Best Gifts $100-$200: 2020 Holiday Gift Guide
Welcome to our 5th Annual Backcountry Skiing Canada Holiday Gift Guide. We're going to start things off easy with the under $50 category, then build up speed to the $50-$100 range, followed by the $100-$200 gifts before we culminate with the $200+ gift ideas. No matter what price range your spending preferences land in we're sure you'll find the perfect gift for that adventurer on your holiday gift list.
Top Gifts $100-$200
We've listed the Best Gifts $100-$200 below but there is also our Best Gifts $50-$100 over here so be sure to check those out as well. If you've got more to spend, well then hold on as the $200+ gift ideas will be announced next.
Orage Harebell Half-Zip Base Layer
Orage’s Harebell Half-Zip Base Layer is made of their heavyweight Drirelease merino blend fabric (86% polyester, 9% merino wool, 5% spandex) so it will keep you cozy and warm. The fabric is designed to wick moisture away from your skin to keep you drier and more comfortable longer. It also has antimicrobial features so it can be worn more and washed less. Show the woman in your life that base layers don’t have to be boring, with the Harebell Half-Zip.
Price: $109.99CAN / $99.99US
Colour: Cranberry, Black, Pure Navy
Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
Helionox Table One Hard Top
Camping trips are always better with a well organized and comfortable base camp and the Helionox Table One Hard Top helps with that as it provides a much-needed space up off the ground for your cooking and leisure needs. The ingenious hardtop design of the Table One folds down like an accordion so it packs away small yet creates a rigid surface for even heavy items. The DAC aluminum alloy poles (which are also used on high-end tents) are strong and light and work in conjunction with the high-strength nylon resin hubs and joints to form a stable platform. Your next car camping trip should include the Helionox Table One Hard Top, it’s also the ideal gift for any camper.
Price: $195CAN / $139US
Dimensions: 60x40x39cm / 23.5x15.5x15”
Weight: 870g / 1lb 15oz
Packed Size: 41x12x11cm / 16x4.5 x4.5”
Capacity: 50kg / 110lb
POC Merino ZIP Hoody
Cotopaxi’s new Kusa Blanket 160 is an added-insulation version of their versatile, indoor/outdoor Kusa Blanket. This new 160 version uses a highly packable llama-poly insulation which is also breathable and super warm. A DWR-finish was added to the nylon ripstop shell fabric to help it stand up to light rain. The Kusa 160 comes in two sizes, the traditional Full (52 x 70in) and Queen (80 x 80in). Give as a gift or pick one up for movie nights at home or under the stars.
Price: $190CAN / $160US
Colours: Uranium Black, Alloy Grey, Turmaline Navy
Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Saucony Switchback 2 Shoes with BOA Fit System
In case you don’t know what the BOA Fit System is all about, I’ll elaborate. It’s a dial and cable mechanism that lets you create a custom fit in many types of footwear and even some apparel. The BOA system consists of a micro-adjustable dial which tightens a super-strong lightweight lacing system that is guided with internal or external low-friction lace guides. It effectively replaces laces and buckles on running shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, helmets, gloves, snowshoes, Inline skates, clothing and more. Case in point, the Saucony Switchback 2 Shoes which is a performance trail shoe that features the BOA Fit System integrated into the Mono-panel upper. The laterally mounted BOA L6 dial wraps the foot with TX4 Laces through FormTX Guides to secure the foot comfortably while optimizing performance. If you haven’t used a BOA system do yourself a favour and give it a try, and if you’re looking for an ideal hiking/running shoe then give the Saucony Switchback 2 a try.
Price: $169.95CAN / $140US
Weight: 249g / 8.8oz
Colours: Black/Charcoal, Pine/Orange
Available: For Men and Women
Faction Agent Poles
Faction not only makes great skis but you can pick up a pair of adjustable poles to match. The Agent Poles are a lightweight, adjustable touring pole that can also be used to shred the resort. They’re made from lightweight aluminum so you know they are strong yet won’t slow you down on the skin track. They have an extended rubber grip so you can easily grip down on it while ski touring and the interchangeable baskets ensure they work just as well on hardback as in deep powder. The Faction Agent Poles are a versatile gift for the skier in your life.
