Christmas shopping can be hard, especially if the person you’re shopping for is into highly expensive hobbies. Sometimes one nice gift just doesn’t feel like enough, and you want to get a few smaller things to put in their stocking or under the tree. If you’re looking for some more affordable gifts for the skier in your life, these 5 under $30 are great options.
Ski Socks
Ski socks is absolutely the easy one. Anyone who skis consistently could use a new pair of nice socks. There are plenty of ski sock options that rocket well over $30, but some of the more basic pairs, which are really all most people need, fit in the range. These zero-cushion socks from SmartWool, for example, are $29, while these lightweight socks from Darn Tough are $30.
Neck Gaiter
Most skiers already have a neck gaiter or two, but neck gaiters get smelly, and many of us are too lazy to wash ours frequently. As such, having plenty of options is always nice, and few skiers would complain about having more. Black Strap has multiple dual layer gaiters for $27, while Buff has options as low as $23.
Voile Straps
Voile Straps are like the ski gear equivalent of duct tape. Whether they’re holding skis together on a backpack while hiking, keeping touring boots held together while far out in the backcountry, or simply making it easier to carry skis, these little guys are wonderfully useful. They aren’t limited to skiing, either. Voile Straps have so many uses in so many cases, some out of convenience and some out of emergency. Personally, I think there’s no such thing as having too many, and they usually cost less than $10.
Lot Mat
Nobody likes the delicate balancing act of putting on ski boots in the parking lot while trying their best to keep their socks, feet, boots, and shoes dry. The Lot Mat from RigStrips, which costs just $19.95 (though it’s currently on sale for $17.95), prevents that battle by providing a nice dry spot to stand on and get ready for the day on the mountains. Once you’re done with it, it rolls away tightly and takes up little space.
The Boot Slider
If the skier in your life has ever complained about getting into their ski boots, get them the Boot Slider. This super-slippery, roll-up shoe horn removes the need to battle the ski boots while getting into them. This isn’t a problem for every skier out there, but for those that dread fighting their gear will love this little $25 piece of equipment.
