How do you know what to get the outdoorsy guy who has everything? He probably already has all the stuff he needs, right?
That doesn’t mean you can’t still surprise him with something he didn’t know he needed until now. If the man you’re shopping for is an avid hunter, angler, hiker, camper, or gear lover, there is something for him on this list.
I spend most of my free time outdoors and I’m meticulous about gear and gadgets. I don’t like to waste money on junk, but I won’t overspend on unnecessary fancy stuff. What I will do is spend way too much time researching almost every outdoor product I buy.
Some of these outdoor gifts for men are things that I own and love while others are on my own personal wish list. Several are products I’ve had the good fortune to test extensively for reviews here on Outdoor Empire.
So if you go with one of my outdoor gift ideas for men on this list, rest assured, it’s not junk and it will be appreciated. Happy hunting!
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Looking for something quick? Here are my top picks from this list.
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Top Pick
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Best Budget
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Most Manly
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$195.00
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$19.95
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$55.00
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Why We Like It:
This kit has everything you need to fish. It's a unique gift for backpackers, casual opportunists, and fishing fanatics.
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Why We Like It:
This keeps your frothy beverage cold forever without adding carbonation killing ice cubes. He'll take it everywhere.
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Why We Like It:
Not only is it a practical tool around camp with both a blade and a hammer, but it complements a beard like a boss.
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Outdoor Gifts for Men for $50 or Less
This pen can write in space. Why is that cool? Because it writes in zero gravity thanks to its pressurized ink cartridge! This also makes it able to write under water, upside down, and at varying elevation where pressure changes, like in the mountains. This is a rock solid tough pen that won't let your outdoorsman down if he needs to write a note in an emergency or wax poetic from a mountain top. It would make a fine stocking stuffer for an outdoorsy guy.
Everyone has their favorite beverage and it usually comes either hot or cold. YETI stainless steel insulated drinkware will keep it that way for a long time. This 20 oz size is perfect for both hot and cold drinks and it will last forever. If he doesn't already have one, he needs one.
From backpacking to baseball games, mosquitoes are gonna bite you. Unless you have a Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repeller! It’s a device you can set on the table and it will keep mosquitoes 15 feet away in silence. I hate the feel and scent of bug spray but I don’t need it with this innovation. I've taken this hunting and backpacking this year and it really does work!
Multi-tools do a mediocre job at most things and minimalists aren’t fans of unnecessary weight and bulk. The Gerber Armbar Slim Drive is a fantastic compromise for reluctant compromisers. With a capable blade, a 2-sided bit screwdriver, and a bottle opener, this adds utility to your daily pocket knife without the unnecessary bulk. It’s an affordable stocking stuffer or an easy gift for the guy who made no requests.
I like to drink my soda frigid cold, but unadulterated by ice. These stainless steel vacuum-insulated can coolers actually do work amazingly well. I've had the YETI version and this RTIC and this one is my favorite because even the rim that you screw on to hold the can inside is stainless steel. This is great for the office, tailgating, camping, and the backyard. They're available in 12 oz or 16 oz can sizes. Pro tip: usually you can get them for way cheaper directly from RTIC compared to Amazon, but it may be a discontinued seasonal color. Get a couple.
While a good fly reel is notoriously expensive, you can rest assured that the Piscifun Sword is well worth the price you'll pay and it will please all but the most persnickety of anglers. You need to purchase the reel based on weight. The higher the number the bigger the fish you can catch on it. If you're not sure, sneak a peek at the recipient's fly rod and buy a reel that matches the weight marked near the rod's grip.
A useful knife needs to be sharp as hell and you’re better off if you have more than one. The Outdoor Edge 3.5" RazorLite Replaceable Blade Folding Knife comes with six super sharp blades. It's compact, lightweight, and cheap compared to alternatives. I have one of these and I've used for everyday carry, backpacking, camping, and hunting because it really is a do-it-all blade that you never have to sharpen. When it gets dull, you just replace the blade and your back skinning that deer within seconds.
My French cousins originally introduced this Finnish yard game to me and it's a real blast. Also known as Skittles, Molkky can be played with two or more players in the yard, at the park, at camp, or on the beach. You set up twelve pins sort of like bowling, then you toss a chunk of wood at them to score points. The game evolves as it progresses and precision scores big. This is an ideal gift for men who like to grill and hang out with friends or family. If they like corn hole, they'll love Molkky.
I only recently discovered this backpacking meal hack and it is both cheap and brilliant. Putting a kit together for it would make a cool gift for a guy who likes the outdoors. All you need is to get some packs of ramen noodles (yes, the super cheap ones), some packs of those Idahoan instant mashed potatoes (also cheap), and some quart-sized zip bags. You mix one bag of noodles with one pack of potatoes in a plastic bag, then in the field he'll add a few cups of hot water. Cut that in half for one meal for one person. If you want, you can throw in some Spam or canned chicken for protein. You can get all of this at your local grocery store and it's a lightweight backpacker meal for about 10% of the cost of one from REI.