Price: $119 CAN / $89US
Size: One size fits all
Length: 110-145cm
Colour: Green
Flylow Hiboy Anorak
A wind layer is often the missing link in most peoples hiking and backcountry apparel arsenal. Flylow’s Hiboy Anorak not only protects you from the wind but it will also shed light rain thanks to its Durable Water Repellent (DWR). It also provides just the right amount of warmth for those high energy activities since it’s made from lightweight 100% nylon Intuitive fabric. It also features a chest pocket which the Hiboy Jacket stuffs into when not needed so it’s ideal for hiking and ski touring. This is such a light and compact layer you’ll want to take it on every adventure and trust me, you’ll be so glad you added this one to your kit.
Price: $160CAN / $125US
Colours: Night/Amaro, Charcoal, Shale/Mallard
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Backcountry Gore-Tex Snow Glove
This no-nonsense ski glove from Backcountry is called the Gore-Tex Snow Glove and is made with PrimaLoft insulation and you guessed it, Gore-Tex to keep your hands dry and warm. The goatskin leather delivers supple durability and reliable grip. The built-in glove leashes ensure you won’t drop a glove off the chairlift in bounds and the velcro cuffs ensure the powder stays out on those epic backcountry laps. With all the features you need and none you don’t, the Backcountry Gore-Tex Snow Glove is reasonably priced and ideal for any skier on your list.
Price: $130CAN / $99.95US
Colours: Black
Sizes: 7, 8, 9, 10
GSI Bugaboo Base Camper, Camp Cookset
This non-stick cook set is ideal for a family camping whether it be in the camping ground or in the backcountry. The Bugaboo’s unique nesting design incorporates two non-stick pots and frying pan along with a lid for each, a removable handle and a cutting board. The Base Camper Cookset provides premium performance at a price that’s more than reasonable. Choose the small, medium or large pot set depending upon your group size or how fast and light you want to go in the backcountry—No matter what GSI has you covered.
Price: $111.99 - $129.99CAN / $84.95 - $109US
Sizes: Small / Large
Weight: 0.9 - 1.36kg / 2 - 3lb
Dimensions:
Small: 8.2 x 8.2 x 5.4”, 2lb 7oz, 2L and 1.5 L Pots, 8" Fry Pan
Medium: 9.1 x 9.1 x 5.4”, 2 lb 10oz, 3L and 2 L Pots, 8" Fry Pan
Large: Measures 10 x 10 x 6”, 3lb 4oz, 5 L and 3 L Pots, 9" Fry Pan
Helly Hansen LIFA Merino Lightweight Hoodie
Merino Wool provides many desirable qualities for active adventures such as backcountry skiing and hiking, the most important being its anti-microbial properties which prevent it from stinking after prolonged use. The others are breathability, comfort and the ability to keep you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. The downside to 100% merino wool is its cost and durability, this is why Helly Hansen has combined merino wool with their proprietary LIFA Stay Warm Technology. This 2-layer construction consists of a 70% Merino Wool and 30% Polypropylene which provides all the benefits of merino wool with the durability and wicking properties of LIFA. The Flatlock seams ensure maximum comfort while the hood provides added warmth and the 1/2 zip allows you to dump heat and regulate your temperature. The LIFA Merino Lightweight Hoodie is functional, stylish and ideal for the adventurer on your gift list this holiday season.
Price: $120CAN / $110US
Colours: Black, Electric Blue
Size: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Patagonia Insulated Fjord Flannel Jacket
Who said grunge was dead? The Patagonia Fjord Insulated flannel is offered in men’s and women’s sizes and colours. The 60g Thermogreen recycled polyester insulation elevates the Fjord beyond the level of a common flannel. It can be worn on colder days, around a campfire in the spring or out for a pint at your local. Two chest pockets out front and stealth side pockets mean you have space the stash stuff and keep your hands warm all at the same time. To top it all off, the garment is sewn “Fair Trade certified.”
Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colours: Navy Blue, Forge Grey, Mojave Khaki, Owl Brown, New Navy, Basin Green
Weight: 703g / 24.8oz
Material: 6.6-oz 100% organic cotton yarn-dyed flannel
G3 Pivot Poles
G3 has redesigned their entire pole line up for winter 2020 and now offer the VIA, FIXIE and PIVOT poles. The Pivot poles are designed for splitboarders and backcountry skiers who want a flexible pole that can also collapse down and easily store in their pack. The innovative design of the PIVOT poles allows them to wrap around the handle and lock into place when packed. This secures the poles in a nested format so there are no loose ends or pole segments flapping around. The PIVOTS use lightweight aluminum and are engineered for strength and durability so you can even use them in bounds at the resort. Just below the main grip of the PIVOT there is an extended soft foam grip with a dual-density plastic upper which provides a comfortable grip when you need to choke down while crossing steep slopes. If you need to choke down even further there are two integrated rings that provide plenty of purchase. The main grip has an extended utility tab at the nose which is designed for overall grip comfort and also helps manipulate your binding risers be they AT or Splitboard. And finally, the pole straps are ergonomically shaped and easily removed with a fast clip system.
With all these features you can see why G3 makes some of the best poles on the market.
Price: $160CAN / $145US
Sizes: Short - 105-125cm; Long 115-135cm
Weight: 295g / 10.4oz; 10.8oz
Outdoor Research Carbide Sensor Gloves
Like Outdoor Research’s new Carbide Jacket and pants, the Carbide Sensor Gloves are durable, warm and of course waterproof and breathable thanks to their Gore-Tex insert. The Carbide Sensor Gloves feature a touchscreen-compatible index and thumb as the name suggests along with a soft nose wipe built into the thumb, a removable leash, SuperCinch Gauntlet and ladder-lock wrist cinch with Arcade Elastic Webbing. Their pre-curved construction means they fit,… well, like a glove. At just $130 Canadian you can’t go wrong with these gloves for skiing, ski touring or any winter adventure.
Price: $130CAN / $115US
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Colours: Madder/Saddle, Black/Storm
Weight: 273g / 9.6oz
Petzl SIROCCO Helmet
The new Petzl SIROCCO Helmet is an ultra-lightweight helmet which is certified for climbing, mountaineering and ski touring. The shape is lower in the back which offers enhanced protection over the entire head and optimizes volume. The hybrid construction uses a shell with EPP (expanded polypropylene) foam and a rigid crown that is injected with EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam which provides excellent ventilation with many large vent holes. The adjustable headband and chinstrap ensure a custom fit while the magnetic buckle facilitates fastening the chinstrap quickly and easily. There are also two clips in front of the SIROCCO and a rear elastic band for securing a headlamp. Even though the design has a reduced weight it doesn’t sacrifice protection and provides optimal protection against side, front and rear impacts while still being amazingly comfortable. This helmet is an adventurer’s dream come true and one they’d surely love to receive as a holiday gift.
Price: $189.95 CAN / $140US
Weight: 170g /6oz
Colours: black/orange, white/orange
Sizes: S/M, M/L
Westcomb Crest Hoody
Westcomb is obsessed with creating minimalist, functional, high-quality apparel and nothing epitomizes this better than their Crest Hoody. It’s made from Pertex Equilibrium which is a lightweight softshell material that is quick-drying and weather-resistant. This synthetic fabric consists of a tight duplex weave that wicks moisture away and is water and wind-resistant. It does all this yet the Crest Hoody is paper-thin and packs down to the size of an orange. Ideal for windy ridges and climbing the skin track on cold days, the Crest fits over a base or mid-layer and the provided hood while minimalist in nature provides additional protection from the elements. Features include one large Napoleon pocket, non-adjustable hood, an elastic hem, laminated zippers, adjustable cuffs and a super handy napoleon pocket. Go light, fast and far with the super versatile and packable Westcomb Crest Hoody, it’s the layer you never knew you couldn’t live without.
