By: Andrew Forrest - updated December 2023
first published September 2023
Need a gift for a walker or hiker? Look no further as we've pulled together 67 gift ideas that range from inexpensive to luxurious and cover practical, fun and personalised presents for both men and women, not forgetting our 4-legged friends.
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So, if you are wondering what to buy someone who enjoys walking or hiking, or, searching for those unusual or personalised gifts for walkers or hikers, then look no further. We've put together a selection of the best gifts for walkers and hikers, that range from practical and fun gifts to unusual and luxurious presents that any walker or hiker would like to receive.
For walkers and hikers, safety in the great outdoors is paramount. Choosing the right gear can make all the difference, so whilst practical gifts may not be the most exciting, our selection of practical gifts is tailored to enhance safety and comfort during outdoor adventures and is a must for any walker.
If the person you are buying for doesn't have OS mapping on their phone, this is a must for any walker.
Whilst there is a free version, you can get unlimited Ordnance Survey Explorer and Landranger maps on any device, making it easy for you to explore the great outdoors for just the price of a coffee a month.
Amongst many other features, premium allows access to OS Explorer and Landranger mapping for the whole of the UK. You can import and export routes, save maps offline, see aerial 3D, and print A3/A4 maps to use on your walk. This is available on your laptop/tablet as well as on your phone.
Explore further and sign up for the OS Mapping App
Or, why not buy them a 12-month Ordnance Survey subscription gift card?
It's cheap and is a very useful lightweight addition to any pack. If you are stopping for a break or lunch and want to sit down on the grass or rocks, it saves you from having to sit on your rucksack/jacket and potentially end up with a wet bum. They also provide some insulation from the ground if it's cold.
Weighing only 40g, you won't notice you have it with you, but the durable, insulating foam provides a warm dry place to sit on any break.
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The Osprey Hydraulics hydration bladder is an excellent all-rounder. It is durable, very easy to use, and packed full of features. You open and close the bladder using a very easy-to-use sliding closure. This water reservoir also includes a pouring shield, which makes for accurate filling of other vessels if you are pouring water out of it.
The bite valve is easy to use and suck from when putting it in your mouth, with smooth, plentiful water delivery without having to suck too hard. On this new model, there is also an on/off twist lock system that your thumb can efficiently operate to prevent the valve from leaking.
If you need more choice of hydration bladders including screw tops and insulated ones, then check out our best hydration bladders buyers guide.
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If the person you are buying for is walking or hiking somewhere a bit more remote, or just on long trips where they don't want to carry lots of water and are just not sure about drinking stream water, then this is the perfect gift.
Many walkers don't even know these filters exist. The water filter can make stream/river water safe to drink.
This award-winning LifeStraw water filter weighs in at just 59g and can filter up to 4,000 litres of stream water. There is no aftertaste and is BPA-free. It uses advanced hollow-fibre technology filtration that requires no chemicals.
I must admit I was doubtful about its claims when I first purchased one, but it has now been used numerous times with no ill effects!
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Navigation, especially in poor visibility or in indistinct areas can be tricky, which is where a compass comes in. A compass is a must for every walker, but if you are new to them, you do need to learn how to use it.
This and previous versions of it have been my main compass for many years - quick setting and reliable. It is a DoE-recommended product and can be used up to 5000m altitude and down to -15°C. It includes a built-in magnifying glass, to assist in seeing items on the map if your eyesight is not what it used to be - useful for me as mine went a long time ago!
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Cheap and cheerful, but a walking essential. A whistle takes up no room but can be very useful in emergencies and every hiker should carry one.
Six short blasts on your whistle followed by a minute pause is the UK standard signal for help. In the US and some other countries, it is three blasts of about 3 seconds each.
Only 13g in weight but provides up to 128 dB of noise.
If you need to find out more about hill safety, check out our Top 15 safety tips for hiking.
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The light and dry bivi bag is lightweight, waterproof and windproof and helps retain body heat and reduce wind chill - a useful safety addition to any rucksack. I bought one quite a few years ago that sits in the bottom of my rucksack and I'm still hoping it's something I'll never have to use.
At only 110g, it is windproof, waterproof, has taped seams and a compact storage sack.
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Where would I be without my power pack? Whilst a power pack does add a little weight to my pack, I find it very useful to charge my mobile phone/camera/GoPro, etc. on the go as all are very power-hungry especially whilst using GPS. Just remember to charge your power pack before you go!
My power bank is still going strong after 3 years of continued weekly use. Once charged (before you set out on your journey), it will charge most mobiles fully almost five times. It has 2 USB outputs, so you can charge 2 devices at once. It is drop-tested to 1 metre and comes with a travel case. I never had one up until 3 years ago... now I can't be without it!
So, if the person you are buying for is a gadget freak, or maybe just has a mobile phone, a power bank makes a great gift, not only for just out on the walk but if they find themselves anywhere needing power.
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As seen on Dragon's Den, the Boot Buddy Shoe and Boot Cleaner Brush is non-electric, hand operated and very easy to use. It uses minimal water to efficiently remove mud. Simply fill, scrape, unlock the water flow and scrub/brush clean. Great for those walkers who always return to the car or house with very muddy feet. Not just exclusive for walkers, can use to clean mud off other shoes, or bikes, prams etc.
