If you get as excited about fresh air and heart-pumping activities as we do, you’re in the right spot. We get it—there’s something about breaking a sweat under the open sky that just hits different.
We’re featuring some of the best outdoor and fitness gear that’ll make your adventures even more epic. From trail-tackling tech to gear that’s basically your workout BFF, we’ve done the digging to find the items that are worth your hard-earned dollars.
Links may be commissioned. Editorial samples may have been provided.
Buckle up (or lace up—we’re not judging), because we’re about to showcase the gear that’s bound to become your new outdoor obsession.
Minelab Xterra Elite Metal Detector
If you are searching for a unique gift for your outdoor loving recipient, consider the great selection of metal detectors from Minelab. Whether they are kids or adults, Minelab has a model for everyone from the novice to expert. Our new favorite is the Xterra Elite, with its fully waterproof exterior and Multi IQ technology, you can search for different buried treasure at the same time. There are pre-set search modes for water/ocean, parks, and fields to allow searching virtually anywhere, and different coils.
Sensitive controls help in finding your treasure, then lets you pinpoint the depth and location of your find. It even comes with a built-in flashlight for searching after dark. The Xterra works in virtually all climates (-14 to 140 degrees) and all conditions. Weighing in at under three pounds, it’s light enough to put in a backpack. Minelab backs up their products with a three year warranty.
Riedell Ember Ice Skates
Whether you’re skating on an iced over lake, a frozen river, or something a lot safer like a city rink, a great pair of ice skates is a must have. These Ember Riedell ice skates are perfect for the novice to intermediate casual ice skater. The waterproof suede upper and cushioned collar combine for great comfort. The stainless steel blades are pretty much ready to go. You’ll probably want to have them sharpened before you head out on the ice for the first time. With a little tlc, they’ll last season after season. They also come in a fab nubuck color with a buffalo plaid collar.
Solight Lanterns
If you spend any amount of time in the great outdoors, you know how important it is to have a lantern. Even if you’re not planning to be out overnight, there are still times you need a reliable light source. Solight makes inflatable solar powered lanterns that takes up practically no room. Qwwn is a solar powered power bank that also provides a light source, knocking off two birds with one stone. They’re small enough, and light enough, that you can pack a couple in your gear and not worry about it.
Not outdoorsy? Not a problem! Get a multipack to have on hand in case of emergency. Even when it’s cold, you can still charge with solar power.
Rainier Weekender Backpack
Whether you are on a day hike or trekking overnight, the Ranier Weekender Backpack is a great choice for the adventure. With its ability to hold a 16 inch laptop, the Ranier Weekender also makes a great carryall for college and high schools students. It is made from 100% PET material and has lots of nifty features to make carrying your gear easy and comfortable, has a padded back and straps for comfort. Several pockets allow the user to stay organized, and hold everything you need for a weekend getaway. Whatever you use the Ranier Weekender Backpack for, it will make the journey a little easier.
The Landmark Project
Just about every outdoorsy person, and a lot that aren’t, loves the National Parks system. It’s a great way to see so many wonders of the world, and they’re all here in the USA. The Landmark Project has created a really fab collection of items inspired by the various National Parks. From socks to patches, artwork to tees, there’s something for everyone. One of their 2025 calendars would make a great gift for an outdoorsy office mate, while a pair of their socks are a great stocking stuffer.
Incrediwear Performance Pants
Having the right base layer can make all the difference in your activities. Incrediwear’s Performance Pants help alleviate symptoms of muscle soreness and fatigue. They speed up your recovery and are great for all kinds of activities. These pants have a proprietary technology that releases infrared waves that are activated by body heat. These waves stimulate blood flow to help you recover faster. Whether you’re out running sprints, chopping wood, or just running in the cooler weather, these are a great base layer to start with.
GiBoard
If you have someone that loves to hike, rock climb, or other fun stuff where they need to work on their balance, the GiBoard is for them. It looks like a snowboard with a slackline and is a great way to strengthen your core. That’s not where it ends, though. The GiBoard is perfect to improve your agility, posture, and body awareness, too. It works for all ages and is a great family activity. And since it’s low to the ground (approx. 6 inches), you don’t have to worry about falls. It’s made from sustainably sourced hardwood maple and can hold up to 400 lbs., too.
Thermacell Mosquito Repellant
No one likes to deal with bugs and especially mosquitos when they’re outdoors. That’s where the Thermacell Mosquito Repellant comes in. This little gadget has a smoke free mosquito repellant that helps get rid of bugs for a 20 ft radius. It’s small and compact, and can easily fit into your camping, beach, or picnic gear, too. It runs for up to 9 hours on rechargeable batteries. Pick this up with a couple of the long lasting refills for a great gift idea.
Bug Bite Thing
Bugs are a necessary evil in life, and we all do our best to avoid them, especially the biting and stinging varieties. This nifty little tool from Bug Bite Thing is what every person outdoors, whether you’re doing deep woods camping or just on an urban trail, needs to keep handy. It uses suction alone to draw out the bug venom from the skin, instantly helping to relieve the pain. It’s the perfect stocking stuffer for the outdoorsy person.