Holiday Gift Guide 2024 from Athletic-Minded Traveler

We feel you. This year's shopping and celebratory events feel different. Maybe it's the recent election? Who knows? The impending turn of the year always brings to mind changes that could come. But let's get OUT of the HEAD and into the HEART!

HOW? Visualize someone you value and care about opening that certain something that you selected just for them...and that they love it. This is a surefire path to joy. Give with love. And hey, even if they don't end up loving your choice, they will LOVE that you cared enough to take a risk and pick something that you think will make them happy.

Need more ideas than the goldmine below? We've been creating gift lists for over a decade. Scan past years' lists here!

For the budding cyclist and his/her stylin’ parents. Wow. Take a look at this beauty. Forget the often maligned plastic toys that parents accumulate. This is more work of art. The birch and aluminum Bonsai balance bike is more eco-minded than rivals and just the ticket for 2 to 4 year olds. $139

For the college student, athlete, surfer, or anyone in need of a super absorbent and quick drying towel! Even better, because there are so many cool patterns to choose from, you can definitely gift a "special towel". Nomadix makes towels, blankets and other similar products from certified post consumer recycled plastics. We love the round loop at the top for easy hanging. Ours is the "Original". We started using this towel months ago in our hot yoga class (during and post) and it is superior. $30-$50

For the cook & person who already has "a lot". Style meets functionality with these wool felt pan handle holders. And just like you can change up your outfit with jewelry, why not switch things up with your beloved pots and pans! Dress ‘em in style & protect your hands. Win-win! $20 (We're also fans of the double size coasters.)

For the design appreciating candle lover: High style at a reasonable price. We all love candles. These stackable pieces take lighting the room up a BIG notch. Color, style…a certain joie de vivre. Customize away! You choose the stack and make it your very own. $20+

For those who like to stand out! This BIG acrylic ring makes a bold statement and we like. With the variety of colors, you can find the one that sparks their inner glow. You'll find these on Etsy, $33

For the sports fan who always gets cold. On the field, golf course or anywhere that the weather is cold and one may be stuck standing around. Cold hands no more! Many companies make these "muffs", and we selected this one to recommend because the reviews are quite strong. There is soft fleece inside; it's waterproof; electric and rechargeable and has three heat settings. Snow Deer makes one too, but it's nearly 2x the cost. Shop around. $45+

For the skier. Tech & fashion have come to the pole…no, not the North Pole, but ski poles! Yardsale's magnetized handles help keep the sticks together when you desire, which eases transporting and holding the sticks while on the lift. The 3D-knit straps maintain form, which means no fussing on the lift trying to get your big gloved hands situated. The poles are adjustable (110 cm to 135 cm) and there is an optional GoPro mount and myriad colors. You can mix and match the components to customize your poles.1.3 lbs, $190

For the flower AND practicality lover. What’s more sustainable than a flower that never dies? These unique creations called "Forever Flowers", while not necessarily looking like the real deal, will brighten up any vase and add some whimsy to the room. We are particular to the blue orchid and pansy...or maybe it's that combo with the vase! $25+

For all dog owners because we know you LOVE your furry friend. Fancy dog toys can also be sustainable and this company cares about its customer, employees, and the environment. We appreciate the colorful designs, natural dyes, and mission of helping others in Nepal. $20+

For the Baller. Every household needs one of these... The Silent Basketball. It's the "silent" part that is really needed. This is the way to keep the peace among the ball bouncers and those who need some QUIET. Trust us, the non-stop movement of this ball won't drive you nuts. $30

For the individualist tea/coffee drinker. You know the saying, “you do you.” Well, this gift shows your recipient that you get it. Just look at the design of this mug. Everyone tends to give mugs, but not like this. Nope. No way. This mug says, “I see you.” And you can see through it too. Double bonus. It is just over 15 oz and can handle low temp dishwasher. $54

For the young aspiring chef. Your budding cook (think youngers ages 9-13) will be inspired by this Chef's story and passion for food. This Is Not a Cookbook: A Chef's Creative Process from Imagination to Creation. It's an illustrated non-fiction work -- part memoir and part inspirational guide. $12

For the accessorizer, scent enthusiast, candle lighter & bathroom decorator :) We just love this match holder! The vessel is handmade concrete and there is a "striker" on the side. The smallest holder is 2 inches and comes with 70 safety matches. So many colors. The taller is 3 inches and comes with a lid. Cool. $24+

For the skater: Because skateboards are like shoes; many styles needed. Lander is a line of skateboards that makes its deck from a proprietary blend of certified ocean recycled nylon—100% of which is from abandoned fishing nets—combined with glass fiber. The injection molding process minimizes waste. Some think the "spotty" textured surface provides for a better ride (surf toe flex). Boards are waterproof and have grip. There are two models, the smaller Rio and longer Rodeo. $85+

For the dog owner. Don’t let Fido nab all the walking style. With this fanny pack aka “treat pouch” and its built in poop bag dispenser, YOU can walk the walk in style too. The Wild One Treat Pouch is made of recycled knit and also can carry your mobile device! $25-44

So how did we do? Favorites? Tell us! Please.

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Athletic-Minded Traveler

Athletic-Minded Traveler’s Blog delves into all things active and healthy. Here you can find recipes, training advice, “best of” lists, travel tips, yoga insight and more.