If you want to know more on properly cleaning and reproofing your boots to make them last longer, check out our How to clean, dry and care for your hiking boots guide.
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You don't need to break the bank to delight the walkers and hikers in your life. Sometimes, it's the thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts that truly resonate with outdoor enthusiasts. We've pulled together a few inexpensive gifts all under £25 - at the time of writing!
I always used to think that socks for Christmas from relatives were a bit of a boring present, but they were everyday work socks. These socks I would love to receive as a present - they are warm and extremely comfortable socks and are currently my socks of choice for colder spring and autumn days and even most winter ones.
This is Darn Tough's classic midweight hiker sock, which features their iconic fit in merino wool and as usual, this sock comes with their 'guaranteed for life' promise. Just like Joseph's Dreamcoat, they are also available in many colours.
They are micro crew, rather than crew socks, which means that they peek just above the top of a standard hiking boot, but a good few inches above a low-level boot or walking shoes.
These Darn Tough socks feel very comfy and feature soft terry loops underfoot with targeted protection over the ankle and achilles, making them an excellent present for any walker or hiker.
The performance fit of these midweight socks means that I've never experienced any slipping or bunching of the sock, which can lead to blisters. As with many hiking socks, toe seams are a thing of the past, and Darn Tough uses its True Seamless Toe technology for an ultra-smooth, undetectable feel.
The merino wool content in this sock means they breathe naturally and deliver flexible, all-day comfort to your walk. Merino wool has the added advantage that it is naturally odour-resistant!
You can never have too many hiking socks and should have different socks for different terrains and different times of the year, so if you need to have more choice have a look at our best hiking socks.
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If you are out on a walk or an overnight camp, sometimes you need a little pampering. This travel set from Burt's Bees contains travel-sized hydrating lip balm, nourishing body lotion, foot cream for cracked heels and dry skin, deep cleansing face cream and hand salve.
All small and light just to pop into a rucksack. If you've never tried any of Burt's Bees range before, this set makes a perfect introduction.
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Many walkers and hikers like to have rest and sit to enjoy the scenery or stop for a bit of lunch, so rather than sitting on the ground, why not on a blanket?
This lightweight (only 200 grams) multipurpose blanket can be used on your hikes, outside your tent, at a festival or even just lying on the beach.
It comes in 6 different colours and has a carry bag. Corner pockets can be filled with sand or stones to hold it down. To clean it, all you do is hose or wipe it down - couldn't be easier, thereby making it an inexpensive gift for any hiker or walker.
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The picnic blanket is very useful just to keep in the car and take on those shorter walks that involve more eating, drinking and sitting watching the world go by than actual walking.
It's lightweight, fully lined, resistant to moisture and comes in a range of colours. It has a soft polyester fleece upper side with PVC backing underneath and comes with an integrated cover and shoulder strap.
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Many people suffer from cold hands in winter even when they are wearing gloves, so why not treat them to some rechargeable hand warmers?
They are available in various colours and the 3 heating levels rapidly warm your hand for 4-8 hours after each charge - enough for a walk on a cold winter's day or even out and about sitting watching a sporting event.
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USB rechargeable and easy-to-use LED light, built into a beanie hat. Fits most sizes, men, women and children and is available in many colours. 3 different strength light modes in one hat. It isn't a light that is suitable for out on the fells, but is a great stocking filler.
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Most walkers and hikers often take their lunch with them whilst out on a walk, so why not treat them to an insulated lunch box - suitable for one person and small enough to tuck into their rucksack.
It is insulated to keep the lunch cool for longer and is durable with a sturdy zipper.
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Everybody gets thirsty on a walk and plastic bottles can get crushed and crack, so why not treat someone to a stainless steel water bottle?
It's vacuum insulated, so keeps cold things cold and hot things warm. It's BPA-free and comes in various sizes and loads of different colours.
I've taken soup on walks in it and it has still been warm 5 hours later, making it a useful inexpensive gift for any hiker or walker.
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Do you know a fellow walker who is always complaining of sore knees or struggles a little with their balance? Then buying them some walking poles may help.
Many people use walking poles whilst out hiking.
They are believed to have certain benefits for you including: helping your balance on uneven paths; protecting and relieving stress on your knees, especially when walking downhill; taking some weight off your sore joints; improving your posture; improving power and endurance when walking uphill; tone muscles in your arms and shoulders and burn more calories as your upper body gets more of a workout by using your arms.
These entry-level TheFitLife hiking poles are great value, anti-shock/shock absorbing poles, with EVA foam handles and straps. They Feature a quick lock system to easily extend or collapse poles. Various colours are available.
You can pay far more for walking poles, but these entry-level ones should give them an idea of whether poles help them or not.
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Many walkers take mugs with them on walks to enjoy that coffee stop, use on overnight camps or maybe just stop for some stream water.
This Alplake double-wall stainless steel mug is a mug with a difference and would make an ideal gift. The handle is a carabiner clip, so you can just clip it to the outside of a rucksack for ease of use and always at hand when you need it.
It is easy to clean and lightweight. At only 123 grams, you won't know you are carrying it. Capacity approx. 250ml.
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Are you buying a gift for someone very special or maybe a special occasion? We've pulled together a few ideas for when you just want to spend that little bit more on a gift for the walker or hiker in your life.
