Theme parties tend to take on a life of their own. A camo dress code for a sorority formal? I can’t think of a better time. There’s something about leaning into a theme — especially one that taps into the woods, the water, and the wide-open air — that just makes sense this time of year.
It’s funny how my own Christmas list always ends up in that same lane. The things I want aren’t flashy or over the top — they’re the things I’ll actually use. The stuff that fits into real life: early mornings, cold weather, and a good day spent outside. It’s that fine line between “need” and “want,” and somehow the outdoors-y gear always checks both boxes.
Got a guy who’d rather be in a duck blind than a shopping mall? One who feels more at home in a trout stream or posted up by the lodge fire? Here’s a list of thoughtful, durable, downright good-looking gear — the objects of his affection — guaranteed to see real use and earn a place in his rotation.
From Top Left:
1. Duck Head Camo Crewneck Sweater: I love adding camo to otherwise dressier occasions. I get looks.
2. Randolph Engineering Aviator Sunglasses: The best in the business. Try these next time you are out in the field chasing quail vs. a pair of blue-lensed sport glasses.
3. Field Ethos ‘Safety Third’ Hat: Yep. We’ve all been there.
4. Fishpond Nomad Emerger Net: I have this net and have been using it for ~5 years. The performance is top shelf, but what I love the most is that it’s so light.
5. Ball and Buck Camo Dopp Kit: I have it. I love it. You won’t beat Ball and Buck products.
6. Woodley Co 4-Box Shell Tote: Smart idea for the quail buggy or the clays course.
7. Skwala Backeddy Waders: Next on the list for me. I recently came to know these guys, and these waders have the smartest design I’ve come across.
8. Brown Water Custom Lanyard: The type of gift that will outlive the receiver. For those guys who carry a few calls to the duck blind. Do it right…
9. RNT Calls Branta / Daisy Cutter Calls: These are the two calls you need to carry.
10. Smartwool OTC Socks: Don’t sleep on the over-the-calf socks. It’s a GREAT layer for trout fishing or sitting in the deer stand. There’s not much worse than cold feet.
11. Duck Camp Airflow Anorak: I’m a sucker for an anorak.
12. Bedrock Mountain Clogs: Outdoor Birks. I’m asking Santa for a pair of these to sport to and from the trout stream, or to wear on a special date night with Mrs. RCS.
13. Tom Beckbe Canvas Tote: I believe we’ve created an inclusive environment for tote bags. This one is the Caddilac.
14. Russell Moccasin Special Build Zephyrs: These won’t be under the tree on Christmas morning, but the process can start…and he’ll have them before the end of quail season.
What did I miss?
