Hikers love gear, which makes holiday shopping for trail-mad friends and family so much fun. They get excited about all kinds of outdoor products, there’s always a ton of innovative new tech out there, and you know they’ll put their gifts to good use. From an ultralight puffy to ultratough socks, these eight picks from REI will please any hiker on your list—and are sure to keep you on the short list for future adventures.
You’ll never go wrong with the gift of weather protection. The REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket seals out precipitation and wind, courtesy of a 2.5-layer HydroWall© waterproof membrane. The adult version is also packed with user-friendly features, including pit zips for venting, zippered hand pockets, and two internal drop-in pockets for stashing items you want to keep dry.
Sealed seams and soft-touch fabric complete the build of a jacket that will stand strong when the rain rolls in. Bonus: It comes in kids’ versions that are just as protective. Nearly everyone has a fleece jacket.
But few have one like this. The Arc’teryx Covert Cardigan boasts durable, supple recycled polyester fabric that provides midweight warmth and top-notch comfort, with an updated design that’s now even more resistant to abrasion and pilling. Plus, the sleek, minimalist look goes everywhere, so this fleece is the kind of gift that keeps giving.
When conditions call for cozy, this fleece pullover delivers. The polyester fabric is soft and warm and the half-zip design enhances insulation. The men’s version has stretch binding at the collar, cuffs, and hem, plus a kangaroo pocket.
The women’s version has stretch binding at the collar and cuffs and a slightly cropped hem with a drawcord. Both have a zippered chest pocket and maximum coziness. The hiker on your list either has a Nano Puff Jacket or covets one.
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