Best Gifts Over $200: 2019 Holiday Gift Guide Round Two
Welcome to our 4th 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 Over $200
This is the priciest category in our Holiday Gift Guide so if you are looking for less costly gift ideas then be sure to click the links down at the bottom of this post. And, if you want more gift ideas at this price point then be sure to check out round one of our Best Gifts Over $200 here. Happy Shopping.
Smartwool Smartloft 120 Jacket
Nothing insulates, breaths and stays off the stink better than wool, it’s also warm when wet so it makes ideal insulation and one that Smartwool incorporates into their Smartloft 120 Jacket. 120-gram weight of 50% recycled wool insulation is used in the Smartloft 120, hence the name. This insulation is only found up-front on the jacket where you need warmth the most, on the back of the Smartloft 120 you’ll find a Sport Fleece fabric with a DWR finish, perfect for high-intensity workouts. If someone on your gift list likes natural fibres then this is the gift for them.
Price: $239.99CAN / $200US
Colours: Light Alpine Blue, Chile Pepper, Graphite, Black, Scarab, Sulpher
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Fabrics: 56% Merino Wool, 44% Polyester
Insulation: 120g proprietary 50% recycled wool insulation
Mammut Ducan GTX High Boots
Finding a boot that is supportive enough on longish hikes, while still being light, is a bit of a challenge. The Ducans come in different heights around the ankle but the “highs” maybe where you want to look. The boots’ stiff sole and form-fitting design make it feel stable and agile at the same time. These may not work in deep snow without a gaiter and maybe on a snowshoe; heck, perhaps get a pair for a warm-weather getaway or shelve them until spring.
Price: $249.95CAN / $199US
Sizes: 8 - 14
Colour: Black, Black Dark Zion, Dark Titanium-Dark Surf
Weight: 545g / 19.22oz
Material: Gore-Tex Liner, Vibram Sole, Engineered Mesh
Arc’teryx Proton LT Hoody
The Arc’teryx Proton LT got very high marks in our “Best Mid Layers of 2019/2020” round-up—and for good reason. This synthetic mid-layer is about as good as it gets. The Fortius Air 20 face fabric is super tough, in fact, it’s 60 times more durable in abrasion tests than the industry standard. The Coreloft Compact insulation breaths as you move to ensure you don’t overheat maintains excellent stretch recovery while the No Slip Zip keeps the main zipper from self-opening. It’s not just a pretty face, the Arcteryx Proton LT Hoody performs like no other. Get one for yourself and maybe one for that skier on your list?
Price: $350CAN / $299US
Colours: Men's - Neptune, Sambal, Lliad, Utopia, Black, Labyrinth; Women's - Lampyre, Sunhaven, Black Redox, Arbour, Yukon, Pegasus, Tui
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Weight: 375 g / 13.2 oz
Fabrics: Shell - Fortius Air 20; Liner - Dope Permeair 20; Insulation - Coreloft Compact 80 insulation in the body and Coreloft Compact 60 in the hood
Mont Bell EX Light Down Anorak
If lightweight is a priority then you won’t get any lighter than this Down Anorak from Month Bell, which uses a 7-denier Ballistic Airlight rip-stop nylon shell and 900 Fill Power EX Down Insulation. It is the epitome of minimalist design with only a half zipper and a fully insulated tunnel pocket. If you know someone who wants an ultralight down jacket that packs to nothing then consider giving them the Mont Bell EX Light Down Anorak.
Price: $299CAN / US
Colours: Primary Blue, Charcoal Grey, Red Brick
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Weight: 215g / 7.6oz
Fabric: Shell - 7-denier Ballistic Airlight rip-stop nylon shell; Insulation - 900 Fill Power EX Down
Therm-a-Rest UberLite sleeping pad
I don’t know about y’all, but I have become a bit of a weight weenie in my advanced age. If the performance is there at fewer grams, I’m all over it. That’s why the Uberlite is appealing. At 250g for the regular size, it’s significantly lighter than most others in the R2, 6.5cm thickness category. ‘looks to be pretty durable too! If need be, it comes with a repair kit—and a handy stuff sack. About the size of a beer can, but half the weight.
