Eleven months of the year, I hate shopping.
But come Christmas, all bets are off. I love finding the perfect gift – that one that the recipient didn’t even know they wanted/needed. The thought of them opening it up gives me all kinds of warm fuzzies.
If you’re stumped on what to get the ladies in your life this Christmas, have no fear – I was made for moments like this. This guide was created with Whistler-y ladies in mind, but you can probably find something for just about every woman in your life – mom, sister, girlfriend, friend, etc.
And don’t worry – the guy’s gift guide isn’t far behind.
A DVD of Unicorn Picnic’s Pretty Faces ($25.95 USD, http://unicornpicnic.com/)
My personal favourite snow sport film of the season was Pretty Faces, and any mountain-loving woman in your life would be lucky to get a copy to watch over and over and over. Buy it for your little cousin who just mastered green runs. Buy it for your mom who doesn’t understand why you moved to the mountains. Heck, buy it for yourself.
ThermaCell Heated Insoles ($134.99 USD, ThermaCell Site)
I’m not sure why, but a lot of girls seem to be perpetually cold (including me). If you know one of these people (and love them a lot – this one isn’t cheap), pick them up a pair of ThermaCell’s Heated Insoles. These puppies are remote control and use a rechargeable battery, so they’ll keep feet warm all season long. A great call for people who have to work outside on super cold days.
Nibz Headband ($14.99, http://nibz.ca/headbands/)
If your mantra this holiday season is buy local, then check out this line of locally made toques and neck tubes. I love the look of the headbands – you can never have too many of these. The price is right and the colours are spot on.
Khombu Snow Boots ($75 USD, Zappos)
There’s something I need to tell you: Khombu boots are the best. If you don’t believe me, just ask the USA Ski Team – they have an official partnership with Khombu, and you can probably imagine that they want something that will stand up to cold and snow. Khombu’s boots are simultaneously tough yet super lightweight, and they look good without sacrificing function. Every woman NEEDS a pair of these boots. Be the one to give them to her.
Good-For-You Make Up: BWC ($17.95, http://www.beautywithoutcruelty.com)
My observation is that the women of Whistler (and beyond) are increasingly looking for beauty products that are good for them and the world around them. BWC (Beauty Without Cruelty) is your one-stop-shop for make up, nail polish, hair care, and skin care stuff that all fits the bill. Buying lipstick for a girl can be scary – try a neutral pink lip gloss or some nail polish in her favourite colour, both under $20.
A tasc Performance Base Layer (Top: $70 USD, Bottom: $60 USD, tasc Performance)
Fact: a girl can never have too many base layers. I’ve tried a bunch of different brands, and tasc Performance is one of my top picks. The pieces are light – perfect for layering in the winter, or to wear alone during shoulder season activities. The bamboo-merino fabric is a killer combo.
Roxy’s Snuggle Scarf ($36 USD, Roxy Website)
To me, Roxy has always been a brand that just gets women. Case in point: the Snuggle scarf, a super soft scarf in winter white – be still, my beating heart. Scarves are a winter wardrobe staple, and they’re the perfect gift for that girl you just have no idea what to buy for.
Ice Breaker Merino Wool Sports Bra ($60, Escape Route)
If you know a woman who is into ski touring, splitboarding, or any kind of backcountry adventure, for the love: PLEASE buy her one of Ice Breaker’s merino wool sports bras. The colours are cute, but more importantly, they wick moisture away so much better than your average sports bra. Give the gift of comfort (anyone looking for a gift to get me can buy me this, FYI).
A Canz Wireless Bluetooth Speaker ($29.99 USD, 808 Audio)
For that last woman on your list – the one you’re totally stumped on – pick up a Canz Wireless Bluetooth Speaker. Everybody loves music, it won’t break the bank, and it’s something that will definitely get used. It’s super light, super easy to use, and has rechargeable batteries – this one is a no brainer, foolproof gift.