These are my favourite hiking boots for the more demanding hikes and winter walks. I have other hiking boots that I use for summer, but when the weather takes a turn for the worst, these are my go-to hiking boots, so much so that with them being upgraded for 2023, I've just picked up another pair in INOV8's black Friday sale.
Whilst INOV8 is more well known for its wide range of fell and trail shoes, of which I have a few, these are their toughest hiking boots. The upgrade gives greater support, enhanced comfort, increased protection, more energy return and, through their Graphene G-Grip rubber sole, longer-lasting durability. They may not last as long as my leather hiking boots, but I find them far comfier when walking.
The Powerflow Max foam, which is in quite a lot of their footwear now, is there for energy return and does feel like it is pushing your foot back off the ground compared to many walking boots, and I have found my legs are far less tired after long walks. These award-winning hiking boots have a new ripstop upper material, which improves durability, and its tighter weave better protects the waterproof Gore-Tex XCR membrane underneath by repelling more dirt.
As the name implies, they weigh just 400g, but even being that light, your feet feel well-protected and supported and are available in three colours.
If you are like me and prefer to have different hiking boots for different terrains and different times of the year, have a look at our selection of the best hiking boots of 2024.
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For me, after any walk the things that suffer the most are my feet. So, whether it's after a day on your feet or a day out in the hills, there is nothing better than a foot massage. These make for a luxurious present for any walker or hiker in your life.
For me, having your feet massaged after a day's walking is a luxury. This Miko foot massager would make an ideal gift to achieve that 'at-home' pampering session for feet after a walk... or anytime!
This foot massager is equipped with heat, deep-kneading, compression, rolling, subtle vibrating, built-in timer, 5 pressure settings, washable foot liners, and 2 wireless remotes. They claim it helps with pain relief and circulation and I know it has certainly helped me with my plantar fasciitis. Overall, a luxury present for any walker or hiker that their feet will certainly thank you for.
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If you are into camping, value your sleep, and your tent has the space, this is a very comfortable air bed, but at around 8Kg, it is for car camping only... not one for your backpack! I've used mine in a large tent (and as an emergency spare bed at home) for over five years and have had no issues with it.
While it is not the same level of comfort as I have from my mattress, the air bed does provide something that is now getting pretty close. Whilst no R-value is stated, as you are sleeping so far off the ground, I have always felt warm whilst using it. The earliest I have used it was in March, and the latest has been September.
If you have electricity on the campsite, the integrated electric pump can fully inflate in under 5 minutes, and electric deflation takes about 3 minutes. You can manually inflate and deflate if electricity is not available. The air bed provides enhanced spinal support with an integrated pillow, comes with a storage bag and is available in 3 sizes.
If you need something lighter to sleep on and carry whilst hiking, check out our Guide to the Best Sleeping Mats of 2024.
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If you are looking for the best GPS watch, then look no further than the Garmin Fenix 7 Pro. It is expensive and my most expensive piece of kit, but it is worn every day, so I think justifies every penny, especially if you use it across multiple activities and for day-to-day.
It is incredibly feature-rich with excellent battery life, a touchscreen, a great interface and advanced health metrics. After wearing it for a few weeks, it will probably know more about you than you do!
Built-in is a heart rate monitor, compass, alarms, thermometer, over 30 activity profiles, pedometer, altimeter, sleep monitor, customisable watch faces, safety and tracking features, activity tracking, navigation, smartphone notifications, contactless payments and many training features, to name but a few.
Garmin realises that not everyone is built the same, so it comes in 3 screen sizes for different-sized wrists, the Fenix 7S Pro (42mm), Fenix 7 Pro (47mm) and the Fenix 7X Pro (51mm). It is available in a standard edition and a sapphire edition, which is more durable and lighter due to the sapphire glass and titanium case. Watch bands come in various colours and materials. If you can justify the price and need a fantastic-looking sports watch with all the features, then look no further for a great luxury present for the walker or hiker in your life.
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If you are buying a gift for someone who gets out and about exercising at night, this is a must. It is one of the more expensive head torches out there, but this Petzl Nao RL is an ultra-powerful and rechargeable head torch with Reactive Lighting technology, making it perfect for running or hiking on nighttime trails or roads. It provides an impressive 1,500 lumens of brightness (that's bright!) but weighs just 145 grams. Its wide beam allows you to see close up, whilst the mixed wide and focused beam allows for near and distance vision on the move. For me, a head torch is one of the first things I pack in my rucksack.
Fitting is easy straight out of the box, and the rear battery pack distributes the weight across the head, making it balanced and very comfortable to wear, so much so that I hardly noticed that I had it on. There is also an additional top strap for support, but I found it was fine without that. The battery is rechargeable via USB-C charging, and a 5-level gauge lets you know what the current battery level is. The battery pack can be used as a charger itself. There is a lock function to avoid accidentally turning on, and as a bonus, it comes with a storage# pouch, which can double as a lantern if you put the head torch inside.
Many impressive head torches suit various needs, and LED technology and battery life within them have improved. So, if you want to see what other head torches are available, check out our best head torches of 2024 guide, which will take you through other head torch options, and if you are not sure about your IPX from your lumens, all will be explained!
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This is an expensive jacket, in fact, the most I've ever paid for any item of clothing, but worth every penny.
It is a tough lightweight, breathable and waterproof jacket that has taken in its stride the worst the UK weather has had to throw at it. Great design with 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro 40D fabric along with 80D fabric reinforcements, a fully adjustable mountain hood, and storm construction design means it's built to last.
