Published November 1, 2023 06:00AM
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These Products Are the Goldilocks of Holiday Gifts
These picks might be middle-of-the-pack in price, but their appeal is way above mediocre
(Photo: Hannah DeWitt)
Roark Amberley Shirt Jacket ($109)
Any good portmanteau brings the best of two worlds together. Roark’s Amberley shacket is no exception—it shines in a wide range of seasons and dress codes. The Amberley’s timeless cut and cute colorways allow it to dress up for drinks with friends and feel right at home next to a campfire. (XS–XL)
Vuori Men’s Ponto Performance Joggers ($98)
The world is full of joggers that, at the end of the day, are just cropped pants. This pair is so much more. With a slim, athletic cut, it’s a fabulous option for HIIT workouts. Its DreamKnit material created impressive airflow during a jump-squat burnout exercise, but was supple enough for pajama duty on a car-camping trip. Plus, it’s tailored enough to dress up with a designer shirt. (XS–XXL)
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Sqirl Jams ($60 for four)
From the recipes to the logo to the stuff itself, everything about Los Angeles–based, women-owned Sqirl Jams is fun as hell. Thoughtfully concocted, deeply flavored jams like the Reine Claude preserves, from a beloved French plum, add élan to any breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making them the ultimate gift for the foodie on your list. Add it to plain yogurt or shake it into a cocktail for a surprising treat.
Teva Original Universal Sandals ($55)
What began as a core piece of gear for Grand Canyon river guides is now an everyday-fashion driver. With its heavy-duty, quick-drying webbing, the Original still holds its own on rafting trips. But it’s also welcome at dinner afterward, with tons of comfort and classic styling.
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Deuter Aircontact Ultra 50+5 Pack ($250)
The Aircontact Ultra is equipped with a slew of useful design details, which is exactly what you want in a lifelong pack. It’s durable and carries well, with smartly placed pockets providing quick access to a water bottle, snacks, a layer, and other necessities. We judged it our favorite mid-priced pack after throwing it from a truck, loading it with 80 pounds, and hiking comfortably with it through the Sonoran Desert.
Le Marké Olive Oil ($37)
Quality olive oil is nonnegotiable in a serious kitchen, and Le Marké’s will elevate any dish. While it tastes fancy, the under-$40 price tag makes it gift-worthy, too. The reusable glass vessel and the brand’s refill pouches ($24) add up to a mindful gift that keeps giving.
