Whether it was splitting and stacking wood on the weekends for our indoor stove, hunting for wild (kid-appropriate) mushrooms or encouraging me to pee in the woods, I have to give kudos to my dad for instilling in me an outdoor-loving heart from the very beginning. Being an engineer with a mid-college stint in Vietnam with the army, he always loved to share some super-efficient, hard-core approach to being outside and because of this, Father’s Day (June 19th) is one of my favorite gift-giving times of the year when it comes to gear. From hard to soft goods, and a little booze for good measure, below are some of my recommendations for any outdoorsy dad.
At 30 inches long, the Commander is specifically designed for large fire pits. With an axe-like chopper for splitting burning wood, a serrated hook for rolling big logs and a poker for moving everything around, this super-efficient tool will be a new bonfire essential. $179, pitcommand.com
Described by Yeti as “tough as nails”, the Hopper M30 has been re-engineered with a wide-mouth top that stands open on its own for loading and unloading. Ultra-strong magnets are built into the opening for a tight, leak-resistant seal. Big enough for a full case of beer and ice, the coldcell technology maintains Yeti’s signature insulation. $350, yeti.com. Yeti products are also available at Ace Hardware in Aspen.
Famous for its lightweight texture and relaxed feel, the Vaha is made with bacteria-resistant hemp and UPF 50+ protection. Its versatile capabilities can go from the gym or crag to a casual night on the town. My dad had to size down in these since they run a little loose. $65, prana.com. Prana products are also carried at Bristlecone Mountain Sports in Basalt.
Made with 100% recycled, non-toxic plastic, this is a headlamp you can feel good about. Six brightness settings, a high powered white LED and red light options make this a great new headlamp for dad’s cache. Multiple strap designs are available, but this fun camo pattern is my favorite for dad. $50, thirdeyeheadlamps.com
Even the outdoorsiest of dads need to spruce up from time to time, and this Orvis classic will be a go-to. Pure cotton with a dense weave of 200 threads per square inch, the Signature Twill has a smooth and substantial feel. Available in a variety of beautiful plaids, this shirt has a classic as opposed to slim fit, so don’t be afraid to size down. $109, orvis.com. Orvis products are also carried at Taylor Creek stores in Aspen and Basalt.
I love the versatility of this 20L pack. It has an easy-open cinch top, a suspended laptop sleeve, extra durable front face and base panel, curved lower lumbar features and a breathable mesh back panel. The color options make the Moda stand out from other packs and the 20L size is perfect for traveling or medium-sized hikes. $115, cotopaxi.com. Cotopaxi products are also carried at the Ute Mountaineer in Aspen.
Long evening chats with my dad are never complete without some hooch. This Wyoming whiskey was started by 4th generation cattle rancher and offers a classic bourbon taste of a medium body with a palate of vanilla, caramel, charred oak and a hint of citrus. Classic bourbon distilling methods with non-GMO, locally sourced ingredients will transport dad straight to the Wild West. $49, wyomingwhiskey.com. Wyoming Whiskey can also be special ordered from Local Spirits in Aspen.
Meg Simon is an Aspen-based freelance writer, graphic designer and founder of Simon Finch Creative. She can be reached at meg@simonfinchcreative.com.
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Gear columnist Meg Simon picks Father’s Day gifts to show your outdoorsy pops some appreciation.
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