Ditch the tie this Father's Day with these gift ideas!

Father's Day is almost here! Yes, it's true- your love IS enough to show dad how much you appreciate him. But why not take advantage of the occasion (and the great timing) of Father's Day to spoil him with a little camping/outdoors gear that he will love. Not sure what to give him? Don't worry; we can help you out in that department.

The Fishing Dad: He LIVES to fish...

Aparaho Fishing Vest - A popular choice for fishers all around the world. This handy vest fits right over your PFD (safety 1st!) and is equipped with more pockets than I would know what to do with (but he'll know, trust me.)

Colombia Bora Bora Booney Hat - You don't have to be reeling 'em in Bora Bora to enjoy the benefits of this ultra-breathable Omni-Shade™ hat-but no complaints if you are, right? Blocks out 98% of harmful UVA and UVB, it's more than your average fishing hat. An Omni-Wick® sweatband combines with mesh vents to keep you cool and the sweat from dripping in your eyes.

Bushline Filet Knife - every fisher needs a dedicated filet knife, and this one will do just the trick with its 7" blade and easy grip rubberized handle. The price is nice too, at only $11.99!

The Techy Dad: Is your dad the one with the latest gadgets for the great outdoors?

Powertraveller Solarmonkey Adventurer portable solar charger- He's got to charge all those gadgets right? And this way he can do it in an environmentally friendly and dad-approved gadgety way!

Nemo Helio Pressure Shower - Unlike traditional gravity fed camp showers that need to be hung overhead and produce dismal water pressure, Helio rests on the ground and delivers the pressure you need to wash hair, do the dishes, or rinse off gear...or water your plants, or wash the dog...

Dad of the Woods: He'd rather be camping, out there communing with nature.

Outdoor Research Seattle Sombrero - Your dad's not put off by a little bit of rain, in fact he's out there in all conditions. Enter the Seattle Sombrero, a full Gore-Tex wide brimmed hat that will keep him dry.

Outdoor Research Foray Jacket - It repels even the most inhospitable wet weather. Waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex fabric easily withstands the wear-and-tear of the trail, hem-to-bicep zippers provide ultimate venting when excess body heat needs to escape.

Hennessy Expedition Hammock - Sometimes dad's need a little alone time, out of the family tent. This hammock system is bug and rain proof, super comfy and durable. A great choice for dad's who like to hang out in the woods, or anywhere else outdoors, for that matter.

Your Dad: gifts that any dad would LOVE

Ex-Officio Underwear - Comfy to wear and easy to wash on the fly. Just toss these in the laundry or wash them in a sink or lake. Within hours he will have a fresh, dry pair of underwear. Breathable, lightweight, odor resistant and long-wearing, perfect for camping, travel and daily use.

Jack Wolfskin Crosstrail T-Shirt - This is a great shirt for dad because it acts like an athletic shirt, without looking like one! The fibers distribute moisture over a large surface, so that it evaporates more quickly and the top feels comfortably dry.

Columbia Global Adventure Travel Jacket - It's great for the city and where ever else he may go. It performs as nicely as any other technical rain jacket, without making him look like he is going mountain climbing. It has as clean, street-savvy design featuring tons of pockets for everything dad needs to take along.

Whatever you end up choosing to do for your dad, make this year a special one. He'll appreciate even the smallest gesture, but a sweet gift might get you some brownie points!

- Steffi Bourke

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