalized with the brand’s engraving tool, yet it still ships within 3 days!

VSSL Nest Pour Over Coffee Kit & Java G25 Grinder Gift Set

Due to stomach issues, I rarely drink wine or (my personal favorite) whiskey these days. So coffee is my daily buzz of choice, and VSSL Gear is devoted to bringing great-tasting coffee to the Great Outdoors.

After hearing customers complain about having to take their Keurig and solar panels to meet their gourmet coffee needs while camping, VSSL developed their 5-piece Nest Pour Over Coffee Kit.

The double-walled steel construction set includes an insulated pour-over dripper, two 10 oz mugs, a splash-proof lid, and a reusable stainless steel #1 mesh filter.

This impressive gift set also includes the compact Java G25 Grinder, which comes in 3 colors and is made from premium aluminum and stainless steel, with 50 different grind settings to choose from.

Kalorik Vivid Touch Air Fryer

If you’re looking for a smaller, more budget-friendly way to dip your toes into the air fryer craze, the 5 QT Kalorik Vivid Touch Air Fryer is about half the size and $10 cheaper than the West Bend model reviewed above.

With its modern, ergonomic design, high-resolution digital display, and stainless steel finish, it’s an attractive appliance for the money.

Features include a full-color display, intuitive touch controls, 202 presets for 12 food categories, and colorful recipe guides to help make mealtime a breeze.

We love that it will automatically adjust settings based on the selected food type, cut, and quantity, and has a Shake Reminder & Ready Alert to ensure your meals are cooked to perfection.

Klean Kanteen Camp Cup 4-Pack & LE 20 oz TKWide Insulated Coffee Tumbler

Mary and I are definitely coffee fanatics. We never travel without our favorite gourmet varieties, and always bring our favorite mugs from home on domestic road trips.

Klean Kanteen’s new lines, including the Camp Cup 4-Pack and the Limited Edition 20 oz TKWide Insulated Coffee Tumbler, may work their way into that rotation.

Their rugged 12 oz Camp Cups are made from 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel, with an ergonomic handle, splash proof lid, Climate Lock vacuum insulation, and an attractive mountain landscape on the side.

But the festive Scandinavian-influenced graphics of their Holiday Scandi Coffee Tumbler is my favorite, with their TK Closure internal thread design and a wide mouth, leak-proof Café Cap with an easy-carry swivel loop.

Beauty, Health & Wellness Gifts

Bel Essence

A lot of people act surprised to learn I’m 56 years old, and I often get questions about how I look so young for my age. The simple secret is that, unlike most middle-aged men, I prioritize taking care of my skin.

Bel Essence is a new-to-us brand that focuses on using natural and organic ingredients rich with vitamins, antioxidants, and omega 3s to create what they call “nutrition for the skin.”

For the face, their Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer and Morning Radiance Revitalizing Night Cream Duo help to moisturize, firm and tone skin, and reduce fine lines.

Their Skin Restoring Body Butter Cream (Spring Breeze) and Anti Aging, Anti Wrinkle Face Cream combo makes a great gift for someone who wants to boost the softness and suppleness on their face and body.

And of course I love their Men’s Hydrating & Skin Restoring Face Balm and Hair & Skin Conditioning Lotion for After Shave and After Grooming Duo, which leaves my skin looking refreshed and rehydrated even on the coldest, driest days.

Sutra JetSetter Trio

You can find hair dryers in most hotels, resorts, and rentals these days.

But the Sutra JetSetter Trio makes a great gift for any style-conscious traveler who needs other tools to do their hair when they’re away from home.

The gift set includes a compact mini blow dryer, curling wand, and hair straightener in a sleek, see-through Sutra carrying case that measures just 11 x 6.5 x 2.5 inches.

We love the fact that their products are designed with innovative infrared technology that protects your locks from excessive heat, leaving a smooth, silky finish even on colored, bleached, or damaged hair.

FactorFive Skincare Travel Kit & KeraFactor Take Home Combo Solution

The older we get, the more Mary and I prioritize our health, and that includes skin care and hair care. It’s especially important for us in Winter, when we swim at a local indoor pool for exercise.

