There is a new line of footwear by Wenger, maker of the Swiss Army Knife. There are many quality boots out there, but how many have built-in, rechargeable heaters?
For people who spend considerable time outside in winter, the Boar model should be ideal. It’s waterproof and contains 400 grams of Thinsulate. What makes it unique is the heating unit that can provide heat for up to six hours per charge, depending on the setting (high, mid or low). Boar boots sell for $250.
For hikers, the lighter Canyoneer is made for rough terrain. It sells for $120. Both boots can be ordered from wengerna.com.
If you are wishing for warm, try the Patagonia down sweater, ranging in price from $80 for a baby up to $250 for adults with hoodie. Visit patagonia.com or Great Miami Outfitters in Miamisburg.
Fishing
New lures from Rapala are the Clackin’ Crank and Clackin’ Minnow. They feature a stainless steel ball to rattle for sound and vibration. The minnow also has the classic Rapala wounded minnow action. The Crank retails for $10.39 and the Minnow for $11.99.
Albright tackle has a new line of fly rods (A-5 NS series) on sale for $297 — all lengths and weights. Visit albrightflyfishing.com.
Mepps is offering 20 percent off all 3- and 6-lure kits before Christmas. Visit mepps.com and click on special offers.
Hunting
Duck hunters would enjoy a genuine Zink call, made by 1988 Northmont grad Fred Zink. For $135 you can get the acrylic PH-1, and 30 percent goes to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Visit zinkcalls.com.
Compound bow users will enjoy getting a Flambeau Hard Compound Bow Case, selling for $30 at gandermountain.com. You can lock your bow in tight and it includes a broadhead changer. A dozen arrows can be stored in the lid.
Books
Over the years, I’ve had inquiries about the availability of Jim Robey’s Ohio Fishing Guide, last published in 1997. I figured it was sold out, but recently I ran across it being advertised on the Ohio State Parks web site, ohiostateparks.org, for $9.50. There are also books listed about Ohio birds, butterflies, wildflowers and trees.
With the film 127 Hours in theaters now, some people have decided to read the 2004 book “Between a Rock and a Hard Place” before seeing the movie. Or you could do it the other way around. Either way, the story of Aron Ralston is just as inspiring and terrifying. Those who hike and climb rocks and mountains can identify with the story most. You can buy the book new on Amazon.com for $10.20 hardback and $5.31 paperback.
Other items
Campers would enjoy some free nights at Ohio State Parks. You can purchase gift cards at ohiostateparks.org. They can be redeemed for just about anything offered at any of the state’s 74 parks, including camping, cottage and lodge rentals, golf, boat rentals, food and merchandise.
A super gift is a Lake Erie fishing trip on a charter boat. How about a six-pack group gift with friends for around $100 per person? Visit LECBA.com.
Outdoors columnist Jim Morris can be reached through his Website at www.examiner.com/outdoor-recreation-in-dayton/jim-morris or by e-mail at sports@DaytonDailyNews.com.
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