This post is sponsored by Backcountry. Thank you for supporting, Simply Taralynn
The holidays are just around the corner, and per usual, I’ve barely started gift shopping. In case you’re in the same boat as me, I’ve decided to put together a little gift guide to help you kickstart your holiday shopping. I’m partnering up with Backcountry today to share some fantastic pieces that’ll excite your friends and family, especially the outdoor lovers. Backcountry has provided a discount code to my readers for 15% off your first purchase at Backcountry.com! Use code TARALYNN15 at checkout! It’s always great to save a little during holiday shopping, and if you’re on a tight deadline, no worries! Backcountry offers free 2-day shipping on all orders over $50!
Backcountry has a ton of stylish, yet technical, clothing from different brands to wear for your everyday activities. Whether it’s yoga, hiking, running errands, they’ll have something that fits your lifestyle. Backcountry supplies items from the best brands such as Arc’Teryx, Patagonia, Fjallraven, Black Diamond, and more! I’ve been introduced to some new brands after looking at their website!
I’ll tell you why hats are my favorite Christmas gift. I’m a true believer in that you can’t have too many hats. Hats are also great for keeping your shopping list budget-friendly. When it comes to hats, you don’t have to worry about the stress of choosing the right size or fit. Most hats are one size fits all, so it makes it pretty easy. You can read all the customer reviews under the product’s listing on the site. One thing that I love about purchasing items on Backcountry is that people are active on leaving reviews. This helps me when making a purchase! It’s nice to get a guys perspective while reading men’s reviews under products I’m about to purchase for my boyfriend.
Gloves and socks are also perfect gifts to receive during the holidays. I’m an avid sock loser, so it’s crucial for me to receive socks! The socks I’ve loved this year are the Smartwool socks for men and women. My entire family is getting a pair of them for Christmas. They are super comfortable and cozy! They contain layered wool in high-impact zones for extra cushion, have an arch brace that holds the sock in place to reduce blisters or bunching, no annoying seams at the toes, and made from merino wool to keep the moisture away from the foot. They are incredible for walking the dogs in the freezing temperatures in the winter. You can choose from many colors and sizes.
Speaking of Smartwool, have you tried out their gloves yet? They are the warmest! I think my main frustration with gloves in the winter is finding ones that aren’t bulky and keep your hands warm. The only gloves that have ever met my requirements are the Smartwool gloves. The Smartwool Striped Liner gloves are adorable, and they are everything you could dream of in a glove. Warm? Check! Soft? Check! Functional? Check! They come in a few different colors, and make the perfect stocking stuffer!
1. Backcountry Solstice Pom Beanie
I’ve been trying to find one with a pom on the top and fell in love with this Backcountry Solstice Pom beanie as soon as I saw it. This beanie is so thick and warm. Not an ounce of wind or cool air made its way through the hat, and I’ll always appreciate a beanie that does the job right.
2. Smartwool Hike Light Crew Sock – Men’s
These socks are super comfortable and cozy! They contain layered wool in high-impact zones for extra cushion, have an arch brace that holds the sock in place to reduce blisters or bunching, no annoying seams at the toes, and made from merino wool to keep the moisture away from the foot.
3. Coal Headwear Julietta Beanie – Women’s
These socks are super comfortable and cozy! They contain layered wool in high-impact zones for extra cushion, have an arch brace that holds the sock in place to reduce blisters or bunching, no annoying seams at the toes, and made from merino wool to keep the moisture away from the foot.
4. Smartwool Hike Medium Crew Sock – Women’s
5. Backcountry Men’s Watch Beanie
Kyle used to steal all my winter beanies, so I’m so excited that he has a few of his own now. These are always a great gift idea for men! I picked out the Backcountry Watch Beanie for him, and I was so happy with the quality. It was thick, warm, and durable. I loved all the neutral colors it came in but went with the olive color.
6. Smartwool Striped Liner Glove
One thing I wish I would have purchased years ago are these boots. Everyone needs a good pair of hiking boots that are water resistant, and these will light up anyone’s Christmas morning. I’ve been wearing these to walk the dogs in the morning because of how cold it is outside, and they help keep me from sliding on ice. My boots are the Danner Jag Hiking Boot. They are lightweight and made up of suede and canvas material. They are super comfortable and cushioned which it makes feel like I’m walking on a foam mattress. These are perfect if you’re hiking in a wet area because they contain waterproof lining to keep your feet dry. The waffle rubber outsole grip helps you walk safely across a variety of surfaces
Kyle picked out the Vasque Sundowner GTX backpacking boot. He said they were the most comfortable boots he’s ever worn. They are also waterproof, full-grain leather, and have a midfoot stabilizer. The sizing ran true to size for him as well. If you’re looking to get a gift for your significant other, these would be perfect!
