As the countdown to the holiday begins, ML staff and partners offer a last-minute Gift Shed for the outdoorsy people on your list.
Stellar Free Padded Collection
Developed with input from freeriders around the globe, the Free Padded Concept from Swedish brand Stellar Equipment blends casual styling with tech performance for the ultimate mid-layers. Crafted with a Japanese fabric-insulation-stitching system, each garment provides unrestricted freedom of movement, high breathability and lofty warmth. Designed to work equally well as a mid-layer or as a stand-alone garment while touring, the Free Padded Collection (for women or men) offers easy-to-grab layers for winter travel days, down days and the adventures that follow.
Tip: The Free System has an oversized fit, designed to be worn baggy. If you prefer a more athletic fit, consider sizing down.
DUER: Pants from Plants
Ten years ago, Gary Lenett, the Vancouver entrepreneur whose global retail company will go plastic-free by 2028, wanted a pair of sustainable pants which would perform on his bike commute to work, but would also impress at work. As a writer, photographer, magazine publisher and active dad of two young kids, I also appreciate versatility in clothing. I work from home, but I have a regular enough requirement to look presentable, if not professional—if I meet a client, book a photoshoot or take a volunteer shift at my kids’ school. If I can do all of those things in one pair of pants, great. If I can also get a trail ride on my fat bike or squeeze in a wild ice skating session in those same pants, that’s worth something to me. DUER’s tagline is “the world’s most comfortable pants.” Unlike how the No Sweat Relaxed Taper men’s pants perform, that statement is not a stretch. This is a functional fashion line, made for modern outsiders who want their retail choices to feel good on the inside. From the ODR to the office, and from the PTI to the trail, these pants are for DUERs. –Bob Covey
Backpacker’s Pantry
$15 single unit
$85.50 6-unit case
Give the gift of meals that will keep for years! With roots stretching back to 1951, Backpacker’s Pantry meals are used worldwide by trekkers, sailors, extreme athletes, explorers, the military, hunters, campers and the US Ski Team. It may be freeze-dried/dehydrated survival food with a three-year shelf life, but it sure tastes fresh and satisfying. When you’re hovering over a camp stove on a backcountry ski or paddling trip, something this tasty and easy to prepare is truly a small miracle that will fuel and enhance all your outdoor pursuits.
Kari Traa Ruthie Midlayer
Kari Traa is not just a women’s sports brand founded by a three-time Olympic medalist—it’s an outdoor-obsessed community that celebrates femininity. Through quality materials and thoughtful designs, they believe in empowering women to tackle any challenge. With bold colour palettes, ultra-durable construction and Norwegian heritage, Kari Traa is more than a brand, it’s a positive life choice. You won’t want to take off the Ruthie Midlayer Half Zip, thanks to its relaxed fit and super-soft texture. Made with 100% recycled polyester, this pullover pile-fleece makes an ideal aprés layer, boasting extra coverage, hand pockets and a modern northern Norway-inspired pattern. Buy Kari Traa in Canada at Monod Sports, Sporting Life or Altitude Sports.
Patagonia SnowDrifter Bibs
$499
There are plenty of good reasons to go bib: the extra coverage, the suspenders, the chest pocket. If you needed another reason, here it is: Patagonia’s lightweight SnowDrifter Bibs (available for women or men) combine recycled, 3-layer stretch fabric with a minimalist design for H2No Performance Standard protection in the stormiest conditions and breathable, unrestrictive performance on the skintrack. Plus the fabric, membrane and DWR finish are made without intentionally added PFAS. And the bibs are made in a Fair Trade Certified factory and covered by Patagonia’s Ironclad Guarantee.
Kathmandu EVRY-Day Lined Cargo Pants
$119.95
With a cozy tricot interior lining for extra warmth, the EVRY-Day Lined Cargo Pants (for men or women) are quick-drying and made with durable 100% recycled nylon. These pants offer optimum performance benefits like PFC-free Durable Water Repellency, UPF 50+ protection, high abrasion resistance, articulated knees and two large cargo pockets (plus two hand pockets and a back pocket). Plus, there’s an integrated webbing belt and hidden bungee cord cuffs that you can adjust to fit. Perfect for cool-weather hiking, travel and everyday wear. In addition to using recycled materials, New Zealand-based Kathmandu is a certified B Corp.
No Normal Coffee
$18 single
$84.40 6-pack
No Normal Coffee is a new way to enjoy your favourite drink in the backcountry or while travelling anywhere you can’t find a decent cuppa. Just squeeze out a teaspoon of this gourmet Swiss-made coffee paste from the resealable tube and mix with hot water. The paste readily dissolves for the perfect Joe—flavourful, fresh-tasting, never sour or bitter. One tube provides up to 20 cups and can be stored unrefrigerated. The paste (which is lightly sweetened) can also be enjoyed without water as a spread on a banana, granola bar or bread—coffee sandwich, anyone?
Sunday Afternoons Frontier Cap
$68.00
The unisex Frontier Cap boasts impeccable eco cred, with a 100% recycled main body and 100% bluesign-certified and recycled wicking sweatband. From the UPF 50+ sun protection and insulating microfleece liner to the 100% recycled, fleece-lined earflaps that can be worn up or down, you won’t find a more versatile or protective hat against winter’s bite. The interior is stretchy for an adaptable fit. Packs flat for easy travel.
Vallon Ski Aviators
$175
The epitome of ’70s and ’80s cool, ski aviators were worn by hotdog skiers and Hollywood stars alike. Film icons Paul Newman and Robert Redford helped them carve out an indelible cultural impression while pioneer freestyle skier Wayne Wong simply carved up the slopes with them. After dominating freestyle culture for more than two decades, aviators fell off the map. Now, in two classically-inspired colours, Vallon has made it a company mission to bring back the funk. –Bob Covey
Crazy Creek Pack Table
$87
The 12” x 12” Crazy Creek Pack Table collapses down to a 6” x 6” x 2” cube for easy travel and storage. We also like the textured (no-slip) tabletop for security while preparing dinner or drinks. The legs adjust in 1-inch increments, ensuring stability on any terrain. It’s made from an ultra-durable recyclable polypropylene featuring a keystone and shock cord framework for added strength and support, while spring-assisted legs ensure upright position during setup. Use alongside Crazy Creek chairs or as an essential part of your camp kitchen.
Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket
$550
The Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket (for women or men) is built for alpine hiking and mountaineering pros, with warmth, low weight and small pack size at the heart of every design choice. It’s uniquely constructed with a high-quality goose down sheet instead of loose feathers to ensure zero cold spots. The insulated hood with elastic trim helps you stay warm while reducing overall bulk and weight. (The hem and cuffs boast the same trim.) A lightweight RECCO reflector is integrated for outdoor safety and searchability. The jacket packs down small into an included stuff sack, and the lining and shell are made with 100% recycled materials.
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