Holiday Gift Ideas from Your Favorite Used Gear Shop: Thoughtful and Sustainable Options
The holiday season is upon us, and finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to be stressful — or costly. Gear Hut offers a selection of high-quality, gently used outdoor gear and apparel that can make for meaningful, eco-friendly presents, if chosen properly (because giving "used" can also come off a little strange too).
Here are two fantastic gift ideas that are both practical and unique: These gifts are easy to shop for, versatile, and provide the perfect blend of functionality and sustainability.
1. Used Books for Outdoor Lovers
If you’re shopping for someone who loves adventure, exploration, or the great outdoors, a used "outdoor themed" book can be the perfect gift. Whether it’s a guidebook to their favorite hiking trails or climbing areas, a memoir about mountaineering, or a beautifully illustrated field guide, used books are a thoughtful, low-cost way to inspire wanderlust and provide endless hours of entertainment. Bonus points is you score a fun vintage find!
Used books are not only affordable, but they also come with the added benefit of sustainability. When you purchase a used book, you’re giving it a second life, helping to reduce waste and minimize the demand for new production. Plus, there's something special about finding a pre-loved book with notes in the margins, a weathered cover, or even a hidden bookmark — they come with a story of their own. Other similar ideas: posters or maps!
2. "One Size Fits All" Accessories: Hats for Everyone
Shopping used gets funky because it's always "inventory of (1)"... which means exchanges for a new size aren't an option. Unless you find the perfect oversized fleece that you KNOW will hit the mark, we like to recommend "one size fits all" accessories. Hats are the perfect example of this: functional and universally loved... who couldn't use another beanie?
Here are a few types of hats that make fantastic holiday gifts:
Beanies: A warm, cozy beanie is perfect for winter hikes, chilly camping trips, or simply adding a bit of style to everyday wear. Many outdoor brands like Patagonia and North Face create durable beanies that stand the test of time, even when gently used. Bonus points if you find a wool hat!
Trucker Hats: For a more casual, everyday gift, trucker hats with adjustable straps are a popular choice. Keep an eye out for locally made favorites like Big Truck hats.
Sun Hats: These fly FAST in summer... so take a peep to see if a winter stock has built up. Field hats, bucket hats and wide-brimmed field hat offers protection from harmful UV rays... something we're all hiding from in the Reno Tahoe area.
Why make the move to shop for Used Gear & Gifts for Holidays?
Reduced Consumer Impact & Sustainability: By shopping for used gear, you’re contributing to a more sustainable future. You’re not only getting high-quality products, but you’re also reducing the need for new manufacturing, which helps cut down on waste and pollution.
Quality at a Lower Price: Outdoor gear tends to be expensive when bought new, but when you buy used, you’re able to snag top-quality items at a fraction of the cost. Plus, most of our products are in excellent condition, thoroughly inspected to ensure they meet our high standards.
Discontinued or Unique Scores: Whether it's a vintage book or a older model hat, these items have character, and they often come with a story that new products can’t offer.
OR... Snag a Gift Card from Us This Holiday Season
Not all the treasures at our shop are "one size fits all"... and because we have a firm "no returns" policy, we highly advise against buying something that you are not 100% sure is going to work for your recipient. Pick up a gift card and let them enjoy the rush of finding the PERFECT score at the shop while still benefiting a local circular economy and planet.
There are just SIX DAYS left to come visit us off Wells Ave. and explore our collection of used outdoor gear, apparel, and accessories. You can feel good knowing your gift purchases are helping to reduce waste (during one of the most consumerism filled seasons) while supporting your favorite local, eco-conscious business.
Happy holidays from all of us at Gear Hut!