It has 2 Large and 1 Napoleon pocket, laser cut and laminated with YKK moulded AquaGuard zips, 2-way YKK WR underarm pit zips with laminated and bonded entry, adjustable laminated cuffs and dual tether hem drawcords, laminated and laser cut inner pocket with YKK zip and is an Alpine fit with articulated and pre-shaped sleeves.
The men's and women's jackets are available in several colours.
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With a new fresh design aesthetic and fully recycled construction, this highly packable Rab Microlight Alpine Jacket is my go-to system for rapid warmth when the temperature drops.
On most walks, it doesn't get used, as I simply keep it in my rucksack in its stuff sack, but if the temperature drops or you stop on a hill for a sandwich in a chilly wind it will keep you warm. It's also great for throwing on at overnight camps.
It features a combination of zoned micro and nano baffles to increase core warmth without inflating weight or bulk. With 30D Pertex Quantum ripstop nylon, as well as GRS-certified, 700-fill power P.U.R.E. recycled hydrophobic down, the Microlight Alpine Jacket features a fully recycled shell, insulation and lining. So it is good for you, and good for the planet.
It's a practical jacket as you can use it both as an everyday jacket and as a mountain layer. Additional features include three harness-compatible pockets, an easy-carry stuff sack and a cosy down-filled hood complete with a stiffened peak.
It is water resistant, rather than waterproof, so if the weather is really bad, you need an outer waterproof layer on top of it.
It is available in men's and women's versions and is available in many colours. There is also an extra-long version of the jacket for women, where the centre back is 4cm longer than the standard jacket.
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It is more expensive than most other massage guns out there, but in my opinion, if you want the best then this is it. I've been a user now for over 5 years and find it has helped me greatly. After a walk or a run, I use it to relieve tension in my muscles and very rarely now experience muscle soreness the day after even the longest of walks.
It offers 4 unique arm positions designed to reach any area of the body and comes with 6 attachments. There are 2 rechargeable batteries, so you can recharge one whilst the other is in use.
Control in the app via Bluetooth.
The Theragun is proven to improve your recovery, performance, sleep, mobility and stress (improves relaxation and decreases anxiety).
If you do find that the Theragun is just a little too expensive, maybe try the Renpho Power Massage Gun.
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If you need a 2-man tent for those outdoor adventures, then this could be the perfect gift. Whilst not in the ultra-lightweight category, this is certainly light enough for those hiking adventures, weighing in at 1.72kg.
The Hubba Hubba NX Tent from MSR is a lightweight, three-season dome tent designed for fast and light backpacking. The tent uses a clever hub pole design for optimum stability whilst maximizing useable internal space.
There is a unique pole configuration that helps to maximise the head and elbow room throughout the tent while the mesh canopy and adjustable, cross-ventilating flysheet offer optimal airflow to reduce the chance of condensation. When (!) it is warm and dry, the flysheet does not need to be used, so the mesh canopy offers unrestricted views. When the flysheet is in use and the rain is pouring there are rain gutters over the entrance zips to avoid you getting soaked on the way in. There are two entrances, each with a vestibule, which allows you the versatility of using one vestibule as just storage and the other as your way in and out or each having your own space for kit as well as getting in and out of the tent.
If you do want that lighter experience, you can also use just the flysheet of this tent for the ultra-lightweight shelter when out exploring.
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Are you always stuck on what to buy that lady in your life, be it your mum, wife, sister, girlfriend or just a friend, we've pulled a few gifts together below for female hikers and walkers.
Okay, there are much more expensive foot massagers out there, but to me, having your feet massaged after a day's walking is a luxury. This Shiatsu foot massager would make an ideal gift to achieve that 'at-home' pampering session for feet after a walk; it gives that pampering luxury without the expensive price tag.
It has 18 massage heads and six deep-kneading modes, and you can add soothing heat with a touch of your toe. Several different massage programmes exist, from light vibrations to deeper tissue massage. They do not recommend it for anyone with diabetes.
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There is nothing better than a good, lightweight pair of boots for walking, which would make these an ideal gift. Having competed in many mountain marathon events, I've used many INOV8 products, including many of their fell shoes. When they brought out a walking boot version of the Roclite, it's been my go-to lightweight walking boot ever since. I use this boot hiking boot in spring, summer and autumn.
The Roclite G 345 V2 GTX now includes the graphene-enhanced G-Grip outsole and, with the Gore-Tex construction, offers fantastic grip, comfort, ankle support and protection in a lightweight boot. It's almost like wearing a fell shoe but with ankle support. As much as I used to wear leather hiking boots in the past, I find the newer synthetic hiking boots much more comfortable and lighter, and in the main, they give the same performance.
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The Osprey Tempest 30 is a great daysack, designed specifically for women, with numerous features and the adjustable back and padding on the hip belt and shoulders make for a comfortable day out in the hills.
It is the women's version of the Osprey Talon 33 Daypack that I use on the majority of my walks.
It is extremely comfy to wear with a padded back, shoulder straps and hip belt, the back panel is fully adjustable for your height, the Airscape back panel provides plenty of ventilation, is hydration compatible and has pockets, straps and loops galore.
