Aktiv Gift Guide 2025

The Aktiv 2025 Gift Guide

Hello all! 2025 has been a year of ups and downs and all overs for the Aktiv team. We have opened a second store but are still waiting for Google verification on the address...so don't look for us by name on a Google map. Our new address is:

Aktiv 1641 Market Street #110 Denver, CO 80202. I guess our first thing on our wishlist is to be verified...so 2025. The Stanley Marketplace store remains in place and open every day!

One other note for the travelers, we are working with the Denver Airport to bring Aktiv to the A Concourse. It is moving quickly but we could be opening a small kiosk between the United gates and the International departures as soon as the first week of December. 

Now, to the Gift Guide! We have hired some great people over the years so we thought we would let them lend their opinions to the Gift Guide. So...here it is!

From Mia- born and raised in the Stockholm area, our resident Swede picked Swedish brands...this is not a shock!

Skhoop - Sandy skirt 

"Perfect for cold dog walks!"

The Sandy Short Skirt by Skhoop combines sporty style with practical warmth in true Swedish fashion. This windproof and water-resistant essential is perfect for layering over leggings during winter walks, outdoor adventures, or casual cold-weather outings—keeping you warm without the bulk. Clean lines, smart construction, everyday adventure.

Skhoop - Scandinavian Sweater 

"Warm and fashionable!"

Inspired by traditional Nordic patterns, the Scandinavian Sweater by Skhoop is where heritage meets modern style. The natural insulation of 80% ethically-sourced lambswool keeps you cozy without bulk, while 20% nylon adds durability and shape season after season. This timeless sweater, available in five different colors, pairs beautifully with your favorite jeans or any Skhoop skirt. Exclusive to Aktiv in North America—your connection to authentic Swedish craftsmanship.

Varg - Koster 

"Warm and cosy!"

Born on the windswept west coast of Sweden, Varg brings coastal elegance to your everyday adventures. Meet the Koster Long Wool Coat—a sustainable piece that doesn't compromise on style or function. This is the coat that makes every other coat in your closet jealous, crafted from a recycled wool blend that keeps you warm, moves with you, and lasts season after season. The high cozy collar delivers maximum warmth without bulk, while side slits ensure easy movement whether you're rushing for the train or hiking trails. Visible seams and black contrast details aren't just design elements—they enhance durability.

Varg - Gotland Overshirt

"The perfect layer for everything."

The Gotland Wool Overshirt from Varg is made from recycled Italian wool with both fabric and garment manufactured entirely in Europe. Featuring cotton details, stylish snap buttons, a half-high collar, and a chest pocket, this is the piece you'll reach for constantly—throw it over a tee and jeans for weekend errands, or wear it in place of a blazer for casual sophistication. With 65% recycled wool that offers exceptional warmth even in damp conditions, it works as both an overshirt and insulation layer that transitions seamlessly from office to mountains. Dress it up, dress it down—it just works.

From Elise- one of our newest employees at the Basecamp store and a Colorado native, Elise is a film student at CU-Denver.

66North- Sudureyri Hoodie

One of my favorite products in the store has to be Sudureyri Hoodie by 66North in brown. This hoodie stands out to me because I love the design, feel,  and fit. I also really enjoy the map on the back, and the story behind it. The Suderyri Hoodie was the first thing my eye was drawn to.

Superyellow- Fisherman beanie

Secondly, I'd love to give my boyfriend a black Fisherman beanie by Superyellow. Ever since I bought mine he has been talking about how he wants one, and he also really enjoyed the feel and quality of the beanie. The fisherman beanie is one of my favorite products in the store because I love the way it fits, and the quality. I have a lot of beanies and this one is by far my favorite one. 

From Josh- Growing up in the Denver area, I fell in love with the outdoors somewhere between summer camp and snowboarding every weekend as a kid. Now I spend my free time rock climbing, hiking, gaming, and seeing as much live music as possible. I’m a firm believer that we’re all outdoorsy, some of us just don’t haven’t found the thing we like to do outside yet. 

Houdini- Puffy Square

Outerwear for your lower half. Houdini’s Puffy Square is the perfect addition to any winter closet. This unisex skirt is one size fits all so you can achieve the perfect fit no matter how many layers you have underneath. The design also makes it easy to access your pockets in layers underneath. Perfect for walking the dog on a frigid evening! 

Amundsen- Skauen Field Shirt 

Amundsen’s Skauen Field Shirt is a technical flannel stays true to its roots with 100% cotton flannel construction. This shirt’s dual-closure system has full zip and button fastening. This means you can adapt the ventilation to your needs on any outing. Block out the wind with the zipper sealed or air out on a hot day with just the buttons. Can be worn over sweaters or base layers for year round versatility.

Superyellow- Sandy Scarf

The Sandy Scarf is Superyellow’s colorful, versatile, cozy, chunky scarf that is perfect for cold days. It’s made of Merino wool so it’s soft and comfortable to the touch. And has the added bonus of wool’s naturally antimicrobial properties so it rarely needs to be cleaned. Just hang out for airing and it will feel clean and fresh again soon. The Sandy is long enough to be wrapped as a hood or worn however you prefer to tie your scarf.