Price: $230CAN / $179US
Size: S
Colour: Deep blue
Weight: 257g / 9.1oz
Material: 15-denier HT nylon
Xspex Recon Goggles
The Recon Goggles by Xspex use a double Anti-Fog Italian lens which provides 100% UV Protection and has a 19% VLT Rating for maximum glare protection on sunny days. They also include a night lens for low light conditions. Where Xspecs stand out is in their MAGNETX magnetic lens technology which allows you to quickly change lenses for varying light conditions, as well as with their optional Magnetic Face Shield. This magnetic buff easily attached to the goggles and provides some additional warmth on cold days. Any skier on your gift list would love a pair of these.
Price: $224.99CAN / $179.99US
Patagonia Snowdrifter Jacket and Bibs
We are Patagonia lovers here at Backcountryskiingcanada.com—not just because of their great apparel…their progressive, put-their-money-where-their-mouth-is, approach to environmental issues is compelling as well. The Snowdrifter jacket and bib combo will make someone very happy this holiday. Full, pow-proof protection and a styling design come together in a recycled fabric for the full-meal deal. Hey, there’s even a women’s version if you want to go his and hers.
Price: Jacket - $499CAN / $399US; Bibs - $435CAN / $349US
Sizes: Jacket and Bibs - XS, S, M, L, XL
Colours: Jacket – Balkan Blue, Black, Fire, Hammonds Gold; Bibs - Classic Navy, Forge Grey, Oxide Red
Weight: Jacket - 587g / 20.7oz, Bibs 584g / 17oz
Material: 3-layer, 5-oz 75-denier 100% polyester (70% recycled) solid stretch ripstop with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish
Romp 106 Skis
Romp is known for their customer designed skis but they also offer stock skis like the 106’s. These skis are wide enough to bust crud and float in pow down open bowls but still fast and nimble enough to transfer from edge to edge in tight trees. Their 135-106-125 dimensions come in three lengths and if you want to save on weight there is also a carbon option available. Resort or backcountry the Romp 106 Skis will put a smile on any skiers face. And who wouldn’t want to receive a new pair of skis for the holidays? I know I would.
Prices: $980CAN / $750US
Dimensions: 135-106-125
Lengths: 165cm, 175cm, 185cm
Arc’teryx Sabre AR Jacket
Nothing quite like an Arc’teryx hardshell, eh? The Sabre AR is a total fortress. 3-layer Gore-Tex with a little bit of fuzzy insulation makes this the perfect outer-layer over whatever other layers the weather dictates. The Sabre AR is cut a little long and a little big (which may be the style today). Giving it to someone as a present is a pretty spendy statement. Perhaps limit your purchase to just one of these as a gift this holiday. Luckily, there are Arc’teryx jackets for women, too. And…if you want a colour recommendation, try the Yugen (green).
Price: $750CAN / $625US
Sizes: S - XXL
Colour: Dark Blue, Black, Yellow, Burgundy, Green
Weight: 700g / 1lb 8.7oz
Material: N70p 3L GORE-TEX fabric with lo-loft softshell construction
Scott LCG Evo LS Goggles
The top of the line goggle from Scott has a couple of features that warrant a top of the line price tag. For example, many goggles claim an easy swap out of lenses, but don’t deliver. These goggles are truly hot-swappable. The Amplifier tech also makes things pop when you are out in the snow. The extra lens, in its own sheath, is also a great thing to have in your pack on low-light days in the backcountry. Great goggles, great gift.
Price: $279CAN / $199.95US
Sizes: Small, Regular, Large
Colour: Eight lens and colour combos
Jaybird VISTA
These wireless earbud headphone are the lightest, most compact, and most advanced that Jaybird has ever made. The VISTA’s feature industry-leading battery life of 16 hours, shock, dust, water, and sweat-proof IPX7 construction with a Custom EQ app to tweak your sounds preferences. This is why they performed so well in our Best Wireless Headphones of 2019/20 Review. They also come with three Secure-Fit ear gels so you can ensure a proper fit no matter your ear shape and size. Tech is always in season so give the gift that everyone loves this holiday season.
