Getting a Christmas gift for a skier or snowboarder can be a very difficult task, especially when they already have all the gear they need. While we’d like to say buy them skis, boots, bindings, or something else nice and expensive, not everyone’s looking to spend that much on holiday gifts. Plus, even if they are looking to spend that much, going out and buying a vital piece of equipment without actually knowing what the person needs is a great way to waste some money. If they actually needed/wanted a new pair of boots or skis, they should tell you exactly which ones and put it on their list.
So since it can be tough to shop for skiers and snowboarders, especially the ones who like to buy all of their gear for themselves, this list hits on 5 items that most skiers and snowboarders won’t necessarily already have for under $100.
SnoStrip
If the skier/snowboarder in your lift has a bunch of scratches on the side of their car, grab them a SnoStrip from RigStrips, or something similar. This magnetic piece snaps onto any magnetic vehicle surface to create a place to rest skis, snowboards, poles, and other equipment, all without the risk of ripping up the car paint. SnoStrips usually cost $49.95, but they’re currently on sale for $44.95.
Zoom Tube Monocular
Most skiers and snowboarders don’t need binoculars or a monocular if they’re sticking to the resorts. Even if they’re heading into the backcountry, it’s not an incredibly necessary piece of equipment. But it is pretty cool to be able to whip out a little monocular to scope your line from the bottom of the mountain, especially when skiing wide open back bowls. The Zoom Tube Monocular from Nocs Provisions is small enough to fit in a pocket while on the mountain, and it costs just $79.95.
Booties
A nice pair of booties for driving to the slopes or enjoying a few drinks after a day on the mountain can be an absolute game changer. There are a lot of different options in this category, ranging from the more affordable to the more expensive, but the North Face THERMOBALL™ Traction Booties cost just $69. Another option is the LINE Bootie 2.0, which is currently on sale for $77.95.
Power Bank
Dead phones is a common occurrence on the slopes, with cold weather often quickly draining batteries. There are a ton of power bank options out there, but one that’s less intrusive and uses wireless charging, like this one from Anker ($55), can be a game changer. If they’re big into filming, you could grab them a power bank that works for their camera as well. Just make sure you confirm what will work and what doesn’t.
Gift Card to Local Ski Shop
When you don’t know what to get someone for Christmas, just let them get something for themselves. No skier or snowboarder would be upset with some free money to go spend at their favorite ski shop. Ask them where they like to get their gear and buy a $100 (or less) gift card. Plus then you’re supporting local businesses, and that’s very cool.
