Not all outdoorsmen are built the same. Some enjoy multi-day hikes and meals cooked over fire. Others just like a bit of Arc'teryx and pint of Guinness in a Lake District pub. Either way, there’s a certain romance to the outdoors. The gear, the solitude, the comfort of knowing your waterproof jacket is capable of protecting you from the most severe conditions. So whether you're buying for a seasoned wild camper or someone who just likes to look the part on the walk to the pub, these are the gifts for outdoorsmen worth giving. Practical, well-made, and rugged.
Heavyweight flannel
A staple of the outdoorsman’s wardrobe. Hard-wearing enough for work, warm enough for a campsite dinner, and stylish enough to be worn in town without irony. Go for one with a proper brushed finish and a slightly boxy fit – the kind of thing that looks better the more you abuse it.
Waterproof shell
This is the big one. Every outdoorsman needs a proper shell – lightweight, breathable, and fully waterproof, not just resistant. Bonus points for pit zips, taped seams and a hood that actually works in wind. Choose something that’s technical but understated. No need to look like he’s about to summit Everest.
Performance mid layer
Something to wear under the shell, or on its own when the weather’s on your side. Think fleece or insulated jacket – synthetic is lighter and dries quicker, wool is more romantic. It should be warm, packable, and just rugged enough to survive a bit of brush with the elements.
Hiking pants
Jeans are for the pub. A proper pair of hiking trousers makes a huge difference – lightweight, quick-drying, and cut so they don’t bunch at the knees when you’re scrambling uphill. Look for something with articulation and a bit of stretch. Earth tones always win.
Technical shorts
For warmer expeditions, or just showing off well-earned calf muscles. Technical shorts should be durable, water-repellent and long enough to avoid looking like gym kit. Ideally with zipped pockets – no one wants to lose a multitool on a mountainside.
Work boots
Sturdy, welted, and built to last. Good work boots bridge the gap between trail and town. They’re not strictly for hiking, but offer enough support and grit to handle a muddy footpath or a cold morning on the river. And they look better beaten up.
Waterproof sneakers
Because not every outdoor adventure warrants a full boot. Waterproof sneakers are perfect for low-impact walks, bad-weather errands, or dog owners who don’t believe in umbrellas. Think of them as the modern outdoorsman’s desert boot.
Hiking boots
If he doesn’t already own a pair, now’s your chance to be a hero. Hiking boots have come a long way – today’s best options are lightweight, breathable, and surprisingly stylish. Just make sure they’re waterproof and offer proper ankle support. Everything else is a bonus.
Trail runners
For those who prefer their outdoors fast and lung-burning. Trail runners are a niche gift, but a well-chosen pair can become indispensable. They should be grippy, light, and tough enough to handle roots, rocks and bad decisions.
Holdall
Every outdoorsman needs a proper bag – something he can throw in the back of a truck, drag through a field, or carry on a short weekend trip. It should be big, tough, and vaguely weather-resistant. Waxed canvas or ballistic nylon preferred.
Sunglasses
The kind that look good on a glacier or behind the wheel. Go for something polarised, high-coverage, and built to take a knock or two. Outdoor-appropriate shades should lean function-first, but still have enough style to survive the pub garden.
Technical cap
Not a baseball cap. A technical cap – something with a bit of engineering to it. It should be breathable, quick-drying, and ideally crushable. The sort of thing you can stuff in a pocket, then pull out hours later without looking like a dishevelled scout leader.
Socks
A small gift, but a good one. Proper boot socks are warm, comfortable and crucially, prevent blisters. Thick wool blends work best, but make sure they’re still breathable. Add a few in and it instantly makes the rest of your gift look more considered.
Cool box
For road trips, fishing days, or just making sure the beer’s still cold by sunset. A good cool box should keep things chilled for days, not hours. It’s one of those items he’ll never buy for himself, but will use religiously once he owns one.
Sporty watch strap
A small upgrade that makes a big difference. If he wears a smartwatch – Garmin, Apple, or anything vaguely athletic – chances are it’s still on the default strap it came with. Swapping it for something rugged and well-designed instantly makes it feel more purposeful. It’s more comfortable, better for sweat, and tougher than those flimsy silicone bands. Look for one with a proper buckle and a bit of texture – the kind that looks as good on a trail run as it does with a rugby shirt and jeans.
Campsite cookware
No outdoorsman worth his salt cooks directly on a fire with a stick. A proper camping cookware set means real meals: fresh coffee, hot breakfasts, maybe even a stew. Think compact, modular, and ideally non-stick. Titanium if you’re showing off.
Flask
A classic gift, and still a good one. Whether it’s for whisky, coffee or just hot water on a cold morning, a vacuum flask always comes in handy. Go for something simple, sturdy, and ideally built like it could survive a bear attack.
For more gifting inspiration, see 35 gifts for athletes.