Price: $239.99CAN / $179.99US
Charging time: 2hrs (Quick Charge 5 min = 1 hour playtime)
Response Bandwidth 20Hz - 20kHz
Driver size: 6 mm
Mystery Ranch Saddle Peak
Renowned pack designer Dana Gleason (think Dana Designs Packs) is the man behind Mystery Ranch packs and the Saddle peak is their smaller backcountry ski pack, while the larger is called the Patrol 35. Like all Mystery Ranch Packs, the Saddle Peak is designed to carry weight comfortably and be durable over time. The external reinforcement panel with 840D nylon and a heavy-duty carbonite coating will take a beating from skis while the exterior, tuck-a-way helmet carry and goggle stash pocket take care of the smaller items. The dedicated avalanche-tool compartment is easy to access while the fully adjustable Futura Harness ensures this pack will fit various sizes of people. To see what we mean, read our full review of the Mystery Ranch Patrol 35 Pack here and then wrap up this quality touring pack for the skier in your life.
Prices: $255CAN / $199US
Sizes: S/M, L/XL
Colours: Black, Wood
Weight: 1.45Kg / 3.2lbs
Volume: 25L / 1526 cu-in
Dimensions: 58.4x30.5x22.9cm / 23x12x9”
Giro Jackson Helmet
The Giro Jackson Helmet uses a Passive Aggressive Venting system to keep you from over-heating on the up track while its ultra-lightweight construction won’t slow you down. The seamless compatibility with Giro goggles makes the Jackson an obvious choice and the Form 2 Fit system allows you to dial in your specific fit preference. Add to this MIPS technology and you’ve got a super safe helmet for resort and backcountry skiers on your gift list.
Price: $239.99CAN / $160US
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Colours: Eight to choose from
Kora Shola 230 Zip
Who needs Merino wool when you have 100% Pure Himalayan Yak Wool Fabric. It’s said to be 40% warmer than equivalent merino fabrics and more breathable too. Not to worry though, it’s soft, itch-free and naturally odour resistant. Kora designs the Shola 230 with an ergonomic 3D fit and an extra-long front zip for increased temperature control. A unique and practical gift for the adventurer in your life.
Price: $211.54CAN / $160
Sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL
Colours: Shell Black, Obsidian
Smith 4D MAG Goggles
BirdsEye Vision is a proprietary new lens shape that extends and curves below the sightline that encompasses a 25% increase of overall field of view. When you want to change the 4D MAG’s lenses the dual locking mechanisms located in the goggle’s frame outriggers makes it quick and easy, with a simple push of one of the release levers the magnetic lenses are released. The 4D MAG Goggles include bright light and low light ChromaPop performance lenses so you are ready no matter the weather.
Price: $340CAN / $280US
Frame Colours: Black, White Vapor, Cloudgrey, Hornet Flood, Deep Forest, Red Rock, Spray Camo, Fuchsia, Dusty Lilac Dots
Lens Colours: ChromaPop Sun Red Mirror, Sun Green Mirror, Sun Platinum Mirror, Everyday Green Mirror, Everyday Red Mirror, Photochromic Rose Flash, Phtoscromic Red Mirror
ECCO SOFT 7 TRED Women's Boot
This lightweight winter-ready leather ankle boot has a warm lining and rubber outsole for traction in winter. The Smooth, oiled full-grain leather contrasts nicely with soft suede for a luxurious look and feel. Who says winter can’t be about fashion. Give the woman in your life a kick up on winter with the ECCO SOFT 7 TRED Boots.
Price: $240.00CAN / $180.00US
Colours: Amber and Titanium
Sizes: 6-9.5
Colltex Palu Skins
This 100% mohair climbing skin ensures maximum glide while still retaining good climbing characteristics. It’s lightweight and customizable to any ski as there are plenty of lengths and widths to choose from. Performance, durability and efficiency are what makes the Colltex Palu Skins a must-have for any serious backcountry skier this winter holiday season.
