Christmas is tomorrow and the panic is real. You still need a gift for that skier or rider in your life and you want it to be something different, something they’ll actually love. If you’re drawing a blank, we have you covered. Here are five last minute gift ideas that support local shops and make you look like a total hero.
Last Minute Christmas Gift Ideas for Skiers Snowboarders
Lift Ticket to a Local Resort
If you really love sliding, chances are you have a season pass. Snowboarders and skiers are adventurers deep down in their souls. By definition, this means they’re willing to take risks and eager to try something new. Why not feed their fix? Since they have a season pass, grab them a lift ticket to a hill they haven’t been to. For example, Diamond Peak Ski Resort on the north shore of Lake Tahoe is annually voted having one of the best views of the lake. This and the awesome terrain make for a great gift for any snow hound.
Rep a Local Ski/Snowboard Shop
It’s incredibly easy to buy gear on the internet. While you can find tons of cool gifts out there, getting something like a t-shirt from the local ski/snowboard shop is an epic and authentic idea that will stand out. On the North Shore, our favorite shop is Tahoe Mountain Sports and on the south it’s Shoreline of Tahoe. Both owned by awesome dudes and worth the supporting, because they are doing it right.
Subscription to the Avalanche Bulletin
Is your buddy a huge backcountry enthusiast? If they are, then why not help them stay safe and get a subscription to the avalanche bulletin? Many ski towns have a local bulletin to keep enthusiasts up to date on the snow conditions in their area. Around Tahoe, the Sierra Avalanche Center provides a daily condition report and offers merchandise to help support the cause. Another great idea is to get them a subscription to the American Avalanche Center bulletin. This is a newsletter of sorts presented by industry professionals from around the country. It provides the latest and greatest news and information about snow science.
A Case of Their Favorite Local Ski-Town Brew
There is nothing better than a cold brew to celebrate an epic powder day so why not get them a case of one of the micro-breweries that is based in their favorite ski town. Even better, mix n match! Of course, if you live close to a brewery, grab a growler ‘cuz fresh beer out of the tap is always the best. Here are a few breweries:
- Deschutes Brewery – Mt Bachelor
- Grand Teton Brewing – Jackson Hole Resort
- Great Northern Brewing – Whitefish Ski Resort
- Alibi Ale Works – North Shore / Lake Tahoe
- South Lake Brewing Company – South Shore / Lake Tahoe
- Mammoth Mountain Brewing – Mammoth Mountain
- Nelson Brewing Company – Whitewater Ski Resort
- Breckenridge Brewery – Breckenridge Ski Resort
A Pound of Coffee from a Local Mountain Coffee Roaster
Regardless if you are or are not a last call / first chair type of person, a cup of java in the morning is a great way to get the engines running. Most go straight for the name brand coffees, so grabbing a pound from the local roaster would be a unique gift. For ideas in your area, go here.
Hopefully, these last minute ideas will work for the skier or rider in your life. Enjoy your time with friends and family this holiday season. We wish you a Merry Christmas and hope your holidays are filled with powder, face shots, and first tracks!
