From trail gear and camp coffee to innovative tents and mountain bike accessories and more, these Father’s Day gift ideas celebrate a life lived outdoors.
MEC Odyssey Dry Tote
The Odyssey Dry Tote is one of those deceptively simple pieces of gear that quickly earns a permanent place in the car trunk, boat hatch, canoe thwart or cottage mudroom. Available in 20L, 40L and 60L sizes, it combines the convenience of an open-top tote with the weather protection of a dry bag. The wide-mouth design makes it easy to toss in towels, extra layers and anything that needs to stay dry, while the roll-top closure seals out rain, spray and sand. A structured base helps it stand upright for easy loading and unloading, and comfortable shoulder straps make hauling heavy gear surprisingly manageable. For dads who spend weekends at the beach, on the boat or at the campsite, the Odyssey is an ideal rugged hauler built for any-weather adventures. –ML Staff
Mons Royale Diversion Merino Trail Shorts
Built for demanding days in the saddle, the Mons Royale Diversion Merino Trail Shorts combine trail-ready durability with the natural performance benefits of merino wool. Designed with an articulated on-bike fit, they move comfortably with the rider. The merino blend helps regulate temperature, manage moisture and resist odour, while nylon fibres add the toughness needed for repeated rides. An elasticated waistband and slide-lock button ensure a secure fit, while zipped pockets with mesh vents provide convenient storage and extra airflow. Neither too baggy nor too slim, the Diversion strikes a balance for trail riding, from quick laps to all-day sessions. –Todd Lawson
AirNEST 3+ | Inflatable Shelter System
The latest in tent innovation comes from Whistler-based RISE Outdoor. The AirNEST solves two of camping’s biggest problems: the time and hassle of set up (and take down) and the sh*tty sleep that most people experience when camping. They’ve accomplished this by incorporating a wall-to-wall queen-size mattress built right in (no more slipping off separate air pads) and a Push-Button Pitch™ inflation system that erects the tent fully in less than two minutes. –ML Staff
Check out their killer Father’s Day special at: riseoutdoor.ca
Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Machine
For java lovers who refuse to settle for instant coffee at camp, the Wacaco Nanopresso delivers remarkable espresso in a compact, travel-friendly package. Weighing just 336 grams and small enough to slip into a backpack pocket, it uses a hand-powered pump system to generate the pressure needed for rich extraction and an authentic crema. Setup takes a little practice, but once dialled in, the Nanopresso produces consistently smooth shots whether you’re at a campsite, trailhead or hotel room. Its durable construction stands up well to life on the go, and cleanup is simple. For outdoorists, road trippers and anyone who takes their coffee seriously, the Nanopresso offers café-quality espresso far beyond the reach of the nearest barista. –Todd Lawson
MiiR Airlock Coffee Canister
Dad likes his beans fresh and portable, so he also needs the Airlock Coffee Canister. Designed to hold a standard 12-ounce bag of beans or grounds, the canister features an improved inner seal that locks in freshness by forcing air out with a simple press-and-release mechanism. Constructed from 90% recycled 18/8 stainless steel, it combines maximum durability with a minimalist design. Seattle-based MiiR has built a reputation for creating thoughtfully designed drinkware and coffee gear while prioritizing environmental and social responsibility. Whether for camping, travel or home use, the Airlock Coffee Canister is a first-rate vessel.
Arcade Aero Mag Adventure Belt
The best-ever belt for active dads is now even better. Arcade’s new Aero Mag Belt features a magnetic SwiftLock buckle that snaps together effortlessly for one-handed use and stays securely fastened, no matter how punishing the adventure. The Performance Stretch Pro webbing moves naturally with the body without sacrificing strength, with enhanced abrasion resistance for long-term wear. (We’ve had one Arcade belt for 10 years and it is still going strong.) The Aero Mag’s micro-adjustable design allows for a precise, custom fit, while the webbing is made from 85% recycled REPREVE polyester. Ultralight, metal-free and travel-friendly, it’s designed to handle everything from daily wear to the most demanding missions with ease. –Ned Morgan
Helly Hansen LIFA Active Solen Hoodie
Built for long days under punishing sun, the LIFA Active Solen Hoodie combines lightweight comfort with serious performance. The LIFA Active fabric excels at moving moisture away from the skin, helping keep hikers, paddlers, sailors and trail runners cool, dry and protected during high-output adventures. The UPF 50+ protection is woven into the fabric itself, so it won’t wash out over time. And thoughtful details such as thumbholes, an adjustable hood, and a hang loop add everyday practicality. The hoodie also incorporates Ocean Bound recycled materials—plastic debris collected from coastal areas before it can reach the ocean. The result is a versatile tech layer that delivers all-day comfort, comprehensive sun protection and a smaller enviro footprint. –ML Staff
Victorinox Ranger Pocket Knife