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If you need further rucksack choices or need to know what to consider when buying them, have a look at our Best backpacks and rucksacks for hiking in 2024 guide.
These Darn Tough lightweight, micro crew socks are probably my most used socks. They are great for summer hiking and those warmer spring and autumn days. I've come to like the micro crew length socks, as they sit between ankle length and crew length, so they sit a good few inches above any low hiking shoes or fell shoes and just above a standard hiking boot.
The performance fit of these socks, means I've never experienced any slipping or bunching of the sock, which can lead to blisters. As with many hiking socks, toe seams are a thing of the past. Darn Tough uses their True Seamless Toe technology for an ultra-smooth, undetectable feel.
These are lightweight socks and with their merino wool content, breathe naturally wicking moisture away from your foot and delivering flexible, all-day comfort for your walk. They come with Darn Tough's 'guarantee for life'.
If you need more sock choices including ankle, crew and knee length socks and different weights for different amounts of cushioning and warmth (lightweight, midweight and heavyweight) in your sock, or maybe are just confused by all the choices out there and are unsure how to choose your perfect sock, then check out our Best Hiking Socks of 2024.
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Do you know someone who is always reaching for their mobile to check their phone or taking beautiful countryside photos whilst out and about, they can do that now without having to take their gloves off!
These North Face Etip Recycled Gloves for women are fully touchscreen compatible.
They also provide warmth and dexterity and a grippy silicone palm.
They're made using stretchy recycled fleece that's warming, moisture-wicking and comfortable.
If you need to know more about how to pick the perfect glove, check out our How to choose walking or hiking gloves guide, and for your perfect glove check out our best hiking gloves of 2024.
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This bottle flask is double-walled and vacuum insulated, so keeps hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours, perfect for that cup of warming coffee or soup up on top of a hill. The flex cap has a carry strap with honeycomb insulation lock. It's also BPA and phthalate-free. Available in many colours.
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Massage guns have been a game-changer for me. They are believed to improve your recovery, performance, sleep, mobility and stress. I certainly find they do that for me. I use it most days now especially after any walks or exercising mainly on my calves, thighs and back.
Whilst there are better, more expensive massage guns available like the Theragun Pro, this massage gun from Renpho is excellent for home and personal use. I'd not really come across Renpho as a brand until the start of lockdown in 2020, when I bought a pair of the Renpho Smart body fat weighing scales, but with how reliable they've been I recommended them to a couple of friends who both in turn have bought this massage gun. I've borrowed theirs and have tested them against my Theragun, and whilst not quite as good, being less than a quarter of the price, the Renpho massage gun is a great investment.
It is much lighter than the Theragun and easier to carry around.
The Renpho massage gun itself is equipped with a high-torque brushless motor with 12mm amplitude, which means that it can deliver up to 50lb (23KG) massage, but with relatively low noise. It is portable, so you can use it anywhere to enjoy your relaxation time. It has 5 different massage heads to target different body parts and muscle groups, it can release deep muscle tension, and accelerate muscle repair. You can adjust the intensity of the massage from level 1 to 6 (up to a maximum of 2600 percussions per minute) as you massage and enjoy a deeper and more comfortable penetrating muscle massage.
The LCD Touch Display touch button adjusts the massage speed which can accurately display speed and battery in real-time. The massager gun can be charged by USB (type-c). It is equipped with a premium 2500mAh rechargeable battery, which can last several hours after 2-3 hours full recharge and has a built-in timer that safely powers off after 10 minutes of continuous use.
Overall, a great massage gun that would make a wonderful present.
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Are you always stuck on what to buy that man in your life, be it your dad, husband, brother, boyfriend or just a friend, we've pulled a few gifts together below for male hikers and walkers.
Okay, there are much more expensive foot massagers out there, but to me, having your feet massaged after a day's walking is a luxury. This Shiatsu foot massager would make an ideal gift to achieve that 'at-home' pampering session for feet after a walk; it gives that pampering luxury without the expensive price tag.
It has 18 massage heads and six deep-kneading modes, and you can add soothing heat with a touch of your toe. Several different massage programmes exist, from light vibrations to deeper tissue massage. They do not recommend it for anyone with diabetes.
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There is nothing better than a good, lightweight pair of boots for walking, which would make these an ideal gift. Having competed in many mountain marathon events, I've used many INOV8 products, including many of their fell shoes. When they brought out a walking boot version of the Roclite, it's been my go-to lightweight walking boot ever since. I use this boot hiking boot in spring, summer and autumn.
The Roclite G 345 V2 GTX now includes the graphene-enhanced G-Grip outsole and, with the Gore-Tex construction, offers fantastic grip, comfort, ankle support and protection in a lightweight boot. It's almost like wearing a fell shoe but with ankle support. As much as I used to wear leather hiking boots in the past, I find the newer synthetic hiking boots much more comfortable and lighter, and in the main, they give the same performance.
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The Osprey Talon 33 is a great daysack with many features and the adjustable back and padding on the hip belt and shoulders make for a comfortable day out in the hills.
At 33 litres, it is large enough for all you need for a day walk in the UK, except for venturing out in winter conditions, where a larger rucksack should be worn and is the rucksack I use for the majority of my walks.
It is extremely comfy to wear with a padded back, shoulder straps and hip belt, the back panel is fully adjustable for your height, the Airscape back panel provides plenty of ventilation, is hydration compatible and has pockets, straps and loops galore.
