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Our Holiday Gift Guides for 2020
Posted by Whole Earth | 12.03.2020
Our Holiday Gift Guides for 2020
How do you choose a gift? Is it a spur of the moment decision when a certain item catches your eye and you know in a flash it would be ‘perfect’ for that special friend or family member? Do you listen closely throughout the year and mentally note when someone makes a wish that you can later transform into a present for the holidays? Or do you take the direct route and ask for suggestions?
However you decide, our Whole Earth stores have long been a favorite holiday shopping destination for everything from the Big Gift to stocking stuffers. We’ve been making gift guides for many years. They used to arrive via snail mail to your home; now they’re just a click away on the web. Once again we’ve gathered some of our favorite gift ideas for men, women and kids to help you find great gifts for everyone on your list.
Finding the perfect gifts for the men in your life can be a challenge. It often requires close observation to get a sense of what they might need or want. The direct approach can occasionally yield a solid lead, but often you’re on your own. With that in mind, here are a few suggestions that might be just what he’s looking for even if he doesn’t know it yet.
Patagonia Men's Maple Grove Canvas Jacket
The Maple Grove Canvas jacket was made for work, for the ranch and for everyday wear. The tough stretch canvas shell is lined with ¼ inch polyester fleece and has shoulder pleats that allow for a wide range of motion. The cut is boxy so there’s room to layer for extra warmth on cold days. The jacket is weather resistant and has slightly longer sleeves which help to keep gloves in place while working. No gloves? Use the snaps for a tighter fit at the wrist. This is a Patagonia Fair Trade certified item.
Looking for a pair of men’s slippers that don’t look like slippers? The Moloa is an excellent choice. They have the look of a men’s casual shoe but are lined with shearling to keep toes toasty. The waxed nubuck upper has elastic gore panels for a more customized fit, and OluKai’s Drop-In Heel makes it possible to wear the Moloa as a slip-on or as a shoe. There’s a gel insert in the footbed for extra comfort and gum outsoles that are quiet and stable. And like all OluKai shoes, they’re made with quality materials and craftsmanship.
The Outdoor Kitchen: Live-Fire Cooking from the Grill
This is a cookbook for your backyard chef to take his skillset to the next level. Eric Werner cooks over a wood fire at his restaurant in Tulum. He offers information on the how-to of grilling as well as DIY instructions for making the perfect fire grill. However, a “hacked” regular grill or cast iron on a stovetop can also be used. Werner has enticing recipes for meat, fowl, seafood and veggies with rubs, sauces and condiments that create memorable dishes with complex flavors. There are even desserts and cocktail recipes to try.
Howler Brothers Men's Gaucho Snapshirt
Howler Brothers understands what men like – comfortable clothing that can go fishing and look spiffy at the backyard party. The Gaucho Snapshirt is a Howler Brothers classic and features pearl snaps, a mesh-lined vented back yoke, a cotton poly fabric that dries quickly, and vintage style western shirt embroidery. This year’s Gaucho shirt options include Orange Blossom, Cottonmouth, Jellyfish or Hermit Crab. You know he’ll love one, so don’t wait!
Brooks Men's Ghost 13 Running Shoes
Have a runner on your list? A new pair of running shoes will always be a welcome gift. The Brooks Ghost 13 is a longtime favorite with runners and walkers for its cushiony soles, light weight, and supportive fit. Brooks has been making the Ghost line for years. The 13 extends the DNA Loft cushioning throughout the shoe for added comfort on the run. The Ghost 13 is also a great shoe for walking the dog, exercising or biking. And they’re loved by folks who are on their feet all day.
Big Wonderful Thing: A History of Texas
Is there a history buff on your gift list? How’s his grasp of Texas history? Even if he thinks he knows it all, he’ll find much to entertain and learn in this grand retelling of the history of Texas. Stephen Harrigan is an engaging guide who focuses on intriguing characters, riveting stories and telling details. He’s written a page-turning account of Texas from the days of the people who quarried Alibates flints on the High Plains to George W. Bush. He can open it anywhere and find a fascinating story just waiting to carry him away.
