Patagonia Fjord Flannel
No need to steal your boyfriend’s flannel ever again – whether you’re working, hiking or spending a cozy night on the couch, the Fjord Flannel ($89) has your back. These insanely soft shirts are made from organic cotton and can be worn year-round as a layering piece. The women’s cut features a relaxed, yet feminine fit and comes in five different colors this year. The men’s version comes in nine different colors, making it the perfect gift for the outdoor gentlemen in your life. Or for yourself – I bought one in a men’s small because the length makes it cute to pair with leggings and tall boots.
Nonprofit Memberships
If you’re a climber and you’re not a member of the American Alpine Club or Access Fund, you should really question what you’re doing in life. These organizations have done an amazing job supporting the access, safety and dreams of climbers across the country. There are membership options for every budget, so there is no excuse not to donate. Paradox Sports, a nonprofit that provides climbing and mountaineering opportunities for people living with physical disabilities, is another good option. And don’t forget about the Rocky Mountain Rescue Group – you know, the local volunteers that risk their lives to rescue injured climbers, stranded hikers and ill-prepared knuckleheads.
The Adventure Gap: Changing the Face of the Outdoors
When you’re hiking around a National Park or flipping through an outdoorsy magazine, do you ever find yourself asking “where are all the non-white people?” The Adventure Gap ($20) seeks to answer just that. In his new book, author James Mills profiles team members of the first all-African American summit attempt of Denali and provides a historic account of significant achievements made by other non-white explorers. Mills argues for a call to action and warns of the consequences our favorite natural spaces could face if this trend remains in our increasingly multicultural society. So grab a copy for your upcoming road trip. Or just to balance out all the Patagucci catalogs on your coffee table so that you seem like a more interesting person.
Evolv Cruzers
The Cruzer ($75) features a modern canvas look with Trax rubber soles that allow for a quick run up the First Flatiron followed by a pint downtown without ever having to change shoes. The sock-optional, lightweight design makes them barely noticeable when clipped to your harness and the heel folds down for easy slip-on access. The best part? They come in six fun colors.
Teeki Leggings
For the longest time, my go-to yoga outfit was a pair of plain black leggings and a tank top. The day I was able to hold my first handstand, I treated myself to a pair of Teeki’s Love the Elephant Hot Pant ($72). I get compliments on them all the time, whether I’m balancing on my head or pulling on plastic in the gym. Not only do Teeki’s leggings come in an array of vibrant, colorful patterns, but they are also sustainably sourced from recycled plastic water bottles and manufactured in California. The material is stretchy, lightweight and comfortable, which means not having to worry about sagging, riding or pulling. Fun Fact: They aren’t see-through.
Funny Shit in the Woods and Other Stories: The Best of Semi-Rad.com
As a long time reader of Brendan Leonard’s blog, I sometimes forget that we aren’t actually BFFs in real life. In his latest book, Funny Shit in the Woods ($15), Leonard compiles 40 of Semi-Rads most popular stories into one volume. His witty disposition, ridiculous drawings and heady observations make this an easy read. It’s a great gift for outdoorsy friends in need of some inspirational humor while they wait for their french press to steep.
Stanley Adventure Flask
For me, winter camping is the absolute worst. Quality cold weather gear and hand warmers make it bearable, but they’re no match for the satisfaction that comes from sipping whiskey around a roaring fire. And let’s face it, my college days are long behind me, so guzzling Fireball straight from the bottle is no longer acceptable. That’s why I love the 8 oz. Stanley Adventure Flask ($20) – the simple, rugged look makes me feel like a classy woman of the outdoors. The leakproof design makes it easy to throw in my pack and the attached lanyard means never losing the cap. Bonus: fill it with Buffalo Trace Bourbon – the sweet yet spicy vanilla and toffee taste finishes long and smooth.
Bobo’s Oats Bars
When hanger strikes at the crag, I reach for one of these tasty bars. They’re moist, organic, vegan and safe to eat for all of your friends with fake gluten allergies. My favorite is coconut, but there are 16 other flavors to choose from. A case of 12 bars will cost you between $28-$37 and make a great gift for the climber on your list who still hasn’t forgiven Clif Bar for dropping Honnold.
Valley Uprising
Valley Uprising ($25) is the latest from Sender Films and Big Up Productions. It’s an award-winning documentary that explores the 60-year climbing history of Yosemite National Park. You don’t need to come from a climbing background to appreciate the stories of 60s counter-culture, drug-smuggling plane crashes and rivalries between early explorers. In fact, it’s even narrated by mainstream Hollywood actor Peter Sarsgaard.
Mountain Artwork
I love decorating my space with breathtaking views of some of the most remote places on the planet. They fill me with peace and inspiration and make great conversation starters when guests come over. I’m currently obsessed with Jeremy Collins’ Meridian Line, specifically the Half Dome Full Color 11×17 Wood Print ($80). However, if you’re working with a big budget and really want to impress someone, splurge on a signed print by a Nat Geo photographer. My favorites include Aaron Huey, Andy Mann, Cory Richards, Keith Ladzinski and Renan Ozturk. Pro tip: You can use the code “30ELVES” to get 30% off any of the prints on Chris Burkard’s website. In my dream world, my thoughtful, creative and non-existent boyfriend surprises me with one of these in a reclaimed beetle kill pine frame that he made from scratch.