Coats are also great gifts for the outdoor lovers! We found some pretty amazing coats this year, and they would be great additions to your holiday shopping. Oh, and if you’re shopping for a runner Backcountry is filled with running gear, shoes, and fitness trackers!
1. Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Jacket – Women’s
I have had a black Patagonia jacket on my wishlist for so long. I love that it’s lightweight so I can wear thick sweaters underneath. The insulation helps you stay warm during the brutally cold winter days. When you’re hiking, it’s always annoying to walk through unexpected sharp thorns grabby branches that easily rip your coat. The Patagonia Nano Puff jacket has recycled ripstop exterior to prevent those rips and tears! It’s like they’ve thought of everything. There are two external and internal pockets for gloves, dog treats, doggy waste bags, and more. I kept my vlogging camera in one of the pockets while hiking on Saturday. This jacket comes in ten colors! I think this coat looks good with a pair of jeans or leggings. It’s almost unbelievable that a jacket this lightweight can keep you so warm. I’m incredibly excited about this one!
2. Danner Jag Hiking Boot – Women’s
3. Baseball Hat Made For The Mountains
I think this is such a cute gift for an outdoor lover. It’s lightweight and has a snapback to adjust the size.
4. Brooks Ricochet Running Shoes – Women’s
I did a few tests runs with these new running shoes, and I was pretty impressed with how comfortable and light they were. You can read all the details on their running shoes to help you select the right pair!
5. Patagonia Isthmus Jacket – Men’s
Not a day goes by where I don’t hear “I love this jacket” from Kyle! The men’s Isthmus jacket is made from sturdy wind and water resistant material. This is why I’ve added the coat to my dad’s holiday gift list. He does so much woodwork outside, and this is the perfect coat that’ll hold up without all the wear and tear. I think it’s pretty cool that the insulation is eco-friendly and made with recycled material. If you are looking for the perfect winter coat to gift this holiday season to your dad, boyfriend, brother, or whomever, you will want to check out this jacket!
6. Vasque Sundowner GTX Backpacking Boot – Men’s
Comfortable bottoms all day and every day is my motto! Backcountry has a large collection of bottoms for activities or lounging. I have jeans, leggings, and joggers from Backcountry that I live in daily. The reviews have been helpful when it comes to sizing up or down, so I haven’t had to return anything yet.
Below are four of my must-have bottoms!
1. Prana Pillar Leggings
I thought I had already owned the most comfortable and flexible leggings until I put on the Prana Pillar Leggings. I spend about 70% of the colder months in leggings, so I’ll be purchasing a couple more of these. Legging purchases can be complicated because they have to fit in all the right places, have flexibility, and the fabric has to be light, but not seethrough. The fabric breathes well for physical activities, and I love the small hidden pocket for things like keys or dog treats. I’m that girl that always has dog treats in my pockets!
2. On The Go Backcountry Joggers – Women’s
I just got these in the mail yesterday, and cannot wait to take them on my trip next weekend! P.S They are 25% off on the site right now. They are comfortable, stretchy, and can be worn out hiking, or out shopping. So versatile!
3. Beyond Yoga Spacedye High Waisted Midi Legging – Women’s
The word “soft” is an understatement for these. When you read the reviews for these leggings, you’ll understand why I adore these! They run true to size!
4. Backcountry Super Stretch Twill Pants – Women’s
I first got them in midnight color but then NEEDED them in olive. They are called “super stretch” for a reason! I can’t get over how well these are made. I’ve always been a “hike in leggings” type of person, but these pants have entirely changed my mind. They are the type of pants you can wear on a hike, but also style them a bit differently for a day at work. I love the zipper detail at the bottom, and the deep pockets are functional (finally.) My cell phone fits in the pockets with room leftover. After reading reviews, I sized up, and they were right! They fit perfect. These pants will fit into any lifestyle.
Bags are just like hats when it comes to gift buying, you can never have too many, and you don’t have to worry about finding the right size! There are so many bags to choose from on Backcountry! I’ve been introduced to a lot of cool new brands that I’m now a fan of after browsing their selection. Bags are perfect for traveling, hiking, road trips, for camera equipment, the beach, and almost any occasion!
1. Patagonia Arbor 20L Daypack
When we hike with the dogs, we make sure to always pack their treats, extra water, bowls, a doggy first aid kit, and wipes in a backpack. This Patagonia Arbor 20L Daypack is adorable, and light for trail walks. Not only is it great for the trail, but it’s great for traveling. The material is thick and sturdy with so many useful pockets. The design is made up of recycled polyester that provides durability and weather resistance for rainy days.
