Five Star Gift Ideas

Selecting a gift for a dad who enjoys climbing and running opens up a plethora of meaningful and practical options that can enhance his active lifestyle. Here are some thoughtful and personal ideas:

1. **High-Quality Running Shoes**: A new pair of high-performance running shoes that best suit his running style and foot type can make a world of difference. Look for brands like Brooks, Asics, or Hoka One One, and maybe even arrange a trip to a store that offers gait analysis to ensure the perfect fit.

2. **Performance Apparel**: Consider getting him some high-quality, moisture-wicking running and climbing gear. Brands like Patagonia, The North Face, and Arc'teryx offer excellent options that are both functional and fashionable. Think breathable T-shirts, climbing shorts, leggings, or even a lightweight, packable jacket.

3. **Fitness Tracker or Sports Watch**: A Garmin or Fitbit could be an invaluable tool for monitoring his runs, climbs, and overall fitness. Features like GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and even altimeter (useful for climbing) can provide insightful data that helps improve performance.

4. **Climbing Gear**: If he’s an avid climber, upgrading his climbing equipment could be a hit. Consider a top-notch climbing harness, carabiners, a belay device, or even a collection of climbing holds if he likes to train at home. Brands like Petzl, Black Diamond, and La Sportiva offer some of the best gear out there.

5. **Subscription to Training Programs**: If he enjoys pushing his limits, consider a subscription to a specialized training program or app. Platforms like Strava Summit, TrainingPeaks, or even an access pass to climbing gyms can offer structured plans and community support that keeps him motivated.

6. **Personalized Gifts**: For a more sentimental touch, think about customized gifts like a framed picture of a memorable climb or race he completed, or a custom map art print of a favorite climbing spot or running route. Websites like Etsy have plenty of artists who can create personalized keepsakes.

7. **Adventure Experience**: Plan a special day or weekend trip to a new and exciting climbing spot or a beautiful trail run location. This could be accompanied by a handwritten itinerary or a “voucher” for a father-daughter/son adventure day, focusing on the quality time you’ll spend together.

8. **Recovery and Health**: As important as the active part is, recovery is crucial for continuous performance. Think about gifting him a massage gun, foam roller, or a gift card to a local sports massage therapist. Proper recovery tools can help prevent injuries and keep him in top shape.

Combining practicality with personalization will make the gift not only useful but also resonate with his passions. Remember to consider your dad’s specific needs and preferences within his hobbies for the most meaningful and appreciated birthday gift.

Or you can get him a star map with the date when he was born.

Bridget Shields says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“I wanted a keepsake to give to my father for his birthday as he has terminal cancer. He was delighted by his gift. The process of ordering was easy and delivery was prompt. A great gift idea.”