Price: $199CAN/US
Colours: Black, Eclipse, Flame
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL
POC Define Sunglasses
POC’s new Define Sunglasses are designed to be ridden both on and off the bike, so there’s no need to switch out your shades when you’re putting in beer laps on the local patio. Their Clarity lens technology was developed in partnership with Carl Zeiss, the optical industry leaders. Clarity lenses control the colour spectrum for enhanced contrast and colour definition for clearer vision in the environments you ride. The Define frames use a minimal frame on the bottom of the glasses to increase the field of view and are made of a lightweight and durable grilamid material. Rubber grips on the nosepiece and the temples ensure the glasses sit firmly in place even during strenuous activity. Corrective optical lenses can also be fitted to the Define frames should you require them.
Price: $200CAN / $180US
Colours: Uranium Black, Hydrogen White
Size: One Size Fits All
Victorinox Swiss Army Ranger Grip 55
If you are looking for more of a substantial knife compared to the Evolution Grip 18 which we featured in the $50-$100 Holiday Gift Guide Category then consider the Victorinox Swiss Army Ranger Grip 55. This bad boy is seriously good looking and over twice the size of the Evolution Grip 18 but with a few less features. The Ranger Grip 55 contains only the essential tools you’ll need in a knife all wrapped up in a monochrome black finish. This finish not only looks amazing but thanks to the special polispectral process, the monochrome black finish is extra durable too. The 12 functions include: can opener, screwdriver 3 mm, large blade, bottle opener, screwdriver 5 mm, wire stripper, wood saw, reamer, punch and sewing awl, corkscrew, and key ring. Give the gift of safety, utility and style this holiday season with the Victorinox Swiss Army Ranger Grip 55.
Price: $180CAN / $119.99US
Colour: Onyx Black
Weight: 166g / 5.85oz
Dimensions: 13 x 2.25cm / 5.1 x 0.88in (LxW)
Smartwool Merino 250 Base Layer Colorblock Crew
Smartwool’s new Men's Merino 250 Base Layer Colorblock Crew is made from 100% responsibly sourced Merino wool. We all know the attributes that merino wool provides, thermoregulation, odour resistance, breathability and superior wicking, but the 250 Base Layer has more. The interlock knit process used on 250 Base Layer provides enhanced comfort and breathability with shoulder panels and a flatlock seam construction, in addition to this it’s a heavier weight so it’s ideal for adventures in colder environments like winter hiking, running, and skiing. Merino wool is far superior to synthetic fibres so why even consider them, especially when the Merino 250 Base Layer is designed to go from the mountains to aprés ski with ease.
Price: $139.99CAN / $110US
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colours: Military Olive Heather, Deep Navy
Weight: 280g / 9.88oz
Ombraz Dolomite Sunglasses
Ombraz has taken the tradition sunglasses design and eliminated the sidearms which make these sunglasses virtually indestructible and also eliminate the discomfort typically felt when wearing a traditional pair of ‘armed’ sunnies for extended durations. Their Dolomite model is a timeless circular frame design but they also offer Classic and Leggero frame. The Dolomite’s have built-in side visors to reduce peripheral glare in the mountains or on the water. All of Ombraz models feature German engineered high quality polarized Zeiss optics. These lenses are both smudge and scratch-resistant and instead of arms they use a 100% recycled Japanese nylon cord which is abrasion-resistant, water-resistant, and ultra-comfortable. Ombraz offers 30-day returns a lifetime warranty and plants 20 mangrove trees for every pair sold, sequestering 330x more carbon than it takes to produce and deliver a single pair of Ombraz. So why go with shades that don’t have side arms? Well, they are lighter, more comfortable, harder to break and never fall off your face so they are ideal for adventure sports. Give them a try and see what you think!
Process: $190CAN / $140US
Colours: Charcoal, Slate
Weight: 20g / 0.7oz
Lens Options: Polarized Grey, Polarized Brown, Polarized Yellow
Scarpa Kalipe Shoes
The Kalipe Approach Shoe from Scarpa is suitable for “approaching” a rock face to climb (as the name implies)—it’s also a passable day hiker, disc golfer, wear-around town-er. Because Scarpa has been making footwear forever (almost) they’ve got the basics dialed. Fit, material and styling are always bang on. A pair of Kalipe’s will make someone happy this season and ensure that they will be kitted out and able to accompany you on your next adventure. The partial rand means they’ll last for years and stick to stuff on the way up. Bonus.