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If you need further rucksack choices or need to know what to consider when buying them, have a look at our Best backpacks and rucksacks for hiking in 2024 guide.
These Darn Tough lightweight, micro crew socks are probably my most used socks. They are great for summer hiking and those warmer spring and autumn days. I've come to like the micro crew length socks, as they sit between ankle length and crew length, so they sit a good few inches above any low hiking shoes or fell shoes and just above a standard hiking boot.
The performance fit of these socks, means I've never experienced any slipping or bunching of the sock, which can lead to blisters. As with many hiking socks, toe seams are a thing of the past. Darn Tough uses their True Seamless Toe technology for an ultra-smooth, undetectable feel.
These are lightweight socks and with their merino wool content, breathe naturally wicking moisture away from your foot and delivering flexible, all-day comfort for your walk. They come with Darn Tough's 'guarantee for life'.
If you need more sock choices including ankle, crew and knee length socks and different weights for different amounts of cushioning and warmth (lightweight, midweight and heavyweight) in your sock, or maybe are just confused by all the choices out there and are unsure how to choose your perfect sock, then check out our Best Hiking Socks of 2024.
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Do you know someone who is always reaching for their mobile to check their phone or taking beautiful countryside photos whilst out and about, they can do that now without having to take their gloves off!
These North Face Etip Recycled Gloves for women are fully touchscreen compatible.
They also provide warmth and dexterity and a grippy silicone palm.
They're made using stretchy recycled fleece that's warming, moisture-wicking and comfortable.
If you need to know more about how to pick the perfect glove, check out our How to choose walking or hiking gloves guide, and for your perfect glove check out our best hiking gloves of 2024.
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This bottle flask is double-walled and vacuum insulated, so keeps hot drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours, perfect for that cup of warming coffee or soup up on top of a hill. The flex cap has a carry strap with honeycomb insulation lock. It's also BPA and phthalate-free. Available in many colours.
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Massage guns have been a game-changer for me. They are believed to improve your recovery, performance, sleep, mobility and stress. I certainly find they do that for me. I use it most days now especially after any walks or exercising mainly on my calves, thighs and back.
Whilst there are better, more expensive massage guns available like the Theragun Pro, this massage gun from Renpho is excellent for home and personal use. I'd not really come across Renpho as a brand until the start of lockdown in 2020, when I bought a pair of the Renpho Smart body fat weighing scales, but with how reliable they've been I recommended them to a couple of friends who both in turn have bought this massage gun. I've borrowed theirs and have tested them against my Theragun, and whilst not quite as good, being less than a quarter of the price, the Renpho massage gun is a great investment.
It is much lighter than the Theragun and easier to carry around.
The Renpho massage gun itself is equipped with a high-torque brushless motor with 12mm amplitude, which means that it can deliver up to 50lb (23KG) massage, but with relatively low noise. It is portable, so you can use it anywhere to enjoy your relaxation time. It has 5 different massage heads to target different body parts and muscle groups, it can release deep muscle tension, and accelerate muscle repair. You can adjust the intensity of the massage from level 1 to 6 (up to a maximum of 2600 percussions per minute) as you massage and enjoy a deeper and more comfortable penetrating muscle massage.
The LCD Touch Display touch button adjusts the massage speed which can accurately display speed and battery in real-time. The massager gun can be charged by USB (type-c). It is equipped with a premium 2500mAh rechargeable battery, which can last several hours after 2-3 hours full recharge and has a built-in timer that safely powers off after 10 minutes of continuous use.
Overall, a great massage gun that would make a wonderful present.
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If you can personalise a gift, it can add that unique or heartfelt touch for that hiker or walker you are buying for. We've pulled together a few ideas for presents that you can personalise for them.
With Ordnance survey maps, from their website, you can make your own personalized map and upload your own title, sub-title and photograph to be used on the front cover. They can star on their own map, or maybe just add a photograph of that special place.
The maps come in either small A3-sized maps or the more popular normal large OS maps and range from £7.99* (small) to £19.99* (large).
They also do a range of framed maps.
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Are you tired of your fellow walkers dumping dirty wet boots in the back of your car, or even their own car, then why not buy them a personalised boot bag?
There is a carrying handle and a mesh window for ventilation. Just check it is big enough to accommodate their boots.
If your boots are always coming back dirty, check out our How to clean, dry and care for your hiking boots guide.
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This mug would make the perfect gift for anyone with a dog.
To customise you can choose the scenery, skin tone, shirt colour, style and colour of hair, type and colour of the dog (from a long list of dogs), dog's name and person's name. You can also add a quote for the other side of the mug.
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Sometimes we are buying gifts for that person who already has everything they need to go out on a walk, whether it is just around the local park or a multi-day trip out in the hills.
So, for that person who has everything, we've pulled together a few fun, unusual and unique gifts for walkers and hikers that they might like.
Always a talking point when you see a banana in a shoe, these make a perfect gift for anyone whose footwear is prone to becoming a little fruity. The Boot Banana Original Shoe Deodoriser is odour neutralising, moisture absorbent and has natural antimicrobial properties.
They are fragrant and moisture-absorbing shoe deodorisers for hiking boots, hiking shoes, running shoes etc.