If your guy likes to shine a light on things, the Nite Core MT21C Flashlight will be a winner. This small flashlight has five light settings from 1 to 1000 lumens as well as settings for signaling. What sets this one apart from the competition is its 90 degree tiltable head and magnetic base, perfect for hands-free work in cramped areas. The MT21C easily fits in a pocket but can also be carried with the holster, clip or lanyard that are included in the box. Give him the gift of light in dark places.
Looking for a big gift for that special man in your life? The YETI LoadOut GoBox 30 is a portable garage for the gear your guy needs to keep close at hand and protected from rough handling and the elements. The LoadOut is stackable, waterproof, dustproof and tough – YETI tough. It’s not a cooler; it’s a cargo box with a moveable divider, a caddy and zippered storage in the lid that can help him organize the things he needs to carry with him and keep them safe.
For the women in your life, the goal is to find gifts that delight and will be used. No one wants their gift relegated to a high shelf or the back of the closet. So combine your observational skills with intuition. What kind of clothing does she like to wear? What are her favorite colors? What does she like to do for fun? Is there something she needs? With the answers to these questions, you’ll be on track to find a great gift.
Pendleton has been making classic woolen blankets and clothing for over 150 years. The name is synonymous with quality and beauty that can last a lifetime. This beautiful merino wool scarf shows off the Journey West pattern. The hooks inside the large diamonds are symbols of luck and prosperity. So wrap your loved ones in warmth and good fortune for the holidays and beyond!
Patagonia Women's Better Sweater Vest
The woman in your life may not know that she needs this vest, but trust us, she does. The Better Sweater Vest combines comfort and practicality. It’s versatile, keeping the core warm and offering freedom of movement for the arms. This vest is an excellent choice for both layering outdoors and staying warm in a cool house or office. It also has deep interior pockets for a phone and more. And, since it’s made by Patagonia, you know it’s Earth friendly and Fair Trade certified.
YETI Rambler 12oz Bottle with HotShot Cap
Do you have someone in your life who always has a cup of coffee or tea within arm’s reach no matter the time of day? May we suggest that a YETI Rambler bottle with a HotShot cap would be just the gift for them. It would banish cold, lukewarm coffee or tea from their life. AND the HotShot Cap is leak-proof so it can be carried along in the car or a bag and sit on a desk without fear of spills. It’s a YETI so you know it’s tough and, unlike many insulated bottles, it can be cleaned in the dishwasher!
prAna Women's Alfie Flannel Top
Does she love the comfort of flannel? Does she prefer an updated look as well? She’ll find both with the prAna Alfie Flannel Top. The minimalist plaid combines muted colors and a lighter weight material than we usually associate with flannel. It’s a sustainable blend of organic cotton and recycled polyester that’s soft to the touch and warm. The cut is neither too fitted nor baggy, and there’s room to layer, making it a favorite for all seasons.
Klean Kanteen 10mm Stainless Steel Straw 3-Pack
Is your gal a regular at the juice bar? Does she treat herself to some thick chocolate shakes, just because? We know that plastic straws are not good for the planet, but what’s a person to do? Get her (or him!) some Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Straws to carry with them in their bag so they can feel virtuous when they reject the plastic straw and take a small step towards making Earth a better place for us all. And they’re dishwasher safe!
Merrell Women's Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Boots
While it might not be the first item you’d think of for that special outdoor woman in your life, consider gifting her a quality pair of hiking boots. Merrell Moab 2 Mid will protect her ankles, keep her stable on uneven terrain, and give her a good grip on slippery surfaces. Did we mention that they’re waterproof should the weather turn wet or there are streams to cross? Give her the gift of adventure in the Mother of All Boots!
Me and Sister Bobbie by Willie Nelson, Bobbie Nelson with David Ritz
Face it, haven’t we all wanted to know more about Sister Bobbie? What would it have been like to grow up with Willie Nelson, to join his band and spend a goodly portion of your life together long after most siblings have parted to follow separate paths in life? Willie’s told his story before, but this is the first time we’ve heard from Sister Bobbie. Their memoir makes a reader feel like they’ve got a place at the table as these two reminisce on growing up in Texas and making music together.
