Real outdoorsmen have no need for fashion or stylish outdoor tools, right? If they have two sticks to rub together, I’m sure they’re just dandy. But your average outdoorsy guy might appreciate some style-conscious gear. I know my mister certainly does. In fact, his fashionable-dude-meets-camping-expert persona inspired this selection of woodsy gear.
When the mister in question took one look at this shopping list and gave his nod of approval, I knew I was onto something. Even men who love fishing, hiking and campfire building can be deeply into style. Yes, they’re also into Gor-Tex this and waterproof that, but they also appreciate sleek, stylish and all-around impressively designed gear.
These picks are every bit as manly as they are just plain fun to have in his closet or messenger bag. So, if your man can’t even roast a marshmallow—let alone reel in dinner—I’m guessing he’ll appreciate any one of these accessories nonetheless. Awesome guy stuff is just awesome guy stuff—even if his last brush with nature involved a riding lawn mower.
Listed clockwise starting from top left:
1. Survival Kit in a Sardine Can, Gaiam (gaiam.com): I don’t care much for hiking, camping or any activity that could create a scenario in which a survival kit might come in handy, and I’m still impressed by this kit. Obvious design genius aside—how great is the sardine can styling?—this waterproof tin holds everything. It fits in your pocket and includes everything from a whistle, matches and first aid necessities to fishing gear, duct tape, tea and oodles more. Translation: It’s the best $13 you’ll ever spend on him.
2. Straw Fedora, Gap (gap.com): The best way to get him out of his college baseball cap rut? Give him a better option. This woven straw fedora will keep the sun off his face while he is blazing the trail (or just lounging in the backyard).
3. Strala Vinter Boot in Olive, Tretorn: If he’s trudging across the damp forest floor—or just walking your puppy on a rainy morning—he’ll appreciate a pair of waterproof shoes. The subdued olive green hue and subtle graphic stripes add to the sleek appeal of these boots, which are streamlined and light enough to wear on a wet commute to work.
4. Metal Lensatic Compass, Stansport: There are plenty of amazing GPS options on the market, but don’t you think there is a certain retro appeal to a well-designed compass? This durable metal version features direction digits and a needle that are large and luminous for exact bearing and a precision positive stopper for accuracy.
5. Tagger Bag, BKE (buckle.com): Disparaging talk of the man purse (also known as a “murse”) is ridiculous. Whether he’s toting around fishing line and lures or a pen and notebook, every guy needs something to hold his stuff, right? This no-frills sturdy canvas version has a military toughness that should meet all manly standards.
6. The Worst-Case Scenario Little Book for Survival by Joshua Piven and David Borgenicht, Chronicle Books: With step-by-step instructions on how to survive everything from an alligator attack to a run-in with quicksand, this pocket-size book contains hours of entertainment for guys. Trust me, when my mister cracks open any book in this best-selling series, nothing can tear him away.
7. Two-Quart Classic Vacuum Bottle, Stanley: This heavy duty Stanley stainless steel bottle is an oldie but a goody. My dad had one. Your dad had one. Heck, everyone’s father toted his coffee in one of these double-walled, unbreakable wonders. Aside from its classically cool, nostalgic allure, this guy has been around forever for one simple reason: It’s built to last a lifetime.
(Image: Elizabeth Ulrich)
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Want. It. All. I’m thinking Christmas, Christmas, Christmas, birthday, Christmas, anniversary, just because. Girlfriends and wives, take note.
@Will: Consider it noted!