Holiday Gift Ideas for the Outdoors
BY WILLIAM P., PROGRAM SUPERVISOR AND INSTRUCTOR
This year, finding the right gift doesn’t have to be complicated. The outdoors has something for everyone and L.L.Bean has what you need to outfit the outdoor-lover on your list. The following recommendations are used and trusted by our very own Outdoor Discovery Programs instructors while teaching courses, out on epic adventures, or simply roaming around town.
“It’s the perfect jacket for any season and it’s made very well. I love it for cool summer nights around a campfire, fall days to take off the chill, and throughout winter and spring. This coat is always hanging by the door, where I can just throw it on and head out. It’s the type of jacket I’ll own until it falls off me.” —Dominic D., Outdoor Discovery Programs Instructor, Grafton Lakes, NY
“The best winter headgear I’ve ever had! I have worn this hat hiking and winter kayaking. It’s warm and stays dry. It’s made from lambswool on the outside and lined with polyester on the inside: perfect for walking around my neighborhood or during an Antarctica excursion in December!” —Mike S., Outdoor Discovery Programs Instructor, Quakertown, PA
“The best base layer I've ever had. I wear them on all my cool weather paddles under a drysuit. Super comfortable and warm, and they wick sweat away perfectly. Plus, they resist odor even after multiple days of use.” —John H., Outdoor Discovery Programs Instructor, Freeport, ME
“I love these jackets! There is almost always one of these in my backpack or car in the fall, winter and spring. They are super lightweight, very packable and very warm. They are such an essential piece of equipment to have for changes in weather – whether you’re on a mountaintop or at a kid’s hockey game.” —Chris C., Outdoor Discovery Programs Senior Instructor, Freeport, ME
“These pants are lightweight, durable, and can be used for a multitude of outdoor activities. I have three pairs, which I wear as part of my regular paddling uniform. They pack flat, have plenty of stretch and zip pockets, dry in a flash, and protect my legs from the sun and brambles. I do wear them with a nylon belt to hold them a little higher on the hips. They can be worn anywhere for doing anything!” —Mark A., Outdoor Discovery Programs Instructor, East Greenwich, RI
“It’s a lightweight, thin, warm layer for cooler days and includes SPF protection for sunny weather. Its roomy kangaroo pocket holds last-minute essentials before you get on the water, trail or wherever your outdoor adventure takes you. This was part of our instructor uniform and I love wearing it no matter the sport, whether paddling, hiking or general around town activities.” —Mary M., Outdoor Discovery Programs Instructor, Freeport, ME
“This tent is sturdy, lightweight and packs up into a small tight cylindrical shape. Perfect for kayak camping. It tucks right up into the pointed bow inside my kayak. Here it is set up on the beach during a weeklong paddling trip in the Bahamas” —Nancy B., Outdoor Discovery Programs Instructor, Pittsburgh, PA
“I’ve been using this lightweight and rip-resistant pack for 5+ years. There’s plenty of room for bins, maps, rain shell, first-aid kit, and more. Side pockets hold two nice size water bottles, and the outside back pocket holds a wet shell without getting everything inside wet.” —Carl S., Program Coordinator, New Rochelle, NY
“I keep this blanket in my car all the time. It enhances every outdoor experience, from picnics with friends to impromptu road trips. Beyond its practicality, this blanket is a vessel for cherished memories, making it an invaluable addition to my adventures.” —Jane W., Outdoor Discovery Programs Instructor, Downingtown, PA
"I love the quick-dry material. It's soft and warm, yet I don't need to worry about breaking a sweat on a fall hike and then heading straight to dinner afterwards." —Wendy P., Outdoor Discovery Programs Instructor, Pittsburgh, PA
“They keep my feet dry, add an extra layer of tick prevention, and cushion my feet on those long day hikes through our nearby state parks.” —Elisabeth S., Outdoor Discovery Programs Senior Instructor, Pittsburgh, PA
“Giving the gift of the outdoors has never been easier with L.L.Bean’s Outdoor Discovery Programs. Our courses, tours and talented instructors have something to offer everyone – from the outdoor enthusiast looking to improve their skills, to folks looking to try something new, or family and friends who want to have a fun and memorable time together. With the constant distractions and challenges in our daily life, prioritizing experiences in the outdoors, together, has never been more important.” —William P., Program Supervisor
By giving gifts that help your family and friends (and you!) get outside more, they can get more from the time they spend outside. Take it from the experts who know best: these are the must-haves for all the adventure buddies, outdoor enthusiasts, and skill seekers on your holiday shopping list!
