Latest Gear: Christmas Special

Sometimes it can be difficult buying for the gear­head in your life. No one wants to make a mistake and end up buying the wrong brand or colour, so I’ve put together a mix of products that you can be sure will be well received. 

They should please even the most ardent gear freaks out there!

Boot Bananas

Boot Bananas are filled with a lavender scented moisture absorbing powder that cuts out the stink that inevitably comes with outdoor footwear. Originally developed for the most heinous of funk offenders­ the rock shoe, Boot Bananas are great for just about any sweaty smelly footwear, from running shoes to ski boots. NB:­ They work just as well in women’s footwear but I’m not for a minute going to suggest that any guys go out and buy these for their wife or girlfriend! Approx £13 

Black Diamond Dirt Bag Gloves

These gloves have a proper timeless feel to them. They look more expensive than they actually are (always good for a pressie eh?) and like all BD gloves they fit and perform brilliantly. They’re just as useful for shovelling snow off the drive as they are for shredding powder and as an added bonus they look just like those gloves you’ve seen all the mountain guides in Courchevel wearing. Approx £30

Nixon Watches

Nixon have been around for ages and they’re still a cool brand. If the ski or snowboarder man in your life is a walking lifestyle brand whore who needs a watch to complete the look, chances are a Nixon watch will do just nicely. Approx £200 ­- £250

Icebreaker baselayers

Icebreaker still make some of the finest thermals out there. It’s expensive stuff but you just can’t beat Merino when it’s cold. From skimpy undies all the way to hoodies and smart city wear, Icebreaker have Merino clothing and accessories to suit everyone. Approx £100

Coal Headwear and Accessories

Coal hail from Portland in the USA and along with having some pretty iconic beanies in their range, they also have a really nice line of women’s specific headwear, gloves and scarves. Their ‘Coal Considered’ range features some super nice styles in Merino and Cashmere too. Definitely a good call for a stocking filler this christmas. Approx £25

Lifeventure Thermal Mug

We’re in proper outdoor gift cliché territory here but I reckon the humble Lifeventure Thermal Mug is actually a really awesome thing, especially on the slopes in winter. You can’t beat busting out a couple of swigs of hot tea or coffee mid chairlift ride, especially when you often have to pay silly money in mountain restaurants. I find the Thermal Mug approach also works really well in conjunction with a hip flask of Jagermeister. Approx £7

Ortovox S1+ Avalanche Transceiver

Transceiver technology has come a long way in the last few years. So much so that it really does make sense to upgrade if you’re using an older model. The Ortovox S1 is a modern 3 antenna beacon with a whole host of well thought out details. Crucially it’s easy to use and is lightweight and compact to carry too. Approx £250

Whilst we’re on the subject, how about enrolling you and your backcountry skier / snowboarder friend or partner in an avalanche course as a gift? They’re becoming increasingly popular throughout the Alps and the knowledge and skills learned could make it the best present ever. Approx £80 -­ £400

Happy shopping!

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Read more of Andy's reviews back in our news feed - search 'Latest Gear' or visit his website.