The North Face Women's Osito Triclimate Jacket
Winter weather is fickle. One day it’s almost balmy and the next it’s batten down the hatches as a Nor’easter blows in with snow, sleet and fierce freezing winds. If the woman in your life faces winter weather like this, consider giving her the Osito Triclimate Jacket. It’s two jackets, a shell and a high loft fleece, that can be worn separately or zipped together to make a third jacket for bitterly cold days and nights, hence the name Triclimate. Give her the gift of a jacket that’s ready for whatever winter throws her way.
We love shopping for kids’ gifts. The operative word is fun! And we can hope for an element of learning as well. Even young children are developing interests that can be encouraged. If dinosaurs, ballet dancers, trucks of all persuasions or pets are an important part of your child’s world, a gift that expands their love and knowledge is sure to be a hit. An important question to ask: is the toy age appropriate for your child? A toy rated for a child of seven and up may not be fun for a three year old, though there are always exceptions. We’ve included some fun kids’ clothing and shoes in the collection, just in case, like…
Life is Good Tacosaurus Crusher Tee
Dinosaurs and tacos! Definitely a winning combination. Let your child represent two of their favorites at once while wearing this fun t-shirt made of soft, soft cotton. There are no pesky collar labels to scratch or annoy, and the shirt is made of heavy duty cotton for a long life. This shirt is soft enough for bedtime and tough enough for a kid’s active life. We suspect it will be a favorite!
Ooly Rainbow Sparkle Glitter Markers
Let your budding artist add a touch of sparkle to their creations with this set of 15 glitter markers. The nibs deliver medium width lines in a range of vibrant colors for both drawing and adding highlights. Add a sketchpad along with the markers and step back as creativity unfolds before your eyes. And these markers are not just for kids. Add a personal touch with a shimmer of color and fun to your own journals, planners and cards.
Ravensburger GraviTrax Starter Set
Do you have a marble run lover in the family? A budding engineer? GraviTrax is a marble run set made for big kids who enjoy building and problem solving. The set comes with 122 pieces that can be combined for all sorts of tracks and challenges. Plans for several tracks are included and there’s even an app for phones or tablets with more plans and a kiddie version of autocad to virtually test out designs before building. GraviTrax is a stealth learning tool that’s great fun for kids and adults.
If bath time is playtime at your home, add a Green Toys Submarine as the newest member of the bathtub fleet. Wind the propeller and the sub is off on a reconnaissance mission into the depths of the tub or in warmer weather, the pool. Green Toys are made in the US from recycled milk jugs so they’re safe for children. By diverting material from landfills, they save energy and reduce our carbon footprint. And if you feel the sub needs scrubbing, pop it in your dishwasher for a squeaky clean.
Douglas Toys Libby Sloth Stuffed Animal
Sloths have become very popular of late. Perhaps given our current situation, we all seem to be moving more slowly these days. If your child has a favorite creature, Whole Earth may have a plush animal version that they can love and cherish. Libby Sloth has soft silky fur and is ready to cuddle up for a nap anytime. Here are just a few of the creatures you’ll find online or in our stores who are hoping for a companion: sea turtles, wolves, penguins, owls, tigers, octopuses, sharks, assorted cats, dogs and bunnies, and even dinosaurs!
Magna-Tiles Clear Colors 100 Piece Set
Among our Whole Earth kids, Magna-Tiles continue to be a favorite toy that they return to again and again. It’s a bit like building with jewel-colored stained glass, but Magna-tiles are much tougher. Using squares and triangles of assorted sizes, kids can make 3-D objects like buildings or piece together two dimensional designs like mandalas. Remember to take photos of the kids’ creations. They’ll enjoy seeing their work and how they’ve progressed to ever more complex designs.
Fjallraven Kanken Mini Backpack
Kids have things they need to carry, and they love Fjallraven’s Kanken backpacks. Created back in 1978, the Kanken was designed to spare the backs of school children from oversized and overloaded packs. There’s the Mini, proportioned for small children, and the regular Kanken for larger children and adults. The Kanken Mini comes in cheerful colors and is made with quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear that kids can wreak on items they use every day.
Patagonia Baby Down Sweater Vest
If a baby or toddler were able to speak, they’d tell us how much they love Patagonia’s Baby Down Sweater Vest. It combines two very important qualities. The first is warmth. The Down Sweater Vest will keep them toasty even on chilly days. The second important quality is that while it keeps baby warm, it does not impede movement. We’ve all seen kids so bundled up that they can hardly move. With the Down Sweater Vest, our babies or toddlers will be warm and have freedom of movement to play and explore to their hearts’ content.
