Best Gifts for Outdoor Enthusiasts NZ — Leatherman and Multitools
A Leatherman multi-tool is one of the best gifts you can give an outdoor enthusiast — practical, long-lasting, and the kind of thing most people wouldn't buy themselves but use constantly once they have one. This guide covers the best Leatherman and multi-tool gift options at Dwights for NZ trampers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Why a Leatherman Makes a Great Gift
Everyone uses them. Trampers, hunters, campers, tradies, and everyday carry enthusiasts all find practical use for a quality multi-tool. Unlike gear that depends on specific preferences (boots, sleeping bags), a Leatherman suits almost any outdoor-oriented person.
25-year warranty. A Leatherman is a gift that lasts decades. The 25-year warranty backs this up.
Range of price points. From the Sidekick at $199.99 through to the Wave Alpha at $599.99, there's a Leatherman for most gift budgets.
Gift Ideas by Budget
Under $250 — Practical Everyday Tools
Leatherman Wingman (RRP $199.99) — The most accessible full-feature Leatherman. Spring-action pliers, outside-opening knife and scissors, bottle opener, drivers. A practical everyday tool for any outdoor enthusiast.
Leatherman Sidekick (RRP $199.99) — Similar to the Wingman with a slightly different tool layout. Both are excellent first Leatherman gifts.
Leatherman Skeletool KB (RRP $129.99) — Stripped-down tool focused on the knife and carabiner clip. Compact and lightweight for everyday carry.
$250–$400 — Best-Value Full-Feature Tools
Leatherman Wave+ (RRP $319.99) — The most popular Leatherman globally and the best all-round gift for any outdoor enthusiast. 18 tools, outside-opening blades, full-size pliers. The go-to recommendation for anyone who hasn't already got one.
Leatherman Rebar (RRP $239.99) — Full-size Leatherman capability at a lower price than the Wave+. All the core tools without outside-opening blades.
Leatherman Skeletool (RRP $229.99) — Minimal weight, carabiner clip, pliers and blade. For the ultralight-minded outdoor enthusiast.
Leatherman Skeletool CX (RRP $289.99) — Carbon fibre handles version of the Skeletool. Premium feel, lighter construction.
$400+ — Premium and Specialist Tools
Leatherman Charge+ (RRP $439.99) — Premium blade steel (154CM), same 18-tool layout as the Wave+. The best gift for someone who already has a Wave+ and wants an upgrade, or for a serious user who will notice the blade quality.
Leatherman Signal (RRP $399.99) — Fire starter, emergency whistle, diamond sharpener. The outdoor survival-oriented Leatherman. A great gift for a serious tramper or hunter who goes remote.
Leatherman Surge (RRP $399.99) — Largest, most robust Leatherman. Best for the serious outdoor user who does heavy gear work.
Leatherman Wave Alpha (RRP $599.99) — The latest premium Wave variant. For the outdoor enthusiast who wants the best.
Gift Add-Ons
Leatherman Bit Kit (RRP $74.99) — 42-piece double-ended bit set. Pairs with Wave+, Charge+, and other compatible tools. An excellent add-on gift to extend a Leatherman's capability.
Leatherman Sheaths — A quality sheath makes a Leatherman more practical to carry daily. The leather sheath (RRP $49.99) and heritage sheath (RRP $79.99) are premium options; the nylon sheath (RRP $39.99) is the practical everyday choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Leatherman a good gift for someone who already has one?
Yes — the Wave+ and Charge+ are common upgrades for people who have older or cheaper tools. The Charge+'s premium blade steel is a meaningful step up from an older Wave or Sidekick. Alternatively, the Bit Kit or a quality sheath are practical additions to an existing Leatherman kit.
What Leatherman is best for a teenager who hikes?
The Sidekick or Wingman (both RRP $199.99) for a first full-size Leatherman with full functionality. The Micra (RRP $159.99) is a good compact option that fits in a pocket.
Do Leatherman tools make good travel gifts?
Yes — the Micra (RRP $159.99) is a practical compact option for international travel. Note that all Leatherman tools with blades must go in checked luggage for flights, not carry-on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Leatherman gift for an outdoor enthusiast?
The Leatherman Wave+ (RRP $319.99) is the most popular gift choice — the tool most outdoor people would use daily. For backcountry trampers and hunters, the Signal (RRP $399.99) adds survival-specific features. The Skeletool (RRP $229.99) is a lighter, minimalist option for those who prefer a slimmer tool.
Is a Leatherman a good gift for tramping?
Yes — a Leatherman is one of the most practical gifts you can give a tramper. It's the kind of tool most people would use on every trip but might not buy themselves. The Wave+ or Signal are the top picks for tramping use.
What Leatherman should I buy for someone who already has one?
Consider an upgrade to a model they don't have. If they have a basic multi-tool, the Charge+ (RRP $439.99) is a meaningful step up with premium blade steel. If they tramp solo in the backcountry, the Signal adds survival features they may not have. Leatherman accessories (Bit Kit, replacement sheaths) also make practical additions.
Are NexTool multi-tools a good alternative to Leatherman for gifts?
Yes — NexTool offers high-spec multi-tools at accessible price points. The NexTool Flagship Pro is a popular choice for those who want Leatherman-level quality at a lower price. Dwights stocks a full NexTool range alongside Leatherman.
What is a good budget multi-tool gift for an outdoor enthusiast?
The Leatherman Skeletool (RRP $229.99) or Leatherman Sidekick (RRP $199.99) are solid budget gift options. NexTool's Pocket Tool E1 and Mini Flagship are strong alternatives at a lower price point. All are available at Dwights.
Where can I buy Leatherman and NexTool gifts in NZ?
Dwights stocks the full Leatherman and NexTool range. Browse at /collections/nextool-multi-tools.