The Ranger carries forward a legacy that began in 1897, when Swiss cutler Karl Elsener created the original Swiss Army Knife. More than a century later, Victorinox remains synonymous with precision, durability and ingenious design. Built for outdoor pros and weekend explorers alike, the Ranger packs 21 tools into a powerful but streamlined fold-up package. From its large and small blades to wood saw, metal file, chisel and sewing awl, every feature is designed to handle the unexpected. Bottle and can openers, multiple screwdrivers, scissors, tweezers and a toothpick add everyday versatility. Whether you’re working deep in the woods or tackling jobs around camp or home, the Ranger is an ever-dependable companion when stuff needs to get done. –Ned Morgan
Shotgun Pro EVO Child MTB Seat
Child bike seats weren’t designed to fit modern mountain bikes—until now. The Pro EVO is the world’s first 2-in-1 child bike seat designed specifically for MTBs. Mountain-biking dads can change the harnessed setup (for 9-24 months) into the Pro seat for kids 2-5 years with a few simple adjustments. The result is one seat with two safe and comfortable setups, for four years of trail adventure. The Pro EVO fits almost all regular and electric mountain bikes with a standard 1 1/8th steerer and 10mm of clearance under the stem. –Todd Lawson
CARRYX 27L Duffel
Somewhere between packing my kids’ colouring books and my wife’s sunglasses, I usually realize I haven’t packed a thing for myself. That’s why the CARRYX Duffel impressed me so quickly: it made my own gear feel unusually organized. Its structured, box-like design is the real magic. Instead of collapsing into a pile, the bag stands open and packs neatly, making short work trips between Jasper and neighbouring Rockies communities far less chaotic. I’ve comfortably fit my publisher essentials—laptop, notebooks, camera, charging cords—alongside a change of clothes and overnight basics, without digging around for missing items later. The compartments feel genuinely useful, and the ergonomic design makes carrying it surprisingly comfortable. I haven’t yet had the chance to fly with the CARRYX, but at 27L it feels tailor-made for air travel, especially as an underseater carry-on. Mostly, though, it’s a bag that creates the illusion that I actually have my life together—which, as a travelling dad, might be its best feature. –Bob Covey
SPY+ Cyrus Switch sunglasses
On the water or in the alpine, the Cyrus Switch sunglasses offer premium polarization and protection against harmful blue-light rays while also blending bold design, peak performance and creative versatility. With a single, magnetically interchangeable lens, it adapts effortlessly, delivering multiple looks (two lenses included) in one frame while maintaining the enhanced colour, contrast, comfort and function that define SPY+. –Feet Banks
BlackStrap Evap Active Short
Designed for hot-weather adventures, the Evap Active Short blends performance, comfort and versatility in an exceptionally lightweight package. Made with quick-drying, breathable poly (54% recycled), this short with 7″ inseam features evaporative cooling technology that helps regulate body temperature so you’re never clammy when conditions heat up. Four-way stretch construction allows unrestricted movement whether you’re hiking, paddling, climbing, cycling or swimming off the sailboat. Practical details include hand pockets, a zippered rear pocket and a built-in key loop to keep essentials secure while on the move. The Evap Active Short delivers the unbeatable wet/dry versatility active dads need all summer long.
KEEN Roam Trail Running Shoe
Designed to blur the line between road and trail, the Roam is a versatile runner built for everything from city sidewalks to gravel paths and rocky trails. Its roomy Original Fit gives toes space to spread naturally, while a contoured arch provides supportive comfort over long distances. Underfoot, QuantumFoam cushioning balances responsiveness and durability, delivering a smooth ride whether you’re exploring new vert or mellow singletrack. The KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN rubber outsole pairs with a multi-directional lug pattern for confident traction across mixed surfaces. A durable ripstop mesh upper and breathable lining help keep feet comfortable, while Eco Anti-Odour tech keeps stench at bay. The result is an adaptable shoe ready for any off-road run. –ML Staff
HOVERAir X1 PROMAX
The small but mighty X1 PROMAX can pilot itself—and follow you into an almost unlimited adventuresphere. At under 192 g, the X1 PROMAX is so compact that even the DJI Mini looks massive by comparison. Designed for pre-programmed autonomous flight (but with a phone-controlled manual mode too) this palm-sized drone will launch from your hand, track your movements and record 4K or 8K footage (as well as RAW or JPEG stills). It’s a bit pricier than its main competitor (DJI Flip) but offers significantly more kick. It’s a premium content tool for hikers, cyclists, climbers, runners and any outdoor creators who want high-concept capture without carrying heavy gear or relying on someone else to fly a drone. Its folding design, combined with a full protective-but-flexible cage around the propellers, means you can slip it into a coat pocket or toss it into a backpack without worrying about damage. It’s a powerful gadget you’ll bring along without a second thought, right next to your jackknife, phone and granola bar. –Ned Morgan
www.hoverair.com
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