On snow days, it's tempting to want to curl up on the couch with a mug of hot chocolate. But the snow can offer plenty of fun, particularly for those who like outdoor activities such as hiking, biking or running.
If you have an outdoor adventurer on your holiday shopping list, BestReviews fitness expert Judd NeSmith, NASM-CPT, PES and founder of Serious Fitness, has some great gift ideas for items that can help your loved ones stay fit and have fun in the snow.
In this article: Ergodyne N-Ferno Balaclava Ski Mask, Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats and Ecco Men's Track 25 High Gore-Tex Hiking Boots
Whether running, cycling, hiking or just playing with the kids, you want to dress warmly enough to be comfortable in the cold and snow without overheating. NeSmith recommends starting with a short-sleeved base layer.
"A shirt made of wool, polyester or another synthetic fabric is your best bet, because it will keep your skin warm and dry," he says.
Over the base layer, a long-sleeved mock or full turtleneck top is ideal. NeSmith likes compression shirts meant for exercise. Top this mid-layer with a coat or windbreaker that's windproof and waterproof. To protect the lower half of your body, a good pair of insulated, waterproof exercise or snow pants works well.
Don't forget your hands and head, NeSmith cautions. He likes wearing a thin glove or liner under a pair of high-quality mittens. Depending on the weather, a beanie or skull cap may be enough to keep your head warm. However, a ski mask or balaclava may be a better option in extreme cold.
Ergodyne N-Ferno Balaclava Ski Mask
Whether hiking or having a snowball fight, this face mask can keep you warm and protected in the snow. It's made of polyester and features a wind-resistant panel over the face for extra coverage. It can be worn three ways: as an open-face balaclava, a neck gaiter or a full ski mask.
Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
HotHands Hand Warmer Value Pack
These disposable single-use hand warmers make it easy to stay warm when playing in the snow. "These can go right inside your gloves to keep your hands warm," NeSmith says. They're air-activated, so they heat up in as little as 15 minutes. Best of all, they're completely odorless.
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Orastone Rechargeable Hand Warmer
This convenient rechargeable hand warmer can warm the hands in a hurry, taking just two minutes to heat up. It's small, lightweight and can keep hands warm for three to four hours on a single charge. It comes in three fun patterns.
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These polyester/wool mittens are the perfect top layer for hands when exercising in the snow. The material is soft, lightweight and moisture-wicking, making them as comfortable as possible. They also have touchscreen-compatible thumbs.
Sold by Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods
Trailside Supply Co. Men's Insulated Workout Snow Pants
These waterproof workout pants have sealed seams and a soft mesh lining to keep runners, hikers and cyclists warm and dry in the snow. They also have a fully elasticized waist with a drawstring and Velcro adjustments on the bottom cuff to customize the fit. They have two side pockets for holding essentials.
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Smartwool Snowboard Targeted Cushion Piste Machine Over the Calf Socks
These wool-blend socks are extremely soft and wick moisture away from the skin to keep feet warm and dry in the snow. "The calf-length design makes a great winter-weather sock," NeSmith says. They feature light cushioning in the toe and heel to make them more comfortable.
Sold by Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods
This insulated water bottle can help keep your recipient hydrated even in cold weather. "In extreme cold, a regular water bottle can freeze," NeSmith explains. "A bottle with insulation like this one stays ready to drink." It has a light, compact design, so it's perfect for hiking in the snow, and its durable stainless-steel construction holds up well to regular use.
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Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
This antioxidant-rich broad-spectrum sunscreen protects skin from sun reflecting off snow when exercising outdoors. It's completely invisible and weightless on the skin and doesn't have a strong scent. It's oil-free, too, so it works well for all skin types.
Merino Protect Women's Short Sleeve Base Layer
This merino wool shirt makes an excellent base layer for snow days. It's soft, lightweight and breathable, making it comfortable enough for all-day wear. It's also moisture-wicking and resists odors, so it's ideal for activities that work up a sweat.
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These traction cleats can give anyone who walks, jogs or hikes much more stability in winter weather. "They allow you to move over snow and ice without worrying about falling," NeSmith says. They fit easily over most shoes and are held in place by a sturdy rubber strap. The cleats are made of 1.4-millimeter steel coils and rubber, so they're highly durable.
Sold by Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods
Under Armour Men's ColdGear Glove Liners
These glove liners are perfect for wearing under mittens in snow and cold weather. They're made of a polyester/spandex blend, so they stretch comfortably to fit like a second skin. They're also machine-washable for easy cleaning.
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These lightweight snowshoes make it easy to get around in the snow for hiking and other activities. They're made of lightweight aluminum and are easy to put on. The ergonomic design ensures they're comfortable to walk in, and they come with adjustable trekking poles.
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Under Armour Men's ColdGear Fitted Mock Long-Sleeved Shirt
This shirt makes an ideal mid-layer for running, cycling, hiking or playing in the snow. It features a dual-layer fabric that offers excellent warmth and keeps skin dry. Its mock neck design provides additional coverage.
Sold by Amazon and Dick's Sporting Goods
Columbia Women's Switchback Sherpa-Lined Jacket
This waterproof jacket is excellent for exercising outdoors in the snow. It features a nylon shell and is lined with soft, plush sherpa for added insulation. It also has a protective hood, zippered hand pockets and a drawcord-adjustable hem to keep out the cold.
Ecco Men's Track 25 High Gore-Tex Hiking Boots
These comfortable, durable hiking boots are ideal for snowy conditions. They have uppers made of full-grain leather and oiled nubuck and feature a Gore-Tex membrane to make them fully waterproof. Their lightweight, flexible soles make them easy to walk in and provide excellent traction.
Sold by Amazon
Maui Jim Ho'okipa Rectangular Sunglasses
The glare from the snow can make it difficult to hike, run, cycle or play in cold weather, so these lightweight sunglasses are an excellent snow-day accessory. The lenses have an ultraviolet-protective coating and a neutral gray color, offering extreme light reduction.
Sold by Amazon
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Jennifer Blair writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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