Boot Bananas have an eco-conscious design and are made from naturally absorbent salts, minerals and plant extracts with lavender, lemon, patchouli and tea-tree essential oils all wrapped in a 100% cotton banana skin.
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These replacement hiking boots shaped trekking pole tips make a great present for people with walking poles. The tips help a little with cushioning and reduce noise when walking on roads and over hard surfaces.
The pole tips wear through reasonably quickly, which is why it is always good to have some spare ones in your rucksack, and these hiking boot-shaped rubber end tips are a little different from the normal end caps.
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Fun and practical as a gift, it attaches as a carabiner but includes many different tools, including a can opener, bottle opener, flat head screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver and more...
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There is nothing worse than having to put your feet in wet boots or shoes before you head out on a walk. So, these make a great, fun present to keep those boots dry. If the footwear is not soaking, they can dry the inside of your boots in 4-6 hours, so they are ready to go again the day after. The absorbers can be refreshed by drying them on a radiator or in an oven, to be stored back in their original packaging to be used again and again. Not just for boots, as they are moisture absorbers, they can even be used to protect car & caravan windows from overnight condensation. Check out what else you can do to clean, dry and proof your boots.
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For many people, hikers and walkers alike, their dog is one of the family. So if you have friends who go walking and hiking with dogs why not treat them to a gift? We've pulled together a few items that will make their walks more enjoyable, practical and comfortable for both them and their dog.
If the walker or hiker that you are buying for has another favoured companion with them on their walks, then this collapsible dog bowl would be an ideal gift for them.
Whilst we all get thirsty on walks, dogs get as thirsty as we do and need to have a drink.
This bowl comes in 3 sizes (750ml, 1l and 1.5l) and is collapsible. It comes with a carabiner to attach it to the outside of a rucksack.
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Keeping your dog under control is a must whilst out walking. If the dog isn't obedient enough to stay close by without a lead, then this could make a perfect gift.
It comes in different lengths, up to 8 metres, so the dog can explore the area around you without disappearing and comes in differing strengths for different sizes of dogs.
This Flexi leash has an improved braking system that allows you to stop the rollout system in motion. Then, if you pull your finger over the slide of the brake system, the belt remains fixed for the desired length. So safe and easy. You can also make the handle smaller and there is a notch for a poop holder.
I've found retractable leads do eventually lead to less pulling and far less strain for the walker. I bought based on the over 100,000 reviews on Amazon and whilst not the cheapest out there, it is the best built, comfiest and most usable one that I have come across.
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The other alternative gift to a lead or retractable leash is a harness.
Dog harnesses, especially the front-clip ones, can reduce your dog's inclination to pull as you walk. Harnesses cover more of your dog's body than a collar does, so the pressure is spread out more, which then gives you more control as you walk and can make the walk easier for both dog and owner. There are also back-clip dog harnesses, which can prevent potential damage to your dog's throat if it pulls, and its position means that it is less likely that your leash will get caught under your dog's legs. I've not noticed particularly, but a few friends have commented that depending upon the size of the dog, more strength is required with a harness than a leash.
This Julius K-9 harness is easy to use and with its one-click fit, the harness can be fitted in a single move. There are interchangeable hook and loop patches, so you can choose from countless different patch options to express your dog's personality and mood, or to display useful information on your harness. The handle on top of the harness allows you to control your dog with confidence while reliability and durability are guaranteed by the shatterproof buckle and the use of durable materials. The reflective elements of the harness ensure good visibility, and the lining provides comfort.
There are many different sizes available to cover the different chest sizes and weight of the dog. Again, approx. 50,000 reviews on Amazon, scoring 4.7 out of 5
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If the person you are buying for needs to be with their dog... even when they are not, how about some Super Socks personalised dog socks?
They are available in different sizes and 14 different colours.
You just need to upload a photo of the dog.
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Walking the dog at night or in the early mornings once the days have shortened means always going out in the dark. Not everyone takes their dogs out along well-lit pavements, so light is needed, especially if you let them off the lead. So with leads, harnesses, and poo bags to juggle with, what better than buying someone a head torch that'll provide all the illumination they need hands-free!
The Black Diamond Storm 500-R is a lightweight, powerful head torch with an IP67 rating, which means it is waterproof up to 1 metre underwater for up to 30 minutes, so it'll take whatever the weather can throw at it. With a rechargeable 2,400 mAh battery, it has a maximum beam distance of 120 metres, so you'll be able to spot your dog from distance. It weighs in at a measly 100g, so is a great all-around torch. Its adjustable fabric headband means it is comfortable to wear.
If you think a head torch would make a great present, but maybe this isn't the one for them, check out our best head torches guide, where we have budget options and ones for runners as well.
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Books make great presents. You can personalise the choice to your friend's interests, they can be enjoyed over and over again, they have the power to transport readers to different places, they provide intellectual stimulation and are generally (within reason!) suitable for all ages. So, why not gift a book?
This book would make the perfect gift to inspire people to get out walking more. As the cover note says it 'inspires young and old, the dedicated and amateur, to embrace the life-affirming joy of walking'.
This book, released in September 2023, runs through the key elements of exercise, diet and sleep that can make all the difference to your physical and mental well-being.
Julia sets out some of the many benefits of walking, which include offsetting the harmful effects of sitting at your desk all day, improving your mood, sugary cravings are reduced, your immune function is boosted and aiding weight loss and keeping diabetes away by helping to bring your blood glucose under control.
