Outdoors enthusiasts love their gear and gadgets, and with the holidays coming soon, here are some must-have items to put under the tree or hang in the stocking.

Never run out of power for your cellphone and portable electronics, even in the most remote areas, with the lightweight Goal Zero Nomad 7 Solar Panel and Guide 10 Plus Battery Pack ($129.99). While compact (weighing just 0.8 pounds), the panel carries a powerful punch over its competitors, and charges from a USB or 12V port. Available at Costco, REI, Cabelas, Frys or www.goalzero.comor www.Bestbuy.com.

The SOG Blade Light Folder Knife ($85), produced by SOG Specialty Knives and Tools in Lynnwood, recently earned the Best of Best Award in Field & Stream Magazine's Knife Category. This two-in-one high-powered 37 lumens flashlight and 9-inch blade knife offers great versatility. Available at the SOG Retail Store in Lynnwood or http://sogknives.com.

Safety and stylish good looks are what the Survival Strap Bracelets ($24.99-$32.99) provide on your wrist. These rugged bracelets made from 550 test military spec paracord with an adjustable stainless steel shackle have been all the rage. They come in a wide variety of colors and styles. The paracord can be unraveled for emergencies, and if used the company will replace them for free. Available at www.survivalstraps.com.

The Redmond-based Industrial Revolution Inc. UCO Clarus LED Lantern ($19.99) is a multifunctional lantern and flashlight. It is collapsible and lightweight (four ounces with batteries), and provides 150 lumens of brightness and a beam that project up to 164 feet. Available at REI, Cabelas and Eddie Bauer or www.amazon.comor www.ucogear.com.

The Energizer Micro Sport Headlight ($24.99) has a long light-beam distance and a more focused high-intensity beam to light up the night. The rear-facing red safety flasher light was created for runners, walkers and cyclists to be seen. Available at Target or www.energizer.com.

The Wenger Swiss Army Knife Blackout EvoGrip 63 ($59.95) has six instruments with eight functions, including a durable coated blade, screwdriver, can opener and corkscrew. The Swiss Clipper ($37.95) is made of stainless steel, and fits right in the pocket of your fishing vest or jacket. Available at Big 5 Sporting Goods and Sports Authority or www.wengerna.com.

The 17-ounce Liquid Solution Contempo Stainless Steel Water Bottle ($24.99-$28.99) and Sof-Flex Water Bottle ($9.99-$11.99) made of recyclable materials and BPA-free are sure to keep you hydrated on the next outing. Available at http://shop.liquid-solutions.com.

The LED Lenser Headlamp ($60) is powered with 155 lumens, and the advanced "Focus System" adjusts for long-distance light or a circular low beam. It also has a dimming function and bezel that swivels. Available at Lowe's or www.amazon.com or www.lowes.comor www.ledlenser.com.

The Leatherman Mako Ti ($40) is a compact, extremely lightweight bicycle tool for a road or trail fix that will keep you on the go. The pocket-size tool comes with five metric box wrenches and two spoke wrenches, plus a bottle opener. The tool will be hitting stores and online by the end of November. Available at www.amazon.com.

Capturing that hooked fish underwater or any water-type sport activity can now be done without compromising an expensive cellphone with the Water Shot iPhone 4 and 4S Underwater Housing ($99). The special case provides easy access for pictures or videos to a depth of 130 feet. The iPhone5 version will be out soon. Available at Discount Diver Supply in Seattle or www.watershot.com.

Breaking through low light and shallow water conditions are what the Fisherman Eyewear Islander Sunglasses ($19.99) provide for anglers. The polarized lenses offer 100 percent UV A and B ray protection, and are wrapped in an indestructible frame. Available at Creekside Angling Co. in Seattle and Issaquah, Avid Angler in Lake Forest Park and Sportco in Fife or www.fishermaneyewear.com.

Urban Crew has made trekking in the woods or walking to school more safe with the I-Safe Guardian Backpack ($49.99). With the pull of a switch, the lightweight backpack (1.7 pounds) has two high-decibel sirens operated by two 9V batteries, and provides two hours of signaling time. It also has a high intensity strobe light. Available at Walgreen or Toys "R" Us or www.amazon.comor www.isafebags.com.

The Carhartt QuickDuck Jacket ($130) is a durable, yet lightweight jacket that can weather any storm. It has a strong water-repellent finish and mid-weight polyester insulation lining to keep a person warm and dry. Available at Carhartt Store, 409 Pike Street in Seattle or www.Carhartt.com.

Mark Yuasa: 206-464-8780 or myuasa@seattletimes.com