A few gift suggestions for the outdoors type

The legend of Santa Claus has its roots in tales of Sinterklaas, a Dutch figure who’s own noteworthiness was based on historical hagiographies. The term “hagiographies” generally refers to stories of the lives and miracles of divine beings, saints, shamans, medicine people, gurus, prophets and other individuals believed to be gifted with sacred powers. 

Part of the story of Santa may be based on tales of Saint Nicholas, a Christian bishop noted for gift-giving. Another component seems to have occurred during the Christianization of Germanic Europe when elements of the god Odin entered into play. Odin was associated with the Norse pagan midwinter festival of Yule, and led the “Wild Hunt,” a ghostly procession through the sky.

That magical feeling of this holiday season and its meaning is privy to each and all’s interpretation and beliefs. My take on the deal is that the celebration of the birth of Christ should unite all individuals in celebration of the spirit of giving portrayed by characterizations of every divine being noted in history and in present times. Perhaps, the smiles and the twinkling in the eyes of folks during this time of year is partially due to the fact that giving, gifting and generosity in general make us feel really good. On that note, here are a few gift ideas for the “outdoorsy types” on your list.

Insulated mountain pants. The new high-tech nylon materials are hard to beat. Most are “waterproof,” breathable, and have a “windblock” feature, as well. Look for utility pockets, zip legs and pants that have belt loops for your own belts. About $130. 

For the ladies, how about a “stormproof” jacket of some sort. Most are nylon-shelled and contain a variation of a synthetic lining that won’t stop keeping her warm when weather gets real wet. Some are a three-system setup, so one can wear the shell alone, the liner alone, or the two in combination. Cool features to look for include a hood, under-arm vents, fleece-lined pockets and a built-in cinch cord for nasty weather. 

When checking quality, examine the seams. Quality materials will show the interior seam when you squeeze the seams together with your fingers. You want to see the inside impression of taped seams, usually visible as a rectangular strip. This can give you an idea of the “waterproofness’ of the garment, the more tape, the better.  Plus, feature for the gals, these jackets come in some hip modern fluorescent colors, so she can look great while out on an outdoor adventure with you.

For the professional outdoorsmen or outdoorswomen who may be busting through the brush on a daily basis, you may want to consider this. In our part of the Rocky Mountains, the rugged terrain, blowdown and the thick woody-stemmed vegetation can tear up your clothes severely. For off-trail hiking and working, I usually hit the Army / Navy stores.

Swiss Army pants are my favorite. Tough, good pockets, and will keep ya warm as long as you continue to move along through the woods. If you search hard, you can find wool pants in many different thicknesses. Throw on a double-knit polar fleece hoodie in your favorite camouflage, and you’re good to go whether working, hunting with a rifle or a camera. Add a couple pair of wool army gloves, and a wool / acrylic blend hat as extremities loose body heat fast. Do not wear denim in winter. Search and rescue folks refer to denim as “Death Cloth.” Save your jeans for the Saturday night dance.

Stocking stuffers such as a neck warmer, over-the-boot ice grippers, or a silk bandanna can be a nice touch. Homemade fudge or jerky works, too. A smile, an encouraging word and a caring hug can go a long way. It makes the giver and the recipient both feel good. After all, it’s about the giving, don’t you think? 

(Brian Baxter is a naturalist and outdoor columnist for The Western News.)