This is a practical gift idea for men who love the outdoors. Whether they backpack, hunt, fish, camp, or overland, a Sawyer Squeeze filter system is an affordable and trustworthy way to get clean water when you need it. It includes two collapsible water bottles and it's super lightweight and small, so it's easy to pack anywhere. This filter is one of the most popular for good reason. It's simple, inexpensive, and it just works.
You may have to read the room on this one, but a few years back, I got on board with the fanny pack as a practical travel item. When I was toting five passports and other random valuables around various countries on our international trips, my pockets were no longer sufficient. I bought a fanny pack in Morocco and I've never looked back. If your man is man enough, consider this fanny pack.
When in doubt, get a duffle bag. Duffles come in handy for any adventure as a carryall for random gear. I love to use them for consolidating all my kids' little bags into one for a camping trip or to hold everyone's ski gear to the mountain. The White Duck Hoplite canvas duffle is made of durable, long-lasting material, and it's a steal at that price.
Outdoor Gifts for Men That They Can Wear
Can a guy really be an outdoorsman without flannel? Not likely. My favorite winter shirt is a Kavu flannel that I've had for no less than seven years and it's still going strong. I'm actually wearing it as I write this. While I don't think this one is the exact one I have (cuz it's old), it's pretty darn close. The fit is relaxed and generous, it's a thicker material that helps you stay warm, and there are lots of nice color options.
After testing more than a dozen pairs of sunglasses this year, I find myself reaching for the Smith Redding on a daily basis. They're just so comfortable. They provide great coverage and the Chromapop lenses really do make nature more vibrant. Whether for fishing, biking, or everyday use, this is a great set of shades for an outdoorsy guy like me. Get the glass lenses if you can bare the price tag. They're not too heavy on these frames and they are super crisp. View my full review here.
When it comes to t-shirts, I have three mandatory criteria: it must fit well, it must feel good, and it must have an animal wearing a hat on it. True story. I've said that for years and my wife will attest to it. It is not so common that I find such a shirt, let alone from a company that I respect. But this tee from The Hunting Public checks all the boxes. Straight from the good ole boys of my favorite hunting YouTube channel, this t-shirt will make a fine gift for any outdoorsman.
Since thinking about gifts and holidays make me sentimental, I'm throwing in this cool hat from my brother-in-law's company, Gravel (different guy than Tenkara Rod Co). Don't worry, we won't make a penny if you click and buy it, but it is a sweet, versatile, travel hat that any outdoorsy guy would make good use of. Tell Lance I sent you.
If your loved one likes to fish and he has a boat (or not), the Grundéns SeaKnit Boat Shoes would make a comfortable and useful addition to his wardrobe. They look good out on the town and feel good and stable fishing from a boat. Check out our full hands-on review for more details!
Decathlon is the largest outdoor retailer worldwide, but has only recently entered the US. They're based in France and that's where I fell in love with them. This puffy jacket has made waves among backpackers for being lightweight, high quality, made with real down, and CHEAP! Compared to some other big name brand you know, this jacket provides the same quality for about a third the price. I have one and it is as awesome as it is warm. Great gift idea!
Another idea that I personally own and love, this Hike to Fish long sleeve shirt from Wrangler's outdoor lineup, ATG, is super comfortable and versatile. I wear it camping, fishing, and even to the office. It has a generous relaxed fit and is longer than most shirts, which is especially nice for guys with long torsos like me. It'll even cover up that butt crack on bigger fellas. Plus, this outdoor shirt doesn't cost an arm and a leg like some brands, it's very reasonably priced.
For the longest time I have worn unlined board shorts swimming which often invited an uncomfortable amount of chaffing. The Free Fly Swell shorts are incredibly comfy and the soft liner seals the deal for me. These are excellent for water sports, fishing, boat days or the beach but they also hold their own in town. Plus they have adequate pockets. These shorts would make a fine gift for an outdoorsy guy.
I personally own and love these boots. Whether hiking with my kids, setting up camp, or traveling, they have become my go to outdoor boot. Their athletic shoe comfort makes them more versatile than any other boot I've owned. You can read my full review here.
Socks get a bad wrap for being a lame gift to give your dad when you can't think of anything else. So if you're gonna do it, you should buy nicer socks than he'll buy for himself. These Smartwool classic hiking socks are made of merino wool and nylon. They are super soft and can be worn for everything from hiking, to fishing, to everyday use. Your boring gift will get a respectable head nod this Christmas if you go with these.
After years of wearing the same belt because I was so picky about moving to a new one, I found the Groove Life Groove Belt. Suffice it to say, I am very pleased with it. I got the black one and I wear it every day and everywhere, even at church. It's great for hunting and outdoor activities because you set the length once and don't have to adjust again (except for at enlarging events like Thanksgiving). The buckle is magnetic and doesn't dig into your waist. But the best part is it has just enough stretch to be comfy without so much that your pants sag. I highly recommend it.