Julia knows first-hand the impact of walking and nature, which she believes helped her survive breast cancer and backs that up with evidence-based information and practical tips in this great book.
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If you want a book to challenge and inspire mountain lovers, why not try Alan Hinkes' book on climbing all 14 of the 8,000m peaks in the world?
British mountaineer Alan Hinkes describes for the first time in one place his experiences of climbing all 14 of the peaks over 8000m: the world's highest mountains, in the Himalaya and Karakoram.
Stunning photographs are included as well as reflecting on the Yorkshire childhood and first Alpine ascents that got him to his first 8000m summit attempt.
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If Alan's book seems a little too challenging, then why not try this Ordnance Survey book, where they have pulled together 100 of their favourite walks from around the country?
The 100 walks from across the country are for a wide range of walking experiences and abilities, whether for those new to country walking or seasoned ramblers. It includes easy-paced short walks, half-day rambles, and more energetic and challenging full-day excursions for a total of 625 miles or richly rewarding routes.
In addition, all the routes can also be found in OS Maps online, allowing you to follow them on your mobile device or print a copy of the map to take with you. As a bonus, this book includes six months of OS Maps premium, giving access to all 607 Leisure maps - look for the instructions on the inside flap.
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Is there a better combination than an enjoyable walk with a great pub at the end of it?
This book of 100 Great Pub Walks includes classic walks and watering holes that span the length and breadth of Britain. Taking in some of the country's most dramatic scenery, the walks range from gentle riverside footpaths and rolling fields to invigorating coastal trails and breathtaking hilltop hikes.
The routes are organised by region and graded according to ease. Most are circular and suitable for all levels of fitness. There are also lots of family-friendly and dog-friendly options.
Each walk includes easy-to-follow maps and clear directions plus information on facilities, transport links, local attractions, and of course local beers, ciders and other refreshments.
So, if you know someone who likes a pub after a walk, this could be the gift for them.
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For a book that is completely different and unusual, this book of the walker's guide to outdoor clues and signs makes a perfect gift for walkers and nature lovers alike.
The ultimate guide to what the land, sun, moon, stars, trees, plants, animals, sky and clouds can reveal - when you know what to look for. It includes over 850 outdoor clues and signs for you to enjoy the wonders of the outdoors from your living room. Once you spot the clues and signs, their meaning and the art of making predictions and deductions from them is explained.
This top ten bestseller is the result of the author Tristan Gooley's two decades of pioneering outdoors experience and six years of instructing, researching and writing.
It wasn't a Sunday Times Top 10 Bestseller and Countryfile book of the year for nothing.
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If you know someone who likes more challenging walks, which can be done over several days or weeks, then these National Trail Guidebooks would make perfect presents.
If the below books whet your appetite for the longer walks there are more National Trail books available including: Pennine Way, West Highland Way, Hadrian's Wall Path, Dales Way and the Cumbria Way.
This is a guidebook to walking the 188-mile (302km) Coast to Coast National Trail, originally conceived by Alfred Wainwright.
From St Bees to Robin Hood's Bay, the route passes through the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors across wide and varied terrain. It is suitable for most fit walkers and can be comfortably completed in a fortnight.
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The Snowdonia Way is a guidebook to walking the Snowdonia Way through Snowdonia National Park in Wales, from Machynlleth to Conwy, with low and high-level options.
The 97-mile (156km) low-level route is presented in 6 stages of between 13 and 21 miles (21–34km) whereas the mountain route covers 122 miles in 9 stages of 12 to 18 miles (19–29km).
The mountain route visits Cadair Idris, Snowdon and the Glyders.
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Walking the Ribble Way is a guidebook to walking the Ribble Way, a 72-mile (116km) long-distance trail following the Ribble Valley, from the estuary mouth near Preston to the river's source on Cam Fell in the Yorkshire Dales.
It can be walked year-round within a week and it is suitable for all abilities. The route is presented in 7 stages, ranging from 8.25 to 17 miles (13.3 to 27.4km).
Each stage includes a step-by-step route description alongside full OS mapping and suggestions for day walkers with highlights including rugged moorland hills, gentle countryside, ancient woodland and vast salt marsh.
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Sometimes, when you just don't know what the walker or hiker you are buying for already has. So, if you are struggling to think what to buy them, or unsure whether they'll like what you get them... then why not get the gift of 'last resort' and get them a gift voucher or an e-gift voucher which they can receive immediately.
Set out below is a selection of walking/hiking and outdoor shops offering gift cards that I'm sure would be a welcome gift or present. You just need to decide how much you want to spend on them!
These gift cards and e-gift vouchers are for UK retailers.
Amazon stock many walking and hiking products, so if you are struggling on what to get someone, why not give an Amazon voucher.
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This can be spent in any of their stores or online
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This can be spent in any of their stores or online
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e-Gift Cards can only be used for purchases on the Ordnance Survey online shop.
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Note from Go Outdoors website: Ultimate Gift Cards can be used in any GO Outdoors store, and can also be redeemed in participating stores from Ultimate Outdoors, Blacks, Millets, JD Sports, Scotts, and Tessuti in the UK, Northern Island and the Channel Islands. Gift Cards can also now be used to purchase goods online from JD Sports, but not from any other website.
* Prices correct at the time of writing
December 2023