Ivanhoe- Grimstorp Overshirt 

The Grimstorp is a timeless overshirt from Ivanhoe of Sweden. This 100% Merino wool piece is somewhere between a sweater, a shirt, and a jacket. Wear it as a jacket in the fall and transform it into a warm mid layer in the winter. Wool items rarely need to be washed, just hang it for airing and it will be refreshed quickly!

From Bridget:  I grew up in Colorado, so staying warm is basically a survival skill. I’m not the outdoorsy-every-weekend type, but I do run cold, which means I’m always hunting for outerwear that actually delivers on comfort, warmth, and durability. 

Aclima- FleeceWool Hoodie V2 Women
The FleeceWool Hoodie V2 by Aclima is the coziest hoodie you’ll ever own.
This hoodie is everything. It’s super soft, ridiculously warm, and kind of feels like you’re wearing a big, cozy hug. I literally want to live in it during chilly days. The hood is adjustable, and the kangaroo pocket is great for keeping your hands toasty or stashing little essentials on the go. Plus, it’s actually made to last thanks to the mix of merino wool and recycled materials. Basically, it’s cute, comfy, and totally worth it.

66North- Hrannar Alpha Zipneck Women
The Hrannar Alpha Zipneck by 66North is the perfect mix of warmth, comfort, and effortless style. This zipneck is lightweight, soft, and cozy, keeping you warm without feeling heavy. Its subtle texture and flattering cut make it cute enough to wear out for coffee, errands, or just hanging out on a crisp day. The half-zip makes it easy to layer, so you can adjust for any weather, and the breathable fabric keeps you comfortable all day long. Honestly, it’s one of those pieces that quickly becomes your go-to sweater.

Houdini-Power Houdi 
The Power Houdi for men and women rom Houdini is an all-time favorite that does everything. This hoodie moves with you, whether you’re climbing, biking, or just staying cozy on a chilly day. The fabric is soft and warm inside while still holding its shape, so it’s comfortable without feeling bulky. I love that it has a snug hood, thumb loops, and just enough stretch to keep you feeling free and cozy. It’s one of those pieces you’ll reach for over and over again, the kind you never want to take off.

From Dillon:  I’m from Tennessee and have lived in Denver for a few years now. Outside of work I like exploring all different types of music or watching sports!

Dale of Norway- Geilo Sweater 

The Geilo Sweater by Dale of Norway is the perfect winter sweater, soft, classic, festive, and the design and color scheme is great. The silhouette of this one really makes it one of my favorites, and it’s great for any occasion. 

Crazy- JKT Levity 

The Levity jacket for men and women is the lightest insulator we have gone across. The Crazy/Colturi brand is the only non-Scandinavian company we carry and this jacket is the reason why! It light, easy to move in, and warm enough for most of the winter without feeling bulky. My favorite thing about it though is the sleek design and branding, and that it pairs well with pretty much anything. 

From Sadie:  I’m the manager at Aktiv. I’ve been on the team since 2021 and have had the pleasure of watching our store, and the quality of its merchandise, evolve through the years. The items we brought in this winter season are the best of this evolution so far. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do

Hestra-Leather Fall Line Gloves 

If you’re in the market for a pair of gloves that can be worn for virtually any winter occasion, look no further. Unlike traditional winter gloves, Hestra’s Fall Line gloves are not bulky, making them the perfect every day glove for the mountain or the city. The premium cowhide leather gives an elevated look to an extremely technical glove, so you can stay warm on the lift or on the way to dinner. 

Polyver- SL 25 Chelsea Boot 

Similar to the Hestra gloves, the SL 25 Chelsea Boot by Polyver provides the ultimate warmth and protection within a stylish classic silhouette. The greatest thing about them is that they don’t look like a “snow boot”, despite being as warm as one. Wear it with some jeans and a sweater for the perfect casual Friday outfit. 

Varg- Sarek Long Down Hood 

The cold can ruin any experience. Have you ever gone to see your favorite artist in the most beautiful venue in the world (Red Rocks, no bias), but couldn’t enjoy yourself because you were too cold? That’s one of the reasons I invested in the Sarek by Varg. This coat excels in every category; warmth, durability, function, and style. You can walk the dog, go to sporting events, and see your favorite artists live, with the peace of mind of knowing that you’ll stay nice and warm.

From Nate: The boss, but more like Michael Scott than Bruce Springsteen...

Daehlie- Full Zip Comfy

Equal parts jacket and sweater, the Full Zip Comfy for men and women is a favorite every year. The wool blend is a comfortable light insulator built for movement and the style is at home on the snow or at your favorite restaurant. 

Ivanhoe- Mire Full Zip

The Mire Full Zip Sweater by Ivanhoe incorporates their natural undyed material with a slightly more refined cut. It certainly is a sweater but feels more like a sport-coat. It is also warm enough to serve as a jacket when the temp is cool but not cold. 

66 North- Surtsey Hat

From the iconic Iceland brand 66North comes the Surtsey hat which is a fleecy warm insulator for colder winter days. A great stocking stuffer for the person that has everything. 

Last, but not least...

From Leslie: The Queen of Aktiv and the holder of the veto power on every selection Nate tried to make...

We Norwegians-Beito Vest 

The Beito Vest by We Norwegians is an insulator that is such an easy layering piece, super lightweight but still warm, and it looks really clean on, very form fitting with a great silhouette. I’d wear it over a base layer for walks or even just running errands.