I used to think vests were only for older guys like my dad. Then I tried on my dad's vest. Next I purchased said vest. Now I wear it pretty much every day from November through March. The Mountain Hardware Ghost Shadow vest is my daily driver. It's great as a layer under my ski jacket or to keep me warm in my frigid office without wearing my coat. I like how it packs down into a pocket too. Get this for your outdoorsy guy, and he too will likely forget his pride rapidly.
If I could only have one pair of shoes to my name, it would be the Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-TEX. Full transparency, I do not yet own this exact shoe, but I have owned two of the previous generations of the X-Ultra Gore-TEX. The pair I have now is on its last leg (after seven years of heavy use), so I'll be upgrading soon. These are a do-it-all shoe. I wear mine as a daily driver, on backpacking trips, and especially when I travel abroad because they're up for anything. Love this shoe!
Useful Outdoor Gifts for Men
- Both weapon and tool
- Handle is easily replaced
- Not as effective for tough tasks
- Sheath sold separately
This would make a great gift for any hunter, hiker, backpacker, or fisherman, and it’s probably something they won’t ever buy for themselves. Stuff like this really satisfies my inner boy scout need to Be Prepared. It’s a clever, rugged waterproof container (or vessel) that’s about the size of a small water bottle. With all the essentials and some thoughtful features that could really help save your skin, this is the coolest first aid kit I’ve ever seen! They also have a cheaper mini version.
Let's face it, a lot of men suck at communicating. So give a gift that will help out with that. Anyone who spends time outdoors needs to stay in contact with their hunting or hiking buddy and a good set of walkie talkies will do the trick. I have personally used this model and it gets the best range in the mountains.
If your loved one has butter fingers and a cracked screen from taking cliffside selfies, they could benefit from the Monarch Kevlar Series phone case from Urban Armor Gear. This bulletproof phone case is grippy, will protect your phone from 20 foot drops, and you can still wireless charge with it.
When my kids were wee babes, I used our Deuter kid carrier more than any other piece of outdoor gear I owned. I even put them in there when I mowed the lawn. Then my brother-in-law got an Osprey and I was totes jelly of how lightweight it was and the handy features. With a retractable sun shade, stowable straps to check on an airplane, and plenty of storage, the Osprey Poco LT child carrier is the best kid carrier you can get. This gift is for the whole family!
If you really want to woo your outdoorsy man who loves backpacking, this is an amazing ultralight backpack that has all the luxuries of a traditional backpack. After trying a few, this is the one I settled on this past summer. It's comfortable, balanced, and tough, all while weighing under three pounds (which is awesome). It fits everything you need for up to a week-long trip, so long as you leave some of the extras at home. But if your guy likes a little more space, they have a larger size too, the Focal 58.
- Reasonable price for performance, big drain valve and small drain/pressure relief valve
- Hard to move around by yourself, only 1 year warranty
Epic Gifts for Outdoorsy Guys
If your outdoorsman hasn't tried bowfishing yet, he needs to. And this AMS Water Moc bowfishing kit has everything he needs to get started. I've tried several of these bowfishing kits now and this is one of my favorites at about half the price as my most favorite. It's a recurve instead of compound, but it shoots consistently, has a jug reel that is easy to use, and I haven't lost an arrow with it yet. Be sure to check the regulations in your state, but assuming he can, he's gonna have a blast taking out invasive fish with this bad boy!
A tenkara fly fishing package is fun for both curious newbies and passionate anglers. I have been fishing with the Tenkara Rod Co Sawtooth rod for years. While I'm not a super skilled fly fisher, I have tons of fun catching fish with this rod in small streams and rivers. The simplicity of tenkara is what makes it awesome. It is ideal for backpacking or just keeping in the back of the truck for impromptu roadside casts. The full kit is an excellent gift for any outdoorsy guy because it really does have everything you need to catch a fish.
This sleep system has been a game changer for me on backpacking and camping trips. I'm a side sleeper and I toss and turn at night so mummy bags are not my friend. I love the idea of a quilt, but the Zenbivy Light Bed takes that a step further and includes a sort of sheet that attaches to the quilt just enough to keep drafts out and the quilt in place while I spin around in there like a tornado. It's warm, lightweight, and comes in a variety of colors, sizes, and temperature ratings. I like the 25 degree system for its versatility.
An Alpacka Raft packraft will expand the imagination of any man who loves the backcountry. Whether to run a river, pack out big game across a lake, fetch downed ducks, or fish an alpine lake, these pack rafts are tantalizing. As the name implies, they're light enough to pack on your back so you can float wherever you desire. While I haven’t yet tried one myself, I have heard great things and I am very much looking forward to trying one out. The Scout or the Caribou could do the trick, but the Ranger is the one I’ve got my eyes on.
This airgun is a lot of fun in the backyard or out in the woods for some family friendly target shooting. Set up some empty soda cans and paper targets and plink away with this old school .177 caliber BB gun air pistol.
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