Price: $181CAN / $149US
Sizes: 40 – 48 (half sizes)
Colours: Smoke/Green Fluorescent / Stone/Black
Weight: 340g / 12oz (single size 42)
Material: Leather and synthetic
MSR Pocket Rocket Stove Kit
If you are looking for a complete system to cook in style, this may be it. The kit is comprised off two insulated cups with lids, two bowls, two foldable sporks and the super-awesome Pocket Rocket stove. And…it all tucks into the 2L hard anodized aluminum pot. The only thing missing is gas (yes, some items may be sold separately). This kit is ideal for two people. The pot is big enough to make a wicked Pad Thai and it’s all self-contained. Give this to your sweetie and reap the benefits!
Price: $134.95CAN / $99.95US
Sizes: 2L pot
Colours: Grey Pot, Blue and Green cups and bowls
Weight: 1.73kg / 1lb 9oz
Material: Plastic and Aluminium
Helly Hansen Lifaloft Full Zip Insulator
No one likes to be cold and the new Lifaloft Full Zip Insulator from Helly Hansen will help keep you warm on those long chairlift rides or waiting for your turn in the local comp. Insulated with super warm and lightweight LIFALOFT, these Full Zip Insulator cropped pants are only 3/4 length so they never interfere with your ski boots but keep your butt and thighs warm. The full side zips mean you can put them on over your heard shells and take them off in a flash. LIFALOFT is 20% lighter and still warmer than standard insulation and the outer fabric is both water-resistant and windproof. They also include a YKK centre front zipper for when nature calls and dual YKK zipped hand-warmer pockets for small items and to keep your digits from freezing.
Price: $200CAN / $160
Fabric: 100% Polyamide
Insulation: LIFALOFT 80g insulation
Fit: Regular
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Orage Sentinel Shell Pant
The all-new Sentinel Shell Pants from Orange use a 3-ply Dermizax fabric (3 ply: 100% polyester, 100% nylon backing, 80/20 Eco DWR, 180g/m²) for best-in-class waterproofing and breathability, along with the high-output ventilation to dump heat when needed. The fabric’s flexible stretch provides a full range of motion and comfort for both resort and backcountry ski days. The lower leg reinforcement, stretch snow gaiters with elastic grip, adjustable waist band and fully seam sealed design are but some of the features the Sentinel Shell Pants have to offer. These are high performance shell pants with out the high price tag. Enjoy a pair yourself or get one for the adventurer on your holiday shopping list.
Price: $199.99CAN / $149.99US
Colours: Honey Yellow, Pure Navy, Blue Horizon
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Black Diamond Solution 150 Base ½ Zip
Black Diamond’s new Solution 150 Base ½ Zip uses Nuyarn’s patented stretch fabric which is an extra-fine 18.5 micron merino wool technology for superior thermoregulation and moisture management. It is warmer and dries substantially faster than traditional merino wool fabrics and is also naturally anti-bacterial and odour resistant. The Solution 150 Base has a ½ Zip to easily dump excess heat and uses flatlock stitching which eliminates chafing and pressure points while carrying a pack. It is designed for high-output activity in the mountains and the integrated thumb-holes make pulling on additional layers easy without bunching up your sleeves. The built-in hood keeps you warmer on cold days and provides an extra level of protection from the wind on those less than ideal touring and hiking days.
Price: $179CAN / $139US
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Colours: Black/Cypress, Black
Fabric: Merino Wool Blend Single Jersey (150gsm, 78% Merino Wool, 22% Polyester)
On a budget? Then check out our Best Gifts Under $50 or our Best Gifts in the $50-$100 price range. If you want to spend a little more then there is always the Best Gifts $200+ price range round one and round two as well. Happy Shopping.