Price: $270.00 – $285.00CAN / $199US
Material: 100% Mohair
Colour: Blue
Lengths: 145 - 185cm
Widths: 110 - 140mm
Weight: 290g / 10.3oz
Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase 22”
Everybody loves a good piece of luggage, right? Especially if there is a removable compartment for your grody climbing gear or even a pair of ski touring boots. The Gregory Quadro Pro 22” works as carry-on if you live in fear of lost luggage. The polycarbonate case means you can be a little less worried about breakage of contents, and the four-way wheels make for easy manoeuvring to the gate. Suitable for just about anyone on your gift list at the 200+ level.
Price: $259.95CAN / $199.95US
Volume: 45L
Colours: Steel Grey, Anthracite Black
Weight: 3.91kg / 8.63lbs
Material: 100% Polycarbonate
Sherpa Adventure Gear Pumori 3 Layer Waterproof Jacket
The Pumori 3 Layer Jacket by Sherpa Adventure Gear uses a seam-sealed 3-layer shell fabric with Himaltec waterproof finish to keep you dry and warm. It is named after a mountain on the Nepal-Tibet border and has features like a YKK Aquaguard zipper, helmet-compatible hood with bonded brim and full adjustability, along with napoleon chest pocket and two zippered hand pockets to stash your things. If you know a skier, climber or hiker who likes the finer things in life the Sherpa Adventure Gear Pumori Jacket will make them smile this holiday season.
Price: $369.95CAN / $260US
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Colours: Black, Teej Orange, Rathee Blue
Fabric: Himaltec laminated 3-layer stretch 100d plain weave that is 100% polyester with 100% nylon tricot backing
Weight: 544g / 19.2oz
YETI Tundra 35
This legendary cooler is known to keep things cold for days. It is the ideal size for a solo mission or for a small group. It uses up to three inches of PermaFrost Insulation and a rugged rotomolded construction so it can take some abuse. It also comes with one dry goods basket so you can organize your drinks and food. While it is made for summer it also works to keep things from freezing on winter trips. There are many imitations but there is only one YETI and it’s what any smart adventurer would want this holiday season.
Price: $349.99CAN / $249.99 US
Colours: River Green, Charcoal, Seafood, White, Desert Tan
Dimensions: Outside - 40.9x40x54.3cm / 16.125x15.75x21.375”; Inside - 23.8x27x35.2cm /9.375 x 10.625x13.875”
Weight: 9.1kg / 20lb
Go Pro Hero 8
The latest Go Pro is here and it’s just in time for the holiday gift-giving season. This time around it's called the Hero 8 with has a new camera that provides the smoothest personal video experience thanks to their HyperSmooth 2.0 technology. It also comes with an improved TimeWarp 2.0, low light image processing and HDR, Live burst photos, RAW Photos, 100Mbps bitrate for 4K and 2.7K, microphone and capture presets, to name a few. The biggest improvement from a hardware perspective has to be the fact that the Go Pro Hero 8 has built-in mounts so there is no longer a need to put it inside the frame. GoPro also offers several mods for the new GoPro 8 including a Media Mod which adds a 3.5mm mic port, a shotgun microphone, HDMI-out and two cold-shoe mounts for attaching other components, the Display Mod adds a rotatable display with its own battery and a Light Mod that will illuminate a subject 1m or 3ft away with its 200 lumen light. Photo and video tech just got a whole lot techier and which will make that budding vlogger on your list happy.
Price: $526CAN / $399US
Weight: 126g / 4.44oz
Dimensions: 6.63 x 4.86H x 2.84cm / 2.16 x 1.9 x 1.11”
Video: 4K60, 2.7K120, 1080P240
Photo: 12MP
Max video bit rate: 100Mbps (4K)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Waterproof: 10m / 33ft
Battery: 1-2hrs, 3hrs charge time
Mounts: In-built
Mic: Front-facing
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 $100-$200 price ranges as well.