Chlorine, cold winter air, and central heating all dry out your hair and skin considerably. But these two great gift sets from FactorFive and KeraFactor can help!

FactorFive’s Skincare Travel Kit features travel-sized samples of their Regenerative Serum, Eye/Lash Cream, and Anti-Aging Cream. All of them are powered by ethically derived Adult Stem Cells (ASCs), which replenish your diminished supply and enables your cells to restart important skin health processes.

The KeraFactor Combo System has a similarly rejuvenating effect on your hair. This gift set includes their Scalp Stimulating Solution, Scalp Stimulating Shampoo and Conditioner, and a Scalp Stimulating Wet & Dry Brush, all of which are designed to leave your hair looking thicker, more luscious, and more vibrant.

TribeTokes Gummies & Pet Tincture

These are difficult times for almost everyone we know. From political and environmental concerns to health care and economics, people seem increasingly anxious about where our world is headed.

We’ve been praising the benefits of CBD, Delta 8, and Delta 9 products for years. And the women-led, NYC-based TribeTokes is redefining the rapidly growing field of cannabis wellness with their plant-powered products.

Humans will enjoy their all-natural Buzzed Pineapple Gummies, each of which contains 10mg of hemp-derived Delta 9 THC and 20mg of Delta 8 THC. They’re more relaxing than a glass of wine, with a mellow buzz that also helps you sleep.

They also have a CBD + Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Pet Tincture that supports joint health, a glossy coat, and calm energy. Best of all, they’re currently offering 25% off site-wide when you use code NAUGHTYELF25!

Stealth Game Cycle

I initially had some misgivings about recommending the Stealth Cycle to our readers based on my initial tests of the product. But after using it a few times, I’d say it makes a great Christmas gift, with one caveat.

The exercise bike itself has loads of positives: It’s easy to assemble, comfortable, portable, and combines heart-pumping cardio with upper body resistance (via a dynamic handlebar resistance system) for a full-body workout.

We love the fact that it quickly connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing you to track your progress on the Stealth app, which includes 5 free cycling games that you can mirror to your TV.

My main issue is with the games themselves. Their free ones are repetitive, fairly basic, and glitchy, with the scenery repeating every few minutes. After 5 minutes of playing one game, I’d get bored.

The good news is that you can upgrade to the Premium version of their app for a monthly fee, which offers more (and better) games. I highly recommend doing so, as it improves the overall experience.

SleepPhones Effortless Headphones

The Effortless Headphones from SleepPhones are one of the best gifts for anyone who struggles to sleep through the night.

Its headband has Bluetooth-enabled headphones built inside the material, allowing wearers to listen to music and other sounds while sleeping.

These headphones use induction charging, and can last up to 24 hours after 3 hours of charging.

The band is made of lightweight SheepCloud fabric (which comes in warm Fleece or breathable, moisture-wicking Breeze), and there are various sizes and color choices to choose from.

Greenleaf Organic Bamboo Bed Sheets & Saffron Marigold Bedspread with Shams

Mary and I both deal with sleeping issues: I’ve battled insomnia ever since I was a teenager, while she’s been struggling to sleep through the night since she entered perimenopause.

As well as all know by now, getting a good night’s sleep is a major factor in our mental, emotional, and physical health. And a good set of sheets can help make a difference.

Greenleaf bills their 100% organic bamboo viscose sheets as “the softest luxury sheets on the planet.” Their breathable 400-thread sateen weave offers thermoregulating cooling, and the hypoallergenic fabric gets more cozy every time you wash them. Plus they give to 1% For The Planet and One Tree Planted for every purchase.

We also love sheets/bedspreads from Saffron Marigold, a Fair Trade company whose handcrafted textiles are made in Rajasthan, India.

Their bold block-printed designs are beautiful, printed on superior grade soft cotton, and finished with double-stitched hems. The Moroccan Boho-style Istanbul bedspread with matching shams is simply stunning! –reviews by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett