Let them pick out their own hiking boots. Instead, try gifting a useful blade or a nature journal to delight your outdoorsy friend.
VSSL’s Java G25 grinder is nearly indestructible. I’ve been using mine every morning for about five years, most of that living on the road. I’ve dropped it on concrete, gravel, and more, and it’s still going strong. In the same time, two glass grinders and one plastic grinder have broken and failed me. I know what you’re thinking, and it is expensive, but it’s an investment, and it lasts. Finally, this summer a thin piece of metal that surrounds the grinder gave way. I contacted VSSL (as a regular customer) and they sent out a replacement immediately, making this a Buy It for Life contender.
VSSL started life making ultra-durable camping tools—waterproof canisters with flashlights, compasses, first-aid kits, and more. The Java comes from that same lineage, made of aircraft-grade aluminum and built to survive the zombie apocalypse—or a bumpy ride to your favorite campsite. Despite all that, it’s still relatively lightweight (about 14 ounces; you wouldn’t bring it backpacking, but not too bad). The handle is clever. It folds out and gives a lot of leverage while you grind and can act as a hook to hang the Java when you’re not using it. The conical burrs inside produce a nice, even grind, covering the full spectrum of brew possibilities, from French-press coarse to espresso-fine.
