The 2025 Holiday Gift Guide: Practical Gear for Every Outdoor Lover

Finding the right gift can be a headache, especially when you’re shopping for the type of person who already seems to have every tool in the shed. Whether you are shopping for a die-hard griller, a professional landscaper, or someone who just loves a quiet morning coffee on the deck, practical gifts are usually the ones that get used the most.

We aren't interested in stocking cheap gag gifts that end up in the landfill by February. We look for products built for the winters we actually experience here in the Maritimes. To help you sort through the noise, we’ve curated a list of our top picks for the 2025 season, from heavy-duty workwear to stocking stuffers that actually punch above their weight.

Here is our guide to winning the holidays this year:

For the Morning Commuter (and Campfire Sitter)

Top Pick: Chilly Moose 17oz Canisbay Mug

We all know that standard travel mugs often leave you wanting just a little bit more coffee. Chilly Moose fixed that with the upgraded Canisbay. They added an extra 5oz to the standard size, making it a 17oz vessel perfect for long drives or relaxing by the fire.

• Temperature Control: Double-walled vacuum-insulated stainless steel keeps drinks piping hot for up to 6 hours or cold for over 8.

• Versatile Design: The extra-wide mouth makes it great for coffee, but equally useful for chili or soup when you’re out in the woods.

• Spill-Resistant: The clear sliding lid is easy to clean and keeps your drink where it belongs.

For the DIY-er

Top Pick: Milwaukee FASTBACK™ Folding Utility Knife with Blade Storage

If you have a handyperson in the family, you can never go wrong with Milwaukee. The FASTBACK™ is a favourite around here because it solves the biggest annoyance of utility knives: changing the blade.

• One-Handed Operation: The press-and-flip mechanism allows for easy opening with one hand - crucial when you’re holding material with the other.

• Onboard Storage: It stores 5 extra blades right in the handle, so you aren't hunting for a fresh edge in the middle of a project.

• Built-in Wire Stripper: A small detail that adds huge utility for electricians or home DIY-ers.

For the Deck & Patio Host

Top Pick: Chilly Moose Cooler (25-75L)

A cooler is a necessity when entertaining outside or on the trails. The Chilly Moose Coolers are engineered "Granite Tough" to withstand outdoor adventures while looking great in your patio setup.

• Maximum Ice Retention: Tried and tested to keep ice frozen and drinks frosty for the long haul.

• Portability: Comes with either heavy-duty woven handles (55L and 75L) or metal handle (25L), making it easy to haul from the truck to the beach.

• Durability: This isn't the cheap plastic bucket you buy at the dollar store; it’s built for expeditions.

For the Griller

Top Pick: Maple Candy Rub - Prairie Smoke & Spice

Looking for a stocking stuffer that will actually get used? This rub is a "taste of Canada" in a bottle. Created by a Pitmaster, it balances savoury components with a distinct layer of sweet maple.

• Versatile Pairing: While it shines on pork, it’s also excellent on seafood and poultry.

• High Quality: No filler, just flavour. It’s an easy way to make a standard Tuesday night dinner taste like a weekend BBQ feast.

For the Outdoorsman (or Woman!)

Top Pick: Stanfield's Heritage Heavy Weight Wool Henley

On the West Coast, they call this the "Island Tuxedo." Here in the Maritimes, we just call it essential. If you are working outside, hiking, or opening up the cottage in the fall, you want wool.

• The Gold Standard: Known for durability, this Henley regulates temperature even when wet.

• Inclusive Fit: Designed to offer a comfortable, functional fit for both men and women.

• Heritage Style: It looks as good as it performs, making it a staple for hardworking Canadians.

For the Kiddos

Top Pick: STIHL Toy Chainsaw

Let the little ones feel like part of the crew. This battery-operated toy is one of our most popular gifts every year. It mimics the look and sound of the real deal, allowing kids to "help" with yard work safely.

• Realistic Function: It features a moving rubber chain and authentic engine sounds.

• Safety First: It offers all the fun of a STIHL tool with zero danger.

For the Person Who Has Everything

Top Pick: Atlantic Outdoor Gift Card

Sometimes the best gift is the one they pick themselves. Whether they are saving up for a new Cub Cadet snow blower or just need to stock up on fuel and oil, a gift card ensures your money goes toward something they actually need.

• Flexible Amounts: Available in denominations from $25 to $1,000.

• Digital Convenience: You receive a unique code instantly - perfect for last-minute shoppers.

Wrap Up

Good gear makes for great gifts. If you’re still stuck on what to buy for the people on your list, come see us in-store. We’ll point you in the right direction and make sure you walk out with something they’ll actually use. We're here to help you find exactly what you need to make someone's holiday special.

Ready to finish your shopping list? Browse our full 2025 Gift Guide Collection here.