The holidays are a special time for enjoying the company of family and friends. Let the gang try out new puzzles or board games that may become favorites for gatherings all year long. Perhaps you’d like to give a gift that can be used by the whole family? A new hammock for the porch or yard, or an outdoor game or toy to get everyone moving will be appreciated by all. Giving a gift for fun can be a springboard to happy memories that will be treasured for years to come.
eeBoo A Rainbow World 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
A Rainbow World is a puzzle for the whole family where even younger children can join in finding and locating animals.
Living things of every hue
Are gathered here to challenge you:
Mammals, insects, fish, and birds!
This puzzle’s worth a thousand words!
As you puzzle, please consider
The wonder that is every critter!
Hamacas Rada aka Yucatan Hammock
Mark the holiday with a hammock for the yard or porch. It’s a gift that the family can enjoy almost all year long. There are few things as relaxing as stretching out for a restful read or snooze in a cool breezy hammock. We’ve been selling Yucatan hammocks for years. They’re colorful, strong and made for sleeping in a very hot and humid climate. And they can be hung indoors as well as outside. Think of it as an extra guest bed should the need arise.
b4 Adventure Slackers Ninjaline 36ft Intro Kit
Here’s a way to get the kids outdoors and give them a physical challenge they can work towards mastering. The Slackers Ninjaline presents a series of obstacles for kids to overcome crossing from one side of the line to the other. Once you’ve found trees of the appropriate size and distance, it’s easy to install and to take down so the Ninja show can go on the road to friends’ backyards or campsites. Hang the line lower without the obstacles attached you have a slackline to help develop and improve balance.
50 Things to See in the Sky by Sarah Barker
For almost as long as humans have existed, we’ve been watching the night sky. As we’ve created ways to illuminate our homes and streets at night, our knowledge of the wonders above us has faded. Sarah Barker wants to reintroduce us to celestial phenomena we can see with our eyes, with binoculars and with a telescope. Depending on the location and equipment, she shows how to find the Northern Lights, noctilucent clouds, lunar halos, the Martian Ice Cap, Enceladus’ Ice Volcano and more!
Are there campers on your list? The Camping Logbook might be the perfect gift for them. While it’s fun to have a phone full of photos from adventures, the Camping Logbook provides a place to keep records of their various trips. They can note who was with them, what they did, when the trip took place, where they went and how they fared. There’s space for the special moments, reminders of things to bring next time, and lessons learned. After adding the best photos, they will have created a memory book of their adventures.
It seems as if everyone loves a string of twinkling lights no matter the time of year. So here’s a fun addition to the gear collection of any campers or backpackers on your list: ENO Twilights Camp Lights! They add a festive air to any hammock or campsite. The LED lights can be set to bright or dim light as well as fast or slow blink. Operated with three AAA batteries, they’re a lightweight way to bring an extra touch of magic to an evening spent outdoors.
Are the kids, large and small, sad when the sun sets and it’s time to go inside? With the Aerobie Skylighter Disc the fun goes on despite the encroaching dark. This Aerobie disc is large with a low profile for long stable flights. There’s a small LED light in the center with two beams that illuminate the rim. In flight, the Skylighter looks like a rotating wheel of light as it’s thrown from person to person. Lightweight with a soft rim making it easy to catch, the kids will have fun playing catch during the day and at night.
Goal Zero Yeti 200X Portable Power Station
Here’s a gift for the whole family when they go camping. If staying in touch via phones and being entertained by tablets during down time is an important part of your camping experience, remove the stress of a “battery low” message with a Portable Power Station. It’s compact, lightweight and can keep phones, tablets, cameras and headlamps charged up and ready to go. To recharge, plug it into a wall outlet. And if the power goes out at home, you can charge devices and keep in touch and up-to-date during an emergency.
These are just a few of our gift suggestions. We’ve put together Collections for Him, Her, Kids and Fun for your browsing pleasure. Our website and stores are full of gift ideas for everyone on your list. Have fun exploring and finding gifts that will delight this holiday season. You can shop online for delivery or take advantage of curbside pickup in Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. Have questions? Our knowledgeable staff or customer service will be happy to help.