The Best Presents Often Come in Small Packages

Published December 17, 2021 03:30AM

Many of us have been there: we wrongly assumed that the giant box under the Christmas tree held the best gift, only to discover it was something like a microwave. It turns out the old saw “Good things come in small packages” is often right. Here are our favorite stocking stuffers that we guarantee your outdoorsy friends and family will love.

Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8×25 Monocular ($75)

Binoculars aren’t only for hunters and birders. Whether you’re sitting in your yard or out on the skin track, they can offer a whole new perspective to any view—added details, or animals in the distance you might otherwise fail to spot. If you don’t want to carry a full pair, this monocular is a great compromise, because it fits in the chest pocket of a jacket but features sharp optics and an 8x magnification for a very reasonable price.

Electric x Jason Momoa Knoxville XL Sunglasses ($160)

Actor Jason Momoa has been on a tear lately—Dune, See, and a host of other productions. Somewhere in between, he worked with Electric to release these environmentally friendly glasses, with frames made of a plant-based bio-resin (plus a bag made from recycled nylon). I love the larger fit and that a portion of each sale is being donated to Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii, a nonprofit that Momoa regularly works with.

Proof 72-Hour Merino Crew Socks ($32 for a Two-Pack)

The only socks I wear are from Proof. That’s because they’re the perfect do-everything option for my feet. The wool naturally cuts down on stink, so I can keep them on for two or even three days in a row, they’re padded enough for long hikes, and their basic patterns look great with jeans and khakis alike.

Tanner Goods Classic Belt ($105)

With this belt, it’s literally one and done—you shouldn’t have to buy another belt ever again. Constructed from a thick, eco-friendly vegetable-tanned leather, the belt will hold your pants up for decades and only look better with wear. Although it’s available in several different colors, including black and dark brown, I’m a big fan of the classic tan. (Tip: the belt fits best one size larger than your standard pant size.)

Patagonia Brodeo Beanie ($35)

There are hundreds of classic fisherman beanies, but I choose to top my noggin with the Brodeo. Patagonia uses recycled wool and nylon for its version. I often wear mine all day—donning it for a brisk morning hike, keeping it on during my time at the office, and only pulling it off after walking the dogs.

Apple Third Generation AirPods ($170)

I’m still not exactly sure how spatial audio works, but I think it helps these AirPods sound significantly better than previous gens. All music genres are richer and clearer, which make the earbuds an absolute pleasure to use. I also dig the smaller size, because they stay put better when I’m exercising.

Give’r Classic Gloves ($55)

Keep these gloves in your rig and you’ll find a dozen uses for them this winter. I’ve pulled mine on to cut a Christmas tree, ski, change a tire, and throw snowballs at my kids. Made from a quality leather that will endure despite tons of abuse, they come with a simple beeswax coating that makes them mostly waterproof. A Thinsulate lining adds warmth but doesn’t kill dexterity.

Timex Expedition North Field Post Solar 41-Millimeter Watch ($160)

I love my Apple Watch, but when I don’t want something buzzing on my wrist, this is my go-to timepiece. It’s an affordable and beautifully designed Timex, designed with a forest green band, matching face, and durable stainless-steel case. And behind the face it sports a solar panel, keeping it ticking for up to four months.

Andersson and Copra Urban Husky Sandvik Steel Knife ($160)

Is this the most easy-to-use knife I’ve ever tested? Not really. But I’ve included it because it’s so damn beautiful and unique from other knives I’ve reviewed in the past. Its Swedish-made stainless steel is great for everyday tasks, while the copper outer is a pleasure to hold in your hand. I also dig the accompanying leather sheath.