2. Backcountry Trekker 60L Duffel Bag
This duffel bag is high on my gift list for men! It’s perfect for the gym, or for traveling. I love the olive color and the high-quality material of the bag. I love the backpack straps to make traveling easier.
3. Patagonia Lightweight Travel 22L Tote
Lightweight Travel Tote is made from a supple, featherweight ripstop fabric and stuffs away into its own pocket for easy storage!
4. Patagonia Lightweight Travel Mini 1L Hip Pack
If you don’t have a fanny pack, you’re missing out. They are so convenient for holding car keys, phones, a small camera, chapstick, bandaids, or snacks. I’ll even take one with me while walking the dogs in the neighborhood for their waste bags, my phone, and treats. The pack I’m wearing is the Mini Patagonia Lightweight Travel Pack. It’s a perfect size and comes in different colors. It’s water resistant, which is so convenient for keeping your electronics safe. The color options for these fanny packs are so much fun.
5. Fjallraven Pocket Shoulder Bag
I’ve recently been diving into the YouTube world. Most of my adventures are now filmed, and its so much fun! I found it difficult to carry around my camera for vlogging, a camera for photography, and my cell phone. This pocket purse is a lifesaver! The material is heavy duty and holds my vlogging camera, credit card, and cell phone perfectly. I don’t have to juggle everything in my hands or jean pockets anymore. It comes in more than eleven colors, and I wish I could have them all. I went with the plum color. You can also adjust the straps to make it fall where you prefer. I highly recommend this to everyone!
6. Fjallraven Kanken No.2 16L Backpack
Tumblers, water bottles, mugs, outdoor cooking utensils, camping food, and everything you need for your next adventure is all available on Backcountry!
1. Hydro Flask 10oz Wine Tumbler
I thought these Hydro Flask wine tumblers would make the cutest gift for my mom! Now, she can take her chilled wine outside with her by the pool without having to worry about it getting warm.
2. Backcountry Ceramic Mugs
These mugs have been some of the most popular on my blog! Even my brother wanted to know where I got them. They are heavy duty ceramic and only $12.95!
3. Hydro Flask 16oz True Pint
My brother lives about five minutes from the beach and enjoys a nice pale ale! I thought this would be a great gift for him so he could take his beer to go and have it be nice and cold when he gets down to the beach!
4. Backcountry x Hydro Flask Medallion Logo Water Bottle – 32 oz
This water bottle is next to me all day 24/7! It’s been helping me drink more water, and I love how my water stays cold all day long. I can put ice in it early in the morning, forget about it, and the ice is still there later in the evening. It’s incredible! This is a great gift for anyone!
5. YETI Limited Edition Rambler Mug – 14oz
The Yeti Limited Edition Ramber Mug is one of my favorites, and not only because it’s pink! It’s a perfect size and so convenient for taking my coffee with me during my morning dog walks.
6. United by Blue John Muir Enamel Steel Mug
The perfect mug for your outdoor lovers! I have an uncle who lives in Seattle who loves the mountains and coffee, so this would be perfect for him!
I live in and live for cozy sweaters! You can’t go wrong with gifting the lady in your life, sister, or mom a soft layer! Here are some of my favorite layers I have from Backcountry!
1. Stoic Popcorn Knit Pullover
I wear this pullover under my Nano Puff Jacket almost every morning when walking the pups. I became a big fan of Stoic after ordering my first piece on Backcountry. The quality of their items is unbelievable! The fabric is thick and so soft. After reading all of the reviews, I knew I had to have it. I would normally wear a medium, but after reading the reviews I ordered a small, and it fit perfectly. If you’re a lover of good quality comfort, this pullover has your name (or I mean whoever you’re giftings name) all over it.
2. Stoic Texture Knit Scoop Pullover
No such thing as too many Stoic pieces. This is another one of my favorite tops I own now, and I spend a lot of my evenings lounging in it. The material makes you feel like you’re swimming in silk. This is the type of sweater you can live in and never take off. It’s cozy, lightweight, and it’ll fit any occasion. This pullover is perfect for the hikes that are hot one moment and cold the next. This sweater is appropriate for all four seasons. The sleeves are oversized, which is perfect for comfort. My mom tried it on, and I was afraid she wasn’t going to give it back, so this is a good gift candidate for her! This one runs a little big, so size down.
3. Smartwool Merino 250 Baselayer Crew – Women’s
The warmest shirt for winter layering and it comes in many colors! Take this top with you to the ski resort.
4. Backcountry Crewneck Sweatshirt – Women’s
This sweatshirt is the best! I love the fit, and the lining inside is softer than you could ever imagine! It’s functional and great for activities.
5. Patagonia Los Gatos 1/4-Zip Jacket – Women’s
Pullovers are another one of my favorite items to rock during the colder months, especially while hiking. I loved this Patagonia Los Gatos pullover so much that I had to have it in several colors. It’s SO warm! You can tell how soft it is just by looking at it. Because it’s slim fit, I recommend sizing up for whoever you’re buying for!
6. Patagonia Organic Cotton Quilt Snap-T Pullover Sweatshirt – Women’s
This Patagonia pullover has quickly become one of my favorite items I own. Patagonia pieces are made to last. This pullover is so cozy and made from soft organic cotton. The classic diamond quilted pattern works as an effective heat-trapping system, which is going to come in handy while walking the dogs this winter. I love that the collar stands up to keep your neck warm. Now, I’ll need to get this in every color, and I’ll be set.
I think dogs are the most fun to shop for!
If your dogs are active and love being out in nature with you, then you’ll enjoy the dog section Backcountry provides. You’ll be able to find Ruffwear dog beds, boots, collars, leashes, portable bowls, doggy medical kits, toys, blankets, and more.
1. Barbour Dog Blanket
Our dogs love soft blankets to lay on! This blanket has a cotton exterior, and it’s toasty-warm because of the sherpa fleece interior!
2. Barbour Dog Grooming Gift Set
3. Ruffwear Urban Sprawl Dog Bed
The most durable dog bed to go with the Barbour Dog Blanket! This is the perfect outdoor dog bed because it can be easily cleaned and it’s made with heavy-duty material to stay protected.
4. Ruffwear Knot-A-Leash
The long Knot-A-Leash is also Ruffwear, and I love that it matches the harness. I like this leash because Leo isn’t a “puller” so it allows him to have some lead and feel like he’s roaming free without being off leash. The quality of the rope is fantastic, and it’s made well and built to last for years.
5. Ruffwear Hi & Light Harness
For the past two years, we have been big fans of Ruffwear for the dogs. I get asked about these heavy-duty harnesses daily! The harnesses that Grumples and Leo are wear come in different sizes, colors, and have a pocket on the top to store things like keys, treats, doggy bags, or an emergency kit. Plus, they look so stinkin’ cute in them! The dogs put these harnesses to the test! They’ve swam with them in the ocean, the lake, and have worn them on some pretty rainy hikes. They hold up perfectly! Since our dogs wear them several times a day, we wash them at the end of the month by soaking them in the sink with a drop of detergent, rinse them, and let them air dry. They always come out looking brand new.
6. Ruffwear Bivy Dog Bowl
This portable dog bowl has been our savior! We take it with us to the dog park because we don’t like our dogs drinking out of the fountains there, we take them to the trails, and on long car rides.
Backcountry offers so many gifts for the camper, skier, or adventurer in your life!
1. Fitbit Charge 2 HR Fitness Watch
I’m most excited about this gift for my Dad. He’s in his 60’s, and his health is his number one priority! He’s very active outdoors and always building things. I thought the Fitbit would be a great way for him to keep track of his heart rate, steps, and as a way to motivate him to keep moving. To me, this is a gift that shows you care! Backcountry has great fitness watches available on their website. The reviews for this watch were unbelievable! Here are some of the watch’s details:
2. Sunglasses!
This is one of the easiest gifts for the man in your life. My brother, dad, and boyfriend are all getting a pair of sunglasses for Christmas this year.
3. Jetboil Zip Cooking System
You can’t forget to gift yourself. My best friend and I have planned a camping trip for Spring, so I’m getting a headstart on purchasing the essentials. We can’t wait for this goat worthy moment!
This is going to come in handy for making morning protein oats, coffee, and tea! This is an excellent gift for the camper or early morning hiker in your life. It’s lightweight and will fit well in a backpack.
4. YETI Roadie 20 Cooler
If you want to gift someone the ultimate gift, it’s the YETI Roadie 20 Cooler! The YETI is great for trips, boating, camping, a day at the pool, the beach, or wherever! I bet a YETI cooler is on most wish lists! They are the best quality coolers around, and so worth it! I loved the blue color and cannot wait to take it with us on our beach trips.
5. Stanley Classic 64oz Vacuum Growler + Adventure 12oz Stacking Steel Tumblers Gift Set
These steel tumblers are so perfect for anyone! I thought they’d be great for driving around with hot chocolate this Christmas, or for providing coffee for everyone after a morning workout, or hike! I can’t wait to use them with the Jetboil Zip Cooking System on our spring hike! Just about anyone would be happy with these as a gift. They are heavy duty, dishwasher safe, and insulated to keep liquids warm or cool.
Not only does Backcountry carry the best gear for your next adventure, but they also carry the best items for your nights at home lounging around! I’ve decided to share a few extra items that are on my gift list this year! Some of my favorite brands that you would next expect are on Backcountry!
1. Free People Just My Stripe Pullover – Women’s
This sweater looks so soft and would pair nicely with the #4 Frye hat!
2. Fjallraven Ovik Card Holder – Men’s
You can never go wrong with a wallet for the man in your life! I bought Kyle a Frye wallet last year, and it’s his favorite. The Fjallraven is very budget-friendly and great for men!
3. UGG Aira Slipper – Women’s
Every woman deserves UGGS for Christmas, and these are priced perfectly! These are great for grandma, mom, sisters, friends, or anyone! Even the men’s UGGS are great for Dad!
4. Frye Addie Hat – Women’s
5. Birkenstock Arizona Sandal – Women’s
Men or Women could both use a pair of Birkenstocks! They are functional for when you need something to slide on before heading to the grocery store, or walking the town with a cup of coffee. They come in several colors and fit very true to size. They are a great sandal to invest in because you know they’ll last for many years with how durable they are built.
6. UGG Miranda Robe – Women’s
Not going to lie, this robe is #1 on my wishlist. It would be gifted perfectly with the slippers. It looks so perfect for at-home spa nights, and I don’t know any woman that wouldn’t love to receive this for Christmas!
I hope you guys enjoyed my gift guide. If you need more ideas, make sure to check out the gift guide on Backcountry’s website! If you do find something you love on Backcountry, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute at checkout to Backcountry and The Nature Conservancy to help support its mission of protecting the lands and waters on which all life depends. Backcountry has been a partner with The Nature Conservancy since 2008.
Oh, and don’t forget to treat yourself this season! 😉
Use code TARALYNN15 at checkout!
Questions for you!
- What other Backcountry items should I add to my gift guide?
- Are you done with holiday shopping yet?
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I’m not much of an outdoorsy person myself but lots of my friends are, so this is great! Very helpful for a clueless girl like me haha, thank you, Taralynn! 🙂 ❤️
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
They also have the best items for staying inside and cozy! 😉
Kenz says
I didn’t know Backcountry carried Yoga apparel! I’ve been a total yogi this year and need to freshen up my wardrobe.
Taralynn McNitt says
They have great yoga items!!!
Jessica Nuttall says
I would love to see more reviews on outerwear! I love coats, and need several different ones. One to wear to the horse barn, one for work, one for around town. Good coats are hard to find!
I am ALMOST done with Christmas shopping! Nothing like leaving it until the last minute!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol I’m a last-minue person as well!!
I’ll work on a coat outerwear review! If you are looking for the perfect coat for different occasions, Backcountry has gearheads available that can recommend the best of the best!
Emily Donlin says
I ordered the Stoic sweater after watching your video four nights ago and it arrived this morning! You are going to hurt my wallet and you’re right about needing it in every color!
Taralynn McNitt says
Isn’t it the coziest?!?! The great thing is how high-quality it is so it’ll last forever!
Rachel says
Girl I don’t know how you wait to Christmas shop! That stresses me out lol. I’ve been done with my shopping since Black Friday/cyber Monday. But I love this guide!! Definitely saving this for later 😀
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Rachel! I’ve always been a last-minuterrrr LOL I think it’s the pressure I do better under!
Meghan says
Your hiking style is serious goals! The outfits are so cute. I’m definitely going to be checking out Backcountry with my Christmas money! I’m trying to freshen up my workout clothes little by little, I feel like I have such a better workout when I’m feeling good about myself & my outfit, and I definitely need some new cool weather gear!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Meghan!
I feel the same about getting out there and working out when I have the perfect gear! 😃
Britt says
Jealous. I want a Yeti! We used to deck them out in college.
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ve seen some pretty cool decorated ones!
Hannah says
What size did you order your leggings in? Are you 5’8?
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes! 5’8 and ordered a medium!
Zira says
Taralynn, my dad loved his Yeti. Thank you for this gift guide. I bought the leggings for myself, and have been living in them all week long.
Taralynn McNitt says
That is so great, Zira!
James says
Thank you for these ideas
Taralynn McNitt says
Hope you had a great holiday!