If you are shopping for skier gifts, we have ideas to help! Here’s our annual list of the best skier gifts for your favorite backcountry skier. You can also check out our recommended gift ideas from last season.
Check out our 2024 skier gift ideas.
1. North Drinkware Hand-Blown Glassware – $56
North Drinkware – From Mt. Baker to Mt Fuji and Camel’s Hump to the Maroon Bells, you can pick your local mountains or one on your bucket list. North Drinkware makes handblown glassware with 3D mountains formed into the cups. Handmade in Portland, OR, these things are rad. They even have unbreakable plastic outdoor versions. Available directly from North Drinkware $56.
2. Garmin Instinct 2 Solar GPS Adventure Watch – $199 – $299
Garmin Instinct 2 GPS Watch – It’s all about the numbers! If your favorite skier (or runner, hiker, cyclist) doesn’t have a Garmin GPS watch, they’re gonna love this idea. The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar watch tracks your heart rate, routes, vertical, sleep, etc. It’s great for running, cycling, hiking, resort skiing, backcountry skiing: you name it, and you can track it. The solar option adds to battery life. It’s rugged, easy to use and waterproof. It’s a no-brainer. And it’s on sale at REI Garmin Instinct 2 Solar GPS Watch – $299. The non-solar version is on sale for $199
3. Roll Recovery Foam Roller – $60
Roll Recovery R4 Foam Roller – Anyone who prioritizes mountain adventure knows the importance of body fitness to make the most of every outing. Foam rollers are an easy addition to the daily or weekly body maintenance routine. Foam rollers are simple, versatile tools that let you target numerous parts of your body to release muscle tension, increase blood flow and help to keep your body doing what you love. There are loads of rollers on the market, but we’ve been using the Roll Recover R4. The R4 is a pro-caliber and super versatile roller for all the primary muscle groups related to skiing, cycling, hiking and running. Its high-density foam exterior uses proprietary EVA foam and is designed for deep massage. Help your favorite skier take care of their body. Roll Recovery R4 $60
4. Outdoor Research Deviator Hoodie – $229
Outdoor Research Deviator Hoodie – A lot of jackets claim versatility and breathability. The Outdoor Research Deviator Hoodie really lives up to the claims. Every backcountry skier, trail runner and all-season hiker can appreciate the Deviator. It’s lightly insulated and wind-resistant on the front, with highly breathable grid fleece on the back and under the arms. It’s the perfect uphill skin track jacket, a great cold weather trail running jacket and plenty comfy to wear anytime. It’s also light and packable and available for men and women. It comes in a vest style, too. It’s a go-to layer for backcountry and nordic skiing and trail-based hikes or runs anytime the weather cools down. Outdoor Research Deviator Hoodie $229
5. Rocky Talkie Radios – $110 – $180
Rocky Talkie Backcountry Radios – Rocky Talkie has elevated the standard for handheld radios. They offer two models — a standard 2-watt radio and a pro-caliber 5-watt radio. From their weatherproof construction to their simple interface and great range, these radios are built for backcountry use. We’ve been using the 5-watt models since last season, and we dig them. Set up your ski partner for a safe winter season with the gift of communication. Rocky Talkie Backcountry Radios $110 – $180 All radios are 20% off 11/26-12/5
6. Whirly Board Balance Trainer – $159
Skiing is about balance. Help your favorite skier hone their balance with a Whirly Board. We’ve been using a Whirly Board in the office this fall. Like a bongo board or one of the many variations that roll from side to side on a cylinder, the Whirly Board adds an extra dimension with 360-degree movement. It’s harder than it looks at first, but as you build up your balance skills, you’ll find it supports agility and keeps all the systems that you engage to stay upright on your skis firing fast. They’ve got a few different models, including a wide edition for use at a standing desk. Whirly Board Balance Trainer – $159+
7. Garmin InReach Mini Satelite Communication
Garmin InReach Mini – Satellite communication for any adventure. Garmin set the standard for satellite comms with the InReach. The InReach Mini steps it up with a more compact unit and better phone app interface that makes remote communications easier than ever. Carrying an InReach Mini is peace of mind. It lets you send texts on your phone via satellite link to update status, initiate a rescue or simply check in with friends and family. It’s the backup plan and the I’m-running-late-don’t-worry plan. It’s easy to use and nice and small for the most dedicated gram counters. Garmin InReach Mini – $299 (on sale until 11/25/24!)
8. Home Ski Waxing Kit – $110
Everyone appreciates smooth-gliding skis. There’s no better way to guarantee great glide than to wax your own boards. There are lots of ski wax kits out there. We picked this Dakine waxing and tuning kit because it’s a great price and includes more than just wax and an iron. You get basic tuning tools (edger, file, wire brush) and a nice zip carry case, too. Do your favorite skier a favor (or yourself) and start waxing your own boards. Dakine Ski Waxing Kit – $108 (on sale until 11/25/24)
