Happy Holidays! We asked some of the crew at The Trail Head, T9, and River Sports to share what they’re gifting this holiday season. We’re here to help you pick the perfect gift for your loved ones.
One thing that makes our three stores unique is the people. The staff that greets you when you walk into one of our three locations all share one thing in common…a true love for the outdoors. These are people who spend their free time exploring the backcountry and the rest of their time helping you be better prepared for your time adventuring.
First up is the awesome list from our Paddle Sports Buyer Brandon Salayi. This list hits on all price points and is sure to give you some ideas for the explorer on your list.
- Less than $20
- BD Binding Buddy0- great to have in the ski pack, a toolbox or the glove compartment. A small affordable multi-size screwdriver.
- Cairn Carto Rattlesnake Map- Because it is our backyard. Maybe even just to put on the wall. It also includes a map of Missoula.
- Less than $50
- Merino Wool Buff- A hat, headband, scarf, facemask or even wristband. Light and medium weight options. Wool not only works in the cold but also when it is warm.
- Big Agnes Mtn Glo tent and camp lights- Light up your tent, Sprinter van or the fort you built in the kids bedroom…no power outlet necessary.
- Stanley Thermos- keeps hot hot and cold cold…need we say more.
- Over $50
- Icebreaker base layers- Because it is the best! Tops and bottoms in different weights to suit your activity from cold weather to warm weather.
- MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe- Very light and packable. Put in in your ski pack, hunting/backpacking pack or even keep one in your car just in case.
- Ultimate
- New skis- who wouldn’t like that under the tree?!!
Next up is the gift ideas from our assistant Apparel Buyer Tracy Hubing! Whether you need a last-minute gift idea, a practical gift, or something to please the outdoor enthusiast on your list you are sure to find it here.
- Local handmade jewelry. Price point from $45-$110. Deana Albers, Oro Y Plata, Bronwen, Michelle Barton. Artists from Missoula, Bozeman, Bend Oregon to round out the collection.
- Able HandBags. Price Point from $58-$220. Genuine Italian Leather purses, totes, and wallets. This line features a feel-good story that truly makes a difference in women’s lives across the globe. Support local while supporting globally. Something for all the women on your list.
- Socks. Price Point from $15.95-$29.95. With the top brands in the industry, you are sure to find one for everyone on your list. Farm to Feet, Darn Tough, Smartwool and VIM & VIGR, you will have the whole family covered. From Technical ski, in both kids and adults, to everyday lifestyle casual, and the perfect recovery/everyday compression, you can’t go wrong!
- Scarves. Price Point from $25-$75. One of the easiest ways to stay warm AND switch up the wardrobe is to add great accessories! Scarves are easy and abundant at The Trail Head! Pistil, Smartwool, Arc’teryx, Sherpa, and more!
- Helmets. Price Point $130-$260. Once people buy a helmet they tend to hold onto it WAY past its useful life. They replace their Jackets, Skis, Gloves, and everything in between and seem to forget their most valuable piece of gear! Helmets have a lifespan of about 5 years before the plastic and foam inside begins to degrade and isn’t as protective as it once was.
This gift list is from our employee Scott Hughes. This list is spot-on and sure to please any outdoor enthusiast.
- Buff Original– $20.00. Perfect for sun protection on those sunny days in the Alpine or to keep your face and neck warm on cold windy days for a variety of outdoor activities!
- Hydroflask 32 or 40oz– $39.95, $42.95. Great for keeping your coffee warm while out on a cold winter day or when you need to keep your beverage cold on those hot sunny summer days.
- BD Spot 325 lumens– $39.95. Perfect for night hiking on long-distance or thru-hike. Or while navigating around camp while out in the Backcountry. Long-lasting, bright and all the functions you would need.
- Arc’teryx Atom Lt– $259.00. Another great versatile Arc’teryx piece. Great as a standalone in the shoulder seasons for day to day use for outdoor activity. Or throw a hardshell over it and use it for your winter activities.
- Arc’teryx Covert Cardigan – $179.00. A garment you can dress up for a night downtown or an everyday piece. Or use it as a mid-layer for a winter activity.
Here is our employee Sean Sullivan’s gift list for the holidays. Sean Sullivan is an avid boating enthusiast, enjoying everything from scenic flatwater trips to thrilling multi-day whitewater adventures. Sean also spends his free time chasing the snow in the winter. If you know someone like Sean you are sure to get some killer ideas from the list below.
- Voile Ski straps– you can never have enough ski straps.
- C gear tote– perfect for lugging all your stuff to the sandy beaches of the Blackfoot without bringing half the beach back with you.
- 1.5” NRS straps– get them while they last.
- NRS ION PFD– Safety First!
- Eco-Safe Toilet System– you know because as the literature states… “everybody 💩”, and a sure-fire way to get invited on river trips.
The next staff gift list comes from our employee Paul Hutto.
- Patagonia Black Hole Duffle 40L (Can be take as a carry-on for travel, can be used as a gym bag or a ski bag, is the perfect bag for an “overnight bag” or a “long weekend” bag
- Patagonia Better Sweater (not terribly expensive, great for everyday use, stylish, no one would be mad receiving this as a gift)
- MSR WindBurner (Awesome camping stove for anyone who loves camping, no actual flame so wind can’t put it out, comes with a pot so no need to buy one for it)
- Fly Boxes (every fly fisherman needs a place to put all their random flies they have accumulated over time, having another fly box wouldn’t hurt if they already have one)
- Julbo Googles (the lenses are Reactive Photochromic so they will darken and lighten depending on the amount of light there is